SURVIVOR - polio.ie · 4 The SURVIVOR Throughout the latter part of 2014, we held four regional meetings to engage with members on the topic of “How to create a more engaged, active

SURVIVORTH

E

Irish Polio NewsVol 11 Issue 2Spring 2015

Post Polio

Support GroupIreland

Spring Lambs in Dingle

Cover photo: Spring Lambs in Dingle. Edwin Bailey

Note re. centre pages: Due to the large volume of photos received, we’ve decided to run with a centre pagecollage in order to fit in as many as possible. We’ll return to captioned photos in the next issue.

2 The SURVIVOR

Contents

From the Chair - Chairperson’s Address 3

Do You Have an Urgent Need? 6

Time to Restore Services & Allowances - John Dolan DFI 7

Tribute to Marie Boland 9

World Polio Day Lunch - Fran Brennan CEO PPSG 10

Keep Control Campaign - Brendan Moore 12

Pilot Exercise Programme for Polio Survivors - Julie Scully 14

Chill Out Day in Cork 17

Survivor - Health & Wellbeing - Maureen Ryan 18

PPSG Members - Centre pages photos from around the country 20

Creative Corner - Featuring Edwin Bailey 22

A Helping Hand 25

Rising Above - Jackie Minnock 26

Fundraising News - From around the country 28

Notice Board - PPSG Notices 33

Polio Project Presentation School Wexford - Jim Barrett 37

SPRING 2015 3

FROM THE CHAIR

I would like to express my thanksto Paul McKee and Úna Lyons, forgiving so much time to this project,and to our new DevelopmentOfficer, Emma Clarke Conway,who has supported the SurvivorEditorial Committee in bringingtogether this vital publication,which is such an importantchannel of communication withthe membership.

It is difficult to believe that theConference has come aroundagain. This member event is anopportunity to renew friendshipsand seek out fellow Survivors for aday of discussion, interaction, andeducation.

This year, our keynote speaker, MrsMary O’Rourke, retired T.D., describedas ‘mammy of the Dáil’ expresses withher usual colour and geniality herthoughts on Polio and its impact onIrish Society. Members of the Board arealways delighted to meet members,

their family andfriends and to talkabout ongoingwork, which willensure the futureof Polio Survivors.A full report andphotos of theConference willappear in the nextedition of themagazine.

It seems like one edition of Survivor is barelyfinished, when articles and information beginpouring in for the next, and so it is with this

first copy of the PPSG’s magazine for 2015.

I hope you enjoy reading what’s been happeningin the Group and find some of the other articlesof interest.

Chairperson’s Address

4 The SURVIVOR

Throughout the latter part of 2014,we held four regional meetings toengage with members on the topic of“How to create a more engaged,active and campaigning Post PolioSupport Group”. I am very gratefulto those of you who were able toattend, and who took part so whole-heartedly, giving us a wide range ofcomments, feedback and opinionson what you think the PPSG shouldbe doing. The varying opinions wereinteresting to review, with many ofyou having fantastic ideas as to whatthe organisation should be doing.

The Social Support Committee isnow working on developingstructures that can support the PPSGas its members undertake many ofthe activities identified at theregional meetings. The committee isholding a workshop during theAnnual Conference to discuss withmembers their thoughts on the bestway forward.

We are excited about upcomingfundraising ventures for 2015. Onekey event is the VHI Women’s MiniMarathon, taking place on June 1stin Dublin. This is the first of multiplefun-runs and races held aroundIreland, which we hope mightappeal either to members or tofamily and friends who are fit,willing and determined to raisesome monies on our behalf. Seemore in this edition on theWomen’s Mini Marathon and onour webpage for details of otherevents.

Sponsorship and fundraising is sovital to the organisation – perhapsyou could put on your thinking capand see if you can come up withsomething original to do locally, orconsider who or what organisationyou might know in your area that iswilling to help local groups andcharities.

The success of many Irish charitiesis not just the essential work theydo, but the way in which they allowpeople who struggle againstadversity to help themselves.

“How to create a more engaged, active

and campaigning Post Polio Support Group”

SPRING 2015 5

Polio Survivors are no different:despite varying degrees of disability asa result of contracting Polio, we havemanaged to live bountiful lives andare a shining example of the self-helpphilosophy. I hope you will read withinterest the words of John Dolan ofthe Disability Federation of Ireland(DFI), a colleague and fellow memberof the Group. The PPSG is workingwith the DFI around the issue offunding cuts.

With the climate of recent years,charities' funding is constantly at risk,and it is essential that our members’voices are heard amongst thosefighting to retain services to disabilitygroups: we hope you will fightalongside us.

We may need to go out in force; wemay need you to lobby your local TD.I would also ask that you, as amember, think how you can help usto help you. Do you have friends andfamily who might give us their time orexpertise, or who might get involvedwith us in some other way? Let ushelp you and let us help each other.Polio Survivors are still here. We mustdo what we can, while we still can.

SUSAN DOWLINGChairperson

From�the�Chair

Polio Survivors are still here.

We must do what we can, while we still can.

Do you have an URGENT NEED?

If so please ring Lillian or Kerrie at 01 889 8920

For the moment the Board has decided not to send out a written questionnaire to members.

Instead Lillian and Kerrie will continue tocontact members by phone to assess their needs.

As it takes some time to get to everyone,you are invited to contact the office if you

have needs which cannot wait.

We offer information, advice, support and, in some cases, financial support, to meet your needs.

Please do contact us. We are delighted to assist you.

6 The SURVIVOR

?

SPRING 2015

Time�to�Restore�Services�and

Allowances�to�Disabled�peopleBy�John�Dolan�

Chief Executive of the Disability Federation of Ireland

People with disabilities andtheir families will view thecurrent round of party

conferences as a marker on whetheror not their voices are being heard.These conferences will be “settingout the stall” of parties inanticipation of the next generalelection. We expect to hear lots aboutjobs, wage and pension increases,reduced taxes and, of course, themove away from austerity. And this isall positive for most people.

The 600,000 people in this countryaffected by some level of disability,along with families and carers, will bewaiting for a “return of services andallowances” so they can restart thejourney to active citizenship in one ofthe wealthiest countries. Surely thisis not too much to ask? The yearssince the collapse of our banks in2008 have brought constant worryand fear to people with disabilitiesand their families. This fear isincreasing. Disabled people have

been subjected to the generalausterity programme. They have alsobeen subjected to cuts and reductionsin services that aim to support themto progressively achieve indepen-dence. The recession has deliveredthem a double blow and yet theyrarely receive a mention as politicianslay out their stalls.

Full�EMplOyMEnT

It is good news for all to note theGovernment’s prediction of fullemployment by 2018; but that is forpeople not disabled. As yet the muchpromised “comprehensive employ-ment strategy” for disabled peoplehas not seen the light of day. Toomany people with disability areexperiencing poverty. Dealing withthis must surely be a priority for anypolitical party standing before thepeople at election time? It isestimated an extra one-third of theaverage weekly wage is required inorder to live with a disability.

This article was originally published in the Irish Times, Wednesday 25th February 2015; reproduced with kind permission

of author, John Dolan, Disability Federation of Ireland.

7

8 The SURVIVOR

For the many people unable toparticipate fully in employment, thismust be recognised by those whocontrol the allowance strings. Thiswill take more than kind words andpromises but a specific commitment,backed up by concrete expenditurefigures. Disability Federation ofIreland believes that, given thecontinued burden of debt repayment,reduced tax take, increasing payrates, pent-up need, the growingdisability demographic and risingexpectations, Ireland is about towitness the perverse irony ofeconomic growth and fullemployment – as access to necessaryservices gets progressively worse. So,as the Government starts its finalyear, and Fine Gael and the LabourParty are holding their conferences,the question from the disabilitymovement is what will be theirdisability legacy?

HOllOw�ClAIMS

To tell us they did everything tominimise the cuts to vital servicesand to our modest incomes will ringhollow. If a week is a long time inpolitics, a year is sufficient to makesignificant changes where the willexists. Yes it will require leadershipand hard choices, but that is whatthis Government promised. Thiscountry, if it is to be successful as amodern economically sustainabledemocracy, needs a suite ofinfrastructure supports, such as

broadband, roads, public transport,education and banks that providecredit.

The State also needs to understandhealth and social servicesinfrastructure is as important aseducation or financial servicesinfrastructure if we are to maximisethe benefits from economic recovery.Several thousand will becomedisabled for the first time this year.This will have a massive impact onthe individuals and those who lovethem. It is important for all voters toreflect on how we provide for peoplewith disability. There is real concernthe recovery will not address thelong-standing exclusion of those werepresent from full participation inour society.

Our national disability strategy,which has the verbal support of allelected politicians, needs to beexperienced by those it was designedto support and not pulled out as abasis for further promises. Asdisabled people, we are resolvedthere will be no recovery without us.The 600,000 with disabilities andtheir families will not be ignored thistime out.

John�Dolan�Chief Executive of the DFI

Tribute�to�

Marie�Boland

SPRING 2015 9

In April 2014, Marie Boland, Convenor, retired as Chairperson of the LimerickSocial Support Committee. An outgoing and committed PPSG member,Marie has worked tirelessly to promote PPSG activity in her native county.

Paying tribute to Marie, Evelyn Wainwright, Cork Convenor, said, “Marie isa Trojan worker who puts her heart and soul into everything she does. Shealways had the best interests of the PPSG at heart and always will.”

Marie was also very involved in organising the 2010 AGM, when the nationalevent was brought to Limerick by the PPSG.

Evelyn Wainwright makes a presentation to Marie Boland on her retirement asChairperson of the Social Support Committee, 28th April 2014.

10 The SURVIVOR

world�polio�Day�lunch

Thanks to its success, we were able toallocate the full heating grant of€125 to those of our members whoneeded it last winter. I am sure allthose who benefitted are verygrateful for this much need support.Many of Ireland’s leading companiesand business people supported theLunch including Bord Gáis, A & LGoodbody, CRH, NTR, LaganCement and Gaelectric. Guests frombusiness sectors as diverse as media,horseracing, property, hospitality,technology and leisure attended.

For the first time, we secured anoverall sponsor. Davy Groupcontributed €10,000 towards the costof hosting the event. Thissponsorship catapulted the fundsraised to a completely new level. Weare very grateful to Davy Group forthis invaluable support.

While the lunch was a seriousfundraiser, it was also a greatafternoon’s entertainment. IrishPictorial Weekly’s Barry Murphy, inthe guise of renowned BundesbankEconomist, Dr. Günther Gruhn,hilariously took the guests to task fortheir extravagant ways. Barry wasjoined by author and comedian ColmO’Regan. Colm had his audience institches with his descriptions ofunique Irish personalities andbehaviour that we all recognised.

The Post Polio Support Group’s World Polio Day Lunch, took place onFriday, 17th October last. The event was a tremendous success.

Full heating grant of €125 allocated to those of our members who needed it last winter.

With all the monies now in, the final tally is an incredible €25,378!

Barry Murphy Colm O’Regan

SPRING 2015 11

€25,378!

An enormous amount of effort andattention to detail goes into theseevents.

Blaise O’Hara and her team ofvolunteers, Caroline Bergin, KerryO’Donnell, Teresa Crowley, DavidCrowley, Ann Marie McRedmond,Clodagh Blake, Steve O’Kelly,Davnet O’Driscoll, Jack Kinnerk andTom Skinner put in a tremendousamount of work to ensure the eventwas a complete success. Blaise andher team, Davy Group, businesseswho provided products and spotprizes, and all the guests who

attended, made an enormouscontribution to ensuring vulnerablePolio Survivors stayed warm lastwinter.

The Post Polio Support Group is verygrateful to all of them for theircommitment and support to ourmembers.

A special thank you to BrownThomas for sponsoring goodie bagsand an additional special thank youto Lisa Burns of ’Make Me Sparkle’Westport Glass for donating 210champagne flutes. A big gesture froma small Irish business.

12 The SURVIVOR

KEEp COnTROl�

CAMpAIGn�By�Brendan�Moore

On Thursday 11th December 2014, three members of the CastleblayneySocial Support Group attended the launch of the Keep Control Campaign,which encourages older people to protect themselves from financial abuseby keeping control over their money and financial affairs.

The campaign was officially launched at the Ashling Hotel, Dublin, by Ms.Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State with Responsibility for Disability, OlderPeople, Equality and Mental Health.

The campaign includes a dedicated website and the following informationresource pack: an information booklet, budget planner, window sticker, flyer,door hanger, Garda calling card, poster and a Keep Control DVD. The websiteprovides online access to all of these resources, as well as links to other sitesaimed at informing older people about how they can protect themselves fromfinancial exploitation.

The Older People’s Empowerment Network (O.P.E.N.) developed thecampaign under the leadership and guidance of Dr. Deirdre O’Donnell andcolleagues at U.C.D. It is made up of individuals from a range of olderpeople’s advocacy groups in Ireland, so it has been designed by older peoplefor older people.

The organisation supports the elderly against all forms of elder abuse,particularly financial abuse. It emphasises the strengths, resources, rights, andresponsibilities of older people, so as to empower them and safeguard theirwell-being and happiness.

• making a will• implementing enduring powers of attorney• opening joint accounts and authorising signatures• making decisions at critical life events• protecting oneself on the doorstep.

Keep Controlfocuses on fivecritical areas ofelder financial

self-protection:

For more information and a free resource pack, visit www.keepcontrol.ie or phone 01-7166467. In addition, if anyone has concerns about elder abuse,

they can contact the HSE Information Line on 1850 24 1850.

SPRING 2015

Free�wills�Service�to�Members

In association with Holohan Law, the PPSG is pleased to offer its members a

free�wills�service.

All you have to do is call Laura Duffy or Amy Shineof Holohan Law at 01 872 7120 or email [email protected].

Laura or Amy will explain everything you need to do to draft your Will

This�service�is�completely�free�and�confidential

While making your Will please consider a bequest to The Post Polio Support Group.

Alternatively you could request donations in lieu of flowers to the Group.

All bequests and donations will go towards providing servicesand supports to your fellow Polio Survivors

Thank You

13

14 The SURVIVOR

pilot�Exercise�programme�

for�polio�SurvivorsBy�Julie�Scully�Regional Development Officer PPSG

On a very cold December day in thegym of the COPE Foundation, fifteenPPSG members were gathered withCarolyn Rea, their trainer from SielBleu, to participate in an hour longsession.

The energy and enthusiasm was thefirst thing that struck me, and thiswas from a very mixed group ofparticipants, some wheelchair usersand some walking with aids. Simpleequipment was used for a variety ofexercises, including stress balls andrings, giving members a more variedroutine. I was surprised to see themajority of members were able toparticipate in a five minute standing

session, using the wall for balance.Evelyn Wainwright’s dog, Juke, alsojoined in and was great at fetchingballs!

As Carolyn led the group, I took theopportunity to talk to individualmembers about exercise and get theiropinion of the course. Of thosepresent, only one person hadparticipated in group exercise before.The majority said their experience ofexercise was with a physiotherapiston a one-to-one basis, while twomembers go to gym, again on anindividual basis. The commentsmade speak volumes about theprogramme.

Given the challenges that polio survivors meet in their daily lives, it waswith great interest that I visited the Cork group which participated in a

pilot exercise programme organised by the PPSG.

Terry Wainwright and Felicity McGinley clearly enjoying their exercises.

Gobnait Kelleher, Evelyn Wainwrights and Cathryn Duane are put thorough their paces.

SPRING 2015 15

It was clear from talking to membersthat the social element of comingtogether on a weekly basis was verymuch valued. Each session endedwith a “game”. On this day, it was aseated game of hoops, accompaniedby lots of laughter and some healthyrivalry.

While all members plan oncontinuing the exercises at home,they also acknowledge that suchplans don’t always get followedthrough. Ideally, they would like tocontinue with a weekly group

exercise class, feeling that when youattend once a week, (and somewould like it twice!), you’re morelikely to do the exercises at home.

While not all members felt theirfitness levels had improvedsignificantly over the 12 weeks, theirtrainer, Carolyn Rea, had nothing butpraise for their efforts, feeling therewas a marked improvement in theflexibility of the majority of theparticipants. She was very impressedwith the efforts people had made onthe course.

Cork Exercise Programme GroupFront row L-R: Mary Teresa Nolan & Juke (Dog), Carolyn Rea, Evelyn Wainwright and Shauna O'Leary.

Second row L-R: Gobat Kelleher, Geraldine Mooney, Jim O'Donovan, Georgina O'Donovan,Kathryn Duane, Phil O'Reilly, Sheila Healy, Anne Flannery, Felicity McGinley and Terry Wainwright.

Back row L–R: Philip Flaherty and John Dooley.

Philip Flaherty: It’s relevant and the balance is right.

It’s the best I’ve seen.

Gobnait Kelleher: It’s great and it’s nice to keep active.

16 The SURVIVOR

It is not surprising to learn that all those who took part in the programme,would definitely recommend it to other polio survivors.

Although the venue was cold on the day, there was nothing but warmthcoming from the members, who certainly earned their gift of two stress ballseach, given by the PPSG. It is not surprising to learn that all those who tookpart in the programme, would definitely recommend it to other poliosurvivors.

Geraldine Mooney, Cork PPSG Volunteer, presenting flowers to Siel Bleu Trainer, Carolyn Rea.

Cathryn Duane: What I found best was being able to do the exercises sitting down.

Ann Flannery: I looked forward to coming to it every week.

SPRING 2015 17

Chill�Out�Day�in�CorkThe 2014 Cork Chill Out Day took place on

Saturday 6th September amid the beautiful surroundings of St. Dominic’s Retreat House, Ennismore, Montenotte.

“This is as it says, a chill µt day”

As usual, it was a chance tomeet old friends and makenew ones, while enjoying the

wonderful talks on offer and relaxingin the beautiful gardens and groundsof St. Dominic’s Retreat House. AsEvelyn Wainwright, Convenor, putsit, “This is as it says, a chill out day,with no pressure to do anything onlyrelax.”

The day began with registration at10.30a.m. Members then enjoyedmorning coffee and freshly bakedscones, warm from the kitchen atEnnismore. This was followed by awonderful talk on stressmanagement, given by Ms. MaureenRyan, Facilitator and Mentor atCrystal Clear Thinking, Co. Carlow.Maureen discussed stress andanxiety, and the negative impact itcan have on our lives. She spokeabout the importance of self-responsibility and self-managementand concluded her talk by givingmembers some simple but veryeffective stress busting techniques,including deep breathing and self-empowerment choices.

Following a delicious three courselunch, served to members by the staff

at Ennismore, there was a veryinteresting and informativedemonstration on Aids andAppliances, given by Ms. LisaO’Donovan, Homecare MedicalSupplies Facilitator, Cork.

At 5.00 p.m. members had a choice ofevening Mass or a walk around thegardens with friends. This year, Masswas said by Fr. Martin Walsh, whohad recently returned to Cork fromthe missions. Fr. Walsh is the son ofCork P.P.S.G. members, Nora andDonal Walsh. The day then came to asuccessful close with an eveningmeal.

The 2014 Cork Chill Out Day wasanother great success, thanks to allconcerned, especially EvelynWainwright, Convenor, whoorganises the event with such styleevery year. Many thanks also to thestaff at Ennismore who were sowelcoming and hospitable, and toGeraldine Mooney, Cork PPSGvolunteer, who was her usualwelcoming and bubbly self.

Jerry Casey & The Most Reverend Diarmuid Martin, Archbishop of Dublin

18 The SURVIVOR

Special thanks to Cork PPSG for inviting me to give a presentation onManaging Stress & Anxiety during their Chill Out Day last September. I amhappy to give a summary of the key points to readers of Survivor magazine.

Anxiety� and� Stress are the maincause of absenteeism in theworkplace today. Anxiety can be verydebilitating, making it difficult tofunction or even perform basicstasks. It compromises our confidenceand self-esteem. Symptoms includeheadaches, racing thoughts, loss ofappetite, palpitations, tummy upset,difficulty breathing and many more.As we become less efficient andeffective, anxiety increases. Unless itis addressed, we feel we are losingcontrol and can becomeoverwhelmed by the simplest oftasks.

The big question is: Who or whatcauses my stress? Other people,situations, and events do not causeour stress - they are simply triggers.It’s not easy to acknowledge that weare totally responsible for theresponse we create towards other

people and our circumstances. This isbecause every response begins withthoughts and feelings - these are theseeds of our words and actions. Oneof the most powerful influences onour thoughts is perception.Perception is like a filter throughwhich we see and interpret the worldaround us. This filter is formed by ourbeliefs and past experiences inchildhood. The aim is to understandand challenge the beliefs andexperiences already there. If wedon’t, we will become like hamsterson a treadmill.

During my Self-Managementtraining many years ago, I was taughta very empowering tool. At first, Iresisted this part of my growthbecause victim mode thinking andblaming everyone for my thoughts,words, and actions seemed an easyway out.

Survivor�-�Health�

&�wellbeing

Here is a wonderful article on managing stress and anxietyby Ms. Maureen Ryan, Crystal Clear Thinking, Co. Carlow. The techniques are very simple and they work!

SPRING 2015 19

When teaching this tool, the normal response is “This is hard work.” Yes, itis, at first, but the benefits are huge and pretty much instant. Within minutesthere is a marked difference in the pain and anxiety. As we calm down andgain control of our emotions, energy and confidence increase. Old victimmode thinking and behaviour depletes our energy, creates pain and damagesrelationships, often resulting in substance abuse, overeating, or drinking tonumb the pain. This prompts the question:

S = Stand back from a situation physically, mentally and emotionally bytaking deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth(diaphragmatic breathing). This will calm anxious feelings and racingthoughts.

O = Observe what is causing the stress/anxiety. Ask: What am I attached to? Perhaps this situation has nothing to dowith me? I have a choice – I can react or respond. Reacting takes me back on thetreadmill of pain. Instead, I can choose to respond by:

S =Steering my thoughts in a positive direction and remaining calm.

This will change yourstate immediately.Challenge yourself to do this consciousbreathing severaltimes a day and enjoy feeling good.

• Sit or stand up straight

• Stretch your arms and body

• B-R-E-A-T-H-E – take deep breaths in through your noseand out through your mouth.

As soon as youstart to feelanxious, do thefollowingsimple but very powerfulexercise:

By the way – it’s ¨ee and rememb‹ - yµ have ch²ce! For anyone feeling it would be beneficial to follow through on this article,

Maureen may be contacted on: 086 3620576

Q.�How�do�I�change?�

A.�Simply�by�using�the�SOS system:�

Most of us are familiar with the ‘Youmake me feel mad, sad, etc’ way ofthinking and talking. This is projection.It was one of the ways I knew to easepain (not to mention comfort eating).With deeper understanding, I got it!

I was trying to control everyone andeverything around me, not realisingthat the only one I could controlwas ME! Learning how to controlmy thoughts and emotions was thegreatest gift I have ever received.

20 The SURVIVOR

21SPRING 2015

Congratulations to PPSG ClareConvenor, Edwin Bailey, whocontinues his interest in AudioVisual creation with success at theNIPA (Northern Ireland PhotographicAssociation) Audio VisualChampionships, held in February inNewtownabbey Co. Down.

Since his retirement from Aer Riantain 2007, Edwin has used some of hisspare time to make Audio Visuals,that is using still photography withmusic and voice over to create aninteresting sequence on any subjectthat takes your fancy. This time hiswinning sequence was titled WinterReflection which is a look at somebeautiful frosty landscapes and howthe robin copes in such conditions.The voice over is a poem speciallywritten by Edwin for the sequence.

Out of a total of 40 entries this year, it won 3rd place and received a bronze medal.

The Survivor would like to invite creativitycontributions from PPSG members. If you’ve won a

competition or if you are a budding writer, poet,photographer, or artist, we’d love to hear from you.

Please contact us on:[email protected].

To start off, here is a wonderful article about competition winner, Mr. Edwin Bailey, Clare Convenor.

A Hobby for Camera EnthusiastsSuccess at the NIPA (Northern Ireland Photographic Association)

Audio Visual Championships

Creative�

Corner

22 The SURVIVOR

SPRING 2015 23

This poem was written specially for the voice over on the sequence of the same title.

WINTER REFLECTION - EDWIN BAILEY

Winter days are with usAnd frost has bitten through,

Trees that sway in gusting windsNow robed in silver hue.

Standing bold in silhouetteAgainst the azure sky,

Branches bowed and curved with frostLike frozen cobwebs, high.

Through the branches sunlight filtersReflecting in the lake,

Where bush and reed in still respite Are sheltering duck and drake.

On the lonely hidden ways The ice rimmed water crushed,

Where wild fowl feed amidst the marshWhen all is still and hushed.

And what about the robinWhistling in the wind,

With plumed out feathers brown and redScratching icy ground.

When blustering night winds howlAnd tremble round the gate,

Where can poor robin shelterBut underneath the slate.

For him the garden follySilent as the dawn,

Bestowing calm from winters harm'Till chilly night has gone.

And in the cold of morningHe flits above the hedge,Seeking out a hip or hawOr crumbs upon a ledge.

If winter skies are thick with starsand frost is in the air,

Then scatter on your window sillSome tasty robin fare.

24 The SURVIVOR

The sequence was highly commended at the NIPA championships.

It won gold in the advanced section and the audience vote at the IPF (Irish Photographic Federation)

Audio Visual Championships in Dublin last October.

In the spring and autumn, Edwin runs Audio Visual Workshops in associationwith Shannon Camera Club in the Oakwood Arms Hotel, Shannon. He is alsothe western representative for the National Audio Visual Committee whichruns the annual AV championships on behalf of the Irish PhotographicFederation.

Edwin also entered a sequence titled Stained Images,telling the story of Ireland’s famous stained glass

artist, Harry Clarke. Harry Clarke

SPRING 2015 25

26 The SURVIVOR

My name is Jackie Minnock (Turvey before I married). I have been a member of PPSG for a good few years now.

RISInG ABOVEBy�Jackie�Minnock

The organisation has been a great

support to me. I am not sure how my life

would be had I not made the initial

contact. Getting involved with my

regional support group has been a good

experience. At the meetings we learn

different ways of coping with our

disability through information and

sharing with each other. Through it I got

to be a convenor, in the early days, for a

period of time which I enjoyed.

Whenever I go to the support group

meetings there is always a warm

welcome.

I contracted Polio when I was 13 months

old. My story of hospitalisation,

recuperation, and eventual return home

is similar to that of many other Polio

survivors. I spent time in Cherry Orchard

and Clontarf Hospitals, coming home

when I was 3 years of age.

My sisters wheeled me to school in a go-

car, the old fashioned type, until I was

about 7 years old and strong enough to

walk the distance myself. I swam with the

Polio Fellowship Swimming Club, later

known as Dublin City Polio Swimming

Club, in Bride Street Baths for a number

of years and greatly enjoyed it. I

eventually managed to master the art of

swimming – it took a while! To this day I

love to swim and the freedom it affords

me is wonderful. I have fond memories of

Mr. Hogarty, Mr. Kelly and Mr. Lawlor

and of going to Belfast and Derry for

swimming galas. When the club finished,

I lost touch with the people who swam

every Saturday in Bride Street. It could

be said that I lost touch with people with

disabilities at that time and for many

years to come.

I finished school but had difficulty with

Spelling and Maths due to my long

absences when younger. I discovered

that I was good at typing and found work

as a Clerical Worker in Our Lady’s

Hospital, Crumlin, and from there I

worked for one of the Surgeons in his

private clinic in Donnybrook. As this was

a good distance from Inchicore and bus

journeys were difficult in winter, I

decided to learn to drive. This was

another brilliant experience for me. I

eventually passed my test and bought a

car. The open road just kept calling to me

and still does today. I drove everywhere

and nowhere was off limits.

SPRING 2015 27

I later married and had a family of my

own. When my children were in

secondary school, I decided to return to

education. In the year 2000, I enrolled

with The Priory Institute in Tallaght for a

distance learning Degree Programme in

Theology. The course was part online and

part attendance for study and tutorial

days. When I graduated in 2010, I

thought I had finished my studies, but it

didn’t take long for me to get the bug

again. In 2011, I enrolled at Trinity

College Dublin for a Masters in

Ecumenics. This took two years to

complete as a part-time student.

In 2013, I took a break from study but

have since found an online website that

offers a variety of courses free of charge.

I think this is a great idea. The website is

www.futurelearn.com. It is a wonderful

resource and is free, what more could

you ask for?

Throughout my life, I have done many

things that put paid to the lie that

disability limits your life. I am sure this is

a similar story for many people in the

PPSG. Of course the foolishness of youth

had a lot to do with it too, for as many will

know, disability in later life is a different

ball game. As I got older, I slowed down

physically and had increased limitations

due to my disability. This really annoyed

me but it need not confine us either. In

our youth we ran and raced with the best

of them – perhaps at a slower pace, but

we were there in the thick of it.

There are elements of our health outside

of Polio that can lay claim to us as we age.

In my own case, I was ill in 2013 and it

had nothing to do with Polio but I had to

take it into consideration while getting

better. Polio is always going to be with us,

that’s a fact of our lives and living and at

times disability can curtail your life. But

while we cannot control our aches, pains

and physical limitations, we can control

how we approach those limitations.

Perhaps as we get older, we can look at

other activities which engage with our

natural talents and skills, such as being

good communicators, writers or artists.

We need to call on the abilities that need

less physical strength and more mental

willpower. Everyone has a talent, I

believe, and there is always an outlet for

self-expression. Perhaps we need to think

more outside the box as to how and when

we can use our talents, in the same way

we have learned to rise above the

limitations that Polio could put on us.

www.futurelearn.com

Jackie Minnock

28 The SURVIVOR

FUNDRAISING NEWSFROM AROUND THE COUNTRY

2014 Christmas Fundraising

It wouldn’t be Christmas without some charitable giving and onceagain the Post Polio Support Group was fortunate to have thesupport of members and friends for our Christmas Draw. Thewinning tickets were drawn on the 19th December 2014.

With 6 fantastic prizes, the draw was well supported, raising almost€5,000 for PPSG. All monies raised go directly to support servicesand the allocation of aids and appliances to help Polio Survivors andthose living with Post Polio.

We hope to continue this tradition of giving and supporting theGroup with more exciting fundraising ventures throughout 2015.

Contact [email protected] if you wish to get involved or if you knowsomeone who would like to help us out.

Christmas Draw Prize Winners

1st Prize - Case of 12 bottles of wine:Paul McEvoy of Rathangan, Co. Kildare

2nd Prize - Hamper of Lir Chocolates: Colm Minnock of Knockbridge, Co. Louth

3rd Prize - Christmas Hamper: Stephen Wainwright, Youghal, Co. Cork

4th Prize - Voucher for Fitzgerald’s Woodlands Hotel, Adare: Povl Thim, Gorey, Co. Wexford

5th Prize - Voucher for Strand Hotel, Limerick: Anne Molloy, Gorey, Co. Wexford

6th Prize - Voucher for Glenview Hotel, Co. Wicklow: Danny McMahon, Buttevant, Co. Cork

The Post Polio Support Group would like to congratulate the winners and thank everyone who supported this draw.

SPRING 2015 29


Fundraising in Castleblaney

Castleblaney Social Support Group has been involved in a number offundraising activities in the lead up to Easter.

1. Tesco Blue Token Scheme: This was in co-operation with new Tesco Extra store in Dundalk.

It ran up to Easter Sunday, 5th April.

2. An Easter Raffle was held at Grace’s Place, Duleek, Co. Meath on Holy Thursday 2nd April 2015, raising €240 for the PPSG.

The winner was Jake Murphy, pictured with his hamper. The winning ticket was drawn by Marian Sommerville (pictured).

The event was kindly sponsored by T.L.T. Theatre and Grace’s Place, Duleek, Co. Meath. Thanks to all involved.

3. Church Gate Collection in Aid of PPSG: This will take place outside churches in the mid-Louth area

over Sat/Sun, 30th to 31st May 2015.

30 The SURVIVOR


Ho Ho Santa Runs for the PPSG by Brendan Moore

In 2013, I was nicknamed Santa’s brother, but on 5th December2014, I did one better, doing a Stars in Their Eyes special - for one dayonly, I became the most famous man in the world, Santa Claus!

In October 2014, I decided to participate in the Dundalk CharitySanta Run - 1.5K around the town, with sponsorship cards organisedby the Dundalk Chamber of Commerce. Fundraising got off to a greatstart the night Dundalk won the Air City Championship Trophy, whena lovely supporter give me €20 sponsorship. That was it, we were off,and running around Louth and parts of Monaghan, contacting variousradio stations and local press about the charity run.

As the sole representative for the PPSG in the event, I put a big effortinto seeking sponsorship. I left no stone unturned, as an event likethis, especially at Christmas time, doesn't come looking for you.

There was a funny moment a week before the run. Our CEO, FranBrennan and I had our photo taken together and Fran nicknamed itThe Baldy Brother's Photo! A few days later, a friend of mine askedme to call into their hairdressers in Dundalk.When I walked in, the ladies there thoughtthat one of the baldy brothers was gettingtheir hair done! We had a good laugh over it.The proprietor then handed me a cheque for€50 sponsorship.

Finally, after all the fundraising, I took part inthe Dundalk Charity Santa Run on Friday5th December 2014. I was one of 4,000people dressed up as Santa, and in theprocess, I raised a total of €575 for the PPSG.

SPRING 2015 31


Fundraising - West County Table Quiz by Anne Marie McEvoy

On Tuesday 27th January 2014, a Table Quiz in aid of the PPSG tookplace in the West County Hotel, Chapelizod, Dublin 20. It was wellsupported by PPSG members, friends and family, with over 50 peopleparticipating in the fun event. The quiz master, Mr. Paul Kennedy,helped with scoring by his wife, Mary, stumped the participants withhis range of questions. At the end of the night the winning team wasdelighted to take home a bottle of wine and five euros each.

Of course, the real winner was the PPSG, with €1,060 raised for theorganisation. There were many beautiful prizes, kindly donated bypeople far and wide. Thanks to all those who helped, includingMargaret and Tony O’Neill, and Marie Weafer. Thanks also to TomCullen and to N. Conlan for his donation.

Fundraising - Tool KitFundraising events such as table quizzes are easy to organise, fun totake part in, and are a simple way to raise money for a good cause.Perhaps you have friends and family who might hold an event forPPSG? If so, they can contact the PPSG at [email protected] for aFundraising Tool Kit or for more information about holding charityevents


32 The SURVIVOR

VHI Mini Marathon 2015 Bank Holiday Monday, 1st June at 2pm

Taking part in the 2015 VHI Women’s Mini Marathon?

Raise valuable funds for the Post Polio Support Group by

completing this 10K course around the streets of Dublin, along

with 40,000 women.

Get friends and family, or work colleagues involved by taking part

on behalf of Post Polio Support Group, or just sponsoring your own

efforts.

Marathon participation around the country has been one of the

main fundraising avenues for the Post Polio Support Group in

recent years.

Thank you to everyone who has taken part, or sponsored someone

for past-marathons. You can create your own fundraising page on

www.idonate.ie and encourage your sponsors to make donations

online. This saves you collecting cash, although of course we also

send out sponsorship cards to individuals plus t-shirts! Contact

Anne Burns at 01 4534150 or [email protected].

To join up with other PPSG runners/joggers/walkers on the daycontact [email protected]!

SPRING 2015 33

Age Action Ireland

Care & Repair Service

In last issue’s Noticeboard, we advised PPSG members of Age

Action’s Care and Repair service for older people who may need

small jobs and repairs done around the home.

Age Action also holds a register of vetted tradespeople for larger

more involved repairs. Details are available through two services,

The Trades Referral Service, a register of reliable and honest

tradespeople, and The Quote Check Service, where an experienced

volunteer can give a second opinion on quotes received.

For more information, ring: LO-CALL: 1890 369 369.

Information Request - Access in Rome

Have you been to Rome recently? If so, how did you find it for accessibility?

PPSG member Jackie Minnock* is hoping to travel there in October and is researching getting around the city. If you have any direct experience of getting around Rome andits environs, Jackie would love to hear from you. She can becontacted on: [email protected]

*See Jackie’s article, Rising Above, in this edition of Survivor.

NOTICE BOARDSPRING 2015

The SURVIVOR

National Bowel Screening Programme

The National Bowel Screening Programme is a government fundedservice offering free bowel screening to men and women, aged 60to 69 years. As this is the first phase of the programme, it will takeup to three years for all eligible people to receive a letter invitingthem to take part. In time, the service will be introduced to menand women, aged 55 to 74.

The aim of bowel screening is to detect bowel cancer at an earlystage in people who have no symptoms. It involves a simple hometest (called a FIT - Faecal Immunochemical Test), that looks for tinyamounts of blood, not visible to the eye, in the bowel motion (alsoknown as a stool). Blood in the stool can be due to a number ofcauses or minor conditions, but it can also be an early warning signthat something might be wrong. The test does not tell you if youhave bowel cancer, but it might tell you that further tests may beneeded.

As the risk of bowel cancer increases with age, by taking part inthe programme every two years, it is more likely that if bowelcancer occurs, it will be found at an early stage, when there is amuch better chance of treating it successfully. If you have anyconcerns about your bowel health or symptoms, you shouldcontact your GP (family doctor) immediately.

An access officer is available to act as a point of contact for peoplewith disabilities wishing to take part in the programme.

For more information, contact [email protected] ring Freephone 1800 45 45 55 with details and the access

officer will return the call.


34

SPRING 2015

Dublin South West Group From Jimmy Andrews, Dublin South West Convenor

WANTED We want your articles!

In December 2014, we had a great Christmas lunch in Bray. It was our second year there and twenty people came along.

Events for the remainder of the year include:

• 8th June: Summer Outing

• 21st September: Evening Meeting, 7:30pm

• 16th November: Afternoon Meeting, 2.30pm

• 7th December: Christmas Lunch

Usual meetings take place in the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght.

The editorial team relies on you, the members, to help produce Survivor.

•We are very grateful for all submissions and

do our best to feature as many as we can. •

Keep sending your articles to: [email protected]. •

Please ensure the full names of those in the photo are also submitted

•Photos should be digital, high resolution.

Hard copies can be used but we may not be able to return them.


35

36 The SURVIVOR

SPRING 2015 37

Students from the PresentationSecondary School Wexford, decidedto carry out a project on Polio as partof their Transition Year studies.

The students’ teacher, Ms. MaryDooley, contacted the PPSGrequesting information andassistance. The PPSG was only toopleased to get involved.

Mr. Jim Barrett, during a visit to theschool, outlined the role and servicesprovided by the PPSG. He also spokeabout his life experience of livingwith the effects of Polio.

The Transition Year class is alsoinvolved in fundraising ventures, theproceeds of which will go towards

the Global Polio EradicationInitiative, for the provision andsupply of vaccines.

The PPSG is very heartened thatyoung people in particular areshowing an interest in Polio and thecruel effects it can have on people’slives; that these young students areprepared to do something concreteto help prevent the spread of thisdisease, is very inspiring.

Well done to all concerned atPresentation School Wexford.

For more information about GlobalPolio Eradication Initiative, go to:www.polioeradication.org.

Transition Year Committee, from left to right: Jenna Kearney, Bridin Reville, Sandra Bryla, Laura Gallagher O'Toole, Mr. Jim Barrett, Julianna Goggins, Jessica Goggins, Shannon Lynch,

Anna Bell and Rebecca Ennis. Missing from the photo is Kayleigh O' Boyle.

polio�project�

presentation�School�wexfordBy�Jim�Barrett�

38 The SURVIVOR

Board Members

Susan Dowling (Chair)

Tel: 059 972 6998

Email: [email protected]

Jim Barrett (Deputy Chair)

Tel: 087 231 1335


Jim Costello (Co. Secretary)

Tel: 01 620 6154


Pat McGillion (Treasurer)

Tel: 087 237 07208


Patrick Guy

Tel: 087 641 6472


Joan Bradley

Tel: 086 364 0170


Evelyn Wainwright

Tel: 086 882 9267


Roisin Nolan

Tel: 086 810 3558


Joyce Henderson

Tel: 085 738 0250


Office Staff

Head OfficeAddress: Unit 319, Capel Building, Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7Tel: 01 889 8920 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ppsg.ie

CEOFran Brennan, Email: [email protected]

Services to Polio SurvivorsLillian McElvaney, Email: [email protected]

Kerrie Donegan, Email: [email protected]

AccountsUrsula Treacy, Email: [email protected]

Regional Development OfficerJulie Scully - on long-term leave – please contact Head Office

Development OfficerEmma Clarke Conway. Tel: 01 889 8920. Email: [email protected]

PPSG Committees

Quality Compliance & Governance CommitteeJim Costello (Chair)

Members: Pat McGillion, Joyce Henderson, Ciaran Nicholson

Ethics & Benefits CommitteeRoisin Nolan (Chair)

Members: Joan Bradley, Mary Byrne, Pat Daly, Michael Keegan

Fundraising CommitteeAnne Burns (Chair)

Members: Susan Dowling, Evelyn Wainwright, Marie Boland,Brendan Moore, Tom Carberry

Social Support CommitteeJim Barrett (Chair)

Members: Pat Guy, Joan-Anne Walsh, Nuala Buckley, Jimmy Andrews, PeterBarron, Paul Sinclair

Survivor Editorial CommitteeMembers: Una Lyons, Paul McKee. Email: [email protected]

SPRING 2015 39

Bray Group Location: Glenview Hotel, Delgany Area: South East Dublin, NorthWicklow Contact: Marie McGuirk Tel: 085 1603962 E-mail: [email protected]: Meets at 8pm on the firstTuesday of most months from Marchthrough to October. If you live in this area and would like toattend these social meetings, pleasegive Marie call.

Carlow Group Location: Dolmen Hotel, Carlow Area: Carlow Contact: Betty O Regan Tel: 086 081 6816 E-mail: [email protected]: Monday or Tuesday three orfour times per year If you live in this area and would like toattend these social meetings, pleasegive Betty a call.

Carrick-on-Shannon Group Location: Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon Area: Leitrim, Roscommon, West Cavan Contact: Patrick McNamara Tel: 071 966 8308 E-mail: Meetings: By arrangement. Two orthree times a year If you live in this area and would like toattend these social meetings, pleasegive Patrick a call.

Castleblayney Group Location: meetings rotate betweenMonaghan & Dundalk Area: Cavan; Monaghan; North LouthContact: Convenor vacancy please call

PPSG Head Office

Tel: 01 8898920

E-mail: [email protected]

Meetings: Meets four to five times

yearly on Mondays at 2pm

If you live in this area and would like to

attend these meetings, please ring the

PPSG Head Office.

Clare Group Location: The Templegate Hotel, Ennis

Area: Clare

Convenor: Edwin Bailey

Tel: 061 368 373



yearly on Wednesdays at 8 pm


attend these social meetings, please

give Edwin a call.

Cork Group Location: Vienna Woods Hotel, Cork.

Area: Cork

Convenor: Evelyn Wainwright

Tel: 021 484 7313 or 086 882 9267


Meetings: Meets six times yearly



give Evelyn a call.

Donegal GroupLocation: Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny or

The Villa Rose Hotel Ballybofey

Area: Donegal; Derry

Contact: Donal O’Boyle

Tel: 087 6172112


Meetings: 2-3 times a year at 8pm



give Donal a call.

CONTACT DETAILS FOR THE SOCIAL SUPPORT GROUP IN YOUR AREA

40 The SURVIVOR

Dublin Croke Park GroupLocation: Croke Park Hotel

Area: North East Dublin

Convenor: Frank Keenan

Tel: 086 0360117


Meetings: Six times per year and if you

live in this area and would like to attend

these social meetings give Frank a call.

Dublin Finglas Group Location: Currently Parnell GAA Club,

Coolock

Area: North West Dublin

Contact: Paul Sinclair

Tel: 087 6821017


Meetings: Last Wednesday of the

month at 11:30am

(except July, August & December)


attend these meetings, please give Paul

a call.

Dublin South West Group Location: Maldron Hotel, Tallaght

Area: South West Dublin

Convenor: Jimmy Andrews

Tel: 085 7530421



yearly on Mondays or Tuesdays



give Jimmy a call.

Dublin Swords Group Location: Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords

Area: North County Dublin

Convenor: Máire Farrell

Tel: 087 628 3340


Meetings: First Tuesday of every month

(except July & August) at 11am


attend these meetings, please give

Máire a call.

Enniscorthy GroupLocation: Riverside Hotel, Enniscorthy

Area: South Wicklow; Wexford;

Waterford

Convenor: Povl Thim

Tel: 053 942 1857 or 086 810 7598


Meetings: Meets on the 1st Tuesday of

most months in the lounge at 8pm.



give Povl a call.

Galway GroupLocation: Menlo Park Hotel, Galway

Area: Galway; South Mayo.

Convenor: Rao Rapolu

Tel: 087 6870024



yearly on Wednesdays at 8 pm



give Rao a call.

Kerry GroupLocation: Manor West Hotel, Tralee

Area: Kerry, West Limerick

Convenor: Dolly Lawlor

Tel: 066 718 5475 or 087 204 3795

E-mail:

Meetings: Meets twice yearly



give Dolly a call.


SPRING 2015 41

Kildare Group Location: Monaghan’s Harbour Hotel,Naas Area: Kildare Convenor: Peter BarronTel: 086 854 6948E-mail: [email protected]: Six times a year If you live in this area and would like toattend these meetings, please givePeter a call.

Kilkenny Group Location: Aspect Hotel, Kilkenny Area: Kilkenny, Waterford, SouthTipperary Convenor: Pat SkehanTel: 085 2443588E-mail: [email protected]: 4-5 times a year on Mondaysor Tuesdays at 7.30 p.m. If you live in this area and would like toattend these social meetings, pleasegive Pat a call.

Limerick Group Location: Strand Hotel, Limerick Area: Limerick; East Clare; North.Tipperary. Convenor: Helen JordanTel: 061 321791Email: [email protected]: Meet 1st Monday of themonth Feb to June & Sept to Nov at8pm. On Bank Holiday weekends- the2nd MondayIf you live in this area and would like toattend these meetings, please giveHelen a call.

Mayo GroupLocation: McWilliam Park Hotel,Claremorris Area: Mayo. Convenor: Mary Ryan Tel: 086 8546948E-mail: [email protected]: Meets twice yearly onWednesdays at 8pm If you live in this area and would like toattend these social meetings, pleasegive Mary a call.

Midland Group Location: Cregan Court Hotel, Athlone Area: Westmeath; Roscommon; East Galway Convenor: James Kinahan Tel: 0906 481 372 or 087 676 8076 E-mail: [email protected]: Meets twice yearly at 8pm If you live in this area and would like toattend these social meetings, pleasegive Jimmy a call.

Navan Group Location: Ardboyne Hotel, Navan, Co Meath Area: Meath, Westmeath and South Louth Convenor: Patrick NolanTel: 086 3138809 E-mail: [email protected]: If you live in this area andwould like to attend social meetings,please give Patrick a call.

42 The SURVIVOR


Laois-Offaly Group Location: Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise. Area: Offaly; Laois Contact: Bernie O’Sullivan Tel: 057 934 3760 or 086 064 7227 E-mail: [email protected]: Contact Bernie If you live in this area and would liketo attend these social meetings,please give Bernie a call.

Sligo Group Location: City Hotel, Sligo Area: Sligo; South Donegal; North Leitrim Convenor: Monica McGowanTel: 087 242 0700 E-mail: [email protected]: Twice YearlyIf you live in this area and would like toattend these meetings, please give Monicaa call.

SPRING 2015 43


A delightful selection of floral photos taken by member; Edwin Bailey

WILLSPlease remember the Post Polio Support Group in your Will, or request

donations to Post Polio Support Group in lieu of flowers.Be assured all bequests and donations will be put to good use.

Thank Yµ

MISSION STATEMENTTo create awareness and to provide information regarding the late effects of

polio among Polio Survivors, statutory agencies and the wider medicalprofession, and to ensure that the needs of Polio Survivors relating to their

condition are met to enable them to live with dignity.

DISCLAIMER: While every care is taken to ensure accuracy, neither the Editor nor the Board can acceptliability. The views expressed in this magazine are not neccessarily their views or the views of the Group.

Neither the Group, nor the Editor, endorses any product or service mentioned in ‘THE SURVIVOR’.

Published April 2015 by Post Polio Support Group, Unit 319, Capel Buildings, Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7.

Tel: 01 889 8920 Fax: 01 889 8924 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ppsg.ieRegistered Charity No. CHY 11356

Company limited by guarantee and not having share captal. Registered in Ireland No: 354283

SUPPORT‘THE SURVIVOR’ is supported by:

Donal Murtagh Car Sales T/A WHEELCHAIR CARS IRELAND

Ireland’s Leading Suppliers of New & Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Glasson, Athlone, Co. WestmeathMobile: +353 (0) 87 4662895 | Phone: +353 (0)90 64 39438 | Email: [email protected]

Documents

SURVIVOR - polio.ie · 4 The SURVIVOR Throughout the latter part of 2014, we held four regional meetings to engage with members on the topic of “How to create a more engaged, active