Michelle met Harry Townsend (founder of the Melanoma Fund) at a local fundraiser in 2013, where he convinced her that working for a charity would be a good idea. Of course, Harry was right, and after a few months, she jumped on board, bringing with her over 30 years’ of experience in PR and marketing. She set to work building a new website, logo, branding, and a future strategy for national campaigning.

In 2014 Michelle created the Outdoor Kids Sun Safety Code, inspired by a sunburn received by her son whilst playing tennis. In 2016 she launched the Watch Your Back! campaign, and in 2019, the Slip! Slap! Swing! sun protection campaign for golf.

Most recently Michelle created Sunguarding Sport to create more awareness of the importance of sun protection in sport and outdoor recreation.

Michelle is responsible for the day-to-day running of the Melanoma Fund, building, and expanding the charity’s four prevention campaigns, organising and attending all the charity’s events, and keeping the trustees in order!

Her passion and drive have helped the charity thrive, developing multiple partnerships, key supporters, and strong links within the community; the type of impact more fitting a larger organisation.