News 2008
Progression Centre
Unfortunately the meetings run at the centre to promote the branch were poorly attended. We are trying to get some activity in this area of the branch so that members do not have to travel too far. It is hoped to try again later in the year, in case the weather and the dark evenings were the reason for not attending.
Kinesis
Several members showed interest in this new activity, but only a few have regularly attended. Those who have made the effort have all said they have received benefit from these exercises. Aches and pains have been eased, just from gentle exercise. Most, if not all levels of fitness can be covered, and you can stop if you feel it is too strenuous for you. The instructor can adapt and advise if you find certain routines are too taxing. Many feel they are not able, or that it would not help them, but a lot of people, including the health professionals feel
'Use it or lose it'
Donation
I was recently a guest at a presentation ceremony for winners of competitions of Drums Bowls Club competitions. They presented me with a laptop computer, primarily for use at the Day Centre. We are currently arranging use of the Internet network at the Beehive, so that those at the day centre without a computer can keep up to date with events from MS and other websites.
Also Joyce has DVD's of crafts which may be used at the centre to show others what crafts can be carried out by the members. Another use being considered are DVD's of popular films which can be watched. Rob
Harlow Dogs
Yet another of our great nights out at the dogs. From comments it would appear it was a lucky evening for most with several reported gains. A full minibus with Jimmy driving had an eventful journey, inasmuch that we were looking for a wheelchair cushion on seats, on the floor, in the storage racks, everywhere that is but behind someone's back! We couldn't have an evening out without some sort of hilarious incident.
The night's humour, not deliberately, was provided by a female member of the group, who was finally located in the 'Ladies' calling out 'Somebody help me. I'm locked in'. On her release there was great relief, and laughter.
AGM
A good turn out with there being almost 30 members plus a couple of children. Paul Weaver, the Regional Chair was there at Rob's request as it was felt he may be able to answer question regarding the shortage of Officers. The meeting started at 7:10pm and progressed swiftly through the minutes of last years AGM, and there were no matters arising.
Rob read through a prepared Annual Report. The report was a digest of the things the branch had been involved with throughout the year, a copy of which can be obtained by emailing your request to support@rlaing.freeserve.co.uk .
The elections then followed. There were no candidates for Chair or Secretary. Lynette was elected unanimously as Treasurer, and Darren as MS Support Officer. Nobody was elected as Voting Delegate as there was no Chair elected. Joyce and Rob were elected as ordinary committee members.
Hunt Smee & Co. were re-elected as Branch Auditors.
At the 'Any Questions' item, the lack of Chair and Secretary nominations were discussed. Margaret had been with the branch 10 years and had always been on the committee, Rob had been Chair for the last four years and felt someone fresh should take on the lead. Paul Weaver told us that there were actually branches in more difficulties than us. Unfortunately the shrinking of committee's was a widespread situation, and ways to encourage new people to join in and help were needed. He said the region was there to provide back-up to branches and that there were new positions being made for this actual task.
A Vote of Thanks was raised by Joyce.
Frank, Jimmy and Terry then went to the local 'chippie' for our suppers.
Following the AGM meeting there were several discussions about the future of the branch, but nobody wanted to apply for a position. Comments were made that help given would be appreciated, without the helper having to join the committee.