A message from Kerri Knibbs

A message from Kerri Knibbs:

"I would like to thank each and every one of you for all of the superb support that you have given to SSNAP over the last 44 years. I first became aware of SSNAP when my eldest son was born 25 years ago last week and a year later I became a parent volunteer, listening to the concerns of parents and guiding them to where they could find support. This developed further where I would visit the wards and meet parents. It was always a privilege to meet you and whilst at your very lowest you would share updates, photos and voice your greatest concerns. 

Wanting to be an advocate for the parents I joined the board of trustees and became Chair of the Board in 2017. This has been one of the greatest honours of my life. Since joining the board approximately 15 years ago, we oversaw the development of a number of permanent staff and created the role of Charity Lead. The board members now have subcommittees and help support the many fundraising events where our income has grown by at least 5 times over. Seeing how that money has been spent is incredible. Whether this is additional support of trained staff, specialist medical equipment, appropriate chairs to sit on, or food and transport, SSNAP has become an essential part of thousands of families over the years.

As some of you know, a few months ago, I very unexpectedly lost my dear husband, Simon. For those with younger children, you will remember him for being the judge of the cakes at our Family Garden Parties. For those of you who run, he would have happily fed you sweets before the event and poured Fizz as he welcomed you back. Simon was of immense support to SSNAP as well as to me, looking after our children at home whilst I attended board meetings, volunteering or fundraising events. 

One of the major areas we had been working on behind the scenes was strengthening our governance, being HR compliant and roles of the board and staff members. For anyone involved in developing any organisation, this could be seen as a downside for growing in size. Emily Byrne has led this working closely with the board and I am extremely confident that SSNAP is operating extremely well and ready to plan towards its 50th year in 2032!

It is because of all of these factors that I have made the very difficult decision to step down from my role as Chair of the Board and resign my position fully. This was not an easy decision. SSNAP has been a major part of my life for nearly a quarter of a century and I am forever in awe when I meet our supporters of the sacrifices you all make to ensure SSNAP's fundraising grows. After attending every event Simon and I would be on a high just excitedly talking about how the good of humanity was always visible when we were in your company. I want to thank each and every one of our supporters and hope you continue to be a big part of the SSNAP family. 

Wishing you all well for the future."