My Breakthrough
An interview with Sue Johnson
How did you first hear about Breakthrough?
I was a non-executive director at the Royal Marsden Hospital for six years in the mid to late nineties. Following this I was asked to join the Fundraising and PR Committee of the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), where the Research Centre is based, so Breakthrough’s name was well known to me.
Why did you choose to get involved?
I contracted breast cancer four times in five and a half years in my thirties and I feel blessed to still be here. So when I was approached about being a trustee of Breakthrough, I was really enthusiastic as it was an opportunity to make a contribution to a cause very close to me.
I have heard about Breakthrough’s research work into hereditary breast cancer, in particular the discovery of the BRCA2 gene mutation. I want to learn more about this and other forms of breast cancer. Breast cancer is in my family and both my niece and I are being genetically tested.
I am 100% behind this organisation, not only because of this groundbreaking research but also because of the fantastic campaigning and education work it does. So to become a trustee is something I am honoured to be doing and proud of the association.
As a Breakthrough trustee you are involved in key decisions involving the charity’s future. What direction would you like the charity to take and why?
My marketing experience is hopefully making a contribution to Breakthrough’s marketing strategy. Breakthrough stands out, not only for its dedicated research work, but also for its dynamism. I am particularly impressed by just how much the charity has achieved in such a short time. So I would like to make sure that Breakthrough promotes its success effectively and really builds on these.
How do you think we can go further in our messaging and how do we go about advertising these successes?
Part of the answer to this will come out in the months ahead as we look to build on our marketing position. I feel it is very important that we maximise our marketing potential and ensure the longevity of the organisation and its excellent achievements.
How are you finding your role as a trustee?
I am enjoying my role very much. Despite my experience of working with health organisations and in marketing in the commercial sector, I have never worked as a trustee of an independent charity before – so I am fairly new to this kind of thing. But I hope I can bring my skill set, alongside those of my fellow trustees, and deliver input that will help Breakthrough strengthen its position as the UK’s leading breast cancer charity.
Many thanks to Sue for taking the time out to speak to us.
