Message from the Chair

Dear Colleagues,

This is my first message as Chair, and it’s great to report on all the activity over the last month since conference and Nick stepped down as Chair.

As we wrap up another year, I want to wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season. 2023 has been a year of growth and change for our organisation and profession. We implemented new training standards for the Telederm, we were recognised as the leading profession for medical imaging with NHSE and even sit at the board, thanks to Becky Lee and her hard work with the TD pathway. We also saw record attendance at our annual conference, which I sure we all agree was one of the best conferences we’ve had in many years, thank you again to Amy Lake and the Cardiff team.

This time of year, reminds us that relationships matter most. I’m grateful to work alongside such a talented, caring group of professionals who use their gifts not just for a paycheck, but to make a difference in healthcare. Your work captures complex conditions, tells powerful stories, and connects patients to their health in profound ways. Thank you for persevering despite heavy workloads and tight deadlines.

We have had a big number of volunteers now supporting the social media and web support. I’m looking forward to seeing the new ideas filter through over the next year. Your time provides much-needed manpower and skills we often lack sufficient resources for. By donating your time and talents, as much or as little as you can afford, I appreciate we’re all busy, you directly enable the organisation to further its goals. Volunteering allows you to meet people from across the UK, not forgetting our members across the world, and build meaningful relationships and a sense of community spirit, which I know we all love. It provides an opportunity to gain experience. Volunteering lets you develop new skills, learn something different, and gain hands-on experience that can benefit your career – whether it’s supporting the annual awards, event planning for annual conferences or regional meetings or working in the background on national guidelines. It also spreads awareness. As a volunteer, you become an ambassador for the organization’s work. You can directly educate others about us and inspire more people to get involved.

Membership

I need to apologise for the issues with memberships and payment. The membership team are working relentlessly to support as best they can until we have resolved the technical issues with applications and payments. Please be assured that all your personal details are secure and are not part of the problems we are experiencing.

The coming year promises exciting innovations as visual technologies expand. Yet some things remain unchanged – like taking time to rest and reflect. As you celebrate this season, I hope you’ll do just that. Enjoy your favourite traditions with family and friends. Appreciate the gifts of health, purpose, and community. And recharge your creative spirits for the work ahead in 2024.

Wishing you warmth, joy and restoration this Christmas season. See you in the new year!

Gratefully,

Cat Lamoon

Chair, Institute of Medical Illustrators