South & West Cornwall Branch of The MS Society of Great Britain Monthly Magazine May 2014
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Transcript of South & West Cornwall Branch of The MS Society of Great Britain Monthly Magazine May 2014
May 2014
South & West Cornwall
Branch
Monthly Magazine
The
Lifeboat
Paula is painting your nails
and Laura is face painting
on the 17th May
See details on
page 6
Laura
Paula
1
Page 11 Sent in by Wendy Hughes -
Part 2
From Judy Reed Page 12 Mary Smiths blog - My army of
friends
Find more of Laona’s recipes on
her website
Page 13 Thought of the month
Douglas Ham
Mylor Craft Fayre
Page 14 13th June more cycling on the
Truro Piazza
Read-A-Thon news Page 15 Megan’s page Page 16 Youth group Page 17 Young MS and Friends Page 18 Events Page 19 Information page
Inside the Lifeboat
this month
MS News
Page 3 PIP roll-out: problems from
beginning to end
Secondary progressive MS:
researchers discover potential
treatment, simvastatin
Page 4 New treatment Lemtrada to be
available for people with relapsing
MS in England and Wales
Young People
Page 5 Hosting a party?
Bingo
Jasper
Page 6 Get Together
Page 7 Laona’s page
Page 8 1940’s night
Page 9/10 Quiz page
This months cover picture is a reminder of our get
together on the 17th May at the Carnon Inn, Carnon
Downs Nr Truro.
All details are on page 6, lets try and make this a
special event with as many people attending as
possible.
All are welcome and it’s a family event so get your
places booked now
Call Malcolm
01209 860754
2
Chairman’s Report
Editors Note
The time has come for me to make peace
with Jasper, as he can somehow influence the
editor and lately he has shown such a clever
move in putting my picture in some ridiculous
situations.
On a more serious note I hope you have
contacted Malcolm on some of the events we
have planned. It appears that no one is
interested in photography as I have not one
reply for the idea I had, mmmmmmmm what
are you interested in I wonder.
We are in need of a secretary so if you are
interested, or know someone who would
like to help use, PLEASE LET ME KNOW. Douglas Ham our new Support Officer has
kindly allowed me to give you his telephone
number so you can ring him and have a
chat. Douglas has MS himself and therefor
cannot guarantee to be there all the time ,
but leave a message. By the time you read this the Bingo
sessions will be in full swing in Chacewater
Village Hall, my garage sale will also be over
and hopefully I will make a good amount of
money ! Why don't you have an event to try
and raise money.
Take care MikeMikeMikeMike
Hello Everyone,
Hello everyone
I hope you had a great
Easter without too much
Chocolate.
As you can see we have
been busy arranging
events for you.
Having had no response from my request
for an awareness group I take it that there
is no interest. I have to admire the efforts of our
committee in setting up some of our
events. Mike George’s garage sale, Karen
Moore arranging the cycling on the Piazza
and carer funding, the efforts made by the
Young MS and youth group in raising
awareness and funds, these things take
time and commitment, I thank you all for
your efforts.
The April craft fayre is no exception, run by
Gill Bray and raising £1000.00.
Without these people we could not
maintain the level of services that we do.
I would like to mention the carers group
who have a grant for their monthly lunches
but they are poorly attended considering
that we have 270 members, the lunches
are a great way to meet other carers in a
social environment and exchange views
and ideas, why not call Karen Moore and
get yourself involved with the carers group.
We even give financial help for you to look
after you loved ones while you attend. Another issues coming forward very soon is
the Read-A-Thon, workload has held me
up with completing the last round of
schools but I will soon be back on the task
and reporting on the success of the
project, there is no failure as every school I
attend becomes aware of MS.
I must thank the schools taking part for
their support, it’s been a fantastic
experience, and of course I am addressing
teachers and students at the Kernow
Youth Book Awards 2014 on the 30th April.
Stay safe and get in touch.
MMMMaaaallllccccoooollllmmmm
3
News from the MS National Centre
Research published today in the Lancet
has confirmed high doses of simvastatin –
a cholesterol lowering drug – might slow
progression in people with secondary
progressive MS.
These are the first clinical trial results in
recent years to show a drug could be
beneficial for people with secondary
progressive MS. There are currently no
treatments available that can slow or stop
disability progression in people with a
progressive form of the condition.
The results
The phase 2 trial involved 140 people with
secondary progressive MS: 70 took the
drug for two years, and their results were
compared to 70 people who took a dummy
(placebo) treatment.
Those taking simvastatin (80mg per day)
showed:
a significant reduction in the rate of
brain atrophy (brain shrinkage) over two
years
better end-of study EDSS scores (a scale
measuring disability levels)
better end-of study MSIS-29 scores (a
scale used to measure the impact of MS on
somebody’s day-to-day life)
The researchers reported that high dose
simvastatin was well tolerated, but tests in
larger groups of people with MS will need
to be carried out to further validate its
safety and effectiveness.
The roll-out of Personal Independence
Payment (PIP) has continued to experience
heavy backlogs and delays, according to a
recent report from the National Audit
Office (NAO). Today, the Public Accounts
Committee examined how far things have
progressed. Discussions revealed that
problems are being encountered from the
beginning to the end of the process.
Not fit for purpose
Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of the MS
Society, said:
"It’s clear from the PAC hearing that the PIP
process is not currently fit for purpose, and
that the blame lies at the door of both the
government and the assessment providers,
Atos and Capita. It’s inexcusable that
disabled people are being used as guinea
pigs in a process that doesn’t work."
Hardship and isolation
"The Government failed to properly
consider the impact its reforms would have,
and this has resulted in unexpected costs
and extreme financial hardship for those
affected.
"Some people with MS are waiting up to six
months for their PIP application to be
processed, leaving them at risk of isolation
and unable to access the support they
need, such as transport to hospital
appointments, wheelchairs or help around
the home.
PIP roll-out: problems from beginning to
end
"Many tell us the delay in accessing PIP is
preventing them, their carers and families
accessing the other benefits they need, like
Carers Allowance and the Blue Badge."
DLA reassessment needs to be halted
"It’s nonsensical to press on with the roll-out
of PIP before the system is fit for purpose.
The government must urgently halt its
reassessment of DLA claimants to reduce
pressure on the system and put plans in
place to support people who are still
enduring delays to their claims."
Secondary progressive MS: researchers
discover potential treatment, simvastatin
4
Further trials crucial
Dr Susan Kohlhaas, Head of Biomedical
Research at the MS Society, said: “There
are no treatments that can stop the
condition from worsening in people with
progressive MS. Scientists have worked for
years to find a potential treatment that
could help people, and now, finally, one has
been found. This is very exciting news.
“Further, larger clinical trials are now
absolutely crucial to confirm the safety and
effectiveness of this treatment, but for now,
people with MS should be really
encouraged by these results.”
The discovery was initially announced at a
scientific conference by Dr Jeremy
Chataway over a year ago; but the results
of his study have now been further
scrutinised by the scientific community and
published in a peer reviewed journal.
Progression a priority
Finding treatments to help people with
progressive MS is the top research
priority for the MS Society and the focus of
the global research community.
New treatment Lemtrada to be available for
people with relapsing MS in England and
Wales
A new treatment for MS called Lemtrada
(also known as alemtuzumaband / or
Campath) has been recommended by
NICE for people with ‘active’ relapsing
remitting MS in England and Wales.
A decision will be made for people in
Scotland and Northern Ireland over the
coming months.
The NICE recommendation is now subject
to appeal, but if there are no hold ups it
could be available on the NHS within the
next few months.
A NICE approval is significant because it
means the NHS will have a legal obligation
to prescribe the treatment to anyone with
relapsing remitting MS who may be
deemed eligible.
Effective treatment
In trials, Lemtrada has been shown to be
highly effective in reducing relapses and the
accumulation of disability.
The treatment is taken by an annual
hospital infusion lasting three to five days;
Terrific news
Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of the MS
Society, said: “This is terrific news for
people with relapsing MS.
“Lemtrada has been shown to be highly
effective in clinical trials and while it isn’t
without risks, and it isn’t right for everyone,
it has the potential to dramatically change
the course of MS progression for those
eligible for the treatment.
“For years there have only been a small
number of injectable MS treatments
available, but now we’re starting to see
more effective medicines licensed and
NICE approved that can be taken in other
ways. It means there are increasingly more
options available – and we hope this
translates to fair and equal choice in
treatment for people with MS.”
Earlier this year Aubagio – a pill for MS –
was approved for use on the NHS for
people with MS living across the UK.
Early investment
The MS Society funded a trial in the early
1990s looking at whether Lemtrada could
treat progressive MS. Unfortunately the
treatment was not deemed effective, but
the work led to the development of trials for
people with relapsing MS.
Forum on the MS website:
If you're young and affected by MS in some
way, this is your opportunity to talk to
others who might be experiencing similar
things. If you are under 16 you must have
supervision from an adult when using these
message boards. For more on internet
safety visithttp://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/
Young People
5
Hosting a party?Hosting a party?Hosting a party?Hosting a party?
Celebrating a birthday, anniversary,
engagement or wedding? Then why not
make your day extra special by also raising
some much needed funds for the branch
along the way?
A free party pack containing everything to
help make your event a success and also
add a splash of orange to your party is
available. Why not consider adding a fun
activity like a raffle, tombola or guess the
weight of the cake to your party? If you
would like something a little more formal,
why not prepare a meal and ask your
guests for a donation?
Instead of receiving presents for your
special occasion, why not ask your guests,
family and friends to make a donation to
the branch instead? You can do this by
setting up an online fundraising page
at www.justgiving.com/mssociety. It's easy
to do and means your friends and family
can make a secure online donation using
their credit or debit card and leave
a personal message for your special
occasion.
If you would like your guests to make their
donation on the day, Gift Aid donation
envelopes are available.
MS Society wedding favours are a great
way of showing your support. Pin badges,
ribbons and wedding cards are available.
We ask for a suggested donation of £1 per
item.
We hope your celebration will be one to
remember as well as help local people
affected by MS!
Please contact Malcolm to find out more.
Hosting a party?
The great news is that Bingo will be offered
at Chacewater Village Hall on the following
dates.
29th May
26th June
It will start at 7-30 till 9-30 pm. There will be
refreshments on sale and good prizes.
All proceeds for these evenings will come
to our branch.
This is an exciting trial to see if we can raise
money for our branch. We have purchased
a new top of the range Bingo machine and
to this end, do you know of any village or
town, where we could do a bingo session
as Amanda and Richard would be more
than willing to offer their services.
Eyes down and think of places PLEASE !
MikeMikeMikeMike
Great news from
Mike George for
Bingo lovers!
Well! My tea runs cold with
fear and my whiskers
tremble with anticipation.
Could it be true that the
hatchet has been buried
other than in my head and
Mike George is offering the hand of peace. Yes I do belief that we are the best of
friends at the moment, but don’t hold your
breath too long it could change at any
moment, and I am now getting stick from
Nikki Jenkin.
Anyway, make sure that you support the
efforts of your committee in any way you
can, its not easy running a branch that is
going from strength to strength.
I bet Mikes pinched my carrot!
6
Get together May 17th at the Carnon Inn, Carnon Downs
Another great family event, with lots going on, come and enjoy the afternoon with your
family and friends, all are welcome.
Laura Ward from our Young MS
group is coming to do some
face painting so bring those little
ones and get them painted up.
Nikki Jenkin will be our quiz master and
give us some brain teasers during the
afternoon. I am sure there will be some
prizes plus a raffle.
Paula Robins is the Avon representative
and will be painting our nails, so don’t
miss this chance to go home with
beautiful nails
And there’s a buffet, lovely food to enjoy. There’s lots of
chat and many friendly faces. Come and have a chat,
exchange ideas talk about what you want and just have
fun!
AND IT’S ALL FREE!
If you think these beauty treatments will take you from this
to this
they won’t but you will have great fun at our get togethers. Has anyone seen
my carrot? JasperJasperJasperJasper
To book your place please call Malcolm as
soon as possible
Tel 01209 860754
Email [email protected]
Do it Now!
7
Laona’s page
My culinary leanings, I would say are firmly
European. Recently however, I have found
myself being drawn much further afield.
Just before Christmas I picked up a book
called Fusion, a culinary journey and
without meaning to offend, the author is
male. The reason I remark on this is that
most of my cookery books are written by
women. There is the incredible Claudia
Roden, who's books are not only an
amazing source of recipes but also history,
traditions and culture, quite literally my food
bible. Then there is Anna del Conte, Diana
Henry, Elizabeth David. If you don't have
any books by these inspiring ladies I would
recommend a little shopping spree ! The
male authors, however are seriously in the
minority. Fusion is written by Peter Gordon,
who is famous for his East meets West
cuisine. I have never before been drawn to
Asian cuisine but now I find myself well and
truly enticed. His book has followed me
from room to room for the past few months
and has set my mind racing and has
inspired new recipes. I might not have
mastered the fusion element, there have
been one or two concoctions that although
have been edible, have also been seriously
confused ! But I am not one to give up, so
hopefully one day I will get it right. For now
however we are enjoying and experiencing
food with Asian flavours and perhaps I can
tempt you to try some too with my
Aubergine, spinach and cashew nut curry,
hope you enjoy !.
A spicy vegetarian curry, the blended
cashew nuts add sweetness and create a
delicious creamy sauce.
• 1 large aubergine, cut into 2cm dice
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 100g cashew nuts
• 1 large handful spinach
• 3 garlic cloves, sliced
• 1/2 - 1 medium hot red chilli, diced with
seeds, according to taste
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds
• 1/4 tsp chilli powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 3/4 tsp turmeric
• 5 dried curry leaves
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 250 ml water
• salt
Serves 2 generously
1. Mix the aubergine with 1/2 tsp of
turmeric and 1/2 tsp of salt and leave in
a colander for 30 minutes. Place 50g of
cashew nuts in 75 ml of hot water and
leave to soak for 30 minutes. Toast the
remaining cashews in a hot pan or oven,
until lightly browned and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil and gently fry the
onions and garlic for 15 - 20 minutes,
stirring occasionally, until soft. Stir in all
the remaining spices and diced chilli and
fry for another 2 - 3 minutes, then add
175ml of water and leave to simmer over
a very low heat.
3. Blitz the cashews and their soaking liquid
in a spice grinder or blender, until you
have a thick cream.
4. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large frying pan
until hot and fry half the aubergine, until
golden, remove from the pan and repeat
with the remaining oil and aubergine
5. Fold the spinach into the onion and spice
mixture, increase the heat and cook until
wilted. Stir in the cashew cream, bring to
a simmer and season with salt to taste.
Finally stir in the aubergine and toasted
cashews.
8
On the 28th June 2014 at the Perran-ar-worthal
Village Hall, School Hill, Perranwell Station, Truro,
TR3 7LA, All are welcome so come and enjoy another
1940’s night in aid of the South & West Cornwall
Branch of the MS Society.
To book tickets call:
01209 860754
Dancing to 1940’s music
Multiple Sclerosis Society Registered charity nos. 1139257 / SC041990
Registered as a limited company in England and Wales 07451571
No bar so bring your own alcoholic drink!
Tickets only £5.00
Raffle & Lucky Ticket prize
Doors open 7.45pm
Tea, Coffee and soft drinks available
Evening buffet included
9
May quizMay quizMay quizMay quiz April Quiz answersApril Quiz answersApril Quiz answersApril Quiz answers
9
1 ST IVES 2 ROCK
3 GUNNISLAKE 4 TORPOINT
5 REAWLA 6 CAMELFORD
7 LANDRAKE 8 MANACCAN
Happy birthday to:
20th 20th 20th 20th Christie Drakely
22nd22nd22nd22nd Pat Trevail
23rd23rd23rd23rd Karen Holmewood
25th 25th 25th 25th Lesley Heather
30th30th30th30th Rex Trethewey
April mystery object:
Toasting fork
Maker Unknown
Date: 1750 - 1850
Place Made: Britain
Materials &
Techniques:
Wood, Iron, Paint
April spot the difference
This months quiz is an Irish quiz 1 The Irish engineer and inventor Harry
Ferguson (of Massey Ferguson tractor
fame) developed the P99 in 1961, the first
Formula One car with which 'gripping'
advantage? 2 Which popular film is based around a
tranquil character named Sean Thornton
and his family's farm in Innisfree? 3 Once upon a time it was widely
accepted that rats in Ireland could be
destroyed by which one of the following?
a) Holy water
b) The sound of pipes
c) Rhyming verse 4 Some elementary particles in physics are
known as Quarks. The word Quark stems
from which famous Irish novel? 5 Name the two people in he following list
who were NOT born in Ireland.
Pierce Brosnan, Richard Harris, Daniel Day
Lewis, Gilbert O'Sullivan, Maureen O'Hara,
Jonathan Swift, Chris de Burgh. 6 Which Dublin born 18th century writer
created the first name Vanessa for one of
his adventure novels? 7 Which female Irish pirate was known as
'The Sea Queen of Connaght'?
Can you spot the ten difference
Target
£2,000.00
Actual
to date £1,200.00
Money Boxes
What’s this
mystery object?
10
May Crossword
April crossword
DownDownDownDown
1111 Reject (4,4)
2222 Film (5)
4444 Abduct (6)
5555 Phantom (5)
6666 Everlasting (7)
7777 Fraudulent scheme (4)
8888 Gracefully slender (6)
13131313 Dusk (8)
15151515 Lingered (7)
17171717 Tweak (6)
18181818 Popular music of Jamaican origin (6)
20202020 Environment-friendly (5)
22222222 Eerie (5)
23232323 Woodwind instrument (4)
AcrossAcrossAcrossAcross
1111 Domesticated (4)
3333 Lincolnshire seaside resort (8)
9999 Brought back to life (7)
10101010 Last Greek letter (5)
11111111 Reside (5)
12121212 Playing a part (6)
14141414 Shrivel (6)
16161616 Grease used to make candles (6)
19191919 Lilting Irish accent (6)
21212121 Gem (5)
24242424 Back-hander (5)
25252525 Young goose (7)
26262626 Imperil (8)
27272727 Prepare for publication (4)
11
Nostalgic poem
A POEM THAT MANY MAY RELATE TO:
I remember the cheese of my childhood,
And the bread that we cut with a knife,
When the children helped with the
housework,
And the men went to work not the wife.
The cheese never needed a fridge,
And the bread was so crusty and hot,
The children were seldom unhappy
And the wife was content with her lot.
I remember the milk from the bottle,
With the yummy cream on the top,
Our dinner came hot from the oven,
And not from the fridge; in the shop.
The kids were a lot more contented,
They didn't need money for kicks,
Just a game with their mates in the road,
And sometimes the Saturday flicks.
I remember the shop on the corner,
Where a pen'orth of sweets was sold
Do you think I'm a bit too nostalgic?
Or is it....I'm just getting old?
I remember the 'loo' was the lav,
And the bogy man came in the night,
It wasn't the least bit funny
Going "out back" with no light.
The interesting items we perused,
From the newspapers cut into squares,
And hung on a peg in the loo,
It took little to keep us amused.
The clothes were boiled in the copper,
With plenty of rich foamy suds
But the ironing seemed never ending
As Mum pressed everyone's 'duds'.
I remember the slap on my backside,
And the taste of soap if I swore
Anorexia and diets weren't heard of
And we hadn't much choice what we wore.
Do you think that bruised our ego?
Or our initiative was destroyed?
We ate what was put on the table
And I think life was better enjoyed.
The committee experience
In between fiascos
Our family fruit I tried
The loaf came out quite easily
But the currents stayed inside
And now it was eleven
(I’m in bed then as a rule)
My cakes were a disaster
WHY did I promise them at school?
Well, it called for drastic action
So taking up my trusty blade
I sawed off the burnt bits
What a funny shape I’d made
Never mind there's always icing
Or some tassels, and a bow
Slap in some sink colouring
And they'd never know
T thought I’d got away with it
My daughter took a peek
She said ‘a DIY disaster’
And fell down in a heap
I decided to ignore her
I’d reached the deadline now
My ‘fairies’ needed sorting
I’d have to salvage them somehow
Well - cover cakes in chocolate
And everybody thinks they’re grand
And I was only helping numbers
There was nothing underhand
So I sent in all my efforts
(but didn’t name the tin)
Thinking all those hungry parents
Wouldn't guess the effort I’d put in
Next time of course there’s NO WAY
I’d be baking cakes– NOT ME
So why is it in my diary?
You know, I swear they drugged the tea!
Sent in by Wendy Hughes - Part 2 Sent in by Judy Reed
I realise that I have a wide spectrum of
friends; they go back to Alice and Jonny
when I was three, through my school and
university days, to my children’s
school-friends’ parents, colleagues, a
neighbour, and other MS-afflicted people.
Writing this makes me wonder what a
friend is as, sometimes, some people have
come to visit me here but never, or rarely,
visited me at home, and they come, in
effect, to show their feeling towards me.
(Collins English Dictionary: friend: one attached to another by esteem, respect and affection; friendship: attachment to a friend founded on mutual esteem). My
friends are the sort of people who visit me
weekly or even more often, showing their
true commitment to me. When I thank them
for coming they often say they enjoy my
company so it is no hardship for them. I
find it stimulating for me to hear about their
worlds and their lives as I don’t have very
much other contact with the outside world
except through television and the radio. I
also have the use of my own telephone in
my room; through this, using my Possum
(Latin for “I am able”), I can contact friends
and relations and they can contact me.
My blog has become a useful tool for
communicating with people who live a
distance away from me including my son in
Australia, friends in Rutland, Totnes,
London or elsewhere. I find it useful and
nice if they write comments on the blog. I
gather that various nephews and nieces
follow the blog and say they enjoy it as it
helps them better understand what it is like
to be me. Another person who, I believe, is
a follower is Tom, a friend’s child now a
man, who I knew when he was young; so
now my news can spread more widely than
just among my immediate friends and
family.
I have been married to Adrian for forty-odd
years; his loyalty to me has been wonderful
for, when my MS became more
Mary Smiths blog - My army of friends pronounced and I could not move or
cuddle him properly, this went on for twenty
years, he did not abandon me. I came into
this nursing home and he still visits me
twice a week; he has proved a really good
friend. Our four boys, of course, are very
loyal and visit me whenever they come to
Cornwall.
Between the visits of friends I have
professionals who come in – which are the
physiotherapist every two weeks, Soraya,
my masseuse, who comes alternate
weeks; at the moment my counsellor, Niki,
visits weekly and the chiropodist comes
fairly regularly; one of the members of staff
here exercises my legs and arms, feet and
hands daily during the week.
Like my various friends, I do talk to the
professionals.
I use my friends as amanuenses (my hands
for writing) or to read out loud my cards
and correspondence. Another trait that I
have noticed is that some people want to
help me and they come up with “good
ideas” like “Have you thought of talking
books?”… or “I’m sure you could get
books to show up on the telly”. In fact,
unfortunately, I cannot see writing on the
telly even with my glasses.
It is certainly nice to have people to
exchange ideas, thoughts and laughs with
which, I suppose, is the meaning of
friendship. Mary Smith 2nd March 2014
Pilgrims Kitchen Tales Dairy and Gluten Free Healthy recipes WWW.pilgrimskitchentales.com [email protected]
Find more of Laona’s recipes on her
website
Have you been interested in Laona’s
recipes? Find out more on her website
12
13 5 5 13
Thought of the month
May
Welcome to yet another peek
into my mind. Not that there is
much in there! Sitting here
wondering what we might think
about this month I took a look
in my diary for some inspiration. Not much
there either, just two Bank Holidays. Then I
had another flick through the April
Lifeboat. Why didn’t I think of that first?
We are so very fortunate to have such a
fantastic, hard-working Committee, there is
always something going on. What did I
find? Well, if you missed it, take another
look at the list of events that has been
organised for us. Buffet lunch, a quiz, not
forgetting the added bonus of a manicure,
all arranged for 17th May at the Carnon
Inn. So that’s where I would really like to go
but my husband will be busy so can’t take
me (I live in St Agnes, any offers?). I am
really looking forward to meeting some of
you if I can get there again. It would be
good to get out and about after my recent
hip replacement.
Enough of my ramblings!! Since the
afore-mentioned operation I have been so
well looked after that I spend a lot of time
thinking of and praying for all the people I
know who are waiting for results of scans,
x-rays, tests and MRIs, or are on a waiting
list for operation. And if I know so many,
there must be a whole lot more who I don’t
know. So here is the thought for May – Let
us all remember those we know, because I
do believe that the reason I have recovered
so quickly is due in no small part to the
prayers of my friends. With the bad weather
hopefully just a distant memory, may I wish
you all the very best of summers.
Ros
DOUGLAS HAM, SOUTH
AND WEST CORNWALL
TELEPHONE SUPPORT
OFFICER
My name is Douglas Ham and I will be
providing telephone support on a part time
basis to members of the South and West
Cornwall Society who have MS.
Whilst I have personal experience of
long-term illnesses and disabilities, this
does not make me an expert in MS or other
disorders but I am someone who knows
what it is like to live with life changing
illnesses and disabilities. I myself have Type
1 Primary Multiple Sclerosis; Chronic
Fatigue Syndrome, Asperger’s Syndrome
and Mental Health illness due to the
conditions I have to live with.
Over the years I have worked supporting
various charities and associations and I am
now keen to do what I can to support
those like myself with MS.
Like a lot of you my MS limits how much I
can do and this is why I am only able to
provide telephone support on a part-time
basis.
You can contact me on 01637 878953 if I
am not available please leave a message
on the answer machine and I will get back
to you as soon as possible.
My e-mail address is:
DouglasDouglasDouglasDouglas
Mylor Craft Fayre
Gillian Bray from Flushing in Falmouth
raised £1000.00 through her amazing
efforts organising a craft fayre.
Gill decided that she wanted to help
people affected by MS and started putting
the event together. There were stalls of
every description and the Ord Statter hall in
Mylor Bridge was constantly full.
14 6 14
Information
I will soon be reporting on the
results of the Read-A-Thon,
I have had much to do
lately and time has not
been on my side.
All returns are in and I
just have to collate them.
I am attending Kernow
Youth Book Awards 2014
On the 30th April, where I
hope to meet many of
Cornwall’s school librarians.
I will report back in next months
magazine
Without people like Gill our branch would
not be able to support the valuable services
we currently offer.
Gills husband gave a very generous
donation of £250, but that’s not all, Gill has
a painting worth £600.00 and a
gold bracelet to auction through our
magazine.
I will be putting pictures of these items in
the June magazine and inviting you to
make a blind bid for them, just send me
your bid in an envelope indicating which
one you are bidding for and the highest bid
will win the item.
Our very own,
Laura, Alex and
Nikki
Elaine, Alicia, Kinda, Carole and Gillian
Cornwall Caledonian Pipe Band at the
Craft Fayre
Plenty of stalls
To visit
The South & West Cornwall Branch thank
you Gill and your team for your support.
13th June more cycling on the Truro Piazza
Yes again on the piazza in Truro we will be
peddling for MS funds, Those who
attended the pedlathon on the 30th April
will know that we are raising awareness
and funds for our branch.
Thanks to our carer officer Karen we have a
spot on the piazza in Truro but we need
your help and pedal power to make it pay
off.
We need pedlers, collectors and people to
generally help.
Please call Karen 01872 274188 for more
details or if you can help.
Read-A-Thon news
15
Megan’s page
Megan’s page
Megan’s page
Megan’s page
15
Easter vanilla cupcakesEaster vanilla cupcakesEaster vanilla cupcakesEaster vanilla cupcakes Serves: 12
Prep time:20 mins
Cooking time: 25 mins (plus 10 mins
cooling time) Ingredients:Ingredients:Ingredients:Ingredients:----
For the cupcakes:For the cupcakes:For the cupcakes:For the cupcakes:
S 110g unsalted butter, at room
temperature
S 225g caster sugar, preferably golden
S 2 large eggs, free-range or organic
S 150g self-raising flour
S 125g plain flour
S 120ml semi-skimmed milk
S 1tsp good quality vanilla extract
For the IcingFor the IcingFor the IcingFor the Icing
115g unsalted butter, at room temperature
60ml semi-skimmed milk
1 tsp good quality vanilla extract
500g icing sugar, sifted
Few drops of food colouring (optional) Equipment:Equipment:Equipment:Equipment:
Electric hand beater
12 hole muffin tray or three 12 hole mini
muffin trays with the appropriate size
cupcake cases Preheat the oven to 160deg C. gas mark 4
Cream the butter and sugar in a bowl until
the mixture is pale and smooth. Add the
eggs, 1 at a time, mixing briefly after each
egg is added.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a
rubber spatula to ensure the mixture stays
well combined.
Add the vanilla extract to the milk in a
plastic measuring jug.
Combine the two flours in a separate bowl.
Add one-third of the flours to the combined
butter and sugar mixture and beat well.
Pour in one-third of the milk and beat
again. Repeat these steps until all the flour
and milk has been added.
Carefully spoon the mixture evenly into the
cupcakes cases. Bake in the centre of the
oven for approx 25 minutes (regular size) or
15 minutes (mini size) until slightly raised
and golden brown. Check with a cake
skewer in the centre of one of the cakes to
see that they are cooked.
Leave in their tins for 10 minutes or so and
then place carefully on a wire rack to cool.
When completely cool, you can ice these
cupcakes with vanilla buttercream icing.
The cupcakes can be stored in airtight
containers for up to 3 days at room
temperature. Do not refrigerate.
For the vanilla icingFor the vanilla icingFor the vanilla icingFor the vanilla icing: Beat the butter, milk, vanilla extract and half
the icing sugar until smooth. This will
usually take a few minutes. Gradually add
the remainder of the icing sugar to produce
a buttercream of a creamy and smooth
consistency.
If you want to colour your buttercream,
always start with a drop of colouring and
beat thoroughly. This will be all you need to
create a very pale pastel shade. You can
then add more drops and beat after each
addition to build up to your desired shade.
The buttercream can be stored in an airtight
container for up to 3 days at room
temperature. Before re-using beat well.
16 16
South Cornwall branch MS Youth Group West
“Making Sense”
For Auntie Nikki’s punishment I would like
her to have either a make over or face
paints at the get together on the 17th May. Lauren
Hello again, well another month has flown
by already and I hope you are all enjoying
the lovely weather.
You may well remember that back in
January our youth member Jamie,
nominated our branch as one of the three
charities to receive money from the bingo
held in St Just once a month. The last night
for this was Tuesday 15th April. We had a
great turn out that night and I am very
pleased to say that each of the three
nominated charities received £100 each.
I personally would like to say a big thank
you to Jamie for nominating us and raising
awareness about MS, and on behalf of the
youth group and our branch I would also
like to say a big thank you to Alison Grose
and her team for all their hard work. It is a
fantastic evening where we all have a great
laugh as well as raising awareness and
money for different charities. Thank you
all!!!!
Changing the subject completely now, I
would like to pass on some advice to
Jasper!! Please listen VERY carefully
Jasper. Firstly, it was me who saved you
from Mike Georges stew pot. Secondly,
again it was me who suggested you
became the youth groups mascot, to avoid
eviction, and finally but most importantly,
please DO NOT encourage the youth
group( they don't need it) at my expense!! I
will take whatever Lauren decides as my
punishment, however I did not cheat at
skittles, I wasn't even the one keeping
score!!
Megan, Jamie, Lauren, Ben and Jack
would like to say a big thank you to Wendy
Hughes for the Easter egg she gave to
each of them. Thank you Wendy.
Look out in next months Lifeboat for
Jamie's trip to watch darts and hopefully
those of you attending the get together in
May will be able to meet some of the youth
group.
Until next month take care
Nikki xx
17
Young MS and Friends Group
Craft Fayre
You can contact the Young MS and Friends
group: Telephone: 07710585556
Email:
Hello everyone, This month the Young MS and Friends
Group were in Mylor Bridge to support the
craft fayre organised by Gill Bray, raising
money for the South & West Cornwall
Branch of the MS society.
We had a great afternoon and I understand
the event raised close to £1000 which is
absolutely fantastic. It was a great opportunity to not only raise
money for the society, but to help raise
awareness of MS, eating a healthy diet and
show the support groups and activities
available for people with MS in our South &
West Branch area.
We were approached by many people
including parents, partners, friends and
relatives of young people between 20 and
35 recently diagnosed with MS.
It was great to be able to talk about our
experiences of being diagnosed and
treatment options as two young people in
our early twenties living with the condition. One of the most common misconceptions
about MS I have found when talking to
friends, family and others, is the age of
diagnosis. Whilst it can present at a
younger or older age, it is most commonly
diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40,
which is why it is so important to raise
awareness of MS and offer support and
reassurance amongst young people
affected by MS.
We are not alone in this and I would
encourage any other young people in
Cornwall to get in touch.
Our young MS group is active in attending
events, promoting awareness and having
great monthly social outings, we are
support for each other so don’t be afraid to
contact us.
LauraLauraLauraLaura Editors comment:
I hope that the Young MS group won’t
mind me taking part of their page but there
are things to be said about the group.
The Young MS group was started to
encourage young people with MS who
would rather communicate with people of
their own age, Talk about their issues and
fears and do the things that are more
applicable to their age group.
It is clear from our attendance at events
that there are many young people with MS
or have just been diagnosed.
Laura and Alex have made great strides in
the development of the group, they are
great company to be with and work hard to
bring about awareness of MS in young
people.
My message to you is don’t hesitate to
contact them they are compassionate
people who understand your concerns.
MalcolmMalcolmMalcolmMalcolm
18
16th &17th May Morrison’s Long rock
7th June Sainbury’s Penzance
10th & 11th October Tesco’s Falmouth
Supermarket collection dates
17th May - Get together Carnon Inn,
Carnon Downs, 11am till 2pm with buffet
provided.
Come and be spoilt by having your nails
painted or join in the quiz.
Avon rep Paula Robins will be there to paint
your nails. Its free so bring the family and
have a great afternoon. Laura is face
painting too so bring the family. 29th May - Bingo at Chacewater Village
Hall, Starts at 7.30pm 26th June - Bingo at Chacewater Village
Hall, Starts at 7.30pm 28th June - 1940’s night
at Perran-ar-worthal
Village Hall. £5.00 with a
evening Buffet.
For tickets call Malcolm.
01209 860754 July ? get together west area, any ideas for
a venue, let me know.. Malcolm July - BBQ at Mike George’s house, just a
social evening, meet, greet and chat August - Your choice, what would you like
to do? Call me.. Malcolm 01209 860754 20th September -
1950/60’s night at
Perran-ar-worthal Village Hall.
Live 50/60’s music from
Fire ‘n’ Ice plus an evening
buffet. Tickets £6.00. For more
information and tickets call
Malcolm 01209 860754
South & West Cornwall
Branch events 2014/15
27th September - Concert at Beacon
Village Hall by Marion Burch’s trio called
Three’s Company, joined by that popular
singing group Proper Job.
Details to follow 11th October - Get together at the Carnon
Inn. Details of activities to follow. November - Cabaret night in Falmouth 1st November - Get Together in West, to
be held at the Godolphin Arms, Marazion November - Western Area Christmas Lunch
Tregenna Castle if possible 6th December - Christmas lunch at the
Membly Hall Hotel, Falmouth January 2015 - Cabaret night at the
Tregenna Castle if possible.
All members are welcome to these activities
wherever they are held, members from
other branches are also welcome.
Would you like Bingo to come to your area?
Let us know and we will arrange bingo
sessions in your local facilities. I am still waiting for more responses to my
request for you to let me know what you
want your branch to arrange for you, please
respond. Would anyone like to run a regular coffee
morning?
One in the South and one in the West
where people can come at chat about the
day and communicate, it could be in your
local hall. Contact me if you can
For more information or to book tickets
please call Malcolm:
01209 860754
Email [email protected]
Your help
Branch contact details:Branch contact details:Branch contact details:Branch contact details:
Whispering Winds
Crellow Hill
Stithians
Nr Truro
Cornwall
TR3 7AQ
Tel: 01872 274911
www.mssociety.org.uk/southcornwall Satellite eventsSatellite eventsSatellite eventsSatellite events
Last Monday of each month: Last Monday of each month: Last Monday of each month: Last Monday of each month:
Helston & Lizard Group meeting:
Wheal Dream Restaurant, Helston
from 11.00am to approx 2.00pm.
Lunch at discounted rate.
Every Thursday: Every Thursday: Every Thursday: Every Thursday:
Yoga at the Well Being Centre,
Nance Lane, Churchtown,
Illogan. 11.00am to 12.15pm. with
Carolyn Smith by appointment only.
Every third Thursday of each monthEvery third Thursday of each monthEvery third Thursday of each monthEvery third Thursday of each month
Carers meeting at Mike George’s
Useful contacts:Useful contacts:Useful contacts:Useful contacts:
MS National Centre: 02084 380 700
MS Helpline: 0808 800 8000
Care Direct: 0800 444 000
NHS Direct: 0845 4647
Editors Contact detailsEditors Contact detailsEditors Contact detailsEditors Contact details:
To send in articles or comments.
Malcolm Glister
Whispering Winds, Crellow Hill,
Stithians, Nr Truro,
Cornwall, TR3 7AQ
South & West Cornwall Branch Information
Need help or advice, call our
support number 01872 274911
All views expressed in this publication are individual and not necessarily the view or policy of the charity and its supporters.
Multiple Sclerosis Society Registered charity nos. 1139257 / SC041990
Registered as a limited company in England and Wales 07451571
Chairman: Chairman: Chairman: Chairman: Mike George
Telephone: 01872 862031
email: [email protected]
Treasurer: Treasurer: Treasurer: Treasurer: Hilary Merton
Telephone: 01872 863896
email: [email protected]
Address: 7 Agar Meadows, Carnon Downs, Truro,
TR3 6HS.
Voucher Admin Officer: Voucher Admin Officer: Voucher Admin Officer: Voucher Admin Officer: Christine Sargent
Telephone: 01209 315386
email: [email protected]
Secretary: Secretary: Secretary: Secretary: Richard Stevens
Telephone: 01736 360551
email: [email protected]
M S Support : M S Support : M S Support : M S Support :
Telephone: 01872 274911
Carer’s Officer: Carer’s Officer: Carer’s Officer: Carer’s Officer:
Karen Moore
Telephone 01872 274188
Branch Profile manager and Magazine Editor: Branch Profile manager and Magazine Editor: Branch Profile manager and Magazine Editor: Branch Profile manager and Magazine Editor:
Malcolm Glister
Telephone: 01209 860754
email: [email protected]
Branch Web manager: Branch Web manager: Branch Web manager: Branch Web manager: Mike May
Telephone: 01872 272 957
email: [email protected]
Membership: Membership: Membership: Membership: Betty Alderton
Telephone: 01872 270901
email: [email protected]
Minute Secretary: Minute Secretary: Minute Secretary: Minute Secretary: Moe Fisher
email: [email protected]
Branch Safety Officer and Youth Team: Branch Safety Officer and Youth Team: Branch Safety Officer and Youth Team: Branch Safety Officer and Youth Team: Nikki Jenkin
Telephone: 01736 787089
email: [email protected]
Events CoEvents CoEvents CoEvents Co----ordinator: ordinator: ordinator: ordinator: Malcolm Glister
Telephone: 01209 860754
email: [email protected]
Fund Raising Officer: Fund Raising Officer: Fund Raising Officer: Fund Raising Officer: Marlene Stevens
Telephone: 01736 360551
email: [email protected]
Young MS & Friends Young MS & Friends Young MS & Friends Young MS & Friends Laura & Alex