Dr Mackie, who has recently retired from clinical practice, has spent over thirty-five years looking after patients with serious burn injuries for the Red Cross Hospital, Beverwijk; one of the three national burns centres in The Netherlands. Dr Mackie is also former President of the International Society for Burn Injuries. In taking on the appointment, Dr Mackie spoke about why he agreed to get involved, as well as why our mission to achieve scar free healing is so important:
"It feels right for me to contribute the unique knowledge and experience which I have accumulated in my career, to further the care of burn patients into the future.
Burns care is often referred to as a 'Cinderella' specialism and is frequently overlooked by mainstream funders, including the pharmaceutical industry. Dedicated specialist personnel are equally sparse.
Yet, for the individuals suffering from this type of injury, the consequences are truly devastating. Scars are not only physical in nature, but have profound psychological and social effects. The Scar Free Foundation's mission is ambitious, noble, and highly appreciated."