Council member awarded MBE
Congratulations to Council Member Cathy Yelf, who has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in His Majesty the King’s 2025 Birthday Honours List.
Cathy, who is the former Chief Executive of the Macular Society, has been recognised by King Charles III for her services to people living with macular disease.
During her tenure as Chief Executive, the charity has become a leading funder of macular research in the UK and a powerful voice for people with Macular disease.
Cathy has also served as a trustee of the Association of Medical Research Charities and has been a member of numerous NHS, NICE and industry committees, working groups and clinical trial steering committees. She is also a trustee for Action Against AMD (age-related macular degeneration), a collaboration of charities aiming to stop early-stage macular disease from developing to the blinding form.
“I am very grateful for this huge honour and delighted to be nominated. This recognition is not just for me, but for everyone who has been part of our journey to beat macular disease.
“So many dedicated individuals have contributed to the progress we've made, and I hope this is something we can all celebrate together. There is still much to do to overcome the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, and I know the Macular Society will continue to work tirelessly until that goal is achieved".
Chair of Council, Dr Anne Wright CBE, congratulated Cathy on behalf of the GOC:
“I’m delighted to congratulate Cathy on the award of an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. This is a well-deserved recognition of Cathy’s commitment to the service of people living with Macular disease, so amply demonstrated in her achievements as former Chief Executive of the Macular Society. We are fortunate to have the benefit of her experience in her new role as Lay Member of the GOC Council”.
