We are changing the way we are run. Parathyroid UK is registering as a charity and setting up a Board of Trustees who will govern us. Our trustees will include patients, healthcare professionals and people who have relevant skills and experience to offer.
We will continue to be run by CEO, founder and Chair of Trustees, Liz Glenister and she is assisted by her Deputy Fiona Smith.
They will oversee the two committees – hypopara and hyperpara – who will carry out the day to day running of the organisation aided by the Support Team.
Liz Glenister
Founder, CEO and Chair of Trustees
I founded Parathyroid UK (formerly Hypopara UK) in 2005 after living with undiagnosed brittle hypoparathyroidism following surgery for thyroid cancer in 1992.
I wanted to prevent this from happening to others, provide a safe forum, and access to information and support that simply wasn’t available then when so few doctors had heard of hypoparathyroidism. I had no idea what a battle I’d taken on.
Today, I am very proud to run the charity with the help of our fantastic volunteers, advisors and trustees. We work closely together and, as Parathyroid UK, we are deeply committed to improving the lives of people with all parathyroid conditions.
Fiona Smith
Deputy CEO
After a total thyroidectomy in 2012 for cancer, I was readmitted within twelve hours for calcium infusions and told to take 9 calcium tablets a day. It was months before I was referred to an endocrinologist.
Through Parathyroid UK I was able to get the right treatment and find an endocrinologist with a specialism in calcium. After 7 years, I am fortunate to have regained some parathyroid function.
I feel privileged and excited to be working more closely with Liz and the committee. Every story of success and frustration motivates me to drive forward education for all parathyroid patients and the medical community.