Our Trustees

The executive leadership team is responsible for the day-to-day management of the organisation. Dragonfly Cancer Trust is governed by a board of Trustees. They ensure that as an organisation we are effective in working towards achieving our vision, using our resources to maximum effect and upholding our core ethos and values.

 

 

 

 

M.Bilal Ashfaq

Currently researching at PhD level with a focus on Conceptual modelling of Domain Expert Knowledge for Symbolic AI hybrid Digital Twins. Experimenting with various Machine learning, LLM, and Conceptual techniques for enhanced accuracy.

I have a restaurant called Merlot Masala, which combines Local Wine and Indian cuisine – we produce our own wine and create the food recipes according to the grape pairing. Everything served is BIO / Organic with a focus on sustainability.
My role of Digital Trustee is to provide guidance to the organisation around the best use of digital as well as the insight into the best digital practices.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

David Harker, Treasurer

David is an accountant and former partner with Deloitte having worked with clients across government and public services in the UK and internationally.

David now runs his own management consulting business and is a non-executive director at several companies in the UK and abroad.

 

 

 

Ian Lambert,
Trustee

Ian is our very own Action Man, earning himself a place in the Guinness World Book of Records in 2021 for completing a non-stop 220 mile triathlon in aid of Dragonfly Cancer Trust.

With his next epic challenge in the pipeline and his unwavering passion for the cause, becoming a Trustee was the natural next step in Ian’s journey.

 

 

 

David Gleghorn,
Trustee

David was born in Wallsend and apart from a 3 year degree course in Huddersfield, he has lived in the North East all of his life. He is the father of 3 amazing children, Shania, Kelsey and Harley, and has a huge passion for helping people, making a difference, and personal development.

He has worked in urgent airfreight for 12 years as Sales & Operations Director, followed by 20 years in the Pharmaceutical Industry in various corporate roles.

David now has his own Mental Performance and Mindset Company, working in business, sport, and helping people in their personal life overcome obstacles and achieve their ambitions.

He also likes to keep fit and regularly takes on challenges, the last being ‘The Wall’, a 70 mile Ultramarathon from Carlisle to Newcastle.

David is looking forward to making a difference in a huge new way, meeting new people, and learning lots representing the amazing Dragonfly Cancer Trust.

 

 

 

Paul Chaytor,
Trustee

Paul grew up on Tyneside and since then has spread his wings to live and work in eight countries across four continents, during a 25 year career in Supply Chain for Fast Moving Consumer Goods. He is also an experienced Non-Executve Director and Charity Trustee, with a particular focus on supporting children and animal welfare.

Paul joined Dragonfly Cancer Trust in 2024 and is excited to help continue the excellent work already being done and help lead the Trust into the future, building a sustainable model which can scale to reach all young cancer sufferers who need our support.

 

 

 

Andrew Rayner, Trustee

Andrew is a senior nurse with a long-standing passion for cancer care, end-of-life support, and making a difference when it matters most. With years of experience working in major cancer centres and palliative services, he’s seen first-hand the importance of thoughtful, compassionate care — especially for young people and their families navigating devastating diagnoses.

He’s spent much of his career leading clinical teams, shaping cancer services, and championing quality care across NHS trusts. But at his core, Andrew is someone who believes deeply in human connection, empathy, and creating meaningful moments — values that align closely with the heart of Dragonfly Cancer Trust.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys keeping active, spending time with his family and is always up for a challenge (or a good cup of coffee). He’s excited to bring his experience and energy to the trustee team and to help the charity grow its impact across the UK.

 

Our Staff

 

Jane Dennison, CEO

Jane Deana Dennison is the Chief Executive Officer of Dragonfly Cancer Trust, a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting children and young people with life-limiting cancer diagnoses. Since joining the Trust,, Jane has led with compassion and dedication, helping young patients and their families create precious memories and access much-needed support during incredibly challenging times.

Jane brings extensive experience in non-profit management, with a strong background in community engagement, philanthropy, and creative entrepreneurship.
Her leadership has helped Dragonfly Cancer Trust expand its reach, working closely with hospitals, hospices, and oncology units across the UK to provide holistic care and financial assistance to those in need.
Alongside her role at the Trust, Jane is also a trustee for Northern Cancer Voices, further demonstrating her commitment to advocacy and support for cancer patients.
Based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, Jane is known for her warmth, creativity, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of families
affected by cancer. Through her vision and heartfelt approach, Dragonfly Cancer Trust continues to be a vital source of comfort and hope for children, young people, and their loved ones throughout the UK.
Jane’s long-term hope for the trust is that every young cancer patient with a life-limiting diagnosis across the UK will be able to access Dragonfly Cancer Trust’s
services, ensuring no family faces this journey alone and that every young person can make each moment matter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natalie Hickinbottom, Fundraiser

Natalie is the Sheffield regional fundraiser and leads on the charity’s social media. She is very passionate about what Dragonfly Cancer Trust does to support young cancer patients and their families. As a fundraiser, Natalie loves spreading the word and engaging the community to rally support for our cause. She takes pride in informing others about the ways we can make a positive impact on the lives of young cancer patients.

Working with Dragonfly Cancer Trust is a deeply rewarding experience for Natalie. She is proud to be part of a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who truly make a difference when it matters most, providing crucial support to young cancer patients and their families.

 

Our Ambassadors

Ben Dawson, Ambassador

Ben is currently First Team Development Coach at Newcastle United Football Club where he has been a coach for over 15 years spanned over two periods at the club. In between his two stints at NUFC he worked for The Football Association as a coach developer in the professional game.

He originally began his coaching career with Newcastle City Council’s Football Development Scheme and moved across to Newcastle United Foundation when the club’s charity was created.

His involvement with Dragonfly Cancer Trust began when the charity made Newcastle its central base at the same time as the loss of his mother to cancer. He has since utilised his sporting connections to help a number of young cancer patients fulfil some of their sporting-related dreams and create memories for those young people and their families.

 

 

 

 

Charis Patel, Ambassador

Charis is the creator of @thegriefspace_ on instagram. The Grief Space is a supportive platform that discusses grief, from the perspective of a young adult.

Charis created this page after losing her brother Cameron in May 2020, after a long journey with Leukemia.

Charis has experienced first hand the amazing work that Dragonfly Cancer Trust do, receiving support in the last few days of Cameron’s life. We enabled Charis to create some cherished and lasting memories and keepsake jewellery from her brothers fingerprint.

Charis said, “I am honoured to be an Ambassador for the charity and use my platform on instagram to tell more people about the incredible and supportive work that Dragonfly Cancer Trust do. This Charity holds a very dear place in my heart not only for what they’ve done for my family and I but what they do to support young people and their families through extremely difficult and emotional times.”

 

 

 

 

Lamin Gibba, Young Ambassador

Lamin is a remarkable documentary filmmaker currently studying for a degree in Fashion Marketing Communication at Newcastle College.

Lamin has been a true champion for Dragonfly Cancer Trust, lending his support at our events by captivating some beautiful photography and sharing impactful social media posts.

 

 

Our Volunteers

Joyce

Joyce is our incredible volunteer who turns her hand to anything. On a typical day, Joyce can be found counting and merging money for the bank from our collection tins and helping with our admin and our annual ball preparation.

 

 

 

 

 

Manny

Manny is a specialist in software and technology. He has a strong passion to share his knowledge with others and have a lasting impact in this world. He is excited to work with Dragonfly Cancer Trust to define a digital strategy and support our technology needs. He is hoping to help the charity navigate through uncertain times and utilise technology to stay ahead of the curve and reach more patients and families around the country.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ekaterina

Ekaterina is a Russian-born anthropologist turned UX Researcher and Designer. Currently based in Heidelberg, she works in health tech and develops software for German doctors.

Passionate about volunteering, she started her first charity project at the age of 12 by donating most of her plush toys to the local orphanage. Since then she never stopped, and worked as a Hospice fund coordinator in Moscow, created websites for Indian schools, taught English in a Buddhist monastery in Ladakg, volunteered full-time in a Buddhist center in France for over five years, and taught yoga to Ukranian refugees in Germany.

Nowadays, she supports Dragonfly Cancer trust in website re-design.

 

 

 

 

 

Danika Stochosky 

Ball Committee Member

Danika Stochosky serves on the Ball Committee for Dragonfly Cancer Trust, bringing her expertise as a data-driven copywriter to help advance the Trust’s mission. After recognising the need for additional support with the annual Dragonfly Ball, Danika stepped forward to contribute her professional skills by revitalizing sponsorship materials and developing comprehensive packages that connect generous sponsors with the Trust’s life-changing work.

Having experienced first-hand the precious nature of time while supporting family members through chronic illness, Danika deeply resonates with Dragonfly Cancer Trust’s commitment to empowering young cancer patients. She is particularly moved by the Trust’s focus on giving children and young adults control over how they’ll be remembered, believing that these meaningful moments and keepsakes provide profound comfort during life’s most challenging journeys.

 

 

Andrea Spowart

Ball Committee Member

Married to Kevin Spowart (Your North East Magazine, big supporter of Dragonfly Cancer Trust), lives in the North East. Day Job is working for the NHS, re-joined the NHS 4 weeks before Covid Shut down and worked through it. Proud to be asked to help with the Ball and to support the charity and Jane in any way I can. I can’t do the running/jumping stuff but I’m happy to sponsor those of my friends that do. My main goal for this years Ball is to get as many people involved as I can.

 

 

 

 

 

Amber Davison

Ball Committee Member

Hi there! I’m Amber, a 22-year-old accounting student with a passion for numbers and a love for the great outdoors. I grew up on a farm with my brother and gran, surrounded by horses, chickens, goats and pigs- —always as pets, of course! ] I’ve recently made the exciting move to Newcastle, where I bought my first home (yay!). When I’m not studying, you’ll find me hiking the weekends away, staying fit, and experimenting with healthy recipes in the kitchen. I’m also a huge fan of baking sweet treats—because life’s too short not to enjoy a little sweetness! I’m thrilled to be part of your team and can’t wait to contribute to such a wonderful cause.  

 

 

 

 

Layla Dymond

Social Media Volunteer

I am a second year law student at the University of Nottingham who has a drive for helping others. I am excited to be volunteering with the Dragonfly Cancer Trust to help enhance their social media platforms and spread awareness as much as we can.

 

 

 

 

Ellen Graham

Researcher Volunteer

I’m a Biomedical Science student at the University of Sheffield with a passion for oncology, and applying my knowledge to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare industry. Outside of my studies, I’m an active, sporty individual who loves running and spending time outdoors. I’m driven by the opportunity to blend my academic interests with real-world applications to contribute to Dragonfly Cancer Trust’s mission through my role as a Research volunteer. 

 

 

 

 

 

Yu Hui Lee

Researcher Volunteer

Hi! I am currently a first-year biochemistry student at the University of Sheffield. I am joining as a volunteer researcher and am passionate about contributing to the broader community through my research. I have experience doing formal scientific research as part of my EPQ project during A-levels and aim to pursue a career as a researcher in the industrial sector after graduation. I hope to gain more experience researching while hopefully being able to benefit others at the same time.

 

 

 

 

 

Jessica Wells

Admin Assistant Volunteer

My name’s Jess and I currently work at a local transport charity in a press and public relations role. Having started as a volunteer whilst studying for my degree in English Literature I quickly fell in love with the charity sector. Being able to use my skills in writing and editing while knowing that the work we do helps others and goes towards making a bit of a difference in people’s lives is a great satisfaction to me. I am really looking forward to joining the Dragonfly Cancer Trust to help support this incredible charity and learn even more about this wonderful sector.

 
 

Adaeze onwubiko

Event Support Volunteer

I’m Adaeze Onwubiko, with a strong background in management, leadership, and event coordination. My passion for effective management inspired me to pursue further studies, and I recently completed an MSc in International Business Management. Through my work, I’ve developed skills in organizing and leading teams, coordinating successful events, and driving projects to reach their goals. I’m excited to bring this experience and dedication as a volunteer with Dragonfly Cancer Trust, where I look forward to making a meaningful difference for children and young people facing challenging health journeys.
 
 
 
 
 
Margaret Smith

Event Support Volunteer

I moved to Sheffield six years ago when my husband died to be nearer to family. I have been volunteering for the NHS since my move and for the last three years I have been based at Weston Park Hospital in the Chemotherapy Aseptic Dispensing Unit where I deliver treatments to in- and out-patients thus allowing the full-time staff to get on with their important work. It is really a privilege to be able to help and I am so pleased that so many patients are receiving treatments for cancer. I also attend meetings of the Sheffield MND Support Group also as a volunteer.

 

 

 

 

Art Cassidy

Bucket Collector Volunteer

I am a student studying maths at the university of Sheffield. I volunteer with dragonfly cancer trust by helping with bucket collections and I am proud to be supporting a charity that raises funds for children living with cancer.

 

 

 

 

 

Asymal Syahida

Research Volunteer

tI am an aspiring data scientist that currently study in University of Sheffield. I’ve been involved in volunteering since 13 years old and have been Project Director for Helping Everyone Reach Out (HERO) in the past and now volunteer as Researcher as I hope to broaden my skills while giving benefits to others.