A Christmas message from our CEO and Chair of Trustees at MDS UK
16 Sep. 2025
Dr Blossom Bell, PhD - CEO MDS UK
As the year draws to a close, I’d like to send my heartfelt wishes to everyone in our community. For many, this season brings light and togetherness, but for those who have received a recent diagnosis, or are having treatment, waiting for test results or grieving the loss of someone dear, it can feel lonely and heavy. If this is the case for you, please know that you are in our thoughts, and we wish you strength and comfort during this festive period.
Reflecting on the year at MDS UK
Since stepping into the role of CEO, much of my time has been spent listening, learning, and building relationships across our clinical and support networks. It has been a purposeful and busy period, and I am deeply grateful for the strong foundations laid by my predecessors and for the dedication of our staff, volunteers, trustees, and supporters. Together we have created a charity that truly matters, and my commitment is to build on that legacy with clarity and care.
Supporting patients, families, and carers affected by MDS
As we move into the new year, my focus will be on shaping a clear plan to expand and realign our support services with what matters most to patients and families. Our overriding aim is to improve quality of life for anyone affected by MDS, whether you are a patient, a family member, a caregiver, or have lost someone to the disease. We will take our time over this, as we want to ensure every step meets the needs of our community. One initiative I am excited to introduce is a Patient and Carer Representative Group, which will help us keep your voices at the heart of what we do. I look forward to sharing more details soon.
MDS UK support line and festive Opening Hours
In the meantime, if you need to talk or seek guidance, our support line is open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm on 020 7733 7558, or you can email info@mdspatientsupport.org.uk. Please note, our lines will close at 5 pm on Tuesday 23 December and reopen on Monday 5 January 2026. During this time, we will respond to urgent emails.
Looking Ahead
Whatever the festive season looks like for you, whether lively or quiet, my hope is that you find moments of comfort, connection, and calm. Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to being here for you in the year ahead.
Warm wishes
Dr Blossom Bell, PhD - CEO MDS UK Patient Support Group
Lin Holder - Chair of Trustees, MDS UK
As we hurtle towards the end of 2025, myself, and the Trustees would like to extend our thanks to Blossom our CEO, the staff, the fundraisers, and the whole MDS community that we serve.
Commitment to patients, families, and the future of MDS Support
For those who are just diagnosed, living with, or coping with loss, we extend our good wishes to you all. The festive season can be overwhelming when you are living with this disease. But we extend our continued support to you now and going forward through 2026, and beyond.
Blossom and her team are planning some exciting developments in how we support you, and your family, through your MDS journey. The Trustees are fully committed to this programme of change, new initiatives, and, of course, continuing to work with the medical community. We will continue to be The Voice of MDS.
Our sincere best wishes to you all.
Lin Holder
Chair of Trustees.
