Former Macular Society chief executive awarded MBE

Former Macular Society chief executive Cathy Yelf has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in His Majesty The King’s 2025 Birthday Honours List.

Cathy been recognised by King Charles III for her services to people living with macular disease.

After nearly a decade of dedicated service to the Macular Society Cathy Yelf retired from her position in last year. She joined the organisation as head of external affairs in 2008 before becoming chief executive in 2015.

During Cathy’s time at the Society the organisation witnessed substantial progress. The charity is now a leading funder of macular research in the UK and a powerful voice for people with macular disease.

Making great strides 

Cecilia Bufton, chair of trustees for the Macular Society, said: “On behalf of the everyone at the Macular Society, I am thrilled to congratulate Cathy Yelf on being awarded an MBE for her services to people living with macular disease.

“This honour celebrates and recognises Cathy’s unwavering dedication and commitment to Beating Macular Disease.

“Under her leadership the Society made such great strides and we are immensely proud of the lasting difference she has made to the lives of those affected by sight loss.”

The last decade has also seen huge advancements in treatments and research, including new treatments for certain types of macular disease and developments in gene therapy and stem cell research.

Despite retiring from the Society in 2024 Cathy continues to dedicate her time to people living with sight loss as she became a board member at the General Optical Council in April 2025 and continues to volunteer as a trustee for Action Against AMD (age-related macular degeneration), a collaboration of charities aiming to stop early-stage macular disease from developing to the blinding form.

Beating Macular Disease 

Cathy has also served as a trustee of the Association of Medical Research Charities and has been a member of numerous NHS, NICE and industry committees, working groups and clinical trial steering committees.

Talking about the honour Cathy said: “I am very grateful for this huge honour and delighted to be nominated. This recognition is not just for me, but for everyone who has been part of our journey to beat macular disease.

“So many dedicated individuals have contributed to the progress we've made, and I hope this is something we can all celebrate together. There is still much to do to overcome the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, and I know the Macular Society will continue to work tirelessly until that goal is achieved."