febRuaRy 2014 Issue 119

40 year s of reb uild ing liv es a jury fter spinal cord in

Holidays and Travel

Readers share their experiences Recycle for SIA 12 Armed Forces support 14 – see page 35

Brought to you through our partnership with

debate information real life

Contents F e B r ua r y 2 014 i s s u e 1 1 9 forward message forward thinking Mailbox you write to us 4 We all look forward to our summer Q&a your questions answered by our experts 6 holiday and I hope you will find, in the pages that follow, some In the news inspiration for your own holiday from sIa Family DVD l gC elections 8 this year. If you do go away why not from the sIa academy sia training Courses 9 let SIA know about your experience new books in the Library l Book review 11 with a forward article about your fundraising recycling l Forthcoming events 12 trip, or a posting in the holiday sia’s work with the armed Forces charities 14 forum on the SIA message board? Public affairs Bowel survey l neurological Commissioning support 18 One of SIA’s greatest achievements over its 40 years 40th anniversary supplement has been the way in which our 40th anniversary Message from baroness Masham of Ilton 22 members have supported each 40 new opportunities in our 40th year work experience for sCi people 23 other. SIA started out in 1974 as Rebuilding Lives after sCI awards nominate someone special 24 a mutual support organisation Make 40 Matter pledge form 25 and that is still at the heart of Ruby Partners supporting sia in our 40th year 27 what we do in 2014. What’s happening? events from February to april 28 So, now we are celebrating our 40th anniversary Merchandise order form 30 40th. Please do get involved and The big sIa 40 years Quiz win a bottle of champagne! 31 help us celebrate. Make a pledge to ‘Make 40 Matter’ and help SIA to features be proud of our Anniversary. Have Transverse Myelitis what is it and who can help? 34 a look at the SIA website for details of how you can get involved. sPeCIaL seCTION l HOLIdays & TRaveL Now is the time of year that Freewheel annie: a round-the-world trip 35 we look for those considering access is a state of mind – visiting india 38 standing for election as an SIA ray’s Caribbean cruise 40 Trustee. Trustees determine the a trip to Japan 41 direction and monitor the progress Let’s visit Cyprus 42 of the charity. It is an important role Driving from gibraltar to germany 44 and affords you the opportunity to weekends away – with a difference! 46 play a part in SIA’s future. New rural retreats – peaceful, accessible places in the uK 47 Trustees, and the fresh ideas they bring, are always welcome. So forward matters why not put yourself forward? best foot forward what goes around – andy healey 49 Best wishes, Parenting taking the children on holiday – emily Clacy 50 Racing Manx grand prix 2013 – phil armes 51 Jonathan Fogerty, SIA Chair C5/6 Classified adverts 52 forward is available to download Find out more about us at www.spinal.co.uk from the member profile area on the sia website. the views expressed in forward are not necessarily those of the spinal injuries association. nor is sia responsible for the use which might be made of the information provided. sia does not endorse c Copyright 2014 any commercial organisations and acceptance of commercial advertising or sponsorship, or spinal injuries association editorial reference, should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the firms or products involved. MaILBOX You write to us to pass and people not know about the uK, so i was pretty confident that if them. I was also interested to note that i could get in touch with the suppliers three pages after the article there was of my chair they could arrange for new an article on FES and health which castors to be waiting for me when we featured two photos both of which reached singapore. however i am sorry Gripping showed tetras using FES equipment and to say the suppliers of my chair, gerald both using Active Hands gripping aids. simonds healthcare, did not provide omission To me this illustrates how often our the back up that you would hope for equipment is used and further having just spent over £3,000 buying Thanks for the Getting a grip on life highlighted their omission from the one of their chairs. article in the December 2013 forward Getting a grip on life article. while at sea we had no phone magazine. It’s always great to show Keep up the good work, coverage and only limited access to a possible hand adaptations for the many Rob Smith C5/6 special email system called telarus. using of us who struggle in this area after SCI. Long-term tetra and SIA member. that, i was able to email people whose All the equipment and products shown Email [email protected] addresses i knew. i didn’t know gerald are great and recommended but I was www.activehands.com simonds address, so i emailed friends disappointed to see a distinct lack of and family asking them to contact gerald mention for Active Hands gripping aids. simonds and let them know what had At this point I need to declare my own After sales service happened to me. this they did by both self interest as designer and director telephone and by forwarding an email of the company but I have also been a in this edition of forward, on page 35, from me asking gerald simonds if tetra for 17 years and I know how much you will see an article i wrote about my they could contact ti Lite suppliers in they have helped me, and many other amazing round the world trip. what that singapore and locate some castors tetras all over the world, grip numerous article does not mention is the difficulty for when i arrived. objects. I just didn’t want the opportunity i had along the way with my wheelchair. if they had been feeling very helpful, for others who may benefit from them while i was on the ship, two days away they could have offered to DhL some from singapore, the bearings in my new castors to singapore. however, all castors disintegrated. My chair was they did was to email the names, postal unusable and i did not have any spare addresses and phone numbers of three bearings with me as this is not a problem ti Lite suppliers in singapore. no email i have ever experienced before. i did not addresses or websites or anything that realise that the bearings in my castors i could use from a boat at sea, with no were unsealed. nor did i know that if access to a phone. they also didn’t send salt water got into them they would me the specification for my castors or very quickly rust and fall apart. what i needed to ask for – bearing in i was not completely stranded mind i am not in any way technical. because the ship does have a wheelchair they told me that the ti Lite suppliers on board which i was able to use; in singapore would be able to access although it was huge, cumbersome and my specification details from the ti Lite in any other circumstances i would not database, however this was not the case. have been seen dead in such a model! Luckily, i have friends who live in however i did feel immensely vulnerable singapore who were able to phone as i knew that we would be leaving the round various wheelchair suppliers until ship shortly after arriving in singapore they found one that had the same castors so i needed to get my wheelchair fixed as the ones that i was using. when we as soon as we arrived. arrived in singapore my friends came i was convinced the spare parts i to the ship, collected my chair, took it to needed would be available in singapore. the suppliers, got the new castors fitted My chair was brand new just before i left and brought it back to me. without them

editorial & advertising Lynne punchard l tel 020 8361 6971 l email [email protected] l Next copy date 3 March 2014 l Published by spinal injuries association, sia house, 2 trueman place, oldbrook, Milton Keynes MK6 2hh l tel 0845 678 6633 l Fax 0845 070 6911 l email [email protected] l Freephone advice Line 0800 980 0501 Mon-Fri 9.30am to 4.30pm l text messaging text sia and your enquiry to 81025 messages will be charged at your standard network rate l registered Charity no 1054097 Chief executive Officer paul smith l design & print tu ink www.tuink.co.uk

4 l forward thinking l MaILbOx February 2014 i do not know what i would have done. To recap, the ultimate aim of the i should say that two days after i contacted SCI-PSP is to generate a Top-10 list gerald simonds, by which time i was in of questions for researchers to singapore, i finally received an email investigate that will improve the from them with the specification of my quality of life, care and treatment castors. however, by this time i had sorted for those living with an SCI. it out myself and my chair was back on To that end, an invitation was the road. this was the information that extended to anyone with an interest i had needed two days earlier, but by in spinal cord injury to take part in a the time they sent it, it was too late. survey. This survey was designed to when i got back to the uK i identify all the questions that people a Top-10 list of research questions complained about the service i had have that they would like research for publication will be generated. received at which point they were only to investigate; questions that if We anticipate that this second survey too happy to replace my castors for free researched might help with future will be ready for completion in – completely missing the point that it treatment and care. March / April 2014. was when i was stranded on the other This first phase of the SCI-PSP Thank you very much to those of side of the world that i really needed was open for three months between you who completed and/or promoted their help, not once i was back in the uK! September and December 2013. A the first SCI-PSP survey. We would like the lessons i have learnt from this are to total of 413 people took part in the to encourage you to do the same with always take spare bearings and castors survey and submitted 808 questions. the second survey when it becomes away with me and not to expect too The Steering Group met in December available. Please keep an eye on SIA’s much from my wheelchair supplier. 2013 and was delighted with both website, Facebook and Twitter feed i felt they should have appreciated the the number of respondents and the for details. urgency of my request for help and proportions of the different This PSP is seen as a unique understood how vulnerable i felt stuck respondent groups. opportunity to help shape future hundreds of miles from home and land The next stage of the SCI-PSP is SCI research by the very people who without a functioning wheelchair. to review the 808 questions and sort live with, care for, work as healthcare Anne Luttman-Johnson T11 them into topic areas, before checking professionals with or have an them against previous research to interest in this field; all are valued see if they have already been stakeholders and we want as many Have your say answered. Once all questions and people as possible to take part. true uncertainties have been sorted, The SCI-PSP website can be found – what should a second survey will be launched. at www.sci-psp.org.uk and thank This second survey will ask you again for your support so far. sCI researchers participants to rate which of all these Dave Bracher T10 and questions is most important to those Christa Dyson C4 investigate? with an interest in SCI. From this, SIA Trustees you may remember an article in the October 2013 edition of forward which explained the formation and objectives of the spinal Cord Injury Priority setting Partnership (sCI-PsP). Trustees dave bracher and Christa dyson sit on the steering Committee as Patient Representatives and wanted The views and opinions expressed in forward are not necessarily those of to provide an update on progress so the spinal injuries association. we reserve the right to edit letters sent for publication. far with this important initiative. the deadline for receiving contributions for the april 2014 issue is 3 March 2014.

www.spinal.co.uk MaILbOx l forward thinking l 5 Q&a You ask us...

What is the maximum I can earn Q under the Permitted Work rules? the permitted work rules set out a how much a disabled person can earn through employment without losing their disability allowances. as from october 2013, the maximum that can be earned for permitted work is £101 a week for 52 weeks.

Are there any dating sites Q for disabled people? there are quite a few dating sites a available both in the uK and worldwide. those listed below are for people living in the uK to check out: www.disableddating4u.co.uk www.disabledsinglesdating.com www.specialfriendship.co.uk www.enabledating.co.uk Don’t be afraid to try mainstream For more information, please visit the (Dwp) currently has no plans to dating websites either! British wheelchair Bowls association: introduce personal independence www.bwba.org.uk payment (pip) for those over the age Do you have any information of 65. if you were aged 65 or over on Q on taking up bowls? If I’m over 65, can I still join 8 april 2013, you will not be able to although no longer a paralympic Q the Motability scheme? claim pip and will continue to receive a sport since 1996, bowls is played if you are 65 or over and you DLa for as long as you satisfy the by hundreds of people in great Britain a receive the higher rate Mobility eligibility criteria. both as a leisure activity and Component (hrMC) of the Disability For information please call competitively. anyone with a physical Living allowance (DLa) or the war 0845 456 4566 or visit disability such as spinal cord injury, pensioners’ Mobility supplement www.motability.co.uk cerebral palsy or a visual impairment (wpMs), and have at least 12 months can play and like many paralympic remaining on your allowance, you’re Do you have the dates for the sports, bowls is inclusive and can be eligible to join the scheme. the Q Mobility Roadshow in 2014? played alongside non-disabled athletes. Department for work and pensions yes and no! after celebrating a the 30th anniversary of the Mobility roadshow at telford in June 2013, Mobility Choice, the I get so fed up with the (some funny) at a reasonable cost. charity responsible for its organisation, Q disabled parking bays at in fact, they supply various stickers, has announced a major review of its our local car park being used by signs, driving and other useful activities. this is to ensure that it non-blue badge holders. Do you household gadgets. continues to meet the needs of know where I can buy a sticker Please call GPSP Ltd, people with mobility issues in to place under their windscreen Tel: 01522 688388 or visit the light of the ageing population wiper, asking the driver not to www.disabled and recent changes to benefit park there in the future? stickers.co.uk entitlements. unfortunately, while this is a really big problem this review is taking place, there a at the moment. there is a will be no Mobility roadshow company called gpsp Ltd who can held in 2014. supply you with various stickers For more information please visit www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk

6 l forward thinking l MaILbOx February 2014

Family DVD Governing Council We are pleased to announce the launch of our new DVD, Moving Forward Together, which is Elections 2014 aimed at the families of spinal cord injured people. Through Enclosed with this issue of interviews with siblings, parents, forward is a nomination form partners and children of SCI parents, for those SCI members wishing this film provides the opportunity to put themselves forward for to hear from others who have gone election to the Association’s through the experience of having Board of Trustees, known a relative who is spinal cord injured. as the Governing Council. Individuals speak of their feelings Following the changes to the at different stages during their make up of the Governing injury and rehabilitation and Council, which were approved how their lives have developed at the SIA AGM in November post injury. They describe how 2013, there are three Trustee they coped with the impact of spaces to be filled at the 2014 this life changing event and what election. The nomination it meant to them as an individual process commences from the and in their relationship with their beginning of February, with the relative. To obtain a free copy of closing date for the receipt of the DVD please contact SIA nominations being Friday 25 on 0845 678 6633 April 2014. Should a ballot be necessary (ie should the number of nominations received exceed prompt treatment can be given. We the number of Trustee places Special Patient Register suggested SCI people should contact available) then ballot papers their GP to obtain an application form. will be circulated to eligible In the December edition of forward, We have since discovered that members during the month of in an article about Autonomic this scheme is operated by Vocare, May, with voting closing at the Dysreflexia, we wrote about the a consortium of GPs in the north-east end of June. Special Patient Register. The idea of England. It appears that The nomination form is also behind this scheme is that if you there are no similar schemes for the available to download from the are pre-registered and you have to rest of the country, but if you know of SIA website www.spinal.co.uk call 999, your name will be flagged another one, please get in touch with by following the relevant link up to ambulance crew and they will the SIA Advice Line on 0800 980 0501. from the Home page. know about your special conditions, We apologise for the misleading such as autonomic dysreflexia, and information and any confusion caused.

8 l in the news l FroM SIA February 2014 Training News

As we begin to plan the 2014/15 SIA Academy Training programme it seems First Statutory Provision of like a good time to look back on how successful the past year has been. Care Training a success!

n September 2013, in response to attended our courses. Our Continuing Healthcare Adviser, Imembers’ feedback, we launched a We are continuing to expand and Brian O’Shea, delivered SIA’s very brand new Master Class on Motoring & develop the training programme by first Statutory Provision of Care Mobility aimed at SCI people. We have launching a new Master Class in 2014 course on 28 November in been working very closely with on the issues faced by SCI people as Manchester. This course, aimed at Motability and the Forum of UK they get older. If you have any other legal professionals working within Mobility Centres on this Master Class, ideas for topics we can develop into the personal injury field, received with staff from both organisations possible new Master Classes, then outstanding evaluations so we are delivering a range of presentations on please let us know. planning to repeat it later in 2014. the subject at their venues. This has The training schedule for April 2014 enabled us to provide sample vehicles – March 2015 is being finalised, and will Save the date! for people to view at the end of the day. soon be available on our website. Brain & Spinal Cord Injury The course has been very well-received, and has clearly identified an area on The following Master Classes Conference 14 May 2014 which people appreciate having are still to run in February Following the great success of additional information, particularly and March 2014: last year’s conference, SIA is once when newly injured. There is a session Choosing Your Wheelchair again working in partnership with still to run in March 2014, so visit the 11 February 2014 (Sheffield SCIC), Headway to deliver a joint Brain SIA website to book a place. 26 March 2014 (SIA House) and and Spinal Cord Injury Conference. Our existing Master Classes 29 March 2014 (Salisbury SCIC) This year’s conference will take continue to be well-attended Funding & Managing Your Care place on 14 May. More details and very positively received by Needs 18 & 25 February 2014 will be on our website soon! participants. They are invaluable in (Stanmore SCIC) and 21 & 28 providing information and guidance March 2014 (Southport SCIC) For further details of any on what are often bewildering topics Housing of these courses, please and the newer subjects such as 11 March 2014 (Stanmore SCIC) contact our Education and Choosing your wheelchair and Options: Motoring & Mobility Training Co-ordinator. Email Life & Work after spinal cord injury have March 2014 (exact date & venue [email protected] or call proved popular. Between April and to be confirmed, but to be held in 0845 678 6633 ext 221 November 2013 over 400 people Harlow or another SE location).

www.spinal.co.uk FroM SIA l in the news l 9 Study days for healthcare professionals

In response to requests from the healthcare professionals who attended “I gained knowledge of the importance the 2012 generic Study Days, we have run two specific days during 2013 of avoiding pressure sores. I knew to address the Moving and Handling of SCI patients and Bowel and Bladder before that they should be avoided, Management. So far over 260 healthcare professionals from District but I was not aware of the extra risks General Hospitals and community settings have attended the Study for SCI patients.” Days, which have been held around the country. The Bowel and Bladder Management Study Day provides: ach day provides an overview • insight into how the neurogenic Eof the need for specific treatment bowel and bladder function for SCI patients and gives the following SCI delegates an opportunity to get • an opportunity to see the range some hands-on experience. Staff of catheters, bags and ancillary from the specialist SCI Centres deliver equipment available to enable the presentations and workshops, good management along with presenters from the • demonstrations on how the various organisations that sponsor the day: irrigation systems work and the Wellspect for the Bowel and Bladder nuances needed for manual Study Day and Active Assistance evacuation and digital stimulation. for the Moving and Handling day. We still have two sessions of this Pannone Solicitors kindly sponsor particular Study Day to run before both days. the end of the current training year- At the Moving and Handling Study one in Manchester on 27 February Day healthcare professionals have the 2014 and one in Birmingham on opportunity to practice log-rolling and 3 March 2014. Visit our website positioning in order to maintain and to book, but be quick as places maximise joint preservation, as well as are limited! learn techniques for moving patients safely in bed and getting a sling in “From an acute point of view it’s been place with limited rolling and staff great to hear about what facilities involvement. are available for SCI patients, how to access SIA and how important bowel and bladder care actually is.”

User perspective on these days is, of course, key, and this is currently provided by our Regional Peer Support Officers and, in the case of the Bowel and Bladder Management days, by Alan Cook and Stephen Burns, who are SCI representatives from Wellspect. We will be holding a Moving and Handling Study Day in Leeds, on 24 April. Details of future study days will be available on our website. www.spinal.co.uk All presentations from the days will be made available to you via SIA’s Health Professionals’ Portal on the SIA website shortly after the event. For more information please contact [email protected] or call 0845 678 6633 ext 221

10 l in the news l FroM SIA February 2014 New books for the SIA library

Eat well, live well with spinal cord injury The Accessible Home: designing for all Assistive Technology for People with by Joanne Smith and Kylie James ages and abilities by Deborah Pierce Disabilities (2nd edition) by Diane www.eatwelllivewellwithsci.com ISBN 9781600854910 Pedrotty Bryant and Brian R Bryant This publication, which This book (an ISBN 9780137050093 was funded by the American This book looks Paralyzed Veterans of publication) at devices and America Education shows how home software aimed Foundation, is a owners can work at enhancing the comprehensive, with architects to lives of disabled practical guide create functional people and written specifically and attractive promoting their for individuals with accessible homes. independence. SCI, as well as their families, friends, The first section Updated with new carers, health and medical professionals. reviews the accessible home by research, content The authors, one of whom is spinal cord examining the different activities and features to address developments injured, are both qualified nutritionists, undertaken there. The second part in the field, the book discusses the use and feel that nutrition plays a vital looks at case studies using 25 real of current technology in areas such as therapeutic role in the lives of individuals homes and aims to show that the best special education and rehabilitation. with SCI. The book is split into chapters design is built in, not added on, and Featured devices and software that focus on specific secondary health that accessible can be beautiful and help the reader understand how areas complications that commonly develop functional. The author is an architect such as mobility, communication, after SCI such as bladder, bowel, pain and who became paralysed, so can identify education and independent living stress. The final chapter looks at ways of with the reader from a professional and impact on and affect the lives of maintaining your overall health with SCI. personal perspective. disabled people.

Book review by Marzena Kapuscinska T5 over. But her family didn’t give up on her, By my sideby Alice Peterson even though it was very challenging to keep Cassandra’s spirit up. Her mother introduced ISBN 9781782061816 Cass to Canine Partners. A charity that trains Alice Petersen has already published You, Me and Him; Ten dogs to assist disabled people in their daily life years on; Monday to Friday Man and Letters From My Sister. and to help them live more independently. By my side is her latest book. When Alice was eighteen, she Once Ticket, arrived in Cassandra’s life, she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and as a result changed. She became more open, optimistic, started meeting she had to give up her tennis scholarship in America. Alice people and throwing herself into all sorts of challenges. s very familiar with how an illness or a disability can change Whilst reading this book I cried my eyes out, laughed a person’s life and bring a lot of sadness and heartache. and held my breath, anxious to know what would happen The subject of disability features in this author’s work next. It’s an amazing story. It makes the reader reflect on but not in a sad, depressing or gloomy way. everything we take for granted. It touches a variety of By my side is a story about a young woman, Cassandra important aspects of life: disability, love, friendship, carers, Brooks, also called Cass. She is a twenty-three-year-old medical parenting, grieving and so much more. Sooner or later student who volunteers to help animals and loves her boyfriend. everyone will be facing some of those things in their life. Cass is full of life and very enthusiastic. But, in the blink of an eye, My only criticism is that Alice definitely skipped the subject her life is turned up side down when, due to an horrific road of personal care. Management of bowel and bladder is accident, she sustains a spinal cord injury and becomes actually a very daunting part of life with an SCI. It’s time- paralysed at the thoracic level. One moment of distraction consuming, takes a lot of getting used to and can rule a and Cass will be a wheelchair user for the rest of her life. person’s day-to-day life, as any SCI person knows. I, just like Cassandra’s boyfriend left, friends became very distant, the main character, sustained an SCI in a traffic accident and rehabilitation in a specialist SCI Centre proved to be hard. I have also been involved with Back Up and Canine Partners. Cassandra had to learn how to take care of herself because This book is much more than a love story or a sad depressing now every simple task turned out to be more difficult than tale about disability. For family members and friends of a before. After been discharged from hospital, Cass moved back paralysed person, it will help them to understand life’s to her parents’ house. She thought her independent life was challenges and its ups and downs.

www.spinal.co.uk FroM SIA l in the news l 11 GETINVolVED Raising Funds... Three peaks and Tough Mudder Challenge

Three fundraisers, Pete, Nick and Rob, painful. However, the whole weekend undertook to complete the Three Peaks was well worth it and we are very proud and Tough Mudder Challenges within 36 of the money we have raised. My father hours, to raise funds for SIA. This not only is paraplegic, so we have close links with involves walking some of the highest SIA and we were very happy to help in mountains in the country but also this way. It was also nice to be the first involves a 13-mile obstacle course people (that we know of) to do the designed by Special Forces to test double – Three Peaks and Tough strength, stamina and determination. Mudder straight after each other!” Rob gives an overview of this awesome The lads raised £4,173 for SIA challenge below. through hard-earned sponsorship – “We completed the whole challenge a truly incredible total. A huge thank on 5/6 October in just under 30 hours, you from everyone at SIA! with the Three Peaks taking 23 hours and If you are inspired to take part in a 34 minutes. The Challenge was more challenge next year contact Elizabeth, difficult than we imagined and the 13- our Community Fundraising Manager mile Tough Mudder Challenge after the on 0845 071 4350 or email Three Peaks Challenge was pretty [email protected] Make theBatter Matter

Hidden treasure Register now for your Fish and in every home Chip pack! Get your family, friends Did you know your home is a and colleagues treasure trove? There are lots of together on Friday 16 May and ways you can support SIA besides hold a Fish and Chip Supper for SIA! taking part in a challenge or • USED STAMpS You can hold your supper at home, holding an event. The best bit • ForEIGN CoINS or at work, or in a local community venue is you won’t even need to leave • olD jEWEllErY – you can even hold it at lunchtime! the house… all you need to do By inviting eight other people and is have a tidy up… We can convert all these items into asking them to give a £5 donation Then, in an ordinary envelope, cash to help fund SIA’s services. you will raise at least £40. We can give send SIA any of the items listed to Enclosed with this issue of you even more fundraising ideas by ‘Fundraising at Home’, SIA House, forward is a recycling envelope. sending you a fundraising pack full 2 Trueman Place, Oldbrook, Please use these to send us any old of fun and fishy ideas. Milton Keynes, MK6 2HH. printer cartridges and mobile phones. To request your pack please go to www.siafishandchips.co.uk or email fundraising@siafishandchips.co.uk

Exclusive RGK Maxima wheelchair + Coyote S7 Handcycle £2,500 SIA membersprice for RGK Maxima: Twin Axle and Brake position for cycling and everyday use • 24” Mountain Bike Wheels Schwalbe Land Cruiser Tyres • Folding Backrest • Fixed Aluminium Sideguards • Adjustable Footrest Purchase a Team Hybrid Coyote Shimano 7 and RGK Maxima chair and save nearly £500 Exclusive to SIA members – only available from Team Hybrid direct – offer closes on April 30th 2014 01329 832068 www.teamhybrid.co.uk

12 l in the news l FUNDrAISING February 2014 LAST CHAnCE FoR Tickets selling Adidas Half Marathon Great news! Adidas Half Marathon has now changed its entry requirements fast for SIA’s Social to include wheelchair users who are not elite. If you would like to apply for a place please send an email with your level of injury and your contact details and you will be assessed by the London Marathon team. Calendar 2014! For further details please contact Elizabeth Wright on 0845 071 4350 The third bi-annual legal Dinner or email [email protected] on 27 February 2014, Grange St pauls Hotel, london LAST CHAnCE To With only a couple of tables left and almost all sponsorship opportunities join the london to paris snapped up, don’t hesitate to ensure that your company has a table and Anniversary trip! sponsorship representation at this We have 20 people signed up to undertake our SIA 40th Anniversary Cycle glamorous occasion. Trip in May to celebrate Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day but you still have The legal profession of London will an opportunity to join us! be well represented by 300 solicitors, Sign up today by going to www.spinal.co.uk/page/londonparis40 barristers, case managers and expert witnesses. Tables of 10 are £1,500.

Annual Cornflower Ball DoESN’TIT GET BIGGEr on 20 March 2014 at the Concorde THAN Conference Centre at Manchester Airport THIS!

Annual oil and Gas Quiz on the 6 March 2014 at the Grand Connaught rooms, london

Quiz teams from London and This wonderful Concorde themed pilot caps, toss the airplane confetti Aberdeen will battle it out to win evening will be filled with over and have your picture taken in the coveted Oil and Gas Trophy. 500 guests from many practices Concorde! Tables of 10 are £1,250. The quiz will be hosted by Lord and professions, all there to To purchase tickets, book tables or Moynihan and promises to be an support SIA and celebrate our to take sponsorship at any of these eventful and entertaining evening. 40th Anniversary. events, contact Michael Bloedorn Tables of 10 are £1,950. Tickets It’s the party of the year so on 0845 678 6633 ext 224 or are £195 per guest. delve into the party bags, don the [email protected]

offer 10 Exclusive to SIA members XCR Cross Country Handcycle % discount The XCR Cross Country Handcycle is lightweight, fast and equipped with high quality components. Specification includes • Disc Brakes on all three wheels • Alfine 8 or 11 speed internal geared hubs • Three speed chainset or Schlumph Mountain Drive Exclusive to SIA members – Only Available from Team Hybrid direct – Offer closes on April 30th 2014 01329 832068 www.teamhybrid.co.uk www.spinal.co.uk FUNDrAISING l in the news l 13 GETINVolVED Raising Funds... time with patients is spent discussing spinal cord injury and the effect it has had on their lives. I enjoy using my experiences to support people and hopefully make their life a bit easier.

A Day in the Life of... 1200hrs Lunchtime arrives and I quickly catch lee Cairns up on my emails before visiting the Vocational Occupational Therapists Peer Support officer to plan a Vocation Clinic which is scheduled for the next week. Ensuring for the Armed Forces patients have plans in place for work, volunteering, education or training after they have been discharged from Headley 0900hrs Court is incredibly important. It is a My day begins at the main gates of frequent topic of conversation in peer the Defence Centre for Rehabilitation support sessions at the centre. I know Medicine, Headley Court. I drive through that they are willing to see me again from my personal experience of having the camp, passing the stunning, ivy- the next week and then they move to leave the RAF after sustaining my covered Elizabethan Farmhouse which onto the next appointment in their injury, it is very difficult to think of a life dominates the site, enjoying the well- daily rehabilitation schedule. outside the Armed Forces, but coming maintained gardens full of impressive As I have a small window of time to terms with this is a very important topiary and neatly trimmed lawns. My before my next appointment, I take the part of the rehabilitation process. office is based in the Therapy Centre of opportunity to visit the Administration Complex Trauma, which helps those with Team. They schedule the Monday to 1300hrs severe physical injuries such as spinal Friday rehabilitation programme for all After lunch I have two more cord injury and amputations. In this the patients. I have to let them know appointments with spinal cord setting it is not hard to imagine the who I am planning to see every week injured people. presence of RAF Serviceman Sir Douglas so they can schedule the appointments Bader, a double leg amputee who was into the patients’ individual programmes. 1500hrs a fighter pilot in the Second World War. The patients at the centre all have a full I finish off my day by catching up with On the way to my office I take the rehabilitation programme, including the physiotherapists and social workers opportunity to informally catch up with peer support, hydrotherapy and gym who are supporting SCI people. With a a few of the patients who are on their sessions, to aid their recovery and three-hour commute home to consider, way to their morning gym session. This independence. I make plans to leave for the day. is a good opportunity to let patients Tomorrow I plan to work from home, know that I am at the Centre should they 1100hrs which will mean catching-up on emails need to drop-in for some advice. I arrive My last appointment before lunch and phone calls, and I will be back at my office, ensure my Spinal Cord commences, and follows the same at Headley Court the following week for Injury Resource Area is ready for patients, format as the previous session. All my appointments with the people I support. and prepare for my first appointment.

0930hrs My first appointment arrives and for the first 15 minutes of the session we have Thanking our funders a general catch-up about his life outside the Rehabilitation Centre. This is usually This service would not exist without the support of our generous funders, a good way to gauge a patient’s frame of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, Seafarers mind and gives me an insight into how UK, Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and the Royal British Legion. they are coping with their rehabilitation. As well as funding the service, the organisations listed provide valuable After this, we use the sessions to discuss support to individuals from the Armed Forces family and have been an any issues the individual needs to talk invaluable link for SIA. through – these topics can vary greatly. Today, the patient needs to talk about self-intermittent catheterisation and wants to know more about handcycling. At the end of the hour I always confirm

14 l in the news l FUNDrAISING February 2014 Expanding An evening at Number 10 SIA’s Chief Executive, Paul Smith the Service was in good company on 8 October 2013 when he attended a reception at Downing Street The Peer Support Service for the hosted by Samantha Cameron. Armed Forces has been providing The event brought together support predominantly in DMRC serving soldiers, veterans from all Headley Court since April 2012. three services and senior military Through discussions with the Armed figures. This was a fantastic Forces Benevolent Funds and BLESMA opportunity for Paul to meet with it has now been identified that there several of the organisations who are a large number of ex-servicemen have supported SIA’s Peer Support and women who have been retired Service for the Armed Forces, from the services for some years who including ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, would not have had access to peer The Royal Navy and Royal Marines support at the time of their injury Charity and the Royal Air Force but who would benefit from that Benevolent Fund. Samantha Cameron with support now. Major General Martin Rutledge, ex-service personnel at no 10 In order to reach these individuals Chief Executive of ABF The we are expanding the service by Soldier’s Charity said: “We are us, and it was a particular honour to piloting a volunteer scheme in three hugely grateful to Samantha introduce some of our beneficiaries regions. Volunteers will be SCI people Cameron for agreeing to host to senior military and political figures.” from an Armed Forces background who are able to provide peer support. We are delighted to announce that this development is being funded by the Armed Forces Covenant LIBOR Fund who have awarded £59,550 over two years.

The intention of the Libor Fund is to support the two key principles of the 0114 2353150 www.morerehab.com Armed Forces Covenant, which are that Specialised Neurological Physiotherapy, the Armed Forces Community should Occupational Therapy & Speech Therapy not face disadvantage in the provision of public and commercial services, > Hands-on Therapy and that special consideration is > Exercise Programmes appropriate in some cases, especially > Hydrotherapy for those who have given most, such > Electrical Stimulation as the injured and the bereaved. (Upper & Lower Limb) > Gymnasium Work > Splinting (Upper & Lower Limb) We have clinics in South Yorkshire, > FES Bike Assessments & If you are a member of the Derbyshire and the surrounding areas. We are happy to do visits to Programmes (We have a Armed Forces in need of support your home, school or work place. bike in our clinic) or an ex-serviceman or woman > Carer Training who would like some support > Accommodation Assessments through this project or if you > Equipment & Aids Assessments are interested in volunteering, including wheelchair & posture please contact Lee Cairns by > Vocational Rehabilitation email [email protected] and much more, please contact or telephone 0845 678 6633 us for more details.

www.spinal.co.uk FUNDrAISING l in the news l 15 Continence Matters

Subtle changes lead to greater discretion in urine drainage bag development

The look and feel of Simpla profile and Simpla plus urine drainage bags have remained unchanged for many years now and we have • A turquoise touch point on gathered together your comments and feedback. the packaging indicates where you tear, or pull in order to open, making it You tell us that it’s important urine drainage bags should not only much more intuitive to open be secure, but also visually appealing, whilst providing a real sense of discretion. As a result of this feedback, we are upgrading the • A semi-transparent material design of Simpla profile and Simpla plus ranges of urine drainage and a polka dot pattern bags and here’s how we’re doing it... makes the products more discrete when worn • Neutral grey leg bag straps means they are less visible than white straps, even under light coloured clothing

CPUCC Simpla 500ml with straps Simpla Plus syphon with straps

e have collated your comments bag blend in better with skin tone, in order to open the packaging. W regarding the look and feel of which means that together with Through listening to your urine drainage bags and have made urine content it’s close to invisible, valuable feedback and comments we some improvements to the way the even under thin, light-coloured have been able to incorporate some Simpla Profile and Simpla Plus clothing. In addition there is to be of these improvements into the ranges urine drainage bags look. a small polka-dot pattern printed Simpla Profile and Simpla Plus ranges The reliability, functionality and on the front which gives the urine of urine drainage bags, which all help components all remain the same, bags a non-medical look, whilst to ensure your products are more but visually we’ve made some making them less conspicuous. We discrete and easier to use. improvements, which ensure the are also introducing neutral grey products are a lot more discrete leg bag straps, as these are less and more visually appealing. visible than white straps under light clothing. If you would like to receive a sample So, how have we done it...? The final improvement is to the of the Simpla profile urine drainage The Simpla Profile and Simpla Plus packaging as you will see this change bag or further information, then range of urine drainage bags will from a green colour to white and will please contact Charter Healthcare move to having a semi-transparent incorporate a turquoise touch point, on freephone 0800 220 622, or visit material on the reverse, making the indicating where you tear, or pull www.coloplast.co.uk

16 l advertising feature l CoNTINENCE MATTErS February 2014 AvailableAAvv ebllaia Less steps to perform NowowN Less noticeable

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The catheter and bag set reinvented Introducing SpeediCath® Compact Set – for simpler everyday catheterisation

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Place the coupon in a sealed envelope and send it to: Charter Healthcare,Healthcare, Nene Hall, PeterborPeterboroughough Business Park, PeterborPeterboroughough PE2 6FX Neurological Commissioning Support Following a successful survey with a number of focus rEporT UpDATE groups carried out in Manchester and Cornwall earlier in the year, final reports have now been produced.

he research is part of a project GP acknowledged their lack of in getting spare parts has meant that T with fellow SCI charities, Back Up understanding of the condition and many people have purchased their and Aspire, aimed at examining the was willing to listen to the SCI patient own rather than waiting for the NHS provision and quality of NHS services this had a positive impact. Despite to supply them. In Manchester most in Manchester and Cornwall. The praise for their GPs in Cornwall, people told us that they received a work has been supported by physical access to GP surgeries did face good service and that the wheelchair Neurological Commissioning criticism. Lack of parking spaces and services do get it right most of the Support Group (NCS). examination benches being too high time. However, when it did go wrong, The final reports highlight the were examples of difficulties faced by this had a significant impact on the issues of concern that were raised people when trying to visit their GP. individual. in both Manchester and Cornwall Other similarities between the areas District General Hospitals (DGHs) including GPs, wheelchair services included community services and caused most concern in Manchester and community services. The reports district nurses. Overall responses in and Cornwall for both survey provide recommendations for NHS both Manchester and Cornwall were respondents and focus group Commissioners on how the three positive with the exception of a few participants. A lack of knowledge charities believe services could negative responses in Manchester of SCI by healthcare professionals in and should be improved. concerning difficulty in accessing DGHs was a common complaint and In both Manchester and Cornwall, community services and district nurses. one that worried people the most GPs were held in high regard Cornish respondents to the survey about being admitted to hospital. despite their limited knowledge and did not rate the wheelchair service Basic awareness of the importance understanding of SCI. It was agreed well. The Cornish service now operates of bowel care, pressure relief and skin amongst those living in both parts from one single outlet in the county care were all areas that the majority of the country that as long as the and this has not been popular. A delay of people said needed vast improvement. You can read the reports for Manchester and Cornwall in full on the Campaigning pages of the SIA website. SIA, Aspire and Back Up are currently seeking to raise these issues with local Health Commissioners in an attempt to improve services for public Affairs Diary SCI people. www.spinal.co.uk/page/ December 2013/January 2014 campaigning The public Affairs Team share their meeting diary for the past two months rEMINDEr • Clinical Reference Group on SCI Bowel Survey • All Party Disability Group Our latest survey on Bowel • NICE Spinal Trauma guidelines Management is still open for • Specialised health services: responses. SIA would like to Five year strategy hear about your experiences of bowel management, good • Clinical Reference Group on SCI or bad. You can complete the • survey via the campaigning Royal College of Physicians pages of the SIA website. • Specialised Healthcare Alliance Alternatively you can call Catherine Stribling on 0845 678 • British Association of SCI Specialists 6633 ext 206 for a paper copy • NHS CHC Stakeholder Group

18 l in the news l pUBlIC AFFAIrS February 2014

This article is brought to you by Ejaz M Nabi, Managing Director Active Assistance and Tom Nabarro, Active Assistance client Travelling with your PA

Active Assistance clients continue, with the help of our pAs, to visit numerous destinations around the world. one of our clients even went overseas to get married! on the whole they come back with some fantastic pictures and most importantly our clients and their pAs have some great memories.

have previously written, in the explaining we were looking to see I’ve also been to the Italian Grand February 2013 edition of forward, how accessible it was (because we Prix at Monza, hosted by some Iabout the importance of planning. had tickets to the next day’s opening friends in the VIP area (that would I present a case history of one of our of ‘We Love’), he let the four of us in be very uncomfortable without the clients, Tom, and his ‘stag do’ and free. This unprecedented generosity VIP hospitality). other trips. gave me an instant liking for Space, I’ve also enjoyed skiing (or being “I flew to Ibiza for 10 days for and its layout made for a pleasant steered in a ski cart) in Sweden with my stag party with a load of mates. wheelchair experience, as all the Back Up www.backuptrust.org.uk Following a snowboarding accident, main areas were accessible. We Various visits to the extremes of I am a C4 tetraplegic, and rely on partied in Space until closing time on the UK have included Devon and others, including my Active another four occasions on that trip. Scotland, most recently to Assistance PA, for support and The Hotel Sirenis Goleta experiment with my head-controlled assistance. www.sirenishotels.com in Playa Boma off-road wheelchair. In Ibiza, after the customary d’en Bossa was as accessible as we One of the most important factors uncomfortable transfer back to my could have hoped, with a walk-in for me is care: I do almost everything wheelchair from the aircraft, we were shower, enough room to manoeuvre, through the help of others. The more escorted to the taxi rank by bubbly understanding and friendly staff and closely I can work with my Active and friendly ‘airport wheelchair entirely wheelchair-friendly grounds. Assistance personal assistant, the assistants’ wearing fluorescent Although the pool had no specific more efficient performing most jackets with large wheelchair facilities I still managed to get in for tasks becomes. I therefore spend a symbols emblazoned on the back. a quick dip. significant amount of time planning I was concerned about transport Other trips in the past couple prior to a holiday. around the island, but we found it of years have involved a friend’s Packing is critical. The number easy to pre-book adapted taxis, wedding in France, visiting of places you can purchase specialist though reversing the wheelchair Switzerland every July (for five years equipment and supplies is limited. into them with the joystick now) for Paléo paleo.ch, a world I always have two or more people occasionally required nerves of steel music festival, and visits to the compile independent lists (or use a in the early hours of the morning. mountains around Davos, in previous list) and cross-reference to We went clubbing a lot on the particular to our friends in Malans. ensure I don’t forget anything vital. do, but the first, and my favourite The Cinque Terre in Liguria, Italy, Above all it’s a holiday and I aim club, was Space. After talking to is my favourite destination thanks to to have a great time!” the friendly door manager and the food and breathtaking coastline. Tom Nabarro C4

20 l advertising feature l INDEpENDENT lIVING February 2014 Triple grande vanilla latte with whip and sprinkles…

…at midday on a Thursday in your favourite coffee shop! What would you like to do today?

It’s your life, your choice - so live it the way you want. We have been supporting adults and children with a spinal cord injury since 1992, providing a fully managed live-in home care service designed to give you superior continuity of support and greater flexibility. Active Assistance can help you regain control of your life. For more information please call 0844 84 61616 (Call charged at local rate) www.activeassistance.com SIA40 Anniversary

40th Anniversary Message from Baroness Masham of Ilton

can remember very clearly the first was a lack of suitable housing and public to truly speak with their own voice. stirrings of the fledgling organisation; buildings had no access. I saw a need for I like to think that we led the way and Iit came about as a result of my own a charity run by SCI people that could demonstrated the strength and power experiences as a spinal cord injured (SCI) promote their unique needs. behind the personal lived experience person and those with whom I came into So it was against this background of disability. contact. After I left hospital in 1959 and that a number of like-minded SCI people Often, our campaigning focussed came to live in Yorkshire, I discovered came together in 1974 and set up the on the practical – for example, who now there were many people who had Spinal Injuries Association (SIA). At the remembers that one of SIA’s earliest spinal cord injury who were being heart of our list of concerns was the need battles was the fight for the issue of treated in General Hospitals and getting for an organisation that truly represented suitable wheelchairs for SCI people, or into disastrous situations with pressure and spoke for us – the SCI community that we campaigned vociferously when sores and depression. who, for too long, had had no voice. Our the Department of Transport decided Having been created a Life Peer in the meetings had a clear consensus – our to withdraw our ‘til 70 driving licences, House of Lords in 1970, I was frequently new charity would be the voice of SCI insisting that newly injured people contacted by SCI people asking for my people and, to ensure this, only those with should retake their driving test? We won help and advice when they felt that no SCI would be elected to serve as its Trustees. our campaigns on both counts, thanks one was listening to them. I can well Our philosophy of self-determination to our SCI membership who, as always, remember travelling miles across country has endured over 40 years and has supported our approach, wrote to their to visit a family with a newly injured son. become something of a model for other MPs, and joined with us in our lobbying. They had so many practical questions on organisations for disabled people. Forty These were early demonstrations of the how they and their son would cope but years ago, our stance was unusual, but power, previously untapped, that nowhere to turn to for answers. There gradually other organisations sprang up disabled people could exert given the right channel, namely a user-led organisation to voice their concerns Would you like to attend a special at the highest levels of Government. Our 40th Anniversary, while a time to event at the House of Lords celebrate our success, is also a time to say hosted by Baroness Masham? thank you for the strong support of many non-disabled people who saw the As part of SIA’s 40th Anniversary celebrations rightness of our cause and have stood in 2014, Baroness Masham would like to invite beside us and to remember all those who 10 SIA members to join her for a special event have brought us to our current position. at the House of Lords. For my own part, I would like to pay You will be joined by supporters who have tribute to those early ‘pioneers’ who played an important part in SIA’s 40 years of helped establish the organisation and to work in the historic setting of the House of our first Director, Stephen Bradshaw. They Lords in the summer of 2014. will be fondly remembered for the vital If you would like to enter your name into a part they played. Without them we would draw for the chance of attending this event not be where we are today, growing and please send us your name, address, telephone thriving and facing the next 40 years with number and an email address if you have one an enduring determination to continue to either by email to [email protected] represent and give voice to SCI people. or by post to House of Lords Event, SIA House, 2 Trueman Place, Oldbrook, Milton Keynes, MK6 2HH by Friday 7 March Baroness Masham of Ilton Founder and President

22 l forward feature l SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry February 2014 40new opportunities in our 40th year

"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing" Theodore Roosevelt

Regardless of whether you have a disability or not, work can, and usually does, have a positive impact on your life. Social interaction, boost to self- esteem, motivation and participation in purposeful activity; working definitely has its benefits. ‘Work’ is defined as ‘physical or mental effort made in order to achieve or make something’ and doesn’t put any emphasis on full-time, paid employment. Part-time and unpaid work can offer a return to purposeful activity, and and information to anyone seeking To celebrate our 40th Anniversary, hence many of the same benefits. a return to employment, study or SIA will create 40 work experience SIA knows how important work volunteering after a spinal cord injury. opportunities for spinal cord injured is to SCI people, and our dedicated This year, SIA will help facilitate people across the country. These Vocational Support Service is designed Vocational Clinics at every SCI Centre exciting placements, in a variety of job to offer the most comprehensive advice throughout England and Wales. Whether roles, departments and sectors, will you’re an inpatient or an outpatient, you offer the participant an insight into can have an appointment within one working life as well as the opportunity of these clinics. This will allow you to to gain a better understanding of how discuss your vocational aspirations to manage their impairment in the and action plan for a brighter future workplace. SIA’s Outreach Team will with a member of SIA’s Outreach provide support prior to, during, Team, alongside an adviser from and after each placement. the National Careers Service and SIA is also looking for willing an OT from the SCI Centre. participants in an exciting scheme we’re SIA knows how difficult it can be piloting in the West Midlands later this to reintegrate back into the workplace year. If you’re interested in developing following SCI. We will offer follow-up the skills employers are looking for, support to each and every person seen boosting your self-confidence, and within the clinics with regular contact, improving your chances of finding helping to ensure that anyone who work, this could be just what you’re embarks on the journey back to work looking for! has the best possible chance of success. For more information on any of the Alongside the Vocational Clinics, in vocational services SIA has to offer, 2014, SIA plans to go further in offering please contact Jamie rhind, our SCI people the chance to gain valuable vocational Support Officer on 07800 experience in a workplace setting. 854605 or [email protected] www.spinal.co.uk SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry l forward feature l 23 Wendy Slater with Tim Farr, Paralympic skier We all know an individual or a healthcare professional in the SCI Community who goes the extra mile. Why not celebrate their achievements by nominating them for a rebuilding Lives after SCI Award?

The nomination period is open until the support and help that they give 28 February so make sure you don’t to patients, relatives and carers. miss out on your chance to highlight “The Women in Spinal Cord Injury a shining star of the SCI world. Awards Ceremony was a wonderful, The awards will culminate in a glittery evening, which was a privilege to glamorous ceremony at the Hilton attend. We were all very well looked after Birmingham Metropole on 5 June 2014. by SIA and left feeling like stars.” One person who can share with you how worthwhile an award nomination The award categories this year are: 9 Outstanding Physiotherapist can be is one of our 2013 Women in 1 Outstanding Sports 10 Outstanding Occupational Spinal Cord Injury winners, Wendy Slater. Achievement Award Therapist Last June, Wendy, Specialist Nurse and 2 Armed Forces 11 Outstanding Healthcare Assistants General Manager at Salisbury SCI Centre, Achievement Award 12 Outstanding Consultant was awarded our Outstanding Women 3 Inspirational Achievement Award 13 Outstanding Case Manager – Salisbury award for her dedication to for Young People 14 Outstanding Psychologist the Centre. Wendy says: 4 Inspirational Achievement 15 Outstanding Team “It was such a lovely surprise to have Award for Adults 16 Excellence in Legal Care Award been nominated and awarded a Women 5 SIA Community Star Award in Spinal Cord Injury award. I am 6 Inspirational Carer Award Nominate someone you know at enormously grateful to the Spinal Injuries 7 Liz Martin Award for Achievement www.spinal.co.uk/page/rebuilding- Association (SIA) for the award and for 8 Outstanding Nurse Award lives or email [email protected] Make 40 Matter in 2014 Strolling out for SIA – a promenading pledge to walk 5000 miles along the GB Coast

“For the last couple of years I have 2014. I am supporting two charities, Leicestershire countryside, I am also dreamed about walking the coast of the one of which is SIA. I chose SIA as my beginning to schedule in dates for ‘stop British mainland. With time, the dream good friend, Graham Anderson, is SCI offs’ and collection and drop off points. has grown from a whimsical private and last year he began working as a This is no longer a pipe dream. It will be thought to a burning obsession that Peer Support Officer. Hearing more happening, and happening soon… arises in every conversation. about SIA from Graham has made me Peter Hill, 50, Leicestershire In November, I finally decided that realise how important their services are maybe it’s time to just to SCI people, and Keep up to date with Peter’s shut up, stop rambling their families, as a training progress and actual incoherently and get on source of hope, coastal walk by reading his blog with actually doing reassurance and at petehill7.wordpress.com something a little bit inspiration. If, like Peter, you wish to help us different and hopefully Training for the celebrate our 40th Anniversary and tick worthwhile. walk has been going something off your bucket list to boot, And so it is done. The well, I have been why not sign up to our Make 40 Matter Make 40 Matter pledge notching up 70+ pledges? All you need to do is complete has been made sealing miles a week by and return the form opposite or visit my commitment to walk walking various www.spinal.co.uk/page/make40matter the GB Coastline in routes through the for more information.

24 l forward feature l SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry February 2014 Matter in 201 e 40 4? ak u M l yo wil 40How To Make 40 Matter

in 2014 I pledge to... (please select at least one option in each section)

raise awareness by... Join the digital revolution by... I Wearing my SIA pin badge every day I Joining SIA’s Linkedin group I Wearing my SIA wrist band every day I Following SIA’s Twitter feed I Using my SIA trolley token key ring I Liking SIA’s facebook page every time I shop I Recommending SIA’s facebook page I Wearing SIA clothing items at fundraising to 40 facebook friends events I Updating my facebook cover photo I Signing up 40 people as new SIA members to SIA’s for 40 days I Emailing 40 contacts about SIA’s tribute fund I Updating my facebook status to I Getting 40 contacts to write to their local MP “Make 40 Matter with SIA” 40 times using our campaigns tool kit I Using the hash tag #Make40Matter I Promoting SIA’s House of Lords event 40 times in 40 tweets I Emailing my company about SIA’s Ruby I Reposting 40 SIA social media messages Corporate Partnership I Adding SIA’s Make 40 Matter slide to Be an SIA Community Star by... Carefully detatch your Pledge Form along dotted line ¡ any work powerpoint presentations I Attending a Great British Fish and Chip Supper I Voting for my company to make SIA I Organising my own Fish and Chip Supper our Charity of the Year I Distributing 40 Fish and Chip Supper posters I Subscribing to forward to keep up to date with the 40th Anniversary news continued overleaf...

www.spinal.co.uk Carefully detatch your Pledge Form along dotted line ¡

I Promoting the Fish and Chip Challenge to my local chippy I Baking and selling 40 cakes to friends, family and colleagues I Holding a ruby themed mufti day at work or school I Organising a 40 sponsored pub crawl I Holding a 40 stop relay challenge I Holding a forties inspired tea party Please provide your contact details I Celebrating your 40th with SIA so we can assist you as you take on your 2014 40th Anniversary pledges!

Show my support by... your details... I Distributing 40 donation boxes in my community Name I Donating £4 a month as a committed giver I Donating £40 to the Make 40 Matter Address online fund I Texting DSIA01 £4 or £40 to 70070 to make a one off donation Postcode I Donating £40 to SIA Xmas Star appeal Telephone I Buying 40 SIA Christmas cards Email Join Team SIA by... I Promoting London to Paris bike ride Please return your pledge form to... to 40 contacts Make 40 Matter I Joining the London to Paris Bike Ride Spinal Injuries Association SIA House I Swimming at an event in 2014 2 Trueman place I Running at an event in 2014 Oldbrook Milton Keynes MK6 2HH nal cord fter spi inju es a ry liv ng ildi ebu s of r 40 year

Registered Charity No: 1054097. Registered Company No: 3175203

26 l forward feature l SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry February 2014 ruby Partners

SIA is pleased to announce its ruby Corporate Partner programme for the 40th Anniversary celebrations! Launching the programme for January and February we have Stewarts Law and Helping Hands.

“Here at Helping Hands, needs, including PEG we offer specialist spinal feeding, stoma care and cord injury nursing-led hoists. Our care plans have care. In every case we a strong focus on regular has been a long-standing supporter concentrate on the things physio-led exercise to help of SIA and wanted to continue their you can do, not what your with muscular spasms and support during this significant year. injury prevents you from timely administration of oral Solicitor Paul Paxton said, “Stewarts doing. In our 25 years as an medication or baclofen pumps. Law is delighted to be supporting award-winning home care provider, we With autonomic dysreflexia on many SIA during this important 40th have helped many clients manage their of our clients’ minds, our carers are also Anniversary year and we look impairments and have enabled them to trained to look out for the tell-tail signs forward to working together live independent lives in the environment of an imminent attack and take steps during 2014”. they know best – their own home. to manage it. Generous support from The “Our staff are highly experienced “When you choose a Helping Hands Stewarts Law Foundation over in providing care for paraplegics and carer, you can rest assured that you will the last few years has been used tetraplegics with both complete and get the best quality SCI care. All of our towards funding SIA’s Public Affairs incomplete injuries. In the majority of staff go through a rigorous selection and Continuing Health Care cases our clients have a T1 to T5 injury process, monitored by our team of Services. The demand on these and their live-in care plan is always specialists and care managers. services is increasing significantly flexible and bespoke. “Getting a good match between a and without the support of Stewarts “There is no need for a change in carer and yourself is also vital. We do Law we would not be able to routine or existing lifestyle as our carers not just look at a carer’s experience provide the necessary help to SCI can provide SCI home care that caters and knowledge. As important is having people. www.stewartslaw.com to the needs of our clients. We can someone with the same interests, likes support people with complex care and dislikes and a sense of humour to ensure that people feel completely comfortable together. Our carers want to support you to achieve the things that matter most – whether that is finding employment, having an active social life, learning new skills or just feeling good about yourself! “At Helping Hands, we believe care is more than just a service; it is a way of life.” For more information about our SCI care services please call 0808 180 1553 or visit www.helpinghands.co.uk

A Helping Hands client enjoys a game of snooker with his PA www.spinal.co.uk SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry l forward feature l 27 SIA40 Anniversary What’s happening? February – April 2014

20 March 3 Feb Celebrate our 40th Take part in our 40 years Anniversary in jet-setting of SIA Quiz – before style at the Cornflower 31 March, see page 31. 10 Feb Ball. Board Concorde and speed away for a fun The winner will receive Nominate someon filled night of glamour, a bottle of Champagne. e dancing and celebration. for a Rebuilding Contact Michael at Lives after SCI [email protected] Award before 28 February – see page 8. 6 March

17 Feb Oil and Gas professionals Share your experience will test their knowledge at our annual Oil and of SCI. Complete our online 2 March Gas Quiz in London. form at www.spinal.co.uk/ Make 40 Matterand join Contact Michael on page/share-story Team SIA as we tackle the [email protected] Adidas Half Marathon at Silverstone. Register for your place at: www.spinal.co.uk/page/ adidas-silverstone-half- marathon 27 Feb Law professionals are invited to the London Legal Dinner.

Email Michael at [email protected] to book your table – details page 13.

28 l forward feature l SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry February 2014 What’s happening? February – April 2014

20 March Celebrate our 40th Anniversary in jet-setting style at the Cornflower Ball. Board Concorde and 1 April speed away for a fun Highlight SIA’s 40th Anniversary filled night of glamour, merchandise in a unique way – dancing and celebration. see page 30. Take them on 11 April Contact Michael at holiday, on day trips out or give [email protected] batter matter them to a celebrity to wear then Make the get snap happy with your camera. in 2014. Plan to hold Email the photos to Helen at a Great British Fish [email protected] and Chip Supper in by 29 August for the chance to your community on win a bottle of Champagne. SCI Awareness Day on 16 May. visit www.siafishandchips.co.uk 21 April Run in the 2014 London Marathon. SIA running vests are available to all our m arathon runners. 30 April C Join us at Ascot for an ontact fundraising afternoon of great food @spinal.co.uk for and horse racing. m ore information For more information please contact Michael at [email protected]

www.spinal.co.uk SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry l forward feature l 29 SIA40 Anniversary Merchandise We have produced three pieces of branded merchandise for you to use to help promote SIA in it’s 40th Anniversary year. Each piece could be yours in exchange for the donation of £1. Please complete the form below or visit the online shop on SIA’s website – remember to have your payment card handy.

Pin Key ring (including token badge for supermarket trolley)

Wrist band

Item Quantity Donation per TOTAL required item (min £1)

Pin badge

Key ring (including token for supermarket trolley)

Wrist band

I would like to make an additional donation to support SIA’s work in the 40th Anniversary year Please enclose a cheque made payable to Spinal Injuries Association TOTAL AMOunT or complete the form below with your card details.

I wish to pay by: Mastercard / Visa / Maestro / Switch (*delete as appropriate) Gift Aid Card number - - - Issue number n nnnn nnnn nnnn nnnn nn Tick here if you would like the Name on card ...... Signature ...... tax reclaimed on this and future Card Start date nn/ nn Card Expiry date nn/ nn Card security number nnn donations. I confirm that I am Name ...... a UK taxpayer, and the amount of tax I pay exceeds the Address ...... amount I would like SIA to claim...... This action will enable SIA to ...... Postcode ...... recover a further 25p for every Telephone ...... Email ...... pound you donate.

30 l forward feature l SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry February 2014 The BIG SIA40yearsQuIz

a bottle of WIn! champagne

A quiz based on the 40 years of SIA. 1981 Which United Kingdom entry won 1989 France celebrated the 200th There is one question relating the Eurovision Song Contest in this year, anniversary of what this year? to each year of the life of SIA. and what was the song?

1974 SIA was officially formed on 23rd 1990 Which world famous monument September 1974 and we continue to go 1982 The Falklands War took place this closed to the public in January this year from strength to strength. The BBC also year…on what dates did it start and amid fears for visitors’ safety? launched a service on the same day officially end? which has now ceased…what was it?

1991Which worldwide coffee shop chain 1983 Richard Noble set a new Land opened its first store this year (in California)? 1975 Who took part in the “Thrilla in Speed record in Thrust 2 in Nevada this Manila” in October 1975? year. What speed did he achieve?

1992 This year saw the first woman to be elected as Speaker of the House of 1976 Which future British multi-Olympic 1984 Which British Comedian died on Commons. Name her. Gold medallist was born in May 1976? stage on April 15th this year?

1993 Which former English football 1977 Which British town declared 1985 Which two cities hosted Live Aid captain died in February this year? independence from the UK as a publicity this year? stunt in April this year?

1994 The Channel tunnel opened this 1986 Which Soviet Nuclear Plant suffered year. On which date? 1978 Which 2 Popes died in this year? a catastrophic accident in this year?

1995Who was arrested in March this year 1979 Which British Politician & former 1987 Who famously failed to predict a for his role in the collapse of Barings Bank? Colditz prisoner was assassinated at the hurricane hitting southern England on Houses of Parliament in March 1979? October 15th this year?

1996The first successfully cloned mammal was born this year…what was its name? 1980 Which Star Wars film was released 1988 How many digits does this year this year? have when written in Roman numerals? ¡ return and out Cut

www.spinal.co.uk SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry l forward feature l 31 SIA40 Cut out and return ¡ Anniversary

1997 Diana, Princess of Wales died in 2006 Having written “When I’m 64” at the 2010 Which two countries took part in August this year following a car accident age of 16, which Beatle celebrated his the FIFA World Cup Final in South Africa in which Parisian road tunnel? 64th birthday in June this year? this year?

1998 Which musical Judge died on 2007 The final book in the Harry Potter 2011 Where in London did the wedding March 12th this year? series was published this year…what of Prince William and Catherine is its title? Middleton take place?

1999 Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones became the first people to 2008 Which two European countries 2012 Who became the first person to circumnavigate the globe in what? adopted the Euro from January 1st break the sound barrier without this year? mechanical assistance in October 2012?

2000 Charles M Schultz died on February 12th; which dog was his most famous 2009 Michael Jackson died in this 2013 The third in line to the British creation? year…which former member of Charlie’s throne was born this year. On what date? Angels died the same day?

2001 This year saw the start of which crisis in the UK on February 20th? ENTRY FORM WIn!

2002 Which two prominent members of the Royal family died in 2002? Name ...... Address ......

...... 2003 Which aircraft made its final commercial flight in September this year? ...... Postcode ......

Email ......

2004 Which Social media site Daytime telephone number ...... was launched? I enclose a donation of (minimum £5) £ ......

Please return the form and your donation, by 31 March, 2005 The Queen conducted an International Fleet Review to mark 200 to SIA Quiz, SIA House, 2 Trueman Place, Oldbrook, years since which event? Milton Keynes, MK6 2HH for your chance to win a bottle This pic £18 - of champagne. All winning entries will be entered OK? into a prize draw.

32 l forward feature l SIA 40TH AnnIvErSAry February 2014

Transverse Myelitis

Recent national publicity on Transverse Myelitis has generated lots have to use a wheelchair for part or all of of enquiries to the SIA Advice Line so we asked Barbara Badcock of the time. There is currently no cure for TM. the TM Society to explain more about this condition. TM is a variable and fluctuating condition. The experience and impact of TM can vary from one individual to ransverse Myelitis (TM) is a rare from the nerves. another. Some people may experience auto-immune neurological Neuropathic pain is all or some of the above mentioned on- T condition where there is an often associated with going residual symptoms to varying inflammatory attack to the myelin abnormal sensations levels of degree over a period of time. sheath surrounding the spinal cord. such as a stabbing, Changes in the weather can also have an Inflammation can occur anywhere on the pins and needles, impact on the severity of symptoms on spinal cord and the person affected can buzzing, numbness, a daily basis. However, some symptoms experience symptoms from the point of itching, burning, do not fluctuate such as paralysis and attack downwards in their body. If the coldness or heaviness. Neuropathic pain bladder/bowel issues. If a person has cervical region of the spinal cord is can also be caused by non-painful stimuli recurrent TM, each episode may be affected, the person may experience such as hot and cold water, when a different. problems in their arms and hands as person is touched by someone or even The Transverse Myelitis Society is a well; in the thoracic region, problems are by wearing clothes. UK-based charity with approximately experienced from the chest downwards Steroids are often given to reduce 1,300 members whose main aim is to and in the lumbar region, problems are inflammation. Plasma exchange or more provide support and information to those experienced from the waist downwards radical immunosuppressant therapies who may have, or know someone with including bladder and bowel. may be used if steroids do not work. Transverse Myelitis and its associated TM is typically a one-off attack (a small Neuro-physiotherapy is given to help conditions such as Acute Disseminated percentage of people may experience regain muscle strength, reduce stiffness Encephalomyelitis, Neuro Myelitis Optica recurrent attacks) which can occur over and spasticity, improve sensation, and and Optica Neuritis. A key activity of the a matter of hours, days, weeks or months. manage pain, balance and gait issues. TM Society is its support groups. These TM results in people experiencing on- However, neuro-physiotherapy is not groups meet three or four times a year going residual symptoms that can be always available and may not always and anyone living with TM or one of its life-changing: partial or total paralysis have these outcomes. associated conditions, their families, or muscle weakness and hence mobility There is no set pattern to the recovery friends and carers is welcome to attend. issues, bladder/bowel dysfunction, sexual process from TM; it is uncertain and the Given the rarity of these conditions, dysfunction, chronic neuropathic pain, prognosis is unpredictable. Everyone people find it very beneficial to meet intermittent muscle spasms or constant recovers differently and at different rates. others in a similar situation, share stiffness known as ‘spasticity’, fatigue, Some people who get TM make a full or information and advice, and learn and/or depression. Neuropathic pain is nearly full recovery with a few residual that they are not alone. different from nociceptive pain. It results symptoms. Others make a partial If you would like to learn more and from the injury to the spinal cord and recovery and may have mobility issues. find a support group, please visit our comes from problems with signals Others make little or no recovery and website at www.myelitis.org.uk

34 l forward feature l HEALTH February 2014 Holidays &Travel

Freewheel Annie

For many years I have wanted to visit New Zealand, but have been put off by how far away it is. But, when I hit fifty last year, I decided that I needed to make a plan or I would never get there.

t around the same time I saw that and Air New Zealand, which are the Jubilee Sailing Trust was arguably the three best airlines in A planning to sail one of their the world. ships, the Lord Nelson, round the I did have one hiccup at the world. They had divided the trip into beginning because I needed an different voyages and the thought of internal flight in India and Air India sailing from India to Singapore, across refused to take me because I was the Indian Ocean, held huge appeal for travelling on my own. Fortunately, me. Singapore is approximately half I was able to fly with Jet Airways way to New Zealand, and I was going who did not insist on me having a to need to take some unpaid leave in companion, although they did insist order to do the sailing trip. I spoke that my doctor completed a medical to my employers, Irwin Mitchell, who form which included questions like, were very enthusiastic and agreed to “Was my condition offensive to other me taking a four-month sabbatical passengers: (smell, appearance, to travel round the world! After that conduct)”! everything else fell into place. In the end, the flights all went very On board Lord Nelson for five I used Trailfinders to buy my round- smoothly and on most of the long- weeks, Anne sometimes found the-world ticket. They were incredibly haul flights the cabin crew found the sailing challenging helpful and arranged with the airlines space for my wheelchair in the cabin, all the assistance that I needed. which meant I did not have the fear Because of the countries I chose to that my wheelchair would get broken visit I was able to use the air carrier in the hold, or not be on the flight at alliance between Virgin, Singapore Air all! On the Singapore Air flight, my > www.spinal.co.uk HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL l forward feature l 35 > chair, when folded down, was small involved sailing south to the help remarking that some joined-up enough to go in two overhead lockers equator to avoid the storm. thinking would be advantageous. – one for the chair and one for the Crossing the equator on a ship Fortunately for me, my fellow crew wheels! invokes a traditional initiation members were happy to carry me up India is a beautiful vibrant country ceremony for all those on board who the stairs so I was able to do the cable that assaults your senses in every have not done it before, which was the car ride. I spent an enjoyable week in possible way. It is colourful, loud, vast majority of us. So we were duly Singapore, which is a very accessible pungent and the people are incredibly visited by King Neptune, made to city. The underground system is one warm and friendly. I spent the whole grovel, squirted with unpleasant hundred per cent wheelchair friendly. time in the southern province of liquids and finally made to kiss the fish I was able to go all around the city Kerala, which I understand is one of – not as bad as it sounds since the fish knowing that I could get on and off the wealthier areas. There is a huge was represented by a tin of tuna! So at any underground station. It is a focus on education, and as a result I now I can proudly claim that I am no stunning city to visit with its mixture did not see the extreme poverty and longer a pollywog – and I have the of old and new. The national pastime begging that much of India is known certificate to prove it! of Singaporeans seems to be shopping for, nor did I spend the whole time in – I have never seen so many shopping fear of pickpockets or muggers. Sadly, From Singapore to Australia malls stuffed full of designer outlets. I did see a lot of rubbish, especially Having gone much further south than However, alongside these are also plastic waste everywhere. was originally intended, we were no some of the most delicious food The sailing was challenging. We left longer on course to visit Phuket in outlets serving a vast range of India and sailed to Sri Lanka, where we Thailand, however instead we went different Asian cuisines. visited Galle for three nights. Originally to Langkawi in Malaysia. This is a From Singapore I flew to Australia, we were only supposed to be there for beautiful collection of islands with where I spent time visiting family and two nights, but there was a tropical sandy beaches and tree-covered friends in Melbourne, Canberra and storm brewing in the middle of the mountains: a spectacular place to Sydney. I would definitely recommend Bay of Bengal, exactly where we were spend a couple of days. The highest a guided tour of the Parliament supposed to be going. The captain point on the main island has a building in Canberra, and in Sydney delayed our departure by 24 hours wonderfully accessible cable car with I was lucky enough to be able to get so that he could assess the situation flip-up seats so that a wheelchair user tickets for a dance show at the Sydney and work out an alternative route. can drive straight in and remain seated Opera House. Fortunately for us, the alternative in the wheelchair for the journey to After three weeks I went on to New the top. However, to get to the Zealand, where a friend from the UK embarkation point involves climbing flew out to join me. We hired a car and a flight of stairs with no lift! I couldn’t spent five and a half weeks driving around both islands. It was wintertime in New Zealand, however, the weather was not all bad. In fact most of the

Golden Bay, New Zealand

36 l forward feature l HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL February 2014 time we had clear blue skies and Anne by geysers sunshine. It was cold, but crisp and in Rotarua fresh. One advantage of travelling in the winter is that the accommodation bends to navigate. I was very glad is cheaper and generally not booked we were driving this in a car and not up in advance, so it was possible to a camper van. Another advantage be fairly flexible about where we of travelling in winter time is that went and how long we stayed in zthe roads were virtually empty. each place. We then drove round the coast, I was very impressed by how straight through Auckland and on up accessible New Zealand is, considering to Kerikeri, where we found a beautiful the terrain is, in many places, not easy. wheelchair accessible chalet in the The country has been shaped by middle of a tropical rainforest, with a seismic activity over the years, which top-class restaurant on our door step! means that it is a stunning landscape We did the usual tourist trip in the Bay of volcanic mountains, gorges and of Islands, out to see the hole in the rivers. Indeed while I was there, rock and back, spotting a school of Wellington suffered a series of dolphins, which came and played in earthquakes sufficient to break way through the archipelago on our wake and gave us a wonderful windows and rattle foundations. what was fortunately one of the photo opportunity. We started in Christchurch, which smoothest crossings of the month We flew home via Vancouver where is still suffering terribly from the – if not the year! we spent one night, because I did not effects of the two earthquakes in Wellington was tricky as it is very think I could spend 48 hours without 2010 and 2011. They have barely hilly and although we had tried to find getting off my backside. New Zealand started rebuilding the city: in some a centrally located motel the access to is a very long way away, but I would areas the barricades were still erected it was almost perpendicular! But Te definitely say it is worth the journey. and buildings in a state of semi- Papa, the national museum of New My only regret is that it has taken me collapse. I also heard that some Zealand, was one of the best laid out 50 years to get there – now I can’t households have no sewage and most interesting museums I have wait to go back again! system or fresh running water! ever been to. Definitely a good way We crossed over to the west to spend a rainy day. coast of the south Island and went After Wellington we headed up to to Hokitika, where they have a fully Napier, the art deco city. Having been accessible tree top walkway with destroyed by an earthquake in the beautiful views and a chance to 1930s, the city was rebuilt to reflect experience nature first hand. We drove the architecture and style of the time. up the west coast stopping off to look It is very accessible and surrounded at the Pancake rocks at Punakaiki – by New Zealand’s oldest wineries. where there is a very accessible path We went to Rotorua to look at out to the edge so I could see the geysers, sulphur lakes, boiling mud rocks close up. and other thermo-volcanic activity. Again, access to the main tourist spots From South to North was good, although I did appreciate One of the prettiest parts of New some help with the hills when Zealand is the top of the south island getting around Wai-O-Tapu. The and particularly Golden Bay, which is Hobbiton movie set in Matamata on the Abel Tasman peninsula. We was not as easy as many other tourist stayed just outside Nelson in a very sites, despite the fact it has newly accessible two-bedroom property opened and was the most expensive that we rented from an English couple attraction that we visited on the who had moved out there some years whole trip! before. Nelson is a lovely city, where The peninsula of Coromandel has we found delicious food, especially more stunning scenery and hairpin Anne coiling rope the fish. The green lipped mussels, a speciality of New Zealand waters, have to be seen (and tasted) to be believed. If anyone is planning a trip and wants any advice on travelling around, hiring cars, They are enormous! and finding accessible places to stay then do please get in touch via the SIA office. On the ferry crossing from the I am very happy to share my experiences. Alternatively I did keep a blog while I south to the north island, we saw huge was travelling, so do take a look at that www.freewheelannie.blogspot.com mussel bed farms, whilst weaving our Anne Luttman-Johnson T11 www.spinal.co.uk HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL l forward feature l 37 Access is a state of mind In July 2013, with his mantra ‘access is a state of mind’ ringing in his ears, being carried down the stairs in the dave Shraga set off to Anjuna, a small village in Goa, India, to undertake aeroplane wheelchair was a dream research for his university studies, along with origin PA, Nic Moran and compared to the one onto the shuttle bus some big concerns about travelling in the rainy season (monsoon!). at Mumbai airport involving a sling (think sheet with four handles) and Nic and three other guys doing some tricky lifting. ave explains, “The plan was to be Accessibility “Everywhere we went people in Goa for 10 weeks, working with Dave admits that even he was a little couldn’t do enough to help. At Video DVideo Volunteers – a community troubled by some of the complexities of Volunteers they built three ramps so I media NGO which facilitates local travel and disability access in India that could get into the building even though community media projects. For the trip resulted in some pretty rough transfers. at 45° these could be a little tricky to I needed a PA who was easy to get on The one in the photo (below) of him negotiate, particularly in the rain! But, with and open-minded. With his relaxed I’ve a philosophy that disabled people manner, mutual compatibility and travel can do the most amazing things if they experience, Nic was ideal! For this really want to, but sometimes you have demanding trip, it also helped that Nic to be willing to accept help.” is 6ft 4in and strong!” daily routine Precision planning Nic explains, ‘It took us a couple of days Nic says, “Dave and I share a passion for to sort out new morning and evening travel and pushing personal boundaries routines without the usual home and we got on well together when I facilities but this soon became easier. worked as his regular PA. When Dave told Things like not having a height- me about his wish to do his research in adjustable bed just made some tasks India and his need for a PA to travel with more difficult than normal. We also had him, it seemed a great thing to do. Our at least five transfers to and from the car pre-planning was critical as we tried to each day. In the first few days it rained so devise ways round potential problems, much that it was hard to keep Dave dry.” but it was the challenge of managing Dave was conscious that he didn’t the day-to-day personal care issues that want Nic to get over tired on this as a PA I found most worrying.” arduous trip, so together they worked

38 l forward feature l HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL February 2014 out a routine that, with help from office colleagues, meant they had time away from each other during the day and Nic had time off. At the office from 9.30am until 7pm most days, Dave also travelled to meet people involved with community projects a couple of times a week. Unfortunately, it was after an extended trip to meet people living in a protected conservation park that Dave became ill and had to be treated in hospital for septicaemia. “My strenuous schedule, plus the difficulties of controlling my temperature in 34° heat, pushed my body to the limits. My immune system was low and have given me greater confidence in my start with and use that as a stepping I got an infection in my ankle, resulting role as a PA. I feel happy and privileged stone to find better accommodation in in bad spasms, headache and eventually that I was able to help Dave achieve a better location at a better price. This a leg swollen from ankle to groin which something he wanted to do.” usually involves going door-to-door and ultimately required surgery. I was totally Undaunted by being unwell, Dave asking cab drivers. Cab drivers are a great confident in the exceptional medical says, “To make a trip like this you have to source of information and as car hire care I received, which included the very believe you can do it. Prepare yourself, would be far too dangerous to consider latest in wound technology and I was be confident in and trust your PA, in India, travellers should find a good cab back at work in 10 days,” says Dave. understand the challenge and if there is driver and stick with him. Loyalty pays! Dave was treated well in the Vision a problem DON’T PANIC! Just make sure Before he left Dave asked potential Hospital and, although the nursing staff you have good healthcare and insurance hotels, guest houses and landlords were kind, caring and willing to help him, in case you need it.” to email photos of bathrooms, the language barrier made it very bedrooms, doorways and steps, so he difficult for them to assist. Dave had to Holiday facts could make his own judgements about rely on PA Nic and a friend, Sophia, Dave travelled with Jet Airways. He accommodation. Dave also recommends coming to the hospital every day to stayed in Renes Guest House in Anjuna making sure your wheelchair is in top provide his personal care. which was recommended by a friend. condition for the challenging terrain you It was not specifically designed for will encounter and take plenty of spare Be inspired wheelchair access but was ‘mostly’ parts with you; double up on your Nic sums up the trip, “This was my first accessible. Dave suggests SCI travellers medication and continence supplies and trip to India and it was fascinating. I was book a couple of nights in an accessible remember that as a Westerner in India fortunate to get a glimpse of how room in an expensive hotel in Goa to you are likely to be an economic target. different people react and cope with disability. I met many delightful people, ate amazing food and have seen some If you are planning a trip anywhere, from Australia to Zanzibar and you need awesome scenery. But, above all, I have a PA to accompany you, get in touch with Origin who can offer a great level enjoyed the day-to-day challenges that of flexibility in providing PA services. Tel: 01524 34100 www.origincare.com

www.spinal.co.uk HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL l forward feature l 39 Ray’s caribbean cruise

When my wife and I were planning a ‘big’ holiday to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary we chose a Caribbean Cruise (24 nights, cruising to and from Southampton with P&o on the Aurora) because it offered total relaxation from the moment we arrived at the cruise terminal.

ur luggage disappeared, re- A computer glitch meant the accessible appearing in our cabin a couple tour bookings were not transferred from Oof hours later, our car was driven the UK, so we could not go on off to the parking compound, and we any organised trips. We did receive headed on board to check out our cabin compensation but this in no way made – fully accessible as promised. up for the loss of the tours which We are huge cruise fans (this was our would have been by accessible van. fourth) as the holiday starts immediately. St Lucia was a lovely island and Where a flight is involved we never relax instead of trying to find an accessible cab, until we, the luggage and my wheelchair we enjoyed the shopping, music and rum arrive at our destination (the chair went punch on offer nearer the cruise terminal and it really encapsulated what we had AWOL on one trip to Lanzarote, arriving while soaking up some Caribbean sun. expected of a Caribbean island – sun, sea, three days later) and I’ve got into the Barbados was magical. Fiona went on sand, reggae music and rum punch. We bathroom. I’ve lost count of the times a turtle snorkelling trip in the morning had a very happy day enjoying all of these we’ve had to take the door off to get into while I topped up my tan. Then we met things! The beach was firm enough to the supposedly accessible bathroom! up and walked along the waterways into push on so I could have transferred onto the centre of Bridgetown where we ate a sun bed and relaxed if I’d wanted to. All aboard! lunch overlooking the water. Barbados is En route to the Caribbean we had The Aurora was fabulous! The access was more developed and commercialised stopped at Ponta Delgado in the Azores brilliant. I could do laps of the deck and than Antigua and St Lucia and and on the return leg we stopped in access the sports court unaided, playing consequently much better geared up for Madeira – a fabulous place with an cricket every day we were at sea. wheelchairs. There were plenty of normal- accessible cable car, accessible buses We were realistic about what we sized taxis and pathways and ramps and great shops and markets. might be able to see and do during our clearly marked for wheelchair users. We had an amazing trip, and the icing stops in the Caribbean – on Antigua, St Maarten – our last Caribbean stop – on the cake (literally!) was renewing our St Lucia, Barbados, Dominica and St was fabulous and we could happily have vows in front of the Captain – one thing Maarten, so booked three accessible tours spent a week there. The weather was P&O got right, ensuring it was a real with P&O before we left the UK. This was glorious, paths to and from the cruise holiday to remember. the one and only disaster on the trip. port were flat and easy to negotiate Ray Cross

40 l forward feature l HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL February 2014 charming district in the north-west of Kyoto City with quiet backstreets, cosy cafés and a peaceful atmosphere. From Kyoto you will head on down the eastern seaboard west to Hiroshima by Shinkansen. This journey of nearly 400km takes around two hours, during which time the train passes through several major cities along the coast, including Kobe, famous for its top- grade beef. Hiroshima needs no introduction – it is history personified. Miyajima will be a revered place you may not be Journey aware of however. From ancient times, people have sensed the spiritual sanctity of Miyajima, and have revered to and worshipped the island itself. The It is fair to say that Japan is not main shrine is said to have been Japan constructed in 593 by Saeki Kuramoto. the first country that may come to The Otorii (Grand Torii Gate), which mind as an accessible tour destination. It was therefore exciting stands in the sea about 16.8 metres in to receive such a request from one of my valued customers. height, is among the most well-known structures of Itsukushima Shrine. Travel fter some in-depth research and Your first day in Japan will be a will be by ferry on this amazing one-day in collaboration with an accredited fantastic introduction to Tokyo and the trip out of the three days you will spend A Japan specialist, it was a pleasure chance to get a personal insight not in Hiroshima. Cameras a must! to make all necessary arrangements for only into the classic sights, but also The journey back to Tokyo will a superb two-week itinerary that takes into some more unusual and unique be aboard the amazing Nozomi in the very best that Japan has to offer. features of the city. With a guide at your Shinkansen (the flagship of the With accessible hotels, super-efficient disposal, you are free to set the pace of Shinkansen fleet of trains). You will and high-velocity trains, barrier-free the day and to be as busy or relaxed as speed your way 900km east to Tokyo cityscapes, incredibly hospitable hosts you choose. Over four days, the guide in around four hours! En-route look out and guides, and many, many natural can help you discover aspects of Tokyo for Himeji Castle, the impressive Kyoto highlights, Japan is now a genuine option that you would not find by yourself and station building and Mt Fuji. And then for SCI travellers of all injury levels. can also help you get to grips with the it’s a flight home from what is still one With non-stop flights from London city’s excellent transport network. of the world’s most amazing and least into Tokyo’s Narita Airport getting there You’ll have similar guided tours understood destinations. If a journey is easy. Alternatively, the new super- during your four nights in Kyoto and to Japan sounds exciting - it is! hub airports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi also visit Arashiyama. Literally meaning Richard Thompson mean that a stopover in one of these ‘storm mountain’, Arashiyama is a Travel Counsellor exciting destinations is most definitely an option. A layover also breaks up flying times for those who need or prefer a shorter time spent in the air. A two-week itinerary would be based around stays in Tokyo, Odawara, Hakone, Kyoto, Myajima and Hiroshima. Transport is famously efficient in Japan, so getting around the country is both fast and fun. You’ll also be able to travel by road and ferry and on the Inter-city ‘bullet’ trains. These journeys are as exciting as their train names suggest – Shinkansen Super Express, Hikari Super Express and Nozomi Super Express. Even in the mountainous area of Hakone, the Ropeway and cable cars are accessible so you really can experience the stunning natural beauty of Japan. www.spinal.co.uk HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL l forward feature l 41 Let’s holiday in Cyprus this year!

People come to Cyprus for the guaranteed sunshine and they are not disappointed!

s I sit here writing this in the those who prefer traditional English third week of November it is dishes, these too are readily available. A 26 degrees Celsius and I am Cyprus potatoes, if you have never still wearing just a T-shirt, shorts tasted them, are wonderful. The local and flip-flops. farmers manage to grow three crops Choose your holiday month with a year. care, from April until the end of June Something to drink? Keo which temperatures are consistently in the means ‘King’, is the name of the major The terrace and view mid to upper twenties and it is very local brewery. They produce a very from Villa carpe Diem pleasant. In July and August the acceptable lager-type beer which is summer temperatures ideal for quenching a thirst. can be very high and Alternatively, there is a darker beer, this does not suit brewed by Leon, not quite up to the everyone. From early standards that UK real ale drinkers September until late would wish for but still drinkable. Keo November we enjoy also produces a wide range of white our ‘Second Spring’. and red wines. However the best After spending Cyprus wines come from specialist time in the sun, independent vineyards. A series of people love to eat and Cyprus wine routes gives you a chance drink and Cyprus has to explore many of these. lots to offer. There are Traditional handicrafts like lace many traditional making and silverwork can still be tavernas serving a seen in the picturesque village of wide variety of Lefkara. Here the ladies sit out in the Mediterranean dishes, shade with a piece of work and chat many cooked over a to each other across the street as they charcoal grill. For stitch and snip to produce wonderfully

42 l forward feature l HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL February 2014 patterned pieces. Try not to buy the first piece that you see and also haggle Useful links on the price if you plan to buy. It’s www.evas-apartments.com good fun and expected. www.bestofcyprus.net No visit to Cyprus would be www.homeaway.co.uk/p80847 complete without a trip up the www.visitcyprus.com Troodos mountains. Mount Olympus sits atop the Troodos and you will notice the scent of the pine trees and the cooling breezes. It is said that in winter you can ski here in the morning, descend to the coast and sun bathe bring at least a couple of spare inner and swim in the afternoon. tubes with you. When a good friend You can fly to Cyprus from many UK visited last month we ended up with airports, look out for flights to Larnaca multiple punctures in both tyres on or Paphos. It will pay to choose the his chair. We eventually tracked down airport of arrival with some care as suitable replacement tubes but it was the time it takes to transfer to your a challenge. accommodation will depend on where Where to stay? A cautionary note, you arrive and where you plan to stay. when searching the internet for If you don’t speak Greek don’t accessible accommodation in Cyprus About the author: Andy Renals, 57, worry, most Cypriots speak very good we found over one hundred places is a retired firefighter who designed English. In fact it’s usually the case that that list themselves as such. I’m not and built Villa Carpe Diem, with his you will be asked where you come sure what “wheelchair friendly” means friend, a wheelchair user in mind. from and then you will be told about and so I’d always choose a specialist Having also worked in the charity a relative who is either studying or provider! C&A Tourist Apartments in sector Andy has a strong interest in living there! Polis have long been a favoured equality and fairness. He is a keen Cyprus is steadily improving its destination for many. Run by Chris amateur photographer and access awareness and making Neophytou, himself a wheelchair user, stargazer. Villa Carpe Diem is owned attempts to provide access to shops and his family, this 19-apartment by Niki and Andy Renals, who offer and public buildings. However, be resort offers a full service. Polis is a their Villa to family groups of up to warned, there are some challenging delightful resort on the North coast eight. The accessible accommodation ramps and some places that are about one hour’s drive from Paphos includes a wheel-in shower, a hoist ‘off limits’. airport. and a wheelchair accessible vehicle. If you are a wheelchair user and Cyprus has a long and colourful Villa Carpe Diem with its private plan to venture into the countryside history beyond the scope of this pool and stunning views is located or perhaps visit one of the many short article; sufficient to say there is on the South coast, a half hour drive fascinating archaeological sites, come something for everyone who chooses from Larnaca airport. See advert prepared. Having solid tyres would be to holiday in Cyprus this year! in the classified section for further sensible; if you have tubed tyres then Andy Renals information and contact details.

david Croft C5/6 writes... be easily accessed. Likewise, the off at times. Although I have always I have visited Villa Carpe Diem on apartment has a spacious bathroom visited with others, I understand three occasions, each being a totally containing a bath, wheel-in shower, there is a care agency available that relaxing experience. The along with a Freeway shower chair can be used. When venturing away accommodation is ‘far from the if needed. The main bedroom has an from the house I have been to some madding crowd’ and it is great to overhead ceiling hoist track system lovely pubs, restaurants, beaches have almost guaranteed sunshine on to enable you take your own hoist and the superb Troodos Mountains. any visit. One of my holidays was in motor with you or hire one should The magnificent Roman ruins at December when Britain was gripped you need hoisting. The main house Curium make you feel like you are with snow! The accommodation has above is also fully accessible in in a scene from Troy! Andy Renals a wheelchair accessible studio respect of the kitchen, dining room saw how my house in Cornwall was apartment below the main house and lounge. Hence, the options for wheelchair friendly and was consisting of a double or twin bed holidaying on your own or with thankfully able to do things on a arrangement and adjacent double others are extremely varied. The grander scale in Cyprus. Hence any bedsitting room. Although the swimming pool finishes things off holiday at Villa Carpe Diem should kitchen is not fully accessible it can superbly should you wish to cool be like being home from home! www.spinal.co.uk HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL l forward feature l 43 Driving from Gib to Germany

danny Britto lives on the island of Gibraltar. Last year he decided to take day Two his drive-from-wheelchair Mercedes vehicle to get the joystick serviced by We left at 6am for Paris. We stopped in the German manufacturer, EMC. The planning and the journey itself were a France for breakfast – a strong coffee personal triumph for danny so we asked him to tell us more about the trip. with croissant and rolls. By the way the croissant were magnifique as they say in French! In France the speed limit is 130 kph and there are plenty of speed cameras but we were going much faster than in Spain. What stunned me most about the motorways in France was that they are wide, with plenty of space to overtake and the asphalt is smooth, like silk. The ‘beast’ was gliding on the motorway. We stayed in Paris because I had never been there before and I wanted to see that mega-structure, the Eiffel Tower. As we were in Paris we knew that a hotel was going to be expensive and we paid 315 euros for one night. It was in the heart of Paris, 10 minutes walk from the Eiffel Tower and right on the Champs Elysees. We booked a garage parking space so the van would be safe but in fact it wasn’t high enough to accommodate my vehicle so the girl from the reception desk told us we How did the idea of Tell us about the trip... could leave the van at the front door – the trip come up? which was fine by me! Over a beer, at a party! After talking day one www.lamaisonchampselysees.com with a friend, who agreed to come with We had a 5am departure and our first The room was good and big with me, we decided to go and meet the destination was San Sebastian in Spain. a large shower and plenty of space to people from EMC. We chose October We had breakfast in Caceres at a very manoeuvre. The entrance to the hotel because it is a good month for smelly rest stop (I won’t be stopping has a small step but you can go over it travelling, the weather is good and there again!) Otherwise we only stopped without any problem. Although our there’s not so much traffic. This also for petrol and, at a cruising speed all the room was on the ground floor, you had gave me time to plan. way, we arrived at our destination at to get the lift (well a cargo lift!) to reach 4pm. We stayed at Playa de la Concha in it. It is an old building, transformed into What route did you take? San Sebastian which in low season cost a hotel. We had dinner in the hotel We chose a long route, because it is 180 euros per night. It’s in the heart of restaurant and I decided that, as we were different and I wanted to visit Paris. San Sebastian with fantastic views of the in Paris, we should have champagne. It was a good route and I’m looking beach and the city www.hlondres.com Well you know what happens with the forward to doing it again one day. Dinner that night was the speciality fizzy and I was in a happy mood quite of San Sebastian, Pinxtos, small portions quickly. The hotel’s speciality is gin What preparations did of food like Tapas, eaten in a local cocktails so I had a gin and tonic and you need to make? restaurant. The accommodation was then we headed off on foot to the I had to do a full service on the van and good and clean. It had a wheel-in Eiffel Tower!. look for accessible hotels en route. All this shower although there was a beam to Getting back to the hotel was an took time, especially finding the right the left-hand side which meant it was adventure; we got lost and ended hotel for me with a wheel-in shower. a bit uncomfortable. up at the Arc de Triomphe. I couldn’t

44 l forward feature l HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL February 2014 remember the way back but I arranged a taxi so we could have a look remembered the hotel address was in at the room first. The hotel was fantastic, the Champs Elysees so we carried on large rooms and a big wheel-in shower. walking and asked a few people on the So we stayed here for five nights at 190 way. French people generally seem to euros a night. www.diehls-hotel.de lack the ability to be friendly but, I found Germany fantastic, very eventually, we stopped a girl and she accessible. The people were very friendly told us she worked in the same street and helpful. We didn’t get to see very and she would take us there. So, there much of the area because we very busy you go, we got back to the Hotel at 2:30 with the van and testing the joystick, am and the next day we had to drive but we had a great time. However, I am to Germany! looking forward to returning in 2015. Danny and Harold made an Out of 10 I would give this trip 11 day Three evening visit to the eiffel Tower marks. That’s how much I enjoyed it. We got up at 11am, ready to drive to The only thing I would do differently is Germany. We weren’t in a rush because allocate more days – 10 days is too short, we were near our destination of Reception helped us a lot, he called all you need more days to rest and do a bit Koblenz, Germany. Before we left we the hotels around the City to find an of sightseeing. I am very grateful to have had a brunch of omelette and croissants accessible hotel (that’s what I call service a friend like Harold. We have known at the Basserie du Palais – well you only – German efficiency). We were waiting each other since we were 10 years old live once (well in my case twice)! At 1pm around and hungry so they offered us and he’s an excellent friend. On this trip we headed out towards Germany. A mini sandwiches – so that is what we ate he had to help me with everything and five-hour drive. for dinner that night! We were stuck at I couldn’t have done it without him. We had booked an Ibis hotel in the Ibis until 11.30 pm but he found us Finally, I have to thank the people who the City Centre but the Ibis wasn’t very somewhere in the Middle Rhine Valley, helped me in Gibraltar, without their accessible, the room was small and the a World Heritage Region, and situated support and some additional funding bed was small too. We weren’t going to on the banks of the Rhine just across the I couldn’t have made this trip. stay there. Luckily enough the guy on river from Koblenz Old Town. He even Danny Britto C5/6

www.spinal.co.uk HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL l forward feature l 45 Getting away from it all

dan Burden T5 likes to do something a little different...

here are few things in life quite as handsome individual, but I’m going to taste. In fact I’m sure many of you would satisfying as jumping into your car let you all into a little secret, I have, on rather spend the weekend Her Majesty’s T on a Thursday, winding down your occasion, been known to attend the odd pleasure than mixing with hundreds window and screaming “See you science fiction convention. I’m certainly of people dressed as Stormtroopers. Monday, suckers!” as you wheel spin not ashamed of it, but if you tell anyone Whilst I don’t necessarily agree with this out of your work’s car park. I will hunt you down in my mid-22nd sentiment, the comparison to a prison is As a nation we have embraced the Century Klingon Warbird, replete with not wholly unjustified: after all, they’re long weekend to such an extent that it cloaking device and photon torpedoes. both full of blokes, it’s easy to buy a gun has become quite an industry, catering Amazingly, the venue for these events and Craig Charles is normally there. to all tastes however niche or unusual. is usually Butlins, Pontins or similar 1980s Now, I know I have a reputation holiday parks I didn’t even know still Bring on the girls! amongst the readership of forward as a existed and, judging by their 1980s-style Despite traditionally being considered cool, tough and – dare I say it – freakishly wheelchair access, I’m guessing they don’t the reserve of bookish, acne-afflicted know I exist either. It is 30 years men, the audience is more diverse than since, as a proud six year old, you may think. These days you may well I won the 1982 ‘Picture of Health’ find one or two girls in those Starfleet competition in Minehead. If only costumes or lining up for R2D2’s they could see me now. autograph. That said, the proliferation Anyway, of women employed to dress as sexy I appreciate cyborgs and strut around in their tin foil that a Sci-Fi smalls makes me think that it may be convention some time before such conventions is not to are truly embraced by our female everybody’s counterparts. However, before we judge all Sci Fi fans to be bespectacled misogynists, I would like to make a plea that we give these chaps a break – after all, when they ask a thoroughly bored looking Princess Leia for her photograph that will probably be the only time they speak to a woman in their entire lives. So what is it that has drawn me to this particular genre of fiction, other than the opportunity to feel superior to nearly every other human being in the building? Well, when it comes to role models, science fiction does offer us wheelies several strong characters and fancy dress options. For the suave and sophisticated there is balding brain box Professor Xavier, leader of the X-Men. For the more highly strung, or those who suffer from severe sun ageing, there is Davros, creator of the Daleks, and for those who simply enjoy making non- disabled people feel as uncomfortable as possible there is my preferred option: Superman. All somewhat better than the usual depiction of hopeless charity cases or benefit scroungers, I think you’ll agree.

46 l forward feature l HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL February 2014 clober Farm now...

Todsworthy Farm cottages Rural retreats– in the south ...and clober Farm before conversion

Are you looking for a quiet rural retreat away from the daily hustle and bustle?Then look no further than Todsworthy Farm Cottages. The ideal location for a relaxing holiday for wheelchair users and their families. ...and in the north

pinal Injuries Scotland owns sthe ground floor of an adapted here are numerous local providers. We welcome pets in the farmhouse in Milngavie, about one- attractions including the recently- Cider Press cottage and there are hour’s-drive from the north of Glasgow, T completed Tamar Trails in numerous footpaths nearby for which is available to rent for only Tavistock which are a network of dog walking. £50 per night. accessible cycle routes. Trampers can As a wheelchair user myself I Clober Farm was left to them by be hired to explore this area further understand the importance of an OT, Viv Donaldson, from the Glasgow and provide that wonderful off-road independent holiday and have made SCI Centre. It has taken considerable experience. Picturesque Dartmoor is all the necessary adaptations to time and funds to turn it into an only a short drive away with its rugged make this possible. accessible home. The design both landscape and amazing views. The For further details please visit inside and out is totally inclusive and Cornish coast is a must for any visitor www.todsworthyfarmholidays.co.uk uses the most up-to-date technology. to the region with our nearest beach Jonathan Pellow C6/7 The property is available year-round being less than half an hour away. for short-stay holiday lets and for There are numerous National Trust longer stays for people having properties nearby, including Cotehele adaptations done to their own home House which is within walking distance or waiting for new accommodation. of the cottages and offers a wonderful There are three bedrooms, a large day out. We are situated at the end of kitchen and lounge area and two the Gunnislake – Plymouth branchline wet rooms. which has been described as one of To find out more view the website the most picturesque 45-minute train [email protected] or call journeys in Britain. 0141 427 7686 / 0800 0132 305 Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty in the Tamar Valley, the cottages are positioned on our small family-run farm. The Cider Press and Hayloft are both 4-star cottages and are graded Bridge Bike Hire, on the Camel Trail in Cornwall has recently extended the at M3 mobility level. They both sleep range of ‘special needs’ bikes available to include the Draisen Low Loader six people and have a downstairs (pictured). SIA member, Lorraine Edwards, and her husband Richard bedroom and fully-equipped wet tried it and would thoroughly recommend it to other wheelchair users room. A shower chair and hoist are holidaying in the area. Bridge Bike Hire has a wide range of cycles for hire available for hire and we can cater for and they offer a pick up and collection service too. Visit their website at the needs of all our visitors. We also www.bridgebikehire.co.uk or telephone 01208 813050. They can also have very good links with local care supply details of accessible cycle paths and bike trails in the area.

www.spinal.co.uk HoLIdAyS & TRAvEL l forward feature l 47 footBest forward What goes around...

hings are beginning to come clear now. My weakened state T is not only as a result of the bed- rest following my August operation. That was merely the icing on the cake. The deterioration had probably been taking place, insidiously, over several years as I became progressively less mobile. And I have no one else to blame but myself. It seemed perfectly reasonable at the time. Conscious of my unstoppable slide towards early middle age, I decided it would be less strain on my remaining body if I started using the wheelchair a bit more out of doors. A few years ago, it would have rarely seen the light of day. Over the same period of time, my level of neuropathic pain became less and less fun, to the extent that, as I tensed in discomfort, I risked losing my balance on the sticks. So my forays out in the vertical plane became shorter and less frequent. I also changed my drop-foot splints the number of weeks required before I cop uphill tows on golf buggies. So no and the new carbon-fibre ones, while full serviceability can be restored wonder my leg strength started to sap. much better for walking in, left my becomes bigger and bigger. It doesn’t change anything. I am right heel vulnerable to a succession When this happened the first now walking to and from the car and of ulcers that each took at least six time, in 1986 after my recovery office. Can’t do steps though so, for months to heal. I felt another one go the became apparent, I all-of-a-sudden the New Year, I am booking some paid- other day, as I lurched between front became highly motivated. Part of me for strength-building physio. Because door and car door. The skin is still intact expected a full recovery and the I now realise I need help to get me so I reckon it’ll be May or June before restoration of my professional flying walking for the third time. When it I can take both socks off at bedtime. licence. I didn’t need physios, I just (in happened the first time I was twelve the manner of Forrest Gump) started months old, the second 33 years, now Learning to walk again... walking. I walked everywhere. Have – well, you do the maths. And once I’m and again and again you ever been to the Farnborough there, to stay on my feet I will need to Obviously I didn’t mean matters to Air Show? Built on the side of a ruddy keep it up, even on the inevitably get this bad. When Anna the physio mountain, it is. Over at least a decade’s regular occasions when I won’t feel like told me her rule-of-thumb – that one worth of biannual events I walked it. On the timeline the ups will become day of bed-rest needed a week of uphill and down dale, from show shorter and more ‘peaky’, the downs rehab if strength was to be maintained hall to press centre, static display to more pronounced and protracted. – I thought it applied just to being in chalet row, sweaty and triumphant. It’s a full-time job this paraplegia bed, in hospital. But when I think of Now I spend hours on the phone thing, isn’t it? if I had known at the time, the number of normal life-days when negotiating a parking space as near I would never have signed up for it. my feet never touched the ground, as possible to the show’s epicentre. Andy Healey L1 www.spinal.co.uk WaLkers l forward matters l 49 Taking the children on holiday We have travelled to Cyprus twice with Freya; once for her first birthday and then again six months later. But we’ve stayed in the Uk for holidays since, emily Clacy C6 writes... much as it is ours. I’ve never taken a carer away with us before but I’m seriously considering it for our trip to Australia. e have our own accessible villa It makes a huge difference to my in Polis, Cyprus and I decided, independence to have a paid carer on Wafter not being out there for hand as opposed to a family member over two years, that we needed to make or friend. I get terribly frustrated by use of it ourselves rather than let all our having to wait for other people to do rental clients enjoy it! So, I booked their own tasks before being able to flights for September and invited my assist me with mine. Knowing I have Mum and her friend Tony to come on someone available to assist only me holiday with us (with an ulterior motive puts my mind at rest. to get them to help out!). Previously we have always parked at Taking a carer away the long-stay car park and bussed into My main reason for not doing it before the terminal, but Tony made me aware is that I struggle to relax when I have of the airport ‘meet and greet’ service. my carer around. I feel that I need to Oh how I wish I’d known about this occupy them all the time, otherwise years ago... I can’t tell you how many I feel I’m effectively paying for them to times we’ve struggled with suitcases, sit around doing nothing. This usually wheelchairs and pushchairs, from car means that I have to occupy myself too to bus stop, on and off the bus, from or I feel guilty for keeping them busy bus stop to terminal and then onto the whilst I do nothing. Ridiculous isn’t it!?! check-in desk, with Tim having to run It’s something I will need to get over a relay race between us all; or me if I am serious about taking a carer on pushing the pushchair, Tim pushing my “I will also need to contact SIA’s holiday. We are planning another trip wheelchair and my dad loaded up like Advice Line for some advice on to Cyprus for May next year and we are some kind of packhorse with three bags going to take one of my carers with us strapped over him and pulling two paying a carer for a holiday. as a trial run. I will have to negotiate suitcases! We were always exhausted It’s a whole new world!” time off for them (and us!) at certain before even getting on the plane! With points during each day. I will also need the meet and greet service, you just pull to contact SIA’s Advice Line for some your car up right outside the terminal, wheelchair, toddler and a baby. I am advice on paying a carer for a holiday. hand your keys to a valet and just cross far more ‘disabled’ away from home It’s a whole new world! the road with your luggage; so much without the right equipment to hand. We plan for our trip to Australia simpler and less stressful! And it cost I use a powered wheelchair out and to be the trip of a lifetime and we are the same as I used to pay for the about at home but always use my considering a two-week cruise around previous privilege! manual chair when I travel. It’s fine to Australia from Sydney to Perth. Then The holiday was fabulous as usual, a point, but I can’t push long distances we are thinking of hiring an accessible but it has been a huge eye opener for and I can’t get up and down kerbs. Poor mobile home for a road trip back to me and Tim. My brother and his family Tim never gets much of a holiday as he Sydney where my brother is living. emigrated to Australia in October and now has three people demanding Because our trip will now coincide with we had been planning a six- to seven- attention and assistance. winter in Australia, we may be severely week Australasian adventure for early We’ve always travelled with friends limited as to what cruises are available 2014 (we wanted to go before Freya or with one of my parents to help lighten (if any!). This is my project for the early starts school in September 2014, not to the load, but I never want to burden part of the New Year; planning our be dictated by UK school holidays). But, them too much as it is their holiday as adventure! What fun! since our recent trip to Cyprus, we have postponed this until the UK summer break in 2015. Emily would be pleased to hear from anyone who has made the trip It is hard travelling with a to Australia and can offer advice. Email her at [email protected]

50 l forward matters l parenTing February 2014 Manx grand prix 90th Anniversary Past Winners Parade eighteen years and ten days after crashing at the Ulster grand prix and breaking my back i managed to do something which in all honesty i never thought would be possible – i slung my leg over a racing motorcycle and set off down the glencrutchery road in the isle of Man to ride on my favourite track – the TT Course. This was on 28 august 2013.

ow, of course when I say slung my leg over a racing Nmotorcycle, I really mean that my crew of four ‘carefully’ lifted me from my wheelchair on to the specially-prepared SV650cc Suzuki that had been loaned to me by The Bike Experience(TBE). It was the culmination of nine-months planning and preparation that had begun just before my father died in December 2012, when he forwarded on an email from the Manx Motorcycle Club who were inviting past winners to attend their 90th Anniversary event in August 2013. As a past winner (way back in 1984) I was eligible to take part in the parade lap, and being me, I asked if I would be allowed to ride – a request that was met with a, “Yes, if you can show us you are safe and competent to do so”. I attended TBE, a charity that runs modified motorbikes to allow disabled riders to get back on a bike, at Silverstone in April and May and decided I was OK to take on the challenge I had set myself. The principal of TBE, Tallan Skeels-Piggins offered to lend me his spare race bike, and Footnote: Subject to final approval I will be returning in early August I duly had two more practice sessions at to ‘complete the job’ at the Classic TT on August Bank Snetterton before setting off for the Isle of Man. Holiday Monday 2014. I have to admit that when I was sitting on the bike ready for the start of my lap my stomach was home to a If you want to visit the Isle of Man and are looking herd of elephants, and it did cross my mind that sometimes for accessible accommodation at any time of the year, I would be better to keep my silly ideas to myself. But when try the Joey Dunlop Foundation’s specially designed I was given the nod and my crew duly launched me, the property, Braddan Bridge House. Further information feeling as I rode off down Bray Hill (it’s a good deal steeper from [email protected] than I remembered) was one that will stay with me forever. or by telephone to 01624 677741 Just two miles later, as I headed out of Union Mills, the video in my brain clicked back in and I knew where I was, and where I needed to be for the racing line – and that racer’s smile returned!! I contrived to fall off at Ramsey Hairpin due to a gear selection issue (that’s my excuse) having covered 24.5 of the 37.75 mile lap. And, despite the best efforts of the marshals who helped me back on the bike, the Clerk of the Course wouldn’t let me continue. On reflection, he was only thinking of me ... and he’s given me the perfect excuse to go back and have another crack next year! I was, and still am, pretty disappointed, but now know what I need to do to achieve my goal. I would just like to say an enormous thank you to all who supported my return to the Island, not least my crew, who kept my feet firmly on the ground all week! Phil Armes T6/7 www.spinal.co.uk raCing l forward matters l 51 It’s easy to advertise here! Simply email your request to: [email protected]. The closing date for contributions for the April issue should reach the editor by 3 March 2014

Vehicles and prasCHBerger siTski COLLiOUre, sOUTH OF FranCe Complete ski kit, including fully Motorhomes for sale Ground-floor, 2-bedroomed accessories sorted monoski, bucket/seat size apartment, sleeps 4-6. Level access 36, Superlight outriggers, leg FiaT DUCaTO 2.8 DieseL throughout. Designed specifically VOLVO V70 se 2.5T r Design cover, drag lift attachment/quick aUTOMaTiC (sea-CpT) 2006 for people with spinal cord top of the range. 2009, under release, Salomon and Rossignol model, low mileage. Very good injury. En-suite bathrooms, air- 20,000 miles. One owner (C6/7 skis. Includes wheeled transport condition. Full work & service conditioning, full heating. Height- quadriplegic) from new. Minimal bag – easy to tow at airports etc. history. Sleeps 4, side lift, wheel- adjustable beds, pressure-relieving hand controls – will suit any A well-balanced sitski, good for in shower & toilet, electric/gas mattresses. Separate upstairs driver able to transfer who likes both leisure or more dynamic heating & hot water. Hand apartment available for family or luxury, style and power. skiing. £650. Tel: 07764 784240 controls, drive from swivel seat, friends. www.origincare.co.uk click Immaculate condition, black Email: [email protected] reversing cameras, cruise on L’Origine or call Nathalie on pearlescent body, 18” sports control, bike rack. £26,000. West 00 33 632 56 61 75 wheels, low-profile tyres, 231 property for sale Midlands. Tel: 07763 560332 prOVenCe Detached bhp. Purrs like a panther and Email: [email protected] single-storey villa adapted for drives as though through silk! wheelchair user. Owner T3 Tarne eT garOnne, Full service record, 10 months WHeeLCHair aDapTeD paraplegic. Private gardens, sW FranCe Situated in the MOT and road tax. £14,000 ono. MOTOrHOMe, 2001 model, low pool and secure parking. Sleeps beautiful French countryside, 40 Tel: Paul 01977 617050 or mileage, good condition. Sleeps 4 in two bedrooms. One with miles south of Cahors, a restored email [email protected] 2, side lift, automatic Mercedes, wheel-in wet room, shower and converted farmhouse + barn hand controls. Wheel-in shower and shower chair, the other MaZDa 2 semi/auto 2004. Hand conversion with swimming pool, and shower chair, heating/air with bath and shower. 10 controls for accelerator and games room and secure gardens. con. Experience the freedom minutes walk from the shops brake. Lowered suspension and The farmhouse is on one level to go anywhere. Winchester. at LORGUES and a 45-minute Australian body kit fitted. Only and has 5 bedrooms, 1 with £22,000. Tel: 01962 714186 drive from the coast. 17,900 miles from new. Excellent en-suite wet room, a large Email [email protected] www.accessvilladelorgues.co.uk condition. Very striking and kitchen & sitting room. The Contact Geoffrey Croasdale original paintwork. £2,995 Barn has 1 ground floor Tel: 01753 850564 Email: (Lancashire). Tel: 01254 823293 bedroom with wet room, an accessible worldwide [email protected] open-plan living area and 1 travel agent upstairs bedroom. 360,000 Wheelchairs euros. For photographs and spain further information about the Let me arrange all of your and accessories Las pieDras aCCessiBLe area visit www.bacquies.co.uk accessible UK, European and HOLiDaYs, spain or telephone Vernon Lidstone worldwide holiday and travel Discover Beautiful Unspoilt COVers-pLUs on 01452 741410 needs. 30 years experience in Wheelchair Cushion Covers travel and 24 years as SCI. Andalusia. Our stylish & Replacement Upholstery Fully bonded and complete accommodation offers the very www.covers-plus.co.uk Holiday property financial security. highest level of accessibility. Wheelchair Accessible Transfers Tel: 01295 810011 for sale Call me on 01452 742101 or visit & Transport, Mobility aids and www.travelcounsellors.co.uk Care available. Lake DisTriCT, WinDerMere /richard.thompson Las pieDras rUraL HOTeL equipment Timber lodge in a 4-star in a stunning mountain setting or park on the shores of Lake eL pLeaMar aparTMenT Windermere. 40ft x 20ft timber Holiday accommodation Mangar eLk LiFTing right on the Mediterranean clad throughout. Includes all CUsHiOn Hardly used, no Contact Hannah or Adrian fixtures and fittings, including FranCe longer needed. £100 for a brochure or information furniture, bed linen and beds THera FiT aCTiVe/passiVe Tel: 029 212 54321 etc. 42-years left to run on MaYenne, 18th century peDaLs £100 Email: [email protected] lease. Hire income usually pays stone property with 4 bedrooms Lancashire area. Contact Phil Web: www.laspiedras.co.uk the ground rent. Sleeps 4 in and a 3-acre private lake for [email protected] comfort, fully wheelchair fishing. Wheelchair accessible, JaVea, COsTa BLanCa, spain HUnTLeigH akrOn electric tilt accessible, wet room and with ground-floor bedroom Luxury family Villa purposely table, hardly used. Tray included. family bathroom. View at and en-suite wet room. built for wheelchair owner. The £400 ono. Birmingham area. www.timber-lodge.co.uk www.francefishingholiday.co.uk villa comprises 3 bedrooms and Buyer to collect. Email: [email protected] or tel: Darren C6/7 on 2 bathrooms. Master bedroom Tel: 0121 449 9035 Tel: 01423 323123 01405 816 750 has en-suite with wheel-in

52 l forward matters l CLassiFieDs February 2014 shower (shower chair provided). aLiCanTe, spain Spacious aLaManCiL, aLgarVe Orange Tree, OrLanDO, Private pool with hoist. 2-bedroom, fully wheelchair Outstanding, fully-accessible FLOriDa 5-bed/4-bath, purpose- Restaurants, shops and accessible apartment in Rojales. luxury private villa set in built wheelchair accessible villa wheelchair accessible beach www.disabledapartment.com beautiful countryside. 3 overlooking lake and conservation are all within close proximity. Email [email protected] bedrooms, all en-suite with area. Level access throughout, Alicante and Valencia are the Catch me on Facebook or wheel-in showers. Private Wheel-in shower and shower chair. nearest airports. Contact telephone Darren on pool with hoist. Comfortable Non-chlorine xlarge pool with spa, owners Gavin or Lynda. 0751 554 1300 lounge/dining rooms and well- both accessible by hoist. Free Wi-Fi, Tel: 01786 811546 equipped kitchen. All you could sleeps 12, short drive to attractions Email: [email protected] aLCOsseBre Superior, front wish for in a holiday home and and amenities. Paraplegic owner. www.spanishvillawithaccess.com line 2-Bedroom apartment with so much more! To contact us www.ayersfloridavillas.com en-suite level access shower. call 01530 833690 or spain, COsTa BLanCa, JaVea Email: lucy@ayersfloridavillas.com Modern low rise complex, www.villas-algarve.co.uk Lovely wheelchair friendly villa beautifully kept gardens, OrLanDO, FLOriDa set in large colourful gardens on Luxury, 4 bedroom, 4 swimming pools. Large terrace level, gated plot. Well equipped, CYprUs bathroom villa with its own overlooking beach. Wheelchair 3 beds, 2 baths, master bed private pool, set in a small accessible throughout. Level pOLis, CYprUs 3-bed with large ensuite bathroom and exclusive private gated access to bars and restaurants. accessible bungalow/villa. and wheel-in shower (chair community, close to all Secure parking. Private pool with wide steps provided), cable TV with Sky amenities. Very spacious, level Email: [email protected] and handrails. Ramp access and English channels, DVD player access throughout and fully Tel: 01228 561219 throughout villa and grounds. plus DVD library, free broadband wheelchair accessible. The rear internet access, wheelchair- Walking/pushing distance from shops, village and beach (with of the villa backs onto fields firendly gardens, 10 x 5m pool pOrTUgaL and is not overlooked. with easy-to-use water-powered beach buggy/wheelchair available in summer holidays). Wheel-in shower, pool, hoist pool lift and full-size outdoor aLgarVe, pOrTUgaL Wheel-in wet room with wall- etc. All facilities and 24-hour table tennis table. T1 paraplegic Your home from home in mounted shower seat. management company. owner. Contact Norman or Sue. the sun including accessible Self-propelling shower chair Disney only 10 minutes, Tel: 01900 67280 transport and airport transfers. available. Accessible hob and Brochure from Roger Whittle. Mobile: 07818 406861 Owned by C4 tetraplegic, 20 sink in kitchen. Owned and Tel: 01242 573233 Web: Email: [email protected] minutes from Faro airport with designed by SCI person. www.accessiblefloridavillas.com Web: www.accessvillaspain.com stunning views and privacy. Call Emily on 01451 822041 spain, COsTa BLanCa, JaVea 3 twin bedrooms, 2 with wheel- MarOni, CYprUs Villa Carpe engLanD Spacious, fully-equipped, luxury, in showers. Pool with hoist Diem. Large modern, wheelchair- 5-bedroom villa, sleeps 10. 3 heated to 25ºC. Inclusive friendly villa. 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms (2 en-suite, I with accessible vans & airport bathrooms. Double bedroom self Catering roll-in shower) Flat plot, fully transfers, electric up and with hoist, wetroom with accessible gardens. 12m x 6m accommodation down bed, electric indoor wheel-in shower (shower chair pool with hoist. Sky TV. 2.5km to hoist, shower/commode provided). Private pool. Contact beach. Vehicle required. chairs etc. Not to be missed. [email protected] DisaBLeD HOLiDaYs aT Contact John Kenny 07721 336747 See full details on our Tel: 00 35 7 999 68418 HOMe C4/5 quadriplegic owner. enquiries@casadefloresspain.co.uk comprehensive website. I have spent years looking for www.casadefloresspain.co.uk accessible holidays without the Tel: 00351 289 414 687 FLOriDa spain, COsTa BLanCa, Email: [email protected] price tag. So, I did them myself! I TOrreVieJa Web: www.ouricodomar.com OrLanDO, FLOriDa have adapted chalets in England, Established, detached family Recently adapted, accessible, close to beach and dog-friendly. aLgarVe, pOrTUgaL villa with lovely gardens in 4-bedroom villa, sleeps 8. Pool Mablethorpe, Tunstall near Spacious private villa with sunny Torrevieja on the Spanish hoist, roll-in shower and shower Withernsea (open 11 months). Costa Blanca. Huge wheel-in pool and hoist. 3 bed, 2 bath chair. Private pool and games Both with wet rooms. Shower swimming pool. Custom-built with wheel-in shower. Shower room. Very quiet area, beautiful chair, electric beds and manual for C5 owner. Close to beach chair provided. Well-equipped rear views of conservation hoist provided. Please visit and all amenities. Airport 20 kitchen. 2 barbecues. All doors areas. Short drive to theme website for more details mins. Converted vehicle also 1-metre wide. Level access parks and amenities. Tetraplegic www.disabledapartment.com available to hire. throughout villa and pool area. owner. For details call Simon Email: [email protected] For details 01262 676015 Paraplegic owner. Debbie Wells. on 07970 491141 Catch me on Facebook or www.disabledvilla.com Tel: 01277 354 313 www.orangetreeaccessibility.com Tel: Darren on 0751 554 1300 > www.spinal.co.uk CLassiFieDs l forward matters l 53 > TODsWOrTHY FarM DOrseT Exceptional, fully- property in the heart of the HOLiDaYs, Cornwall. 18th accessible, 4-star, self-catering Peak District National Park. Century Cornish stone and holiday accommodation in Wheelchair accessible, hoist slate cottages on a working beautiful rural North Dorset. available. Sleeps 3. farm full adapted for wheelchair Superbly equipped, comfortable www.laneendfarmtrust.co.uk users and their families. Superb and tastefully furnished Telephone Viv for leaflet or more rural location. Set in an area of cottages, heated indoor information 01433 650043 outstanding natural beauty. Two splash pool, stunning views cottages, both 3 bedrooms, from garden M3(I). sCOTLanD sleeping up to 6. Perfect for Tel: 01258 818 196 for touring Devon and Cornwall. brochure or visit HigHLanDs, Farr, Open all year. www.EllwoodCottages.co.uk inVerness Luxury 4-star, Tel: 01822 834744 unassisted wheelchair www.todsworthyfarmholidays.co.uk Lake DisTriCT, WinDerMere access cottage on one level, Fully adapted, self-catering TreWOrgans FarM sleeping 4/5. Fully adapted for lodge situated in a 4-star park. HOLiDaYs, MiD COrnWaLL wheelchair users, The Haven Two twin bedrooms, one with Newly converted, barns (sleep has two spacious bedrooms en-suite bathroom. Fully fitted 4 & 6) that are wheelchair and a wet room. Wheeled kitchen TV/DVD, central accessible. All bedrooms have shower chair and mobile hoist en-suite facilities – each property heating, free Wi-Fi. Site shop, available. Nature trails suitable has one level-access wet room. bar, restaurant, swimming pool on Morecambe Bay. Superb sea for wheelchair users. Visit Adapted kitchens. Accessible with hoist, Play area. View and mountain view Access to www.dalvourn.com decked patio areas. Detached. www.timber-lodge.co.uk 5-mile promenade Caravans Email: [email protected] Ample parking areas. 4-section and follow booking link. Or on Haven Parks in Southern or tel: 01808 521467 electric profiling bed, air mattress Email: [email protected] Lake District and at Filey and 160kg electric hoists available. Open March till early January 2015. near Scarborough. Rise/recline chairs. Care available support services raTCLiFFe DisaBLeD www.theukweb.com/disabled from local agency. Exposed beams, holidays or phone for more HOLiDaYs wood burner. Ideal location for information Allan or Jan JO-anne’s persOnaL C5 quadriplegic owner. exploring the whole county. 01274 588142 assisTanCe serViCe Overhead electric hoists. Tel: 01726 883240 nOW BOOking FOr 2014 Electric hi-lo beds. Wheel-in aBneY, DerBYsHire or 07762 173860 NOW BOOKING FOR 2014 showers. House flats sleep Room for All Seasons, fully www.treworgansfarm.co.uk If you require a personal 6-10. Open all year. Heysham adapted, luxury, self-catering assistant for home or penrOse BUrDen, abroad, a business or pleasure COrnWaLL trip, please call, JPAS on Fully adapted cottages for 07500 703004 or 01623 847336 wheelchair users and their Email: [email protected] families – superb rural area with outstanding views. Open all year aDVerTising raTes CLiniCaL psYCHOLOgisT round. Wood burning stoves. Full details can be found on sia’s website HeLen sMiTH Colour brochure. Please write www.spinal.co.uk Specialist in spinal injury or ring Nancy Hall, Penrose rehabilitation Available for Advertisements placed in forward will be posted onto SIA’s Burden, St Breward, Bodmin, private consultations on Fridays website at www.spinal.co.uk after the magazine is published. Cornwall PL30 4LZ. Tel: 07976 354142 Tel: 01208 850277 or 01208 850617 Member rates The charge is 40p per word with a minimum Email: [email protected] Web: www.penroseburden.co.uk charge of £15 for any one advert. spOkZ peOpLe is a CHrisTCHUrCH, DOrseT non Members The charge is 70p per word with a minimum Birmingham-based non-profit Self-catering bungalow, sleeps charge of £20 for any one advert. support organisation with up to six. Ceiling hoists in You can email your advertisement to: experience of SCI. We offer bedroom and bathroom, [email protected]. Please telephone 1-2-1 support, groups, EMDR (Eye, Movement, Desensitisation wheel-in shower, clos-o-mat 0845 678 6633 ext 2 to pay by card. loo, low-level kitchen. Reprocessing) and more. Contact 01202 481597 The closing date for contributions for the April issue Find out more at Email: [email protected] is 3 March 2014. www.spokzpeople.org.uk www.31aha.co.uk Email: [email protected]

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54 l forward matters l CLassiFieDs February 2014

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