This Trustees’ Week, MD Support Centre is pleased to announce the appointment of new trustees Amandeep Bharj and Gary Evans. Both bring a wealth of experience and personal passion to the charity’s mission of enhancing the lives of people with muscular dystrophy.
“It’s an exciting time to join MD Support Centre,” says Gary Evans, a longtime service user. “I’m looking forward to contributing to an organisation that has made a tangible impact on my life.”
A personal connection to the cause
Accountant Amandeep Bharj has a personal connection to the charity, as she has a family member affected by muscular dystrophy. Amandeep has previously volunteered with MD Support Centre, lending her skills to fundraising events and accounting tasks. Now, she joins the board as the new Treasurer, bringing her financial expertise to support the charity as it grows and supports more individuals with MD.
From service user to leader
Gary Evans (pictured) is no stranger to the transformative work of MD Support Centre. Diagnosed with MD ten years ago, he has been a service user at the centre for nine years, experiencing firsthand the therapeutic benefits offered by the Centre. “What I love about MD Support Centre is the real, tangible impact it has on my condition and my quality of life,” he explains. “After my therapy sessions, I feel a million times better – with noticeable improvements in my ability to walk and engage in physical activities.”
Volunteering as a trustee for an Academy, Gary saw the impact / benefits that trustees can have and the potential to make an impact with the MD Support Centre. After discussions with Ruth Hereford, Chair of Trustees, he stepped forward to join the board.
A vision for growth and sustainability
With years of experience as a Sales, Marketing, Operations and Product Manager, Gary brings a keen eye for strategy alongside his desire to give back. He says: “I want to use my background as a service user and my professional skills to help guide MD Support Centre’s strategic direction. It’s an organisation that truly changes lives for people with muscle-wasting conditions. It provides improvements that I can see and feel. I want to see it grow so even more people can feel the same benefits I’ve experienced.”
Gary’s vision goes beyond simply serving on the board; he wants to help MD Support Centre flourish. “I’m here to offer support and guidance. My expertise is in spotting opportunities and guiding growth in a way that is sustainable and impactful. My hope is to see MD Support Centre reach even greater heights.”