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Anne MacKinnon (Updated Bio 22/06/2024)
In 1990 I started visiting my sister and family in Australia and continue to do so at least every two years. It is good to see them all but, with 15 great nephews and nieces, it can be a bit tiring. The journey never improves.
After an illness in 1992, I developed Post Viral Syndrome, never recovered my energy, and so was happy to take early retirement in 1997 after 32 years in Electrical Engineering at Glasgow University. For a few years I worked part-time with the Neighbourhood Engineers' programme linking engineers to school to help raise the profile of Science, Engineering and Technology. This was most enjoyable and very satisfying.
I was Chairperson of ENABLE Glasgow, the charity for people with a learning disability. We provide services and continue to campaign which, at this time of never-ending cuts, is more important than ever. Much of it continues to be great fun especially when we organise a ceilidh for an exchange group visiting from Nurenberg.
In 2013 I sold my second home in Argyll as I was finding it difficult to cope with 2 houses and in particular 2 gardens. Surprisingly I don't miss it as I thought I would.
Family History has been my addictive hobby, though it has been a bit neglected of late. However, I still keep in contact with my 'new' relatives around the globe.
After a happy period as Chairperson of ENABLE Glasgow, I retired in 2015 and a friend persuaded me to join the Rotary Club of Charing Cross.
Being a member there is very different from being actively involved with ENABLE Glasgow.
The members form a small group which supports projects across the world such as Stop Polio and Wateraid and projects local to Glasgow such as the Lodging House Mission in the east end of Glasgow.
2023 was a strange year for me where I had superb support from the NHS but visits to Australia have come to an end.
With my sister and her large family being based in Australia but feeling Scottish, I feel I have opened a B&B in Birkhall Ave and welcome them all.
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