Kidney Research CEO on becoming an OBE
Sandra Currie recently featured in the New Years Honours
Sandra Currie, who's from Northampton, is the Chief Executive for Kidney Research UK, where she's been based 12 years following a background in the medical profession.
During her service there's been significant growth she's overseen in charity activities, at the Peterborough based organisation.
Over £71 million has been invested in research in the last decade, and there's been a rise in awareness of the disease and championing the needs of kidney patients amongst policy makers and industry.
It's led to her finding out in November that she's to become an OBE following publication of the New Years Honours List.
Sandra remembers the moment she found out about the news:
"I was travelling from Wellingborough railway station to London, and I can't even remember why that was now. There may have been rail problems which meant me having to start my journey there.
"I did, however, grab my post to open on the train. Really I wish I hadn't because lots of people must have thought what was going on. I got emotional, having felt quite humbled. So many people do so many incredible things and are rewarded. Of course I couldn't tell anyone either."
She went on to explain how the fund raising side continues to be a major challenge:
"In comparison with fellow charities, which we don't really see as competitors because we work with them all, and kidney conditions can be associated with heart disease or cancer.
"These other organisations may be more publicised, and attract more donations. It's our job to tell everyone that we're here as well."
"They've had longer with a higher profile, so that can be seen as a battle."
And Sandra explained about her background:
"I was a mental health nurse, moved to Sheffield and then Northampton in the 80s. I'd been based with Marie Curie Cancer, but from there learnt more about kidney disease and kidney conditions with Kidney Research UK."