Announcing the Meritorious Service Award winner for 2024

27 November 2024

This award, given on recommendation of the Nominations Committee acknowledges the contribution of individuals who have provided an exceptional service to the Society far above that which one would normally expect for their position or role.

The 2024 Meritorious Service Award has been presented to Dr Karen Heslop-Marshall for her hard work and contributions to the Society.

Karen has dedicated over 30 years to respiratory medicine, excelling as a clinician, leader, researcher, and mentor. Starting as an Enrolled Nurse in 1984, she became a respiratory nurse specialist in 1994, driven by her passion for patient care and inspiring others to join the field.

Karen’s achievements include earning a PhD in 2016, co-chairing BTS’s Nurse Specialist Advisory Group, and serving as Chair of the Association of Respiratory Nurse Specialists (ARNS). A champion of research and education, she has been awarded £2.5 million in funding, published over 40 papers, and is renowned for her work on cognitive behavioural therapy for COPD.

Karen also actively supports multidisciplinary teams and holds leadership roles with organisations like Asthma + Lung UK and NICE. Her dedication, kindness, and advocacy for respiratory nursing have inspired countless professionals worldwide.