UK Welcomes Mary Weetman

-- Mary Weetman, Chairman, VHLFA U.K., Manchester

I consented to take on leadership following Dan Whitmore’s term as Chairman.

My interest in VHL stems from 26 years’ work as a genetic counselor in the Department of Genetics in Manchester. During this time I was in contact with several families with VHL, and learned of their many problems, and the great courage and resilience they show in their every day lives.

 I am therefore pleased to take part in the reinvigorating of the group.

 Our first meeting last year was well attended, and all were keen for the group to continue. We need to formalise this through the Charities Commission, and my frequent contacts with them have been very time consuming, but I will get there in the end! We will then form a committee, etc. to help with the running of the group.

In the meantime I am establishing a web-site for the U.K. In the course of so doing I have contacted all regional centres in the U.K. and all have been keen to be featured on the site and have been very encouraging. Several have expressed an interest in forming contact groups in their areas, so I see our initiative spreading across the U.K.  This is essential as I receive phone calls and e-mails from people from all parts of the U.K. and would love to be able to put them in contact with families geographically closer to themselves.

Our next meeting is to be in Manchester in September. This will be open to all people I have had contact with in the U.K.

I myself am mother of three now adult sons, and have three grand daughters and a grandson. So like most women I have experienced all the joys and sorrows that come with close and loving relationships.

Since retiring I have embarked on an Open University course on world religions. This is fascinating, and hopefully will keep me mentally alert!

My husband is also retired, and active on the local arts scene, doing water colouring and play producing.

Our German wire haired pointer ensures that we get plenty of exercise each day. So life is busy, but I would not have it any other way.

I look forward to meeting current and new members of the UK group. People can reach me at +44 (0)1706 358055, or through the VHL answerphone number in London +44 (0)20 7681-1796 or by e-mail to uk@vhl.org