Becoming a part of You Okay, Doc?

I remember the day I had my trustee interview with Dan Gearon, our YOD Founder. I was sitting on the top floor of Foyle’s bookstore – my go-to co-working spot at the time – nervously waiting for our virtual meeting. I had recently quit my job after completing a Sports MBA during COVID, moved back to London from Malta, and was in the early stages of building my own business, Hero. Full of motivation but still very new to this world, I wanted to use my spare time to get involved in a charity where I could live the ethos of volunteering and making a difference.

Traditionally, the UK looks for experience in roles like trusteeships or accounting. Luckily, Dan – being the type of person he is – could see the bigger picture. He was looking for a mix of skills and perspectives to help YOD grow and expand its mission. I remember how relaxed and comfortable I felt speaking with him – something that remains a hallmark of the YOD community today. I came away from that call instantly energised, never imagining that a few years later I would be stepping into the role of Chair of Trustees.

YOD’s mission of supporting healthcare professionals felt incredibly relevant, especially after the immense strain they had carried through the pandemic. It resonated with both my professional skills and my personal values – and, as someone who loves sport and adventure, I was naturally drawn to our Hike in July fundraiser. Joining the UK 3 Peaks Challenge gave me my first real taste of the YOD community, and it was in those moments of shared effort and connection that my relationship with the charity truly deepened. From there, my role evolved: taking on more responsibility with strategy and fundraising, helping expand our fundraisers with international challenges such as the Mount Toubkal trek, and supporting the development of YOD’s wider vision.

Every year at the Liz Sizer Gala, we witness something remarkable: stories that highlight the challenges – and, more importantly, the resilience – of healthcare professionals. These moments remind me that YOD’s work is about connection: supporting one another, growing together, and becoming the best versions of ourselves through community.

Now, stepping into the role of Chair, I believe we’re at a new and exciting iteration of YOD. Together with a strong and committed trustee group, our focus is to give the charity the structures it needs to grow, add new services, and ultimately scale its impact. We have bold ambitions – but always grounded in the mission to ensure doctors and nurses feel supported, connected, and never alone in their struggles.

I truly believe volunteering should be part of all our lives. Getting involved is simple – offering just some personal time here and there – and in return, you gain something invaluable: the chance to connect with new people, explore different perspectives, and be part of something bigger than yourself. For me, it has opened doors, built lasting relationships, and allowed me to step into a community that feels both powerful and human.

This September, my welcome as Chair coincides with National Suicide Prevention Week. It’s a reminder of why YOD exists: to stand alongside doctors and healthcare professionals in their hardest moments, offering both community and hope.

I’m grateful to be part of this journey with such inspiring colleagues, ambassadors, and volunteers – and I look forward to the next chapter of growth for YOD. The work continues, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.