Trustees
Lorraine Wilson
Founder & CEO
As Milly’s mum and the founder of the charity, Lorraine was inspired to create Milly’s Smiles following Milly’s diagnosis with AML in November 2014. Entering a world she had known existed but hadn’t realised affected so many families, she witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by those living with childhood cancer.
Motivated by a desire to give something back and to support others experiencing what her family had been through, Lorraine founded the charity in Milly’s memory. Milly was a true people person who cared deeply for others and loved to make them smile and feel better about their day.
Through Milly’s Smiles, Lorraine continues that spirit of kindness and compassion, striving to make a difference—however small—to children and their families at the point of a cancer diagnosis.
Gemma Dyson
Chair of Trustees
Gemma brings a wealth of experience and strong leadership to her role as Chair of Trustees at Milly’s Smiles. She is currently a Director at Vital Energi.
With over 20 years’ experience working with public and private sector partners, Gemma has also held several voluntary and non-executive roles, including Non-Executive Director for Calico Homes, where she supported the organisation’s significant growth and diversification into new businesses, not-for-profit ventures and charities.
Throughout her career, Gemma has been guided by a strong sense of purpose and integrity. After completing her term with Calico Homes, she was keen to find a cause that truly reflected her values — one that makes a tangible difference in people’s lives; she found that in Milly’s Smiles.
Kathryn Thomas
Trustee
Kathryn is a primary school teacher with over 20 years of experience working in education. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with numerous charities and organisations, driven by her strong passion for supporting charitable causes.
A long-standing family friend, Kathryn was invited to join the team at Milly’s Smiles and feels honoured to contribute to such a meaningful charity. She takes great pride in organising, supporting, and developing opportunities to raise vital funds for the charity’s work.
Equally important to Kathryn is raising awareness of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, a cause that remains close to her heart. She is committed to helping Milly’s Smiles continue its tireless work in memory of Milly — a beautiful and courageous young lady.
David Sears
Trustee
David brings a wealth of business and financial experience to Milly’s Smiles, having spent many years as Managing Director of Heritage Envelopes, one of the UK’s leading envelope manufacturers. Now retired from his professional career, David plays a vital role on our Board of Trustees, overseeing the charity’s finances and ensuring we remain sustainable and accountable as we continue to grow.
Away from his trustee work, David is happily married to his beloved wife Vicky and is a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His kindness, wisdom, and steady guidance are deeply valued within the Milly’s Smiles family.
John Sturgess
Trustee
John brings extensive governance and leadership experience to Milly’s Smiles. As Managing Director of MGS Plastics and an experienced charity trustee, he ensures that we remain true to our aims and fully compliant with Charity Commission regulations. His thoughtful oversight and commitment to good governance help to guide our work and safeguard the future of the charity.
John is a devoted family man, happily married to his wife Andrea and a proud father. His integrity, compassion, and dedication make him a valued and respected member of the Milly’s Smiles team.
Carrie Wright
Trustee
Carrie has been a Trustee at Milly’s Smiles since September 2024, though her involvement with the charity goes back much further through her dedicated volunteering and fundraising efforts.
Before becoming an Oncology parent, Carrie built a successful career in Human Resources, working across a variety of sectors including Hospitality, Manufacturing, Education, and IT.
Carrie and her family know first-hand the impact of a childhood cancer diagnosis and the vital difference the charity makes. In 2018, they received a Milly’s Smiles bag when her daughter Lucy, then aged eight, was diagnosed with cancer. Milly’s Smiles held a special place in Lucy’s heart until she sadly passed away in July 2025.
For Carrie, it is imperative to continue the charity’s incredible work, supporting families like her own across the UK.