SECONDARY breast cancer charity Makes 2nds Count is off to a flying start in 2022 with the appointment of a dynamic Chief Executive Officer.
Accomplished in leadership roles across a range of sectors, Anne Gibson brings a wealth of Third Sector experience and will support further growth as Make 2nds Count continues to champion research and education in the field of what is often regarded as the forgotten cancer.
The disease – also known as metastatic, advanced or stage IV breast cancer – is an incurable cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body. It can be treated but, on average, there are around 35,000 patients in the UK living with secondary breast cancer and the death toll here is a shocking 1000 women a month.
Anne Gibson will lead development of a three-year strategic plan to elevate the charity’s reputation as a key player in improving quality of life for patients through its research activities, supporting patients and families and enhancing awareness of the disease.
She has worked in leadership roles across local and national government, the Third Sector and the independent care and education sectors. She was an HM Inspector of Education and has worked in partnership with the Care Inspectorate and with Audit Scotland. Her skills and expertise include organisational development, continuous improvement, quality assurance, building leadership, community engagement and participation and developing partnership. Anne currently sits on a number of Boards including a non-executive Director role with NHS 24.
She says: “The most important thing we can give to patients and their loved ones is hope. Make 2nds Count is already making a tangible difference to those living with the disease, and their families, through its inspiring support and research initiatives. However, more education, support and research is still needed and I’m delighted to be part of such a passionate team with huge aspirations to deliver that this year.”
Make 2nds Count founder Lisa Fleming, 38, of Edinburgh, says: “Having Anne on board will be transformational for us as we drive the charity forward and evolve. Her appointment is just the most exciting start to what we predict will be a very constructive year for us. We’ve already come so far but we look forward to achieving so much more in 2022.”
Lisa set up Make 2nds Count after discovering she had both primary and secondary breast cancer. She had had no previous breast cancer diagnosis, warning signs or lump when she was told the disease had already spread to the majority of her bones. It swiftly spread to her brain and she continues to live with the disease – knowing it is also a death sentence.
