You are here: Home > Publications > The Survivor Newsletter > Winter 2007

The Survivor Newsletter: Autumn 2007

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

And much more...

HEAD OFFICE STAFF:

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:
Eamonn Farrell,
Tel: 01 889 8920
Email: ceo@ppsg.ie

SERVS/INFO CO-ORDINATORS:
Carol Robinson, Anne Doohan.
Tel: 01 889 8920
Email: admin@ppsg.ie

BOOKKEEPER/ADMIN ASSISTANT:
Ursula Treacy,
Tel: 01 889 8920
Fax: 01 889 8920
E-mail: info@ppsg.ie
Website: http://www.ppsg.ie

BOARD MEMBERS


Hugh Hamilton: (Chairman)
Tel/Fax: 01 289 4800
Mobile: 087 255 3012
Email: hamsalem@eircom.net

Joan Bradley: (Deputy Chairperson)
Tel/Fax: 01 454 9237
Email: secretary@ppsg.ie

Paula Lahiff: (Secretary & Newsletter Editor)
Tel/Fax: 071 9164791, Mobile: 086 322 4402
Email: newsletter@ppsg.ie

John McFarlane (Treasurer)
Tel: 057-9353552 Fax: 057-9353558
Email: jmcfarlane1@iolfree.ie

Anne Burns (Board Member)
Tel: 01 453 4150
Email: boyneabu@eircom.net

Hugh Conlon: (Board Member)
Tel: 091 751 750 (H) Mobile: 086 803 6145
Email: hcon@eircom.net

Jim Costello: (Board Member)
Tel/Fax: 01 260 0099 (H) Hos: 01 620 6154
Email: jjcos@indigo.ie

Séamus Ó Cinnéide: (Board Member)
Tel: 01 496 1133 (H)
Email: seamus.ocinneide@nuim.ie

Evelyn Wainwright (Board Member)
Tel/Fax: 021 4847313,
Mobile: 086 8829267
Email@ evelyn99911@hotmail.com

Hugh Weir: (Board Member)
Tel: 061 927 030
Fax: 061 927 418
Email: hughweir@ballinakella.com

COMMITTEES

Fund Allocation Committee
Joan Bradley (Chair)
Hugh Conlon
Séamus O Cinnéide
Róisín Nolan

Fundraising
Anne Burns (Chair)
Evelyn Wainwright
Bridie Mc Mahon
James Kinahan

Governance  and Nominations
Hugh Conlon (Chair)
Jim Costello
J Mc Farlane
Séamus Ó Cinnéide
Hugh Weir

Social Support
Anne Burns (Chair)
Paula Lahiff
Evelyn Wainwright
Hugh Weir
Barbara Mc Donagh
Tom Gallery

Regional Reps
Paddy Fitzpatrick (HSE Midlands)
Tom Clifford (HSE Mid West)
Evelyn Wainwright (HSE South)
Ann O’Kelly Guerin (HSE South East)
Barbara McDonagh (HSE West)
Paula Lahiff (HSE North West)
Jackie Minnock (HSE North East)

Social Support Convenors
Macrina Clancy, Ann O’Kelly Guerin
Evelyn Wainwright, Paddy Moyles
John Mangan, Sean Mulligan
Tom Clifford, Bridie MMahon
Paddy Fitzpatrick

Ring Ring Phone Project Leaders
Peggy Brennan, Joan Bradley
Leo Dempsey, Muiris O Chriostóir
Anne Shanahan, Sheila O’Sullivan
Tom Gallery, Christina O’Connor

POST POLIO SUPPORT GROUP (Ireland) Unit 319, Capel Building, Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7. Tel: 01-8898920 Fax: 01-8898924 email: info@ppsg.ie or visit our website: www.ppsg.ie

CHAIRMAN’S UPDATE

Photo of Hugh HamiltonDEAR MEMBERS,

Plan Twenty Ten is a very important development for the Post Polio Support Group. We are in the process of sending out 2008 diaries to all our members, which incorporates the Plan, and if you have already seen it, I know that you will have been impressed.
The Post Polio Support Group always strives to improve matters for Polio Survivors. While, at present, all the members of the Board are Polio Survivors and in tune with the needs of those with Post Polio Syndrome this did not stop us having extensive consultation with you, the Group members, to gather your thoughts and views on how we can provide better, more targeted services to help and support you. Thank you all so much for the work you put into the process and I hope you will feel that the Plan is worthwhile and that it has reflected your input.
One of the themes coming through all the consultations was that members felt that there was not enough communication throughout the organisation and you can be assured we are determined to communicate with you all in a more complete way throughout the course of Plan Twenty Ten. However, communication is a two way thing and I hope you will also keep up the flow of views to us. I know that the support requirements for every Polio Survivor are different and we cannot always respond immediately in the way someone may like. This however does not mean that we as a Group cannot build up over time to provide the right solution for you.
I feel that with a strategy like Plan Twenty Ten we are much better placed to improve supports to Polio Survivors and I hope that in Autumn 2010 we can look back and say that it has been a good and fruitful three years, and we have met most of our targets. We are certainly putting pressure on ourselves as we know it will stretch the whole organisation to deliver what we have outlined. However we can only try to do our best.
For one reason or another you may think you have little capacity to help the Group. This is not so. If everyone contacted just one Polio Survivor whom they knew and put them in touch with the Group that would be the start of lifelong support for that person and we would double the size of the Group in that one stroke! To assist you to do this we have enclosed with the 2008 diaries, some diary cards which give the contact details of the PPSG for you to give out. I hope that I and the rest of the Board can count on your support to take this ambitious undertaking forward.

Hugh Hamilton

POST POLIO SUPPORT GROUP

2008 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Date: 19th April 2008
Venue: Radisson SAS Hotel, Ballincar Road, Rosses Point, Sligo

A very special week-end rate has been negotiated with the hotel and we hope that you will all come to Sligo for an interesting and informative week-end and experience the hospitality of the Yeats County! We want to welcome our members from every county in Ireland, as well as our friends in Northern Ireland, so put this date in your diary and watch this space for further news. We aim to hold a CELEBRATION OF THE CREATIVITY OF OUR MEMBERS entitled ‘Creativity and Us’ in conjunction with the AGM, so please see the letter asking for an expression of interest which is included with this newsletter, and send it back to the office, so that we can gauge how many members will take part. We know that there are many artists, craft-workers, poets and story-tellers among our members, so this is your chance to exhibit your work – be it something you have made in the past, or something that you wish to create especially for this event. If you have any queries about this event, please contact the office.

From the Editor

Photo Of Paula Lahiff Following on your suggestions and requests for more communication from us, this is a bumper issue of THE SURVIVOR with more pages than usual. I hope you will find it interesting and informative. We have included an insert on Pacing and Exercise gives very sound advice on how to look after ourselves – I suggest that you read it at least twice as it really does hit the spot on how to conserve to preserve our muscles. John McFarlane has put together an interesting piece on our entitlements when we reach 65 – and Sean Mulligan has given us a lovely article in memory of one of our members, Ethna O’Dowd, for our Polio Stories series. I have included a piece about your entitlements re Transport – and over the next few issues we will a run a series on different methods of transport in Ireland and how disability-friendly they are. The great news is that next year’s AGM and Conference is to be held in Sligo on 19th April 2008. We have negotiated a very special week-end rate with the Radisson SAS Hotel, and we hope that we will have a great turn-out from all over Ireland. We aim to hold a celebration of the creativity of our members entitled ‘Creativity and Us’ in conjunction with the AGM, so please see the letter asking for an expression of interest which is included with this newsletter, and send it back to the office, so that we can gauge how many members will take part. Thank you for all your kind comments and suggestions – they are much appreciated. Hope you enjoy this issue of THE SURVIVOR.
Paula Lahiff
Editor

When I’m 65 – What Next?

By John McFarlane PhD, FWCIT, FIMS, MBIM

Pensions, Benefits & Allowances – My Entitlements


The State pension, benefits and allowances systems in Ireland are confusing and a minefield, even to those who work in the field, as rules change from as young as 55. It is not possible for us to cover everything in the space available so this is the first part of an ongoing guide, published from time to time, dealing with the most common areas. In May 2004 it became necessary to satisfy a condition known as Habitual Residence. This means you have to prove a close link to Ireland or other parts of the Common Travel Area. (The Common Travel Area is Ireland, Great Britain, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.)
For example, if you have lived in Ireland or other parts of the Common Travel Area all of your life, you will probably satisfy the Habitual Residence Condition. The most important factors for proving this are: length of time you have spent in the Common Travel Area, continuity of your residence general nature of your residence here, i.e. do you have a home here.

You must satisfy the Habitual Residence Condition to be able to claim for the following:

STATE PENSION (NON-CONTRIBUTORY)

The State Pension (Non-Contributory) is means-tested payment for those of 66 or more, who have been unable to build up enough social insurance contributions (PRSI) to qualify for State Pension (Transition) or State Pension (Contributory). It is essential that you apply for this pension 3 months before you reach age 66. State Pension (Non-Contributory) introduced at the end of September 2006 replaced nearly all of the means-tested payments for people aged 66 and over, i.e. Old Age (Non-Contributory) Pension.

To qualify for State Pension (Non-Contributory) you must:

STATE PENSION (TRANSITION) AND STATE PENSION (CONTRIBUTORY)

These social insurance payments are made when you reach age 65 (for State Pension (Transition)) and 66 (for State Pension (Contributory)) – both are dependent on your social insurance (PRSI) record. They are NOT means-tested, so your personal rate will not be affected by any other income you may have, such as an occupational pension. However, any increase for a Qualified Adult is means tested.
State Pension (Transition) is payable for one year from age 65. You must be retired from insurable employment to qualify for State Pension (Transition). When you reach your 66th birthday there is an automatic transfer to State Pension (Contributory). The rate of your pension will not affected by this.

You will qualify for State Pension (Transition) if you:

When you are receiving State Pension (Transition) you do not necessarily need to give up employment completely. You can be employed part-time as long as you earn less than €38 per week paying PRSI at Class J or earn less than €3,174 per year if self-employed. Currently the base rate payable is €200 per week rate.

You will qualify for State Pension (Contributory) if you:

Unlike State Pension (Transition) you can continue to work full-time, without restrictions, after your 66th birthday in addition to collecting your State Pension (Contributory). The base rate currently payable for both State Pension (Transition) and for State Pension (Contributory) is €209.30 per week.
If you are getting the maximum Invalidity Pension, you will automatically transfer to State Pension (Contributory) when you are aged 66. The amount of pension you get will not change.
The Department of Social and Family Affairs, An Roinn Gnothaí Sóisialacha agus Teaghlaigh, has introduced a LoCall Number 1890 500 000 for their Sligo office. You can phone there for leaflets and applications forms, or look up the Department’s web site at www.welfare.ie Alternatively, any Citizens Information Centre should be able to assist. Their LoCall Number is 1890 777 121 and website is www.citizensinformation.ie

STOP PRESS – IMPORTANT CHANGES TO STATE PENSIONS AND ALLOWANCES

Qualified Adult Allowance – paid directly to spouse/partner of pension recipients Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Martin Cullen TD announced that from Monday 24 September 2007 payment of the Department’s Qualified Adult Allowance on all new State Pension claims will now be made directly to the pensioner’s spouse or partner. This change is in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government to provide ‘qualified adults’ (who are the wives, husbands, partners of people receiving social welfare payments), with their own direct pension payment. The revised arrangement will apply to all new applicants for State Pension schemes with effect from 24 September 2007. Carer’s Allowance – more to qualify under new rules from 27 September 2007 In the 2007 Budget announcements were made to allow carers to receive more than one social welfare payment, as long as the person remains qualified to receive Carer’s Allowance and the other social welfare payment. You, the carer, needs to provide full time care and attention and if you are getting another regular social welfare payment you may be entitled to receive half the personal (single) weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance. This could be up to an extra €100 per week. If the person cared for is getting an increase for you under Qualified Adult Allowance this may continue while you receive the half rate allowance. The Carer’s Allowance is means tested but the first €320 (€640 for a couple) of weekly income is not counted as means. You cannot claim Carer’s Allowance at full or half rate if you are in receipt of Jobseeker’s Benefit or Allowance, Back to Work Allowance or Family Income Supplement. Consider also the non-means tested Respite Care Grant, worth €1500 lump sum in 2007. (In the next part we will look at Pre-Retirement Allowance, Household Benefits Package, Carer’s Allowance.) Please remember the Post Polio Support Group in your Will, or request donations to Post Polio Support Group in lieu of funeral flowers … All bequests will be put to good use. THANK YOU

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

CORK

Convenor: Evelyn Wainwright
Tel: 021 447313
Email: evelyn99911@hotmail.com
See also Southern Area News (p. 16).
Christmas Dinner will be held at Vienna Woods Hotel on Sunday 18th November at 4.00 p.m. New Year Get-Together will be held at Greyhound Track on 19th January 2008.

KERRY

Convenor: Charlie Smith
Tel: 066 9768530
email: charlie12smith@eircom.net
The second meeting of the group took place on Sunday 19th August at the Drumhall hotel in Killarney. Members came from all over the county and beyond for a very enjoyable afternoon. Now we are hoping to arrange a social outing at our next meeting, which will be in October. If anyone is interested please contact Charlie.

BRAY

Convenor: Macrina Clancy
Tel: 01 2853561, 086 8386555
Email: macrinaclancy@gmail.com
Our meeting was held on 4th September in the Glenview Hotel. The new venue was very “swanky” with lovely forest views. In addition to this Anne Shanahan gave a very informative talk on reflexology, with demonstrations on some our members “twinkling toes”. Our next meeting is the first Thursday in October when other members “twinkling toes” will be “reflexed”!!! Christmas Dinner will take place o 4th December at Glen of the Down’s Hotel at 8.00 p.m.

GALWAY/MAYO

Convenor: Bridie McMahon
Tel: 094 9540285
Email: sbmcmahon70@eircom.net
Murder Mystery Week-end at Hotel Westport was held on 5/7th October. There was a great turnout with forty people attending. Plan Twenty Ten was launched and everyone received a copy of The Plan and 2008 Diary. There were some great ‘70s-style gear at the dinner on Saturday, where the murder was solved – luckily none of our group ended up in jail! There was a lively sing-song with great music from our members after the dinner. On Sunday morning we had a talk from Gerry Butler, Development Officer with the Active Retirement Association followed by an interesting and informative question and answer session. All in all, a very enjoyable week-end. Many thanks to everyone who helped make it such a success. The Galway Christmas Dinner will be held in Menlo Park Hotel. Date to be confirmed.

ATHLONE

Convenor: Sean Mulligan
Tel: 090 6439046
Email: j2smulligan@eircom.net
A great turnout of members turned up when The Ballinasloe/Athlone Walking for Charity Group and the Ahascragh Bridge Club handed over cheques for over €4,000 to the PPSG (see fund-raising news). Our Annual Dinner will be held in The Bounty Restaurant, DuBarry Park, Athlone on Tuesday 9th November.

PORTLAOISE

Convenor: Paddy Fitzpatrick
Tel: 0505 46738
Email: paddyfitz3@eircom.net
The Portlaoise group held their summer outing. In spite of very bad weather it was good to get together and have a day out and a chat. Their last meeting was held on 9th October in the Heritage Hotel (write up in next issue).

LIMERICK

Convenor: Tom Clifford
Tel: 061 375115
Email: tomclifford1@eircom.net

NEWBRIDGE

Convenor: Paddy Moyles
Tel: 059 9141283
Next meeting on 23rd October in Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge at 8.00 p.m. All welcome.

ENNISCORTHY

Convenor: Anne O’Kelly Guerin
Tel: 053 32633
Email: aguerin914@hotmail.com
Next meeting on Monday 5th November at 8.00 p.m. in. All welcome.

DONEGAL

Convenor: John Mangan
Tel: 074 9137465

AGEING MATTERS

Age Action Ireland is the national independent organisation on ageing and older people. It acts as a network of organisations and individuals including older people and carers of older people. It promotes better policies and services for older people in an ageing society. I would encourage all our older members to join Age Action Ireland, and you will then get their monthly magazine on ageing issues in Ireland, ‘Ageing Matters’ and their other publications free of charge.

CONTACT DETAILS

Age Action Ireland, 30/31 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2.
Tel: 01 4756989
Email: info@ageaction.ie
Website: www.ageaction.ie

TABLET TIME!

If you have trouble remembering to take your medication at certain times of the day, set the alarm on your mobile phone!

THE WRIST STRAP

If you use a walking stick and you need to use your two hands to get money out of your purse or take up the shopping, isn’t it embarrassing when you take your hand off the stick: you try to knee it up against the counter or clutch it under your arm, but inevitably it falls to the floor with a crash and you have to bend down to pick it up or two or three people rush to rescue you! Buy a wrist strap and attach it to the walking stick – you can get them in most camera shops – and make sure the strap is around your wrist. Then you can take your hand off the handle and the stick just swings free but does not fall. Magic!

JET LAG

Some of our members have found that they are more prone to jet lag after long plane journeys than they used to be. Have any others found this and if so do you have any suggestions?

HOSPITAL FRIENDS

One of our members is looking for others who were in Coole Hospital when she was there. If you were in Coole, please let us know along with the approximate dates, and I will pass on your message. In fact, if any of our members would like to meet up with others who were in other hospitals when they were children, let us know and we will put it up on the ‘members only’ discussion forum.

THE ‘DOUBLE OUR MEMBERSHIP CHALLENGE’

Don’t forget, if every member contacted just one other Polio Survivor and put them in touch with the PPSG, that would be the start of lifelong support for that person and we would double our membership in that one stroke! Will you take up the challenge to help us double our membership from 700 to 1400 members?

CREATIVE ARTS THERAPIES

The Mountmellick Development Association in collaboration with a wide range of partners have recently established a new pilot project called Áthas, providing creative arts therapies services to persons with a physical, intellectual, emotional, mental health and/or sensory disability. Creative Arts Therapies use the arts to achieve clinical goals with clients through the medium of Art, Drama, Music or Dance Movement. Services are offered on an outreach basis to both groups and individuals. If you would like to learn more about the project, services and/ or our referrals procedure, please contact the manager Annemarie Ní Churreáin on 057 86 24525 or 087 125 2184 or join us on our network at: www.theathasnetwork.ning.com Áthas is funded under the Enhancing Disability Services Programme by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

CAPTION COMPETITION

Photo on front page shows Joan receiving the certificate from An Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern at the Dublin Bus Awards. If you can think of a good caption for this photo send it to us and the best caption will be printed in the next issue of THE SURVIVOR – there may even be a prize! Editor.

FUNDRAISING NEWS

Award with a Difference.

There was a goody bag on each chair at the tables at the Burlington Hotel for the Dublin Bus awards, but that was not all. The Post Polio Support Group was delighted to be one of 15 charities to receive the top award of €5,000 from Dublin Bus. The award is in recognition of work done by small community and voluntary groups and ours is to be used for polio survivors. A large number of other awards were also presented, so many voluntary and community groups, in the greater Dublin area, benefited. This charity was set up as a result of unclaimed fares overpaid on the buses. Ann and I attended the event on behalf of PPSG. Niall Quinn, the footballer, is patron of the charity and An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, just back from his summer break, presented the awards. Both men told funny stories before lunch. Apart from the goody bag, we received a certificate which Ann got Niall Quinn to autograph. An outstanding aspect was that the top awards included a beautiful Japanese Maple tree. When one of the bus drivers put it into my car there was no room for anyone or anything else apart from me. Our office staff cared for it with diligence for the short time it was in our office. You will be glad to hear that it is now settling down to life in the garden of Carmichael Centre for voluntary organisations, where our office used to be. Joan Bradley.

Marathons

The PPSG would like to thank all who already sent in monies raised from sponsorship in the Dublin Flora Women’s Mini Marathon, and the Montenotte Hotel Cork City Marathon, both held last June, and the Cork “Evening Echo” Women’s Mini Marathon just held 23 September, (an account of the “Echo” marathon and photographs appear elsewhere in “The Survivor”). Our thanks go to Evelyn Wainwright, Noel Magner and Ray Linehan among others for their efforts, as well as to all our members and friends who took part in the marathon and raised sponsorship for the PPSG. We are also grateful to those who raised sponsorship at shopping centres last July and August, namely Sheila O’Sullivan and Sunny Osburn at Supervalue, Ballincollig, and to Terry Wainwright, Ray Linehan and Sunny Osburn at Supervalue, Togher, to Neil Shanaghy, manager Ballincollig and Kevin Moran, manager Togher, and to the staff of both shopping centres for their kindness and hospitality to our members. Sponsorship raised can still be forwarded to the Office, by cheque, money order, direct debit, bank giro. The Adidas Dublin full Marathon takes place on Bank Holiday Monday 29 October at 9.00am. PPSG sponsorship cards for the event and free t shirts can be had on request to Anne Burns tel. 01 4534150 email: boyneabu@eircom.net

Ballinasloe/Athlone Generosity for PPSG

A cheque for €3,910 was handed over to Rose Shine and Paula Lahiff on behalf of the Post Polio Support Group by Jeanne Naughton and Theresa Blake representing the Ballinasloe Charity Walkers, a group of ladies from the Athlone and Ballinasloe areas, the results of their participation in the Ladies Mini Marathon. Rose completed the 10K in her wheelchair with the others taking it turns to push! She says that she was overcome with emotion when they crossed the finish line – it was such an achievement both for herself and the others, and also the fact that all those ladies had walked in aid of Polio Survivors. And another cheque for €500 was also presented by Mary Dillon and Jeanne Naughton, from Ahascragh Bridge Club. Many thanks to all concerned – the money has already been put to good use! Our appreciation goes to Barbara McDonagh and all who helped with her second annual cash collection in Galway City on 13 July, 2007. The collection realised some E750. Thanks to Bridie McMahon for organising a Celebration of the Songs and Music of Delia Murphy on Friday October 19th at Roundfort Community Centre, Hollymount, Co. Mayo. This event will also feature the Cunninghim Family, famous Sean Nós dancers from Connemara. The profits from the evening will be split between the PPSG and REHAB.Dealing with Polio Demons By Paula Lahiff

DEALING WITH DEMONS

by Paula Lahiff

In the Summer 2007 issue of Polio Messenger, newsletter of The Polio Outreach of Connecticut, their Editor Linda Wheeler Donahue writes an enlightened and honest article on unwelcome visitors in the form of Polio Demons who came to visit her one evening when she was coping with an electricity blackout. She named them Crippled, Useless, Pathetic, Paralyzed, Woeful, Helpless and Dejected. We Polio Survivors have a reputation of always looking on the bright side and overcoming the most tremendous odds in our determination to remain independent, but we are only human after all, and those unwelcome Polio Demons do come to visit from time to time, no matter how we bar the door against them. So how do we cope with them? I suggest that talking things over with a good friend is great - as the old saying goes ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’. Just to get those unwelcome Polio Demons out of your head and into the open, either by talking about your feelings or writing your thoughts can be so therapeutic. Sometimes however, they insist on going around and around in your head and appear to get more intrusive and more difficult to deal with. If you feel that you are depressed or have issues which you would like to deal with on a professional basis, a good counsellor or psychotherapist can be of great help and it is not a sign of emotional weakness or the first indication that you are going mad if you decide to go down this route. In fact quite the opposite – it could be seen as a sign of strength that you are willing to look after your emotional wellbeing. The Post Polio Support Group can provide funding towards counselling for our members and will also let you have a list of accredited counsellors in your area so you can choose the person yourself. Please contact Karen or Carol in the office in confidence and they will be glad to assist you. The Polio Messenger also give the following tips in dealing successfully with PPS and in coping with weakness and pain by avoiding becoming overly fatigued and remaining positive: Learn how to pace yourself so you will not become overtired Exercise under the supervision of a knowledgeable physician Maintain normal weight See a neurologist who is knowledgeable about PPS on a regular basis Join the Post Polio Support Group Swim or move your joints in warm water Stay close with friends and family; a supportive social network is essential to your good health Stay warm and avoid getting chilled. Eat a nutritious diet with enough fibre and protein Use adaptive medical equipment with pride Maintain a positive attitude. The Polio Messenger can be accessed online at: http://www.the-polio-outreach-of-ct.com/newsletter.htm

RING RING PHONE PROJECT

Get together at Cuisle

On recommendation from my Ring Ring friend, Ann Pepper, and with a very generous gift of a week’s respite from PPSG, we booked a week in early September in Cuisle, IWA Respite Centre, Co Roscommon. Two wonderful treats lay ahead for me, firstly meeting my Ring Ring friend Ann face-to-face – I had only previously met her over the phone - and secondly experiencing wonderful Cuisle itself. Cuisle is set in the grounds of peaceful and lovely Donamon Castle in Co. Roscommon. Words alone cannot describe the helpfulness of the staff, and the accommodation and food are top class. Ann and I got on like a house on fire, and we had a great laugh with the other holidaymakers. We were taken on trips out and had entertainment in the evenings. Whatever your disability you will never feel alone at Cuisle, your needs are met with patience, love and kindness. We also observed the start of a few romances! We cannot praise Cuisle highly enough, it refreshes mind, body and soul. I hope you all get to stay there some day. Enquiries and bookings to Cuisle: Tel: 0906662277, Fax: 0906662646, Email: cuisle@iwa.ie and Website: www.cuisle.com Patricia Mulburn

THE SPIRITUAL CORNER

He is always there

A twelve year old boy, lets call him Tom, lived in a far off land, and in their culture, when a boy reached the age of twelve he was initiated into manhood by spending a night alone in a very dark forest. So Tom was brought out to the forest by his Father and was left all alone with a sleeping bag and a few sandwiches. He could hear many sounds all around him, even the sounds of some kind of animals moving around quite close to him. He became more and more frightened and couldn’t sleep out of sheer fear. But he must have fallen asleep because he woke up as the light was filtering through the dense trees. He was never so happy to see daylight. He rolled up his sleeping bag and turned round to go home. And there standing behind him was his Father! He had been there all night without the child knowing it.
Fr Michael Golden.

Stillness

Why be afraid of stillness
Are you aware it’s me?
Through the storms of life
I’ll guide you
You will always be free.
All of life’s worries
Place them in my care
Even if you don’t know it
I’m always there.
WJ Ahern

UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

By John McFarlane
The National Disability Authority on October 3, 2007 held a seminar at Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Council of Europe’s Disability Action Plan and how it will affect Ireland, and touch the lives of those with disabilities, their families and carers. After 3 years of discussion and debate, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was available for countries to adopt from March 2007. It was described by Kofi Annan, the outgoing UN Secretary General, as “the most rapidly negotiated human rights treaty in the history of international law” and became the first human rights treaty of the 21st century. The Convention states its purpose is to “promote, project and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity”. The fact that it focuses on the human rights of disabled people is very significant. This is the first time that disability has been viewed as a worldwide issue. It covers accessibility, privacy, rehabilitation and employment, and the right of people with disabilities to participate fully in public and political life. Countries must guarantee their citizens are able to live independent lives, get a full and proper education as of right, be able to marry and start a family. It is difficult to believe, yet true, that just 20 short years ago certain European states by law sterilised people with disabilities, both physical and intellectual. A country is only committed to implement the Convention as law once it has been passed by their national legislative assembly and even then it will only be enforceable when that has happened in at least 20 countries. Those countries will then have to report on a regular basis to a UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Convention as it stands is more comprehensive than current legislation in Ireland and in many other EU states. Before Ireland can ratify the Convention it will need to be put before both Houses of the Oircheatas, and it is likely that changes will need to be made to current legislation. How long this process will take is anybody’s guess so until then we will keep seeing parents struggling for education for people with disabilities, and other people being denied the dignity to live full and independent lives. One thing is for certain, when this UN Convention does finally reach these shores there will be plenty of money to be made – by the lawyers!

European Polio Awareness Day

PPSG sent a delegation to Brussels to support a protest march by European Polio Union on 17th October – European Polio Awareness Day. Unlike Ireland, many European countries do not recognise Post Polio Syndrome as a medical condition and do not provide any funding for Post Polio Groups.

Polio Story — A Life Worth Living

Compiled by Sean Mulligan

Ethna O’Dowd was a Polio Survivor of great courage, and she lived her live to the full in spite of her disability. Having contracted Polio when she was 24 years of age, she was based in ward 7 of Cherry Orchard hospital, where she relied on an Iron Lung to assist her breathing difficulties. Sadly she passed away in December 1999. She was highly regarded by all who knew her and was a good friend of our past Chairman, Jim Costello. It was suggested that her story should most definitely be told and Sean Mulligan has compiled this inspiring article from talking to her friends and family.

Her sister Emily had this to say.

“She was always fantastic to me and her three nephews, full of life and energy. She never complained or moaned about the hand she was dealt. Her love for life and adventure never abated but she must have felt very frustrated at times. Her holidays away from hospital were a delight for her. Though she lived in a hospital ward and slept in an Iron Lung, she showed how a truly good person should live.”

Polio survivor, Jo O’Connell, met her first in 1960 when they were both in Cherry Orchard Hospital

“I would consider Ethna one of my closest friends and one of the biggest gifts that life has brought me. When I aim to live to the full I feel closest to Ethna’s amazing spirit.”

Ethna left a generous donation to Amnesty International, and was interviewed for their magazine The following is an extract:

“She was amazingly positive. She had a wonderful sense of humour and a wicked little wit. Ethna was interested in everything; she took a course, and was able to teach literacy from the hospital. At Christmas, people would vie over who was to have Ethna to their house. Although she suffered from “sporadic” paralysis, Ethna was able to type, and wrote letters to people around the world. She was so inspiring for the rest of us. A lover of nature and an excellent gardener Ethna would go to the Burren with friends, and they weren’t allowed to leave until she had seen every type of flower there.

Rita O’Kennedy, her nurse for many years, had this to say:

“I was a Student Nurse when Ethna was admitted to Ward 7. She was critically ill. Nobody could know or possibly realise the determination and overpowering will to live she possessed; and she came through slowly and surely. She had to live – that was her main aim. Emily, her sister, was with her day and night and when she married the contact continued. In 1962, I returned to Cherry Orchard. Ethna became more than a patient, all grew to know and love her. No matter what outing or celebration, Ethna would be there if she was free. She had a very full diary, and was the life and soul of all events. She had the most brilliant intellect and attended courses, both in UCD and the theatre. On a visit to the Slieve Blooms, we heard Ethna scream. A little frog was responsible for the panic. It is the one creature Ethna could not take to! An incredible person, Ethna would help and listen to anyone who needed advice, or solve a problem and would never break a confidence. Ethna would be there in happy times – and especially in sad times--- I know. Ethna had a ‘wicked’ sense of humour and loved to get letters and cards. She was a dear and special friend.”

The Rev. Fr. Freeney was a great friend of Ethne’s for over thirty years.

“Her courage throughout her years in ward 7 never failed. The only difficulties I ever heard her mention were the fear of electricity failures that would shut off the ‘Lung’, and her anxiety in strong winds, as sudden gusts could topple her over so easily. She made fun of herself when having to deal with problems. She loved company and little modest parties. Ethna lived life to the full, despite the cruel blow fate had dealt her, and while nature, trees, flowers, scenic beauty and animals, enthralled her, the loyalty of her nearest and dearest, theirs to her, and hers to them, made her a joy to be with”.


Phil Rennick, also a nurse remembers;

“One of my best friends, Ethna was very popular with all grades of staff, and a great listener. She loved shopping, especially at Christmas, for family and friends and was a perfectionist. I remember the day when the Hospital Chaplain scattered her ashes on The Burren. Those present stopped to pray, the sun shone, the Cuckoo sang and the Gentian was in bloom.”



Note: The author of the Polio Story in the Spring Issue of THE SURVIVOR should have read Rose Russell O’Donovan. My apologies, Editor

WHAT CAN HAPPEN TO US UNAWARES

By Hugh Weir The last edition of THE SURVIVOR carried an interesting article on “Shoulder Concerns for People Experiencing Post Polio”, reprinted from Second Time Around (Boca area Post Polio Group, Florida). No doubt many survivors have had such problems with their shoulders; I give you mine. In January 2007, our family of four and an elderly relative were in a horrific car crash. All, except one were in hospitals in Tallaght, Limerick and Cork. The latter’s wonderful doctors and staff looked after Eoin who had a large hole punched into his forehead and was on life support. The others had multiple broken bones but are lucky to be alive, even if still undergoing surgery, physio, treatment and on crutches.. My trauma started when I got when flagged down by a neighbour’s van. I had been on my way to find out what had happened, there having been no answer from Tomás or his wife Consol’s mobiles and they were late for lunch, uncharacteristically without contacting us. When Grania and I arrived at Limerick’s Regional Hospital, three-year old Eoin started going “downhill”. Everyone at Cork Regional was wonderful. They were also concerned about me, Limerick having given details of my own health. Following the signing of “next of kin” permissions for major operations I spent almost all my time holding our grandson’s little hand, even whilst he was on support. A bed in the nearby attached hostel facility enabled me to get sleep but, stupidly it took me two days before I was eventually cajoled into using my wheelchair. I had felt it would have been in the way. My adrenilin was up for the weeks there and Tomás begged me from Tallaght, “please stay with him”. As he improved, the hospital staff insisted that I visit the others, go home even for a night and see my own doctor. “We won’t let you back until you have done so”, they told me. Eoin was then gradually taken off his life support, so I continued to stay with him in the childrens’ ward. My wheelchair was a godsend. However, I was doing little exercise and most of my time was with my little patient in bed or, later, very slowly walking and playing in the nursery. My feet were swollen but otherwise I felt all right. After their release from hospital all four family members were air ambulanced back to Spain. Only after they left did I start to really suffer. The whole experience was just too much for this polio survivor. My hands started to burn as though in boiling water, my arms and shoulders were painful, and my body ached. The trauma had caught up with me. I found it impossible to work, and sleep was interrupted. A specialist diagnosed severe carpel tunnel syndrome, and eventually I had surgery on my hands. The painful arc rotator cuff syndrome in my arms and shoulders eventually responded to physiotherapy treatment. There are several points I would like to share. Firstly, thank God for health insurance; secondly, for wheelchair and other assistance with the help of the PPSG; thirdly, the dedicated medical professionals who have gained an understanding of our problems and fourthly, the many lay people who are so kind, including young people. My final comment is that too few of us willingly accept that polio has made survivors susceptible to secondary problems. These may manifest themselves mentally or physically or, indeed, a combination of both. Trauma, stress and concentrating on the problems of others may lead to this. We must take more care of ourselves.

More parking for visitors to the Post Polio Support Group Offices

There are two new Blue Badge parking spaces on Capel St. These are side by side outside Slattery’s pub and opposite Louis Copeland’s shop and McQuillan’s Tools. These are suitable for traffic coming from North Dublin as Capel St is one way north to south. Most people would enter Capel St from Parnell St and Bolton St. Please note that people using these spaces have to cross the LUAS line to get to the office and some scooters, in particular, can have difficulty crossing the grooves in the lines. These new spaces are in addition to the one on Great Strand St near its junction with Capel St and the one at the end of Little Strand St at its junction with East Arran St. To access these spaces turn left off the quays at the Morrison Hotel, and take the first left to Great Strand St. The Blue Badge space is on the right, the last space before the traffic lights at the junction with Capel St. If this is full go straight across the junction and go around two bends and coming up to the Tee junction to East Arran St the last space on the right is a Blue Badge space. A great big thank you to Dublin City Council for responding to the needs of those with particular accessibility requirements.

Linda’s World of Arts and Crafts

Hi my name is Linda O’Leary. I am a member of the PPSG. I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was diagnosed with Polio as an infant of about 2years. I spent a long time in Cherry orchard Hosp. where I got a flat Dublin accent and got very bold apparently! After numerous hospital stays and some operations I managed to get to a stage where I played Basketball for my school and appeared in the annual school light opera regularly. In recent years I have developed symptoms of PPS and this has hampered my efforts to return to the workforce after rearing my 4 children, so as an alternative I got involved in the local craft group, and I would like to let you in on my world of Arts and Crafts. I have always been interested in crafts. In school we learned how to sew, knit, and crochet. We also made foot stools, St. Brigids crosses and nail and twine art etc. It is only in the past 3 or 4years that I have taken it up again. My children have grown up and I have time to spare. I have started to do scrap-booking card making cross stitching knitting and quilting etc. I go to a local craft class and over the past couple of years our group has become very successful. We all have our particular interests when it comes to new crafts I learned how to quilt and to date I have made 3 quilts and have 2 on the go. I have made lots of cards for all occasions and raised money for the Woman’s’ Refuge in Rathmines with the sale of Christmas cards which I made myself. I have knitted a lot of baby blankets for the baby units in the maternity hospitals. Last semester we did glass painting, I thought it would be very difficult, but I was agreeable surprised. As a class we will be painting a piece of glass which will be hung in the Pearse Museum in Rathfarnham and an identical piece will be on display at the Whitechurch Library. If any of you are interested in crafts please, let the office know and we could maybe get together once a month or more depending on the interest shown by the members. Linda – Thank you for the nice offer of starting a craft group with our members. I hope we will see your work at CREATIVITY AND US, our Celebration of the Creativity of Polio Survivors at the 2008 AGM (see page 3 and insert enclosed) – Editor

.log in to the website discussion forum

The PPSG re-designed website at www.ppsg.ie is just great! Well done to Jim and John for all the hard work. It is well worth logging on to the site for all the information on Polio, Post Polio, the Group, Membership, Publications, Services, Plan Twenty Ten, upcoming events and links to other relevant and interesting sites. The members’ DISCUSSION FORUM is a very good way to meet people, have your say, or even ‘blow your top’ about subjects of concern to our members. So far we have had queries on jet lag, people wanting to meet others who were in the same hospital, and the book club, to name but a few. Can you believe that we have more than 200 members who have an email address, so even if you are not very good at the computer, do ask your children or grandchildren to log on for you and register you on the DISCUSSION FORUM. It might look a bit daunting at the start, but follow the instructions below and join in the discussion!

On this website preform the following tasks:

If you have any difficulties in doing this, phone the office and they will talk you through it.

Southern Region News

Summer Outing

Our annual summer outing took place on Sunday July 8th. It was a very wet day but that did not deter our enjoyment one little jot. It didn’t even deter my own enjoyment when thunder and lightening threatened to spoil the day. Usually I hide under the nearest table when thunder rumbles. We all met in the heritage centre at Cobh. It was nice to meet up with old friends and also meet some new ones. Tea and sandwiches and the good company took my mind off the thunder crashing above us. There was about twenty of us altogether Evelyn led us off on our tour of the centre. First we encountered the “coffin ships” that had taken the people to America to escape the terrible famine that was raging in Ireland during the years 1845 -1851. It was both a heartbreaking and illuminating experience. We could hear the eerie howling of the wind and on a huge screen watch a sailing ship being tossed about on the waves. The cramped conditions of the people travelling on those ships were absolutely appalling. This was in sharp contrast to the luxury of the Titanic, which was the next item on our tour. It was hard to imagine that the ship portrayed on the screen that was taking in water while the sailors bravely and desperately tried to bail it out with buckets, had got safely to America while the super liner Titanic had not. The story of the Lousitania and how she was torpedoed off the coast of Cork in 1915 also had its own section. We had a lovely afternoon and then feeling ship wrecked, we needed to sit down and have some sustenance. We all arrived safely at the Vienna Woods hotel and no one got lost or mislaid! At the hotel many other members and friends joined us there. We now numbered about sixty persons. The tables were all laid out and looked most welcoming. The main course was delicious, the desert sumptuous and to cap it all off we had tea or coffee. There was a raffle and almost everyone at our table won. When the meal was over Evelyn made a little speech and Madeleine said a few words. Once the speeches were over it was time for the music. The musician played and sang for us and then handed it over to the floor. Vincent, my husband, sang “Raglan Road” and then “Nancy Spain”. Then Evelyn gave a lovely rendering of “The Ring” and Grace, who was eighty years old, almost brought the roof down. It was simply wonderful. Janette was coaxed to sing from where she was seated. Once again we were treated to an amazing voice. People pay big money for much lesser performers! I read a piece from my book “A Spring in my Step” about falling in love a bit more difficult than usual when one has Polio. It’s easy enough to fall in love but getting the guy to fall in love with you - well that takes a little bit of extra effort. Naturally being a romantic lot, they were all interested in that bit! All who sang or performed were rewarded with a prize. So even though I started out the day without a drink and even though I don’t drink, I arrived home with a bottle of wine and a box of chocolates to make a perfect ending to a wonderful day. Joan McDonnell

Chill Out Day – St. Dominic’s Centre

Members came from far and near, to meet old and make new acquaintances. It’s so good to meet up with ‘hospital pals’ from ‘way back when’ and be able reminisce over good times and bad. This year we had two new members attend on the day – ‘Faith’ (she is from Nigeria) and Onder (he is from Turkey) and studying at UCC. After everybody ‘signed in’ and had a welcome cup of tea the day started at 10.30am with Evelyn greeting one and all and introduced us to Mary Lane (Stress Management Consultant). Mary’s tuition on ‘stress management’ and ‘relaxation’ was indeed very informative and beneficial. She went through various routines of simple exercises that would not bring the sweat from your brow and you don’t need to have a mat on the floor either to get the body feeling relaxed and stress free. All can be done in just 5-10 minutes in the morning or evening and you will, no doubt, feel the benefits long-term. At around 1.00pm we had a break for lunch and a stroll in the beautiful gardens of St. Dominics’. Some, who were unable to join us in the morning, came in the afternoon including Maureen O’Sullivan. As you all know Maureen was Evelyn’s predecessor for many years and we were all glad to see her in good form and continuing to ‘fly the flag’ - still dishing out information! After being well fed and watered, Paula Lahiff, introduced and informed us to the ‘Plan Twenty Ten’ - a programme support for Polio Survivors. These are all outlined in the pocket 2008 Calendar (booklet) we received at the end of the session. With the ‘team’ we have at the helm we can rest assured that all these ‘tasks’ will reach full fruition by 2010. Paula reminded us that next year’s AGM will be in Sligo on 19th April. She told us of the proposed Celebration of Creativity of Polio Survivors which will take place during the AGMN week-end, so over the long winter months and early spring get cracking at making something creative with your hands and have it presented at the AGM. Don’t say you haven’t been warned. To wind up the day, a few ‘fun quizzes’ were introduced with prizes in tow… In conclusion, we had a brilliant day, which was so enjoyable; everyone appeared to mingle well together. The weather was glorious and St. Dominic’s was such a wonderful and peaceful place to be for such an event. We all enjoyed the well-presented meals and walks in the garden. Our speakers were brilliant – we learned a lot from Mary on stress and relaxation and from Paula on the 3-Year-Plan. Last but not least, a big ‘thank you’ to Evelyn (+ Geraldine + family) where would we be without her – I don’t know where she gets the energy – she is an excellent organiser who gets everything together without it looking like ‘no work at all’ and after all that she was doing the ‘Cork Mini-Marathon’ the following weekend. We are so blessed to have her as our representative. Siobhán Tangney (Kenmare)

Cork Mini-Marathon:

This was another truly memorable day in PPSG. This was my 2nd marathon via scooter and what a great joy to take part! The rain held off for us and small bits of sun peeked through. Civil Defence members John and Maurice escorted us along the road in safety. To line up in our lovely red jackets at the start line gave a great feeling of unity and excitement. Photographers flashed away and then we were off! Buzzing down the Marina people lined the route clapping and cheering us on - stewards made sure we took the right turnings. But the best part was when, over the intercom, wheelchair ATHLETES were directed to a special area to collect their medals! Dolly Lawlor from Tralee came first in the wheelchair marathon, Sheila O’Sullivan (That’s me!) came second and Evelyn came third. How about that - PPSG are flying high in Cork! After all this we adjourned once again in stately line up along the road headed by Evelyn to Jury’s Inn. Here we all met for refreshments and chat. Can’t wait for next year! Sheila O’Sullivan

€10,000 TO BE WON EVERY MONTH FOR THE CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE! INTRODUCING THE EXTRAORDINARY CHARITY GIVEAWAY

Lyons Tea will be giving away €120,000 to Irish charities over a year. By giving you the chance to win €10,000 for your favourite charity, each month! Please support the Post Polio Support Group by telling them about the extraordinary qualities we show and the work we do and we could be handed a cheque for €10,000! And you can enter every month if you like. Every month 10 entries will be randomly drawn for our judging panel to choose the final monthly winner. To enter, collect 20 tokens from special Lyons Tea packs. And send them, together with your description of how the Post Polio Support Group shows extraordinary qualities, with your name, address and telephone number to: Lyons Charity Promotion, PO Box 10850, Dublin 2. See www.lyonscharitygiveaway.ie for free starter tokens, more info and terms and conditions and read the RTE Guide where the winning charities will be featured.

Transport and People with Disabilities:

Part 1 - Entitlements.

Sources:
Entitlements for People with Disabilities 2007, Citizens Information Board, 2007.
Government of Ireland, Revenue Commissioners, found at http://www.revenue.ie/leaflets/vrt7.pdf

 The following are the entitlements for people with disabilities with regard to transport.

Primary Medical Certificate:

This certificate must be obtained before claiming Disabled Drivers and Passengers Tax Relief: Medical assessment and issue of the certificate is carried out by the Senior Area Medical Officer (SAMO) in your local HSE Community Services. Application form available from the HSE Community Services in your area. The medical criteria for entry to the scheme are that the person must be severely and permanently disabled.

Disabled Drivers and Passengers Tax Relief:

Drivers or passengers with physical disabilities (in receipt of a Primary Medical Certificate from the HSE) who use a specially adapted motor vehicle are entitled to claim exemption from Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) and Value Added Tax (VAT) on their vehicles, repayment of duty on fuel and exemption from annual road tax. Application forms (DD1) available from Disabled Drivers Section, Central Repayments Office, Revenue Commissioners, Coolshannagh, Co. Monaghan. Tel: 047 38010.

Motorised Transport Grant:

Means-tested HSE grant (€4,917.20 maximum) paid to those aged 17-65 with a severe disability, towards the purchase or adaptation of a car which is essential to obtain/retain employment. Self-employed may also be eligible. It may be paid if living in a very isolated area, though not in employment. This grant may be applied for every three years, it but ceases at the age of 66.

Mobility Allowance:

Means-tested HSE payment (€190 monthly maximum) for those aged 16-65 with a severe disability, unable to walk, who need a change of surroundings. Maximum of €95 if claiming Disabled Drivers and Passengers Tax Relief. Not paid for three years from date of Grant if availing of Motorised Transport Grant.

Free Travel Pass:

Free travel on public transport and some private bus and ferry services is available to those aged 66 or over and to certain groups of people under age 66 getting specific disability payments.

Companion Travel Pass:

Certain people, medically assessed as being unfit to travel alone, are eligible to have someone aged 16 or over accompany them free of charge. Application forms (FT1) available from Social Welfare Office and from Free Schemes Section.

Disabled Person’s Parking Card:

Available to drivers or passengers with disabilities, aged 5 or over, for use in any car in which they travel. This entitles you to park in disabled parking bays and in other local authority parking areas free of charge. Costs €25. Application forms available from Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland, Parking Card Section, Ballindine, Co Mayo. Tel: 094 9364054 or Irish wheelchair Association, National Mobility Centre, Ballinagappa Road, Clane, Co Kildare. Tel: 045 893094.

Toll-free Driving:

All drivers in receipt of a Primary Medical Certificate from the HSE can apply for toll-free pass from the NRA the PPP M4 and PPP Fermoy/Cork toll road as well as the Port Tunnel. This is the first in a series on Transport and People with Disabilities. Next issue will contain information on travelling on Public Transport – Editor

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor

A short note to thank the PPSG for a Heavenly respite break which I spent in Myross Wood Retreat Centre, Leap, Co Cork. The venue is an old estate house and is unfortunately not disability friendly, but if you can manage stairs and a stand up shower it is suitable. The house is et in huge gardens and woodlands and the peace and tranquillity is beyond price and measure. It was my first visit and I’m going back. William T. Ahern.

Dear Editor

How can I ever thank the PPSG for all your information on Post Polio. I really enjoyed reading the personal stories of polio survivors in Ireland - what a wonderful edition and what great survivors. Your booklet on Management and Treatment in Primary Care was most interesting and I have given it to my Primary Doctor. Very few Drs. and Therapists here in Florida, USA know about treating PPS. The summer edition of your Irish Polio News is also appreciated very much. Your Support group is so very well organized and the information you send out is so helpful. Nice to know that we aren’t alone. Beverly Schroll Dear Editor Just to say Thanks to Evelyn and Paula for a very informative and sociable day at the Dominican Centre, Cork last Saturday 15 Sept. Also I would like to include a comment from my physio: “Post Polio Support Group are the most efficient people I have ever dealt with” Take a bow! Many thanks, Helen Joyce-Morton.

Dear Editor

Our Post Polio Resource Group of Southeastern Wisconsin has given your link for the PPS resource booklet and other information. It’s brilliant! Thanks to the PPSG (Ireland) for getting the information out there for us. We need all the help we can get! Do you have many members over in the Galway/Connemara area? My husband (who is from the UK) and I have been considering moving back to either the UK or to Ireland, as we have family and friends in both areas. Next time we go over to Clifden, it would be good to contact one or two of the members to see how they are doing and if they have any tips for me. Many thanks and keep up all the good work you are doing. Karin Ficke Cook, La Crosse, Wisconsin USA

DISABLED PARKING SPACES IN GALWAY CITY

Eyre Square
4 Spaces beside the Bank of Ireland opposite Supermacs

Eyre Street
3 Disabled Spaces

Woodquay
4 Spaces

Merchant’s Road
2 Spaces outside Ross House

St Augustine Str
4 Spaces

Middle Street
2 Spaces 1 at each end of the street

Bridge Street
3 Spaces outside Fahy Travel

Market Street
2 Spaces

Raven Terrace
2 Spaces in Raven Tce. Car Park off Fr Griffin Rd

Sea Road
4 Spaces

Munster Avenue
1 Space

The Crescent
4 Spaces

Newtownsmyth
1 Space

Cathedral Car Park
5 Spaces

Waterside
2 Spaces

Dyke Road Car Park
3 Spaces

Fairgreen Car Park
3 Spaces

Forester Str
1 Space

Salthill
5 Spaces in front car park
5 Spaces on prom
7 Spaces in shopping area
1 Space in Lenaboy Ave

Important Note: In Addition to the above, disabled drivers are permitted to park in any disc parking area without having to display a parking disc. Please ensure that your disabled permit is clearly displayed at all times. Failure to display your permit will result in your vehicle being either ticketed or towed.

DISCLAIMER:

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the Editor and the Board can accept no liability. The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily their views.

Launch of "Post Polio Syndrome – Management and Treatment in Primary Care"

Jim Costello had long held a vision that someday there would be a multidisciplinary publication for the medical personnel, upon whom we depend so much, to help manage and treat the condition that has brought us all together - Post Polio Syndrome. He persuaded John Latham, General Practitioner, Geraldine Foley and Roisin Nolan, Occupational Therapists, Dara Meldrum and Deirdre Fitzgerald, Physiotherapists, Brian Kinsella, Orthotist and Ciara McWeeney, Speech and Language Therapist to give of their expertise in each area and they also drew on Dr Orla Hardiman’s considerable knowledge and experience of the condition through her research and clinical work in Beaumont Hospital. The result of all their hard work is a publication of which the PPSG is justifiably proud - “Post Polio Syndrome - Management and Treatment in Primary Care”. It contains up-to-date information on the care requirements of the many Irish people displaying the symptoms of post polio syndrome. The book was launched on 19th July at Capel Building by Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, with specific responsibility for issues concerned with disability, Dr. Jimmy Devins TD. He spoke about the Government’s commitment to improving specialist support services for people with disabilities and the Government’s objective over the coming years to move the disability agenda to a level which matches any other country in the world, by promoting the full involvement of people with disabilities in the social, economic, political and cultural life of Ireland. Two copies of this book have been sent to all our members, and everyone has been asked to give a copy to their doctor and any other health care professional that looks after their condition. (Further copies are available from the office free of charge). The book will also be sent to all medical libraries, and will go out on CD with the GP Magazine and the Physiotherapy and OT Journals. It is also available as a download on our new redesigned website.

Back to Top