Announcing the Exceptional Winners of Our Community Member Award

We are thrilled to reveal the winners of our inaugural Community Member Award, an initiative recognising individuals who’ve made a significant impact within the Angelman Syndrome community in the UK. After thorough consideration of numerous nominees, the FAST UK Board proudly recognises Linda Holmes and the duo, Heather and Thomas Brady, for their outstanding achievements and unwavering dedication towards the cause.

The Community Member Award was established to honour exceptional community members who have significantly contributed to raising awareness, fundraising, and advocacy for Angelman Syndrome. The recipients of this prestigious award will receive a trip to the highly anticipated FAST Gala and Science Summit in Miami, in November, courtesy of FAST UK.

Heather and Thomas Brady have shown extraordinary resilience and dedication in raising awareness and funds for Angelman Syndrome, despite the heartrending loss of their daughter, Cecilia. Their unwavering commitment and passion, manifested through numerous charity events and challenging bike rides, have not only touched many lives but also significantly boosted efforts to find a cure for Angelman Syndrome. Heather expressed her gratitude, saying, “Wow!! Thank you so much for your kind words and most generous reward!! This community is amazing, we feel lucky to be part of it and be involved in the journey to find a cure for Angelman syndrome! Cecilia will always be our driving force behind every thing we do!”

The award’s other winner, Linda Holmes, has been instrumental in the Angelman Syndrome community, notably organising an annual weekend at Alton Towers. Her dedication and commitment in fostering an inclusive environment have provided a unique and uplifting experience for families affected by Angelman Syndrome. Linda shared her delight at being recognised, stating, “I’m honestly totally overwhelmed and humbled by this! Thanks to all who nominated me, I am still shaking and in shock! I can’t wait to meet new friends and put faces to the names of people I’ve known within the Angelman community from the USA for many years. Thank you so very very much to all at FAST UK and all those people who very kindly nominated me. I really honestly appreciate it.”

Both Linda Holmes and the Bradys’ tireless efforts in raising awareness and advocating for Angelman syndrome have inspired many, proving to be truly deserving recipients of this honour. It is our immense pleasure to provide these amazing community members the opportunity to attend the FAST Gala and Science Summit in Miami.

Let us all congratulate our esteemed winners. Your extraordinary efforts have created an invaluable ripple effect, fostering a stronger and more inspired Angelman Syndrome community. We are all eager to see the continued impact of your work in the future. Thank you, Heather, Thomas, and Linda, for being the beacons of light in our community.