I set up the bereavement charity 2wish after suffering the devastating loss of my son George and husband Paul. In February 2012 I had just returned to work as a P.E. teacher after having my youngest son George when tragedy struck my family. George died suddenly with no sign of illness in the Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Llantrisant on the 22nd of February. Just days later Paul, my husband and the Daddy to my three children, took his own life traumatised by the loss of our son. Motivated by a desire to ensure others would not have the same devastating experience after losing a child suddenly in hospital I decided to set up 2wish.In my spare time, I love spending time with my family and friends.
“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about dancing in the rain”
I have worked in a variety of support service roles since 2005 and have been a Service Manager in the charity sector since 2015 developing services for charities supporting children with disabilities and the prevention of violence against women. Having lost my brother unexpectedly in 2001, I was committed to raising awareness and developing the services of 2wish to ensure that every person affected by sudden loss has the support they need. I know from personal experience the devastation a sudden loss can bring. It’s not only the death of the significant person, but the ripple effect of grief that seeps into every aspect of life, especially when the death is unexpected and the loved one still so young. Outside of work, I enjoy dog walks on the beach, spending time with friends and family and making greeting cards.
“If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely. “
I joined 2wish in 2015, after a five-year break to have children. Previously I worked for 20 years in the private sector for large American IT companies in various Finance Manager/Senior Credit Risk roles.Outside of work I love spending time with friends and family. I enjoy eating out, travelling, and spending time by the sea.
“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
I’m delighted to be joining the team at 2wish. I have over 6 years’ experience in hospice fundraising. I’m originally from North Wales and I am really looking forward to help grow 2wish across Wales.Outside of work I enjoy traveling, visiting new places and weekends at the beach. I also enjoy spending time with little rescue dog – Pippa, family and friends.
“Find a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life”
I have 10 years of marketing experience, with a role promoting safeguarding solutions and best practice prior to my current post here at 2wish. This career move inspired me to pursue roles for organisations that have a genuine positive impact, so I’m honoured to be working with this incredibly important charity, surrounded by such inspirational people.Outside of work, I'm out and about with the family. I also like to put on my walking boots and take to the hills with my camera for some wildlife and landscape photography
“Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.” – Dale Carnegie
Since my dad died unexpectedly when I was 10 years old, I dreamt about supporting others who have experienced bereavement. This experience and the support I received in the aftermath inspired me to complete my studies in both Creative and Therapeutic Arts and Counselling. Then go on to work in the charity sector for the last 10 years, providing support to families and their communities. It’s a privilege to join the 2wish team and I’m really excited to support the team in expanding 2wish into England.Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors, reading and being creative.
"Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world"- Desmond Tutu
I joined 2wish in January 2021. Before my time at 2wish I worked at Barclays Bank for 22 years, then a teaching assistant in a communication disorder unit, then a NVQ assessor in a further education college.Outside of work I love spending time with my family, eating out, walking my dog Arthur, reading and rugby!
“You must walk a mile in someone else’s shoes before you can judge!”
My background prior to joining 2Wish in May 2022 was in Nursing. For the past 22 years I have worked for Pfizer in a variety of different health related roles across Wales.Outside of work I have a wonderful family who love the outdoors and walking our dog. I am also an avid runner, a member of my local running club and a huge fan of Parkrun.
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow”
I've been working in the charity sector since I graduated from university in 2016. My background is in events, fundraising and operational management. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the team at 2wish, and love seeing first-hand the impact of the work we do for our families!Outside of work I enjoy being out in nature, and spending time with my family and friends!
"Be the change that you wish to see in the world." - Mahatma Gandhi
I joined 2wish in October 2019 as a temp and never left, having volunteered for the charity since I moved to Wales in 2014.In my previous role I managed a travel agency in Buckinghamshire and was fortunate enough to have travelled extensively.When I am not working, I enjoy baking and spending time with the family.
“Be Brave and Go On an Adventure”
I joined 2wish in October 2020. I have a degree in psychology and worked with people who had mental health issues and for the past 5 years have worked in education.In my spare time, I like to go on dog walks down the beach.
“When life gives you a hundred reasons to breakdown and cry, show life you have a million reasons to smile and laugh. Stay strong.”
I joined 2wish in July 2022, after working in Social Media Management for various different industries including hospitality, menswear, property and the church, although my background is rooted in the fashion industry with a degree in Fashion Design.When I’m not working I love spending time gardening, and general being outdoors. I’m a bit of a foodie and love to cook, and discover new places to eat out, and explore food festivals.
“You will face defeats but, do not be defeated.” – Maya Angelou
I joined 2wish in January 2023. Prior to this I worked in Family Support services, completed assessments for Children’s services, and then supporting homelessness. My family and I have experienced losing a young family member suddenly, so I hope to bring empathy and understanding within my new role. I feel privileged for the opportunity to support people at such a difficult time in their lives.I enjoy spending time with my family and my mischievous cockapoo Loki.
“Helping one person might not change the whole world, but it could change the world for one person”.
I joined 2 Wish in February 2023 after working at HMP Parc, Bridgend for the last 19 years initially as a Chaplain and then as the Manager of the Chaplaincy team (I am a self-supporting priest in the Church in Wales). During my time at Parc I worked as a Family Liaison Officer providing support to the families of prisoners who died whilst in custody.When I am not working, I enjoy baking, knitting, and spending time with my family. I have been married for 43 years and have two daughters and a ‘bonus’ Granddaughter.
“To everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven”. ― Ecclesiastes 3:1
I joined 2wish in May 2023 after 3 years as a Qualified Primary School Teacher. I have always loved planning events and can’t wait to get stuck in and help fundraise and spread the word about 2wish across North Wales.When I’m not working, I love to spend time with my family, friends and dogs, watching sunsets and going to the gym.
“If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together… there is something you must always remember.You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think and loved more than you know.” – A.A. Milne
Being a long term friend and supporter of 2Wish for the past 10 years, it felt completely natural for me to join the team in a professional capacity. I bring with me 18 years experience in corporate finance and relationship management with Lloyds bank.Outside of work, you will probably find me either walking my dog, or watching my children play ice hockey for the Cardiff junior devils. I have even been known to go on the odd run or 2, having completed several marathons for 2Wish. I can’t wait to continue my journey with 2Wish at what is an exciting time for the charity.
“You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em. Know when to walk away and know when to run. You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table. There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealing’s done.” – Kenny Rodgers
I joined 2 Wish in May 2023 after retiring from a legal career of over 30 years for a local authority. I have been an Ambassador for 2 Wish for a number of years and taken part in many fundraising events and been involved as a Welfare Officer for sporting events. I am really looking forward to being a more permanent part of the 2 Wish team as Fundraising Coordinator – Swansea and West Wales and raising awareness in this area.When I am not working I enjoy many activities both outdoor and indoor such as swimming, cycling, walking, zumba and being part of a choir. Time spend with my family and friends is important.
“In the presence of gratefulness fear cannot survive.”
Prior to joining the 2 wish team in July 2023 I was a police officer for over 28 years , specialising in the protection of vulnerable persons. I was also a Family Liaison officer for over 20 of those years providing support to families bereaved as a result of murder and manslaughter.Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family , being outdoors and travelling.
“To make a difference in someone’s life you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful or perfect. You just have to care.”
I joined the 2wish Team in July 2023 and feel very privileged to be a part of such a wonderful charity! I have travelled extensively and have quite a varied work history that includes working in the banking sector, hospitality, and education. Having returned to the UK four years ago, I am now looking forward to using my skills to help the organisation expand and continue spreading the 2wish sparkle.As the mother of four children, I am always busy outside of work. In my free time I can usually be found at the beach with my family or at home perfecting my rum punch!
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman
I started working for 2wish in September 2023. My career began as a teacher in charge of drama in a Cardiff secondary school. My passion for pupil wellbeing led me to continue my career as a School Liaison Officer, where I delivered workshops and teacher training to schools around the topics of RSE (Relationships and Sex Education) and Domestic Abuse. I am now very excited to take on this role, and help children and young people to process their grief.2wish has been a very special charity, which has been in the hearts of my family for many years. I love singing in Côr Seren, the charity’s choir and attending all the fun family events.In my spare time I enjoy having Harry Potter movie marathons with my three little girls.
“Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light” – Professor Dumbledore.
I started working at 2wish in October 2023 and feel it is an absolute privilege to be a part of such a fantastic charity.Many years ago, I trained as a medical secretary and worked in the NHS for 28 years in various departments, including Nursing and Midwifery, which I Ioved. Then 13 years ago I re-trained as a Clinical Reflexology Practitioner and set up my own business; I also taught reflexology for 6 years. I am blessed with 3 grown up children, and 2 grandchildren.In my spare time, I love walking my dog in the woodland near my home, riding in the countryside on the horse I loan, swimming and yoga.
“The greatest thing you will ever learn, is just to love, and to be loved in return” – Unknown
I joined 2wish in November 2023 and what an incredible journey it’s been! I studied Events Management at the University of Gloucestershire for 4 years before graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 2020. I enjoy planning and running events and am looking forward to putting my stamp on all the special and meaningful 2wish events taking place this year and in the future.Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with loved ones, trying new cuisines and shopping!
“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward” – Martin Luther King.
It has been a privilege to join 2wish in 2024. Prior to joining, I spent most of my career working in the mental health and healthcare sectors, most recently advocating for people who were involved with social services, or who lack capacity and are unable to make decisions. I am currently completing my Master’s in Psychotherapy after finishing my Psychology and counselling degree in 2022. Knowing the pain of losing a loved one suddenly in my own family I am passionate to help others as I know how important support is and I believe everyone should be able to access support.Outside of work, I have three children, two grown-up children and an 8-year-old who keep me busy! I have two dogs, a cat and lots of guinea pigs and you will often find me out hiking the coastal path with the dogs and the family. I love the outdoors!
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” – Gandalf (The Lord of the Rings)
I joined the 2wish team in January 2024. I have a background in Education and spent a number of years teaching English abroad before coming back to Wales and putting down some more permanent rootsI have suffered with the sudden loss of loved ones and hope my experience and empathy can be brought to this role to help other families in similar positions.When I am not at work, I absolutely love spending time with my family and try to get out with them as much as possible, trying out different coffee shops along the way!
“When the dark clouds come…Keep going.” – Charlie Macksey
I have always been passionate about charity and am delighted to join the team! I have a BSc in Professional Policing and an MSc in Crime and Justice. I have worked in various settings, such as restaurants, schools and courts. I am really looking forward to making a difference and positively contributing to the incredible work of 2wish.I am a proud Cornish woman, so when I’m not at the pasty shop, I enjoy walks on the beach and reading!
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
I was born and grew up in Limerick City in the southwest of Ireland.I came to the UK in 1990 when I joined the armed forces. I left the military and joined the police in 1995, serving in Manchester, Liverpool, and London. I worked with some amazing people over the years, and many have become close friends.I currently live in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire where I’m kept busy by my three children, one girl and two boys who keep my bank account down and are usually embarrassed by my Dad jokes.My hobbies include swimming, running, scuba diving, travel, films and books.I retired from the police in 2022. I was contacted about 2wish and told about their great work that offered families support in what is a truly terrible time for them. I am over the moon to be working with them.
“It’s not the dog in the fight, it’s the fight in the dog.” – Mark Twain.
I joined 2wish in December 2023 after working in education for many years.I am keen to support others and feel privileged to have the opportunity to work with families and professionals at some of their most difficult times in life.In my spare time, I love being outdoors with my family, including my two sons and our crazy border collie. I also love to read and tend to my allotment garden.
“Keep your face always towards the sunshine, and the shadows will fall behind you.” – Walt Whitman
Hello, I’m Lydia, and joining 2wish was an early Christmas present in December 2023. I was raised in South Africa, and it was then that I found a love for helping people, animals and the environment. Giving back has taken me to incredible places like Kenya, Namibia and India. After studying law for many years, I will be a qualified solicitor soon and hope to use this knowledge to help our wonderful families and professionals.Outside of work, I like to do yoga and go for long walks with my very lazy dog.
“Fight for the things you care about, but do so in a way that will lead others to join you.”- Ruth Bader Ginsberg.
Before joining 2wish in December 2023, I worked in primary education for many years, mostly as a supply teacher, enjoying the variety in providing support across the whole primary age range. Before this, I’d taken a career break to be with my two gorgeous daughters and before that was an environmental advisor, managing a large-scale land management programme within a private industry setting.In my search for a new challenge that had to be worthwhile and special, I discovered this amazing charity and am excited and honoured to be part of a new team spreading the 2wish love and support across the border into England for the first time.When not working, I love spending time with my family and friends. I love travel, nature and music, especially live music events…oh and orangutans. My dream trip would be to see them in the wild! At the moment I also enjoy running, singing in a choir and salsa dancing (albeit quite badly but who cares!)
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” – Albert Einstein.
I started working for 2Wish in February 2024 after 13 years in Education. I have followed 2Wish since it first began and am excited to support the move into England. I’ve worked as a teacher and Deputy Headteacher in Middle Schools across Somerset and I hope to translate my experiences in education to provide compassionate support for families dealing with unimaginable grief. I love being outdoors and active with my children and at the gym. Quality family time is of huge importance to me.
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” “Kind,” said the boy. - Charlie Mackesy in The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
It has been such a privilege to join the amazing team at 2wish in February 2024. My career began as a Primary School Teacher specialising in the Early Years Foundation Stage. I have also worked as a supply teacher and thoroughly enjoyed working with children across the whole school range in a variety of school settings. I recently returned from teaching abroad in Canada where I was lucky enough to live in the beautiful mountains. I am very excited to embark on my new role and provide my full support to families and professionals as 2wish expands into England. In my spare time I love sea swimming, music and big cups of coffee!
“You are not a drop in the ocean, you are an entire ocean in one drop.” – Rumi
