Chair of the People with MS Advisory Committee awarded for his services to MS

We are delighted that Martin Stevens, the Chairperson of MS International Federation’s (MSIF) People with MS Advisory Committee has been awarded the official British Queen’s Honour, “Officer of the Most Excellent Order of British Empire” (OBE) for his services to people with Multiple Sclerosis.

Martin was diagnosed with MS in 1995 and soon after, he became active in the UK MS Society. Over the years, he has taken on a great variety of roles, most recently as a member of the Society’s Board of Trustees.

He became active at the international level in 2008, when he joined MSIF’s former People with MS International Committee. He facilitated a key workshop of people with MS and helped establish MSIF’s current People with MS Advisory Committee, which he has chaired since 2012.

In this position and as a member of MSIF’s Board of Trustees Martin has played a critical role, working hard to put the voices of people affected by MS at the heart of the movement’s decision-making.

Martin Stevens said:

“To be appointed OBE is a fantastic and unexpected honour. Being diagnosed with MS in 1995 was a life-changing event. For more than 20 years I have been able to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life for People affected by Multiple Sclerosis both here in the UK and across the world.”

Peer Baneke, Chief Executive Officer of MSIF, said:

“Martin has contributed a great deal, both within the UK and at global level, drawing attention to issues that are crucial from the perspective of people with MS.”

Two issues have particularly benefited from Martin’s attention and advocacy. The first is how the quality of life of a person with MS is closely linked to that of their families, friends and loved ones. When one is affected, so is the other.

The second issue Martin has driven forward is that every person with MS, wherever they live in the world, should have access to effective medicines, treatment and healthcare – an aim which the global MSIF movement is now actively pursuing.

We send Martin many congratulations.