''My husband died of cancer in 2000. Ten weeks after his death I saw an advert for a fund raiser for Maggie's Centre and went for it with a vengeance.

''I had no fund-raising experience. I had been in computer sales and was more used to dealing with machines than people on a daily basis. It was a very steep learning curve coming into fundraising but my husband's death had given me such determination.

''For the first three years we were raising the capital costs for our building which were (pounds) 1.3m and now we are raising money for the annual running costs which amount to (pounds) 300,000 every year. One day I was line dancing at a local community centre with a retired group of people in their 60s and 70s and two days later I was walking the Great Wall of China with 72 other people.

''Being a fund-raiser isn't just about getting to know the local community it's also approaching trusts and writing off letters hoping that something in your letter will spark an interest. We also have to try and engage the corporate sector.

''All of this means being able to communicate on a number of different levels. One night I could be talking to a group of Brownies where the average age is seven and the next night I could be giving a presentation to a group of businessmen which has to be very polished and professional and I have to know my figures inside out.

''It's hard work and it can be stressful but I love the job I do. As much as I put in I get out. What other job would have given me the opportunity to sit and have dinner with Frank Gehry [who designed the centre] and Sir Bob Geldof?''

Maggie's Dundee can be contacted on 01382 496384