After qualifying, I trained in general medicine, neurology and clinical pharmacology and did some research in neurotoxicology. I went on a secondment to ICI’s Central Toxicology Laboratory, as head of Human Toxicology and Biomedical Sciences, returning to Newcastle to set up a Medical Toxicology Centre in the University and a clinical service in the Trust. I also had several advisory roles in UK and US Governments, and in international bodies such as WHO. After retirement from the University and Trust, I’ve continued with these – I never did get work/life balance right! Fortunately, the magic of Teams means we can be in Shetland and I can have virtual work meetings and regular catch ups with our children and grandchildren. It saddens me that though there is so much potential for good in this world, selfish and greedy individuals are destroying the planet. I do worry about the future for everyone’s grandchildren.