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Hello Everyone
By the time the Parkinson’s Post is delivered I should be touching down in
Australia to visit Family and looking forward to tickling my toes in the
Bay.
The above is not meant to make you envious in any way, because I mean
to do some work on behalf of Parkinson’s Chester Branch during my stay.
Whilst I was visiting last year I made contact with the President of the
Newcastle Parkinson’s Support Group. Verlie has been President for over
20 years and is a sprightly octogenarian who was awarded the highest
honour for her voluntary work on behalf of Parkinson’s by the
Government in NSW.
I regularly receive the Groups News Letter and send our Parkinson’s Post
and other interesting brochures and News from the UK to them. The
Support Group meets once a month and invites a guest Speaker to share
the latest projects and news for People with Parkinson’s. I will be
attending their October meeting and am really looking forward to
meeting everyone and hearing how they manage Parkinson’s in NSW.
There are several Members of the support group who keep themselves
busy writing Poems which are printed in the News Letter. I have their
permission to reprint them for our members in the UK, I hope you enjoy
them and may be inspired to put pen to paper yourselves.
Signing off as Secretary Karen does in Newcastle NSW
Yours in Parkinson’s friendship
ANN
PARKINSON’S POST CHESTER AND DISTRICT BRANCH
Autumn 2012
CHILLY MILLIEU
Windy weather, icy whip Takes us on an unplanned trip Huddled bodies forge ahead Strive to go this way instead
Walking down a country road See the fields the farmers hoed Numbing fingers tuck them in
Scarf pulled high upon the chin Rural scenes with rustic charm Impressive vistas that disarm Foliage blown upside down
Richest colours reddish brown Feathered clouds puffed way
off course Ruffled waters, frisky horse Golden grasses swaying low
Gentle hint of soft white snow Birds that struggle slowly move
As if in flight they’ve lots to prove
Wispy papers whisked on high Dancing branches wave
goodbye Cutting cold, no more abide
Fire is beckoning, come inside Di Lymbury
A POEM FOR THE MATURE
A row of bottles on my shelf Caused me to analyse myself One yellow pill I have to pop
Goes to my heart so it won’t stop A little white one that I take
Goes to my hands so they won’t shake
The blue ones that I use a lot Tell me I’m happy when I’m not The purple pill goes to my brain
And tells me I have no pain The capsule tells me not to
wheeze Or cough or choke or even sneeze The red ones smallest of them all
Go to my blood so I won’t fall The orange ones, very big and
bright Prevent my leg cramps in the
night Such an array of brilliant pills Helping cure all kinds of ills
But what I’d really like to know..... Is what tells each one where to
go! Lynne Ellis
A View from the Bridge
I was able to attend the Annual General Meeting of Parkinson’s UK in London last month. Listening to the various reports it was clear that 2012 is going to be another year of substantial achievement for the Charity. Particularly interesting was the review of the Charity’s financial position. These days anything to do with finances tends to be a gloomy affair, with lots of talk about cut backs and austerity. The position at Parkinson’s UK is much more positive. Of course, raising money is a big challenge for us, as it is for any charity. However, despite everything our income is holding up. Our plans for gradual expansion and growth are still on course. This means we are able to spend more on key services such as development of our specialist nurse programme, and that we can continue to invests substantial sums in research. Why are we able to keep our head above water when so many are really struggling. There are probably a number of reasons. First, we have a good story to tell. We have a solid record of achievement. We have a positive and visible image. From being a sceptic about the value of investing in a new brand and house style, I am now convinced that our vibrant and energetic profile has helped enormously to keep ‘Parkinson’s’ in the public eye. We are very fortunate, also, in that many people come into contact with the charity later in life. This often leads to legacies from which we receive a good proportion of our income. This, in turn is less volatile than many other sources of donations. So, the income side of the equation is positive. What about our expenditure? Well this is continuing to rise as well. We are still, as a charity spending more than we bring in. This is part of a long term plan to spend some of our substantial reserves on developing our services and support. As Trustees we have taken the view that we should not keep more money in the bank than we really need to be reasonably confident that we can meet our commitments. Of course this situation cannot go on for very long. If we are to maintain our levels of activity we need to grow our annual income to the point where we have a balanced budget. Otherwise, when the balances run out, we will have to cut back on the very things we have developed. At a local level we are in a very similar situation. Our income levels, particularly collections have been holding up fairly well.
Overall, however, the sources of our fund are very uncertain. Like the Charity as a whole we have been fortunate in having significant reserves. We made a small deficit last year and it seems likely that we will have a similar result in 2012. In the past few years we have been able to expand dramatically the services we are able to offer, particularly because of our partnership with the MS Support Centre. There are significant opportunities for this to continue. There is much more we could do for a much broader range of clients than we currently serve. To a large extent this will depend on having a clear financial strategy and a greater degree of security about our income. The Branch committee have therefore decided to undertake a full review of our financial strategy, taking into account the needs of as wider range of clients as possible, the opportunities to expand services and activities, our obligations to support the national activities of the charity, our continued cooperation and support for the MS Centre and future sources of income - which will include the possibility of asking users to make a contribution to the costs of the services they use. None of this is easy and we will be consulting people on emerging proposals. In the meantime please feel free to let me or any committee member have your thoughts. Colin Cheesman
BLACKPOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMME This year’s holiday at the Savoy Hotel, Blackpool runs from Sunday 4 – Friday 9 November. The cost is £240 per person. There are still a few places left, so if you fancy a last minute break get the details and booking form from
Colin 01244 678866 or
email to [email protected]
DDOOIINNGG SSOOMMEETTHHIINNGG FFAANNTTAASSTTIICC FFOORR
PPAARRKKIINNSSOONN’’SS
Do you know anyone – friend, relative, or even you – who would do something fantastic for Parkinson’s? Next year’s
challenges in September and November include trekking to the summit of Mount Toubkal in Morocco, trekking in the
Annapurnas in Nepal and cycling in Rajastan, India.
Go for it: get details from the events team on 020 7932 1328 or [email protected]
IInntteerreesstteedd iinn PPaarrkkiinnssoonn’’ss RReesseeaarrcchh?? Research into Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions is at a fantastically interesting time. New equipment and techniques are opening up exciting new avenues for exploration. Lay members can play an important part in research activity, in particular by joining the Parkinson’s Research Network. As a Network member you will be kept up to date with research activity, have the opportunity to meet and visit researchers, be consulted on research issues and help assess research grant applications. As a Branch, we need to link in to the Research Network, and this would be done ideally through a local member of the Network. Would you be prepared to be our Branch Network ‘Champion’? Someone who can keep the Committee and the Branch up to date with developments and emerging issues?. You don’t have to be a member of the Branch Committee, but we would hope to receive periodic reports on the latest in the world of research. If you would like to be our ‘research champion’ please get in touch. Colin on 01244 678866 or [email protected]
Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
CONTACT CARD Following feedback from our local Parkinson’s UK branch, the following staff are now available as an immediate point of contact should carers/families of patients with Parkinson’s Disease have any concerns whilst in hospital. Contact via Hospital Switchboard – 01244 365000
Ask for:
Countess of Chester Hospital – Claire Williams, Matron on VOIP 2377
Ellesmere Port Hospital – Ruth Millward, Matron on Bleep 2405
Out of Hours Enquiries – Clinical Site Co-ordinator on Bleep 2705
GGGeeettt iiittt ooonnn TTTiiimmmeee
You will all be aware of our longstanding campaign to
improve the experience of people with Parkinson’s who
have to go into hospital. Recently we have been working
closely with the nursing staff at the Countess of Chester
Hospital to help them introduce a systematic approach to
the care of Parkinson’s in patients. We have been delighted
with progress and we were pleased to welcome Ruth
Millward, the matron leading the initiative at the hospital, to
the Support Centre on 7 September, when she gave talk to
members on the approach being taken. One very helpful
development was the introduction of contact cards,
available to patients, carers and families. The contact
names and numbers on the card could be used at any time
to lodge concerns about any aspect of the patient’s
treatment. The contact undertook to investigate and
respond quickly to any such call. Below is a copy of the
card. You can cut out and keep the copy below or you can
get a laminated copy from any of the committee officers or
the PD Nurse.
There have been several successful collections recently, and we
are grateful to all who turned out to support us. We also have
to thank the customers of the Red Lion in Handbridge, whose
latest donations take their total funds raised for Parkinson’s to
more than £2,000. We have also received cheques from two
local Freemason’s lodges. Our November Store Collection will
be on Thursday 15 November at ASDA Queensferry. As always,
please let Clare Evans know if you are able to help.
______________________________________________________
Keeping the postage bill down Thanks to all of you who have
completed our membership details survey forms,
following the last issue of the post. A further tranche is
included with this mailing. If you do receive a form,
please complete it and send it back in the FREEPOST
envelope. It is particularly valuable to know if you have
an Email address and will be willing to receive
communications, including the Parkinson Post,
electronically.
For people with Parkinson’s, MS and associated conditions, their carers and
families
M A K E M U S I C Wednesday afternoons at the Centre
2 pm - 4 pm Sign up for this exciting opportunity to form a choir as yet called ‘Sine
Nomine’* ( *Latin: without a name ) Weekly sessions from 10 October leading to our debut performance in
December 2012
♫Singing
♪ Unites people of all abilities and ages ♪ Lifts the mood and
makes you happy ♪ Exercises facial muscles ♪ Increases
lung expansion ♪ Improves breathing ♪ Is fun, joyful, uplifting
and inspires poetry
♫ Did you know that singing
♪ Releases endorphins – the ‘feel good’ chemicals in the brain ♪
builds confidence ♪ Reduces anxiety and depression (1998 Study
of Nursing Home residents) ♪ is aerobic exercise which increases
the oxygen levels in the blood and so improves circulation ♪
Improves lung function and relaxation ♪ Provides a ‘stress free
zone where there is no time to think of outside worries and concerns
♪ Keeps the brain active, improves concentration and learning ♪
Offers a support system of being in a group with commitment and
♫ BENEFITS ♫
PHYSICAL PSYCHOLOGICAL
SUE ACTY is an Occupational Therapist who holds a post-grad certificate in ‘Music for people with Special Needs, and a musician who is Musical Director of 2 Choirs
Sounds Familiar based in Mold
Capriccio based in Merseyside Please refer to the choir websites She has an interest in the therapeutic value of singing and has worked with all age groups as a Musical Director/Conductor. She has also been a choral singer from a very early age.
♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬ ♬
INTERESTED ?
YOU CAN REGISTER NOW. You need to let us have your name,
address, telephone number, and email address if available. You can do
this (a) in person by signing the list at the Centre, (b) by post to Colin
Cheesman, 7 Radnor Drive, Chester, CH4 7PS, (c) by phone to Colin on
[01244] 678866 or (d) by email to [email protected]
Exercises major muscle groups in the upper body Aerobic activity which improves efficiency of the cardio-vascular system by increasing oxygen levels, which in turn increases alertness, decreases the risk of developing colds and flu, reduces stress Facilitates motor control and co-ordination Improves control of breathing Both exercises and relaxes facial muscles
Social inclusion Increases self esteem Provides relaxation techniques and reduces muscle tone; this can help reduce chronic pain Achieves something new, even at a later stage in life Loses inhibitions Realise that you can sing
BRIDGE CLUB EVERY WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON FROM 2.30 AT THE MS CENTRE SALTNEY All levels and beginners welcome. Small group already established sharing travel to and from For all details please contact David Stoddart on 1244 316534
G E T C O N N E C T E D … . .
Feel you are missing something? Not technically minded? Nervous about computers?
HELP IS AT HAND
New technology can help to improve the quality of life for everyone, but there are huge benefits for those who may be less mobile or who may
become so. These may include: Keeping in touch with friends and family, Shopping at home, Getting up to date information, Contacting your healthcare team, Asking for help
and advice, Sharing problems with others, Avoiding feelings of isolation
WHY NOT GET STARTED? Malcolm Johnson can offer free introductory tuition for beginners, advice on
equipment and setting up – all you need to get yourself launched. Tuesdays 13:00 till 15:00
Phone Malcolm and make an appointment on Tel: 01928 723383 or 07761 794824
GROUP PHYSIOTHERAPY AT THE M.S. SUPPORT CENTRE
On Tuesday afternoons at the MS Centre there is an opportunity for people with Parkinson’s
to attend a Group Physiotherapy session.
The session is run by Kavitha and concentrates on sitting exercises rather than mat work which is difficult for some.
The session cost is £5 For more information why not ring the centre on 01244 678619
FURTHER DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Quiz Afternoon
Margaret Pratt has kindly offered to arrange another Quiz
afternoon, following last year’s very successful event. It will be on
Friday 16 November at the MS Centre from 2.00 to 4.00pm and we
are hoping that there will be teams from both Parkinson’s and MS.
Everyone is welcome. Either come as a team of 4, or come
individually and make up a team on the day.
Monday 17th December - Christmas Lunch at
All Saints Church Centre. Booking form enclosed.
Saturday 19th January 2013 - AGM
Please join us for a
Parkinson’s Pub Lunch at The Grosvenor Arms,
Chester Road, Aldford, CH3 6HJ on Tuesday 23rd October
As usual it is 12.30 onwards.
Names, if possible, to Colin or Judy [01244 678866] or
Chows Chinese Eating House
Parkgate Friday 28th
September
26 of us enjoyed a
lovely lunch
Gilly enjoyed her ice-
cream afterwards on
the front
lunch at
The
Shrewsbury
Arms
Mickle
Trafford
on
22nd August
enjoyed by
all
Our local information and support worker (ISW) service offers confidential, one-to-one information and support to people with
Parkinson’s, their families and carers. This may include accurate and up to date information on Parkinson’s, emotional support to you and your family, information about benefits and help with the
application process, information about and links to your local health and social care services and other agencies and a
supporting voice if you are having problems getting your needs assessed.
Your local ISW is Rachael Millington on 0844 225 3658 or email [email protected] or if you live in
Flintshire Sara Owen on 0844 225 3719 or email [email protected]
Don’t forget that Malcolm Johnson has
information on transport.
He can be contacted on 07761 794824
The MS Support Centre, Saltney, is open Monday to Friday from
10am. We are particularly keen to work with people who are
newly diagnosed and provide therapies that are appropriate to
them. If you would like to be involved in this exciting new
development, or just want to find out more about the Centre
and what it can do for you, please call 01244 678619
PARKINSON’S SPECIALIST NURSES
Sue Woods - 0151-350-3327 Western Cheshire Mirain Allen - 01352-803593 Flintshire
CONTACT FOR ALL ACTIVITIES – JEAN DALE 01244 381257
FYI -Christmas break commences 18th December 2012 and
recommences in the New Year from the week beginning 8th
January 2013
INDOOR BOWLING Blacon United Reform Church 2nd Monday of next six months 8th October, 12th November 10th December
2012 & 14th January, 11th February, 11th March 2013
Y O G A
Tuesdays at the MS Centre, Saltney: 9.45 for
10am start. Thursdays at the Oddfellows Hall, Saltney: 2pm
AQUA-MOBILITY
Every Friday 9.45 for 10am start at Total Fitness,
Liverpool Road, Chester On the 7th + 8th September Total Fitness held a 'Rowing Challenge' Sponsorship for the Chester Branch of Parkinson's with further plans for a Swimming challenge 1500m and Junior Rowing Challenge. Money raised to be advised in the next Parkinbson's Post.
TELEPHONE CONTACTS
Ann Edwards (Chair) 01244 520757 [email protected]
Colin Cheesman (Secretary) 01244 678866 ` [email protected]
Clare Evans (Vice Chair) 01352 762650 Pam Adams (Welfare Officer) 01244 376546 Sue Woods (Nurse Specialist) 0151-350-3327 Western Cheshire Mirain Allen (Nurse Specialist) 01352 803593 Flintshire Rachael Millington (ISW) 0844 2253658 Chester & Western Cheshire
Sara Owen (ISW) 0844 2253719 Flintshire
Jean Dale 01244 381257
Activities Co-ordinator John Knight 01244 349032 Contact John if you have any items [email protected]
to be included in the Parkinson Post
