Margaret Webb, Occupation: Chief executive officer of Debra Ireland, a charity which raises awareness and offers support to patients and families affected by a rare genetic skin condition, Epidermolysis Bullosa.
In conversation with Fiona Tyrrell
Personal/family: Married to Richard, with three children and one much-adored grandson.
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire?
Those very special people who push the boundaries, outstanding examples would be the C18 scientists and anatomist John Hunter. Also, those dedicated individuals who challenge our current provision of care and treatment.
What other career might you have chosen?
My career choice at age four was to be a street trader, because I would work only one day a week (the day the market came to my town) and I would earn five shillings a day [32 cents].
If you could grant three wishes for the health service, what would they be?
I would ensure that both our health service and public ethos support individuals in achieving optimum standards of personal health. I would also see that the health service provides the highest standards of medical treatment to those in need in a timely, caring and efficient manner.
What is your greatest fear?
That any harm should come to my family.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Thankfully, I've only been a patient for minor problems or when having children. I am a cowardly patient as I am bad at dealing with pain.
When or where are you happiest?
When all my children are back home together and we relive our shared experiences.
How do you cope with stress?
Gardening or walking the dog.
What is the trait you most admire in yourself?
Perhaps being dependable.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself?
I can be impatient.
Do you use alternative or complementary medicine or therapies?
Not on a regular basis, but over time, I have tried a number of complementary approaches.
Who or what makes you laugh?
My baby grandson is fast learning how to perform and get a laugh from the audience - you would be a hard person not to share in his unaffected enjoyment of life.
What is your motto?
My motto is to worry about, or to try to change, only what is really necessary.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
I can always rely on the wit and humour of the TV series Have I Got News For You.
What books would you bring to a desert island?
The most comprehensive survival book possible, preferably complete with a machete.