Statement from J.K. Rowling Regarding Resignation from MS Society Scotland

An update now regarding the story from earlier today, involving Harry Potter author J.K.Rowling and her resignation as Patron of MS Society Scotland, the charity she has long and very publicly supported on her website, in her many charitable contributions, and gala fund raising events. Scottish Television now has a lengthy statement from JKR on this matter as follows:

“I have now reluctantly decided that I cannot, in good conscience,
continue to be the public face of a charity that is changing beyond
recognition from the one with which I have been so proud to be
associated.”
“I also remain committed to financing future research into the
treatment and causes of Multiple Sclerosis, and to campaigning for
better care and treatment of people with MS in Scotland, which is the
MS capital of the world.

“This disease claimed my mother’s life at the age of 45, and I hope
to continue giving both time and money to a cause which remains so
close to my heart.

“I have not taken the decision to quit my position as patron of MSSS
lightly. Late last year, I initiated and attended a mediation session,
in the hope of sorting out long-standing and escalating conflict
between the Scottish Council and management in London, driven by the
imposition of changes by London.

“Unfortunately, this achieved very little. With mounting frustration
and disappointment, I have witnessed resignations of immensely
dedicated people within MSSS and the increasing demoralisation of staff
whom I have come to know and admire over the ten years of our
association.”

She said her disappointment “cannot be overstated. Nevertheless, I
hope to continue to play a part in combating the underfunding and
misunderstandings surrounding MS for many years to come. I shall also
continue to hope that the MS Society Scotland manages to resolve its
difficulties.”

An MS Society spokesman said: “JK Rowling has been a great patron
for the MS Society Scotland for many years. We are sorry she is
stepping down and thank her for her good work, and for her continued
support for the MS research centre in Edinburgh.

“The Society is in the middle of a governance review to make sure we
are properly organised to build on the excellent work we already do in
Scotland and across the UK. We are a strong, democratic organisation
and this review is being done in consultation with all of our 43,000
members.

“We would have preferred to do this with JK Rowling’s involvement,
but we appreciate that significant change can be difficult. We would
urge supporters of the MS Society to work with us now. The Board is
confident that what we are doing is all about delivering the best
possible support to over 10,000 people living with MS in Scotland.”