In this interview Rachel tells us about her role as Events Officer, and the happiness she felt being able to contribute to the first in-person Patient and Carer Day since Covid.
What did you do before joining Mesothelioma UK?
“I did my degree in Events Management at the University of Birmingham. After graduating I worked in hotels hosting events and weddings, which I absolutely loved. I liked the hospitality sector, meeting different people, and getting experience in events.
“Following that I worked for APIL (Association of Personal Injury Lawyers) organising training events for legal representatives. For this I found myself working up and down the country gaining knowledge of different legal events.
“Then, when on maternity leave with my eldest, I saw the position at Mesothelioma UK advertised. I immediately applied, as the thought of working for a charity had been on my mind since volunteering at university for different charity events. I was thrilled when I was offered the job!.”
“[Covid] really taught me both sides of hosting events, and I have to say I do prefer in person events”
What do you do at Mesothelioma UK?
“I’ve worked at Mesothelioma UK as their Events Officer for four years now. My main responsibilities are organising and managing in house events such as Ladies Lunch and our annual Patient and Carer Day.
“During lockdown it all changed. Because events couldn’t happen in person, we had to turn to digital. Everything was impacted, from marketing plans to speakers and attendee interaction. And that’s not even beginning to think about the inevitable internet issues we encountered!
“It really taught me both sides of hosting events, and I have to say I do prefer in person events. We had our first Patient and Carer day in two years last October. It was great to have everyone together again, seeing people’s faces, and seeing people interacting and sharing their experiences.
“But I’m learning new things all the time, which is one of the things I love about the role.”
“All of the team and nurses that work for Mesothelioma UK are so supportive and so kind, if you ever have a problem someone is always there to help.”
What is working for Mesothelioma UK like?
“Mesothelioma affects so many people in so many different ways. I thrive on the thought that the events we put on are creating awareness and supporting this wonderful charity and the work it does, such as funding our amazing nurses and new research.
“All of the team and nurses that work for Mesothelioma UK are so supportive and so kind, if you ever have a problem someone is always there to help. It’s a wonderful place to work. I genuinely look forward to coming to work each day.”