Hazel Wotherspoon – Chair Person
Hazel Wotherspoon is a mum of 4 young adults, 3 of whom have significant disabilities; her daughter Ellen has SMS.
Hazel worked as a physio, mainly paediatrics for 27 years before leaving work to become a full-time carer. She has been involved with the Foundation for many years first as a member and later as a trustee. Hazel strives to increase awareness and understanding of SMS, especially among professionals. Her prime aim is to support families in any way they need.
Emma Riddell – Trustee
Emma is a mother of three children, Harry, Grace (SMS), and Charlie. Emma is currently a full-time Mum and lives with her husband Mark in Birmingham. She is passionate about raising awareness and fundraising for the foundation.
Mick Pearson – Trustee
Mick is the newest trustee to the Foundation and will hopefully bring a fresh incentive and new ideas. He is very proactive within the foundation giving support and life experiences to families new and old.
Mick’s drive is to support families newly diagnosed with Smith-Magenis Syndrome and seeks to connect with them in his unique way.
Mick also supports dads living with Smith-Magenis Syndrome and assists in helping them to connect with each other, he is also keen to promote awareness and fundraising for children and adults with Smith-Magenis Syndrome. His son Riley was born in 2011 and diagnosed in 2014
Laura Maddocks – Trustee
Laura is mum to Jude, who was diagnosed with SMS at age 8. They live in Hampshire. Laura works full-time in the telecoms sector and has had a fair bit of experience working with the Local Authority Education and Social Care teams to raise awareness of Smith-Magenis Syndrome and SEN provision. Laura is passionate about ensuring all children with SMS receive the necessary support and understanding in schools and colleges.