Behçet’s UK Members Award 2024

Awarded to John Mather

The award presentation was delivered by Behçet’s UK Chair, Tony Thornburn, at the 2024 Conference & AGM held at the Holiday Inn City Centre Hotel, Liverpool, on Saturday 19 October 2024.

It is with great pleasure that I announce the Behçet’s UK Members Award goes to John Mather.

This is the award that our members nominate, and I can do no better than reflecting what Jan Mather said about John in the Spring newsletter. John stepped into his role, as Operations Manager of the Behçet’s Patient Centres, who directly support the three Centres of Excellence, as a ‘temporary measure’ … 10 years on….

John professionally invested much time in building the team of Behçet’s Support Coordinators and indeed was part of the interview panel to appoint Bec in Birmingham and Jackie here in Liverpool, and only Jean in London pre-dates him!

He transformed reporting and how technology is used within the charity and built a strong, trusted relationship with the Commissioners of the Highly Specialised Services who fund the three Centres of Excellence.

John has also spent much time and effort fundraising, including the London to Paris bike ride, climbing Ben Nevis, organising the 3 Peaks Challenge and an abseiling event. He has been a keen promoter of Christmas cards sales at every conference.

And of course, like so many husbands, wives or partners he has been marvellously supporting someone with Behçet’s.

So on all fronts John has been a fantastic ambassador for our patient community and wider membership, and it gives me great pleasure in presenting this award to him.