Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis (APF) would like to say a heartfelt thank you to Steve Jones and Beckie Lang, who are stepping down as trustees of the charity after many years of dedicated service.
Beckie Lang became a trustee in 2018 following the death of her mum, Tricia. She had previously been involved with APF by undertaking a series of gruelling outdoor challenges to raise vital funds and awareness of the condition after her mum needed a lung transplant as a result of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Beckie helped guide APF through the crucial early stages of our development. In the early days of the charity, Beckie brought empathy and understanding of supporting a family member affected by pulmonary fibrosis, but also a wealth of expertise and experience from her professional career in the voluntary and health sectors.
Beckie’s advice and leadership on safeguarding, diversity and inclusion, and staff wellbeing have been invaluable. Her warmth, professionalism and care have made a lasting difference to APF, and everyone connected to the charity.
Reflecting on her time with APF, Beckie said:
Being part of APF has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I have seen first-hand how compassion, community and determination can drive real change for people affected by pulmonary fibrosis. I will always carry the stories, the strength and the kindness of this community with me. I remain a supporter, ambassador and lifelong friend of the charity
Steve Jones was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2008 and received a single lung transplant in 2016. He became a trustee of APF in 2017 and also served as Chair of trustees for six years. Steve has been a driving force for change, championing the work of APF across the UK and Europe as well as raising awareness of the impact of pulmonary fibrosis on people and families.
Among his many achievements, Steve campaigned to make anti-fibrotic drugs available to everyone with pulmonary fibrosis, as there were no drugs at this time for slowing down the pace of pulmonary fibrosis. He also helped APF to support people through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, using his own experiences to guide and reassure others.
Reflecting on his time with APF, Steve said:
It has been a privilege to work with so many remarkable people living with pulmonary fibrosis, their families, clinicians, researchers and supporters. APF has grown into a powerful and compassionate voice for our community. I’m proud of what we have achieved together, and I know the charity will continue to push for better care, better treatments and a better future.
A message from our Chief Executive, Daniel Saxton:
Steve and Beckie’s contribution as trustees s have played a huge part in shaping APF into the charity it is today. Their compassion, expertise, leadership and personal experience of pulmonary fibrosis have left a lasting legacy. On behalf of everyone from the charity and the PF community, I want to sincerely thank them both for their time, commitment and guidance. We wish them every happiness for the future.