You are here: Home > Publications > The Survivor Newsletter > Summer 2009

The Survivor Newsletter: Summer 2009

Inside this issue:

And much more...

Your Representatives Nationwide

HEAD OFFICE STAFF:

Tel: 01 8898920
Fax: 018898924
Website: www.ppsg.ie

CHIEF EXECUTIVE:

Eamonn Farrell
Email: ceo@ppsg.ie

SERVS/INFO CO-ORDINATOR:

Lillian McElvanny
Email: sic@ppsg.ie

BOOKKEEPER/ADMIN. ASSISTANT:

Ursula Treacy
Email: info@ppsg.ie

OUTREACH WORKER

Margaret McCarthy
Email: fsw@ppsg.ie

REGIONAL SUPPORT OFFICER

Ann Shanahan
Email: rso1@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: amjbradley@eircom.net

Paula Lahiff: (Secretary)
Tel/Fax: 071 9164791
Mobile: 086 322 4402
Email: secretary@ppsg.ie

John McFarlane (Treasurer & Newsletter Editor)
Tel: 057-9353552
Fax: 057-9353558
Email: jmcfarlane1@iolfree.ie or
newsletter@ppsg.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

Clara Dunne (Board Member)
Tel: 01 672 1601 (W)
Fax: 01 672 1650
Tel: 01 833 5524 (H)
Mob: 087 227 6202
Email: clara.dunne@caceis.com

Bridie McMahon (Board Member)
Tel: 094 954 0285 Mob: 087 958 0567
Email: smcmahon70@eircom.net

Eamonn Porter (Board Member)
Tel: 01 8455827 (W)
Mobile: 086 225 3551
Email: eporter@aspire-wealth.com

Seamus O'Cinneide: (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

Back to Top

Comittees

Fund Allocation Committee
Joan Bradley (Chair), Hugh Conlon, Seamus O'Cinnéide, Róisín Nolan

Fundraising
Hugh Hamilton (Chair), Anne Burns, Evelyn Wainwright, Eamon Porter, James Kinahan

Governance and Nominations
Hugh Conlon (Chair), Jim Costello, John McFarlane, Seamus O Cinnéide, Hugh Weir

Social Support
Anne Burns (Chair), Paula Lahiff, Evelyn Wainwright, Hugh Weir, Barbara McDonagh, Tom Gallery, Bridie McMahon

Regional Reps
Paddy Fitzpatrick (HSE Midlands), Tom Clifford (HSE Mid West), Evelyn Wainwright (HSE South), Povl Thim (HSE South East), Barbara McDonagh (HSE West), Paula Lahiff (HSE North West), Jackie Minnock (HSE North East)

Social Support Convenors
Ann Barrett, Tom Clifford, Brian Crummy, Susan Dowling, Paddy Fitzpatrick, Nuala Harnett, John Mangan, Bridie McMahon, Paddy Moyles, Sean Mulligan, Charlie Smith, Povl Thim, Evelyn Wainwright

Ring Ring Phone Project Leaders
Peggy Brennan, Joan Bradley, Leo Dempsey, Muiris O Chriostóir, Anne Shanahan, Sheila O'Sullivan, Tom Gallery, Christina O'Connor, Susan Dowling, Shirley Martin

Back to Top

FROM THE EDITOR


Photo of John Mc FarlaneNo apology but this edition is a little later than intended – mea culpa. Circumstances beyond my control – namely the death of two of my friends' sons in tragic circumstances. It brings it home to one how fragile and precious the time is that we have on this mortal coil. However, it did start me thinking about all the things we need to have in place to help loved ones at such a time. Hence, the article – "Why Make a Will", simple answer to stop the Government laying their hands on your hard-earned assets and make sure your wishes are followed. Also so your loved ones know what they meant to you.

Before we know it, winter will be with us again – did we ever have summer? Time for lighting the fires and keeping warm. However, that can bring risk, as do other appliances and hazards around the house. Do you know what to do if you should suffer a fire at home, how can you make your home safer – have a look at the Fire Safety Guide in this edition, it could be a life saver. Next time we will look at how you can minimise your heating costs.

Another prospect staring in the face is the "Swine Flu" pandemic. As part of the PPSG's role we shall work to ensure that polio Survivors are included in the "at risk group" who will receive vaccination as a matter of priority. It seems from the guidelines published to date that this is the case, but we shall monitor the situation carefully. If you know or are treated differently please let the office know as a matter of urgency. Conferences 2008 in Sligo saw the launch of the Creativity & Us project, now we want you to help bring that to fruition with a request for the poets out there to contribute towards a book celebrating the talents of Polio Survivor artists. No prizes, just your work in print! For those that do not make the book through lack of space, let us see how many we can get into future editions of "The SURVIVOR". All this and the usual eclectic mix of regional round ups, information and other tit bits. Happy reading and enjoy the rest of the summer.

John McFarlane

In the meantime you can contact me through:
Tel: 087-2029830
Fax: 057-9353552
Email: newsletter@ppg.ie or jmcfarlane1@iolfree.ie

Back to Top

MISSION STATEMENT
Our Mission is to create awareness and to provide information regarding the late effects of polio among Polio Survivors, statutory agencies and the wider medical profession, and to ensure that the needs of Polio Survivors relating to their condition are met to enable them to live with dignity

A message to all from the chairman, Hugh Hamilton

Photo of Hugh HamiltonDear Members,
I hope that those of you who were able to come to our AGM, enjoyed the weekend, also, to those of you who have been involved with other PPSG activities during springtime, I send my very best wishes, and hopefully now we can look forward to some really good summer weather.

This brings me on to a seminar I was at the other day, which was for Irish Charities. Iwas very interested to learn that, not only in Ireland, but also around the world, there has been a substantial increase in people being volunteers for organisations such as ours, and that this is because of, not in spite of, the present recession. This means that not only are there more people to share the workload, but new ideas are born, which is essential to the future. Now, I am not going to try to convince people to do things they do not want to do, but, as you know, there are many ways to help, such as social support, helping convenors at meetings, keeping in touch etc,etc apart from many things to do with fundraising.

So why not give a hand, or get a family member or friend to become interested, so either write to the office or send an email to me at hamsalem@eircom.net....."a little help by a lot of people goes a long way".
Lastly, to all of you who have taken up the Life Membership offer, a big thank you, I am sorry that it has taken longer than we thought to get the certificates distributed – but be assured they are on their way. To those who paid their subs in the usual way a big thank you as well. It is appreciated that times are hard for all so be assured every cent will be put to good use in helping Polio Survivors.

With best wishes
Hugh Hamilton

Back to Top

Thought of the Day

I have learned to use the word 'impossible' with the greatest caution. — Wernher von Braun

CALLING ALL POETS and artists…

A CALL TO ALL POETS – by P. Lahiff

We have received very welcome funding from the People in Need Trust and Sligo Co. Council Arts Office to publish a companion book to 'Polio and Us'. This book will be a showcase for the artistic and poetic endeavours of our members, with a working title of 'Poetry, Art and Us'.

We intend to use photos of original artwork from the Creativity and Us Exhibition and also from the Finglas Art Group. In addition, if you would like to submit photos of your own craftwork or original artwork which were not part of the exhibition and which you would like to have considered for inclusion, please send them to Nuala at the address below.

We are also looking to the poets among you to submit your poems to be included in this book.

The rules are as follows:

Closing date for receipt of poems; 11th September 2009

This is a great opportunity for anyone who would like to have a poem published. Please submit your poem – preferably by email - with your name, phone number and full address to:- harnett@iol.ie

Alternatively, you may post it to the address below.
Nuala Harnett,
The Bungalow,
13 Ulverton Close,
Dalkey,
Co. Dublin.

The organisers reserve the right to choose poems from your entries for inclusion in the book. As we will be somewhat restricted as to the number we can use, we may not be able to include all poems received. Be assured, however, those not used will be treated confidentially.

We look forward to receiving your poems and photos of your art or craftwork, so please send them in at your earliest convenience. Please make sure that you have kept a copy of them, as they cannot be returned to you.

Back to Top

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Post Polio Support Group is very grateful for the bequest by the family of Valerie Balfe in her memory. We extend our heartfelt thanks and gratitude and her family may be assured that it will help other polio Survivors

Fire Safety in Your Home

About 50 people die each year because of preventable fires in the home. Every fire has a cause and most often, there is a common sense, simple method of prevention. Careless attention to fireplaces, heaters, smoking and cooking equipment are leading caused of fire-death and injury. This leaflet explains the basics of fire prevention in the home and what to do should a fire break out. Remember, the age groups most at risk are the under 12's and over 60's. Let us start with three golden rules.

  1. Plan and practice an escape drill with your family.
  2. Install smoke alarms to give you an early warning.
  3. Survey your home to ensure that it is fire safe.

1. THE ESCAPE DRILL – AUTOMATIC SAFETY

Most often when fire breaks out, so to do panic and error. Things can happen very quickly and in a situation where seconds can save lives, you and your family need to be able to act without hesitation. A rehearsed fire escape drill can make all the difference.

Back to Top

YOUR FIRE DRILL AT A GLANCE

If you are prevented from leaving by smoke, heat or fire, close the room and seal all cracks with sheets or clothing or a sheet. Always keep down on the floor where the air is cleaner and cooler. Using this guide, practice the drill every few months with your family.

2. SMOKE ALARMS SMOKE – TURNING AN ENEMY INTO AN ALLY

Most fires happen at night while people are asleep. When there is a fire, smoke will actually put sleeping people into a deeper sleep, it will not wake them. By installing smoke alarms, you will have early warning devices that give you time to act before dangerous smoke and fumes overcomes you and your family.

Two smoke alarms, properly located, would suit the average home – you should only install smoke alarms manufactured to recognised standards.

Make sure that all smoke alarms are properly installed and maintained. Test the alarms and their batteries regularly.

3. THE FIRE SAFETY SURVEY – PREVENTION IS THE BEST FIRE FIGHTER

Most people think of their homes as a haven of safety. The truth is, when it comes to fire, many houses and dwellings are anything but safe. Using this leaflet as a checklist, walk through your home with your family checking the following common-sense precautions. Do the check regularly.

 

LIVING AND FAMILY ROOMS

 

THE KITCHEN

 

THE BEDROOMS

 

WORKSHOPS, UTILITY AND STORAGE AREAS

 

GENERAL

Text courtesy of the National Safety Council

Back to Top

 

FUND RAISING –A Thought

If you are celebrating an anniversary or other special occasion people are often at a loss for what to buy you – after all most of us have reached an age where we have most if not all we need for the house and ourselves.

So why not suggest to family and friends if they are stuck for that "special something" a donation to the PPSG would never go amiss. All will be acknowledged and will be a benefit to a polio Survivor somewhere. You never know it might even be you!

WHY MAKE A WILL?

Two things in life are guaranteed, paying tax (we all do it – remember VAT) and dying. It is not something any of us wants to dwell upon, it cannot be avoided and neither should making a will.

What happens if you do not leave one?

If you die without leaving a will, the legal term is intestate, and then the law according to the Succession Act 1965 will decide how your estate is to be divided. This may result in events that you may not wish as well as causing unnecessary difficulties for your dependents and lead to a family feud.

Making a Will

You can make a Will without the aid of a solicitor but it is a legal document so having someone conversant with inheritance and tax law is to be advised. The current average cost of making a Will with a solicitor ranges from €50 – 250 dependent on the complexity and perceived value of your estate.

Who can make a Will?

Anybody who has reached the age of majority, i.e. 18 years old, should make a Will. It covers your property, this is anything you own and can include, amongst other things, your house, car, house contents, insurance policies, savings and indeed any money owed to you by third parties.

When is a Will Valid?

For a Will to be valid the following conditions must apply:

Legal duties when making a Will

As is right and proper there are both moral and legal obligations when making a Will. B y law your spouse, husband or wife, is entitled to inherit at least one third of the estate if there are children, and one-half if there are no children.

Children (whether marital or non-marital – i.e. could be from a previous marriage or relationship) are entitled to inherit part of the estate, there is no legal obligation for the Testator to make a formal provision for them in the Will. However, if after your death, the Will is contested and a court finds that a deceased parent has failed in his or her moral duty to provide for a child (regardless of age), and then the court may order provision from the estate. (It should be said that where the child is an independent adult normally this only comes into play in exceptional circumstances, e.g. where the child is dependent upon the parent because of physical or mental incapacity).

What are the Benefits of making a Will?

Remember a Will does not become effective until you die. By making your Will now, no matter when you die, your estate will be looked after:

There have been tragic circumstances where a husband and wife have died at the same time. A Will, properly prepared and executed, can cover this eventuality by providing for the appointment of a Guardian in respect of any children below the age of majority and Trustees to look after the ongoing welfare (education, maintenance etc) of your family.

If you use a solicitor, you get expert legal advice that is both independent and relevant to your personal circumstances and needs. Remember you can change your will at any time, the latest edition revokes all that go before, except in the case of an additional clause (called a codicil). Your will does not become a legally binding instrument until you die, and no one can use that Will to access any part of your estate until after your death. The one thing that automatically revokes all previous Wills is if you get married, so if you do remember you need to make a new Will.

As far as Executors or Trustees are concerned, you do not have to ask them to act in that capacity after your death, but in all fairness, it is preferable if you do so. Any person so named as an Executor or Trustee in your Will has the right to refuse such an appointment, hence, it is always better to ask. It is also important that your Executor/s know where you keep detail of your assets, bankbooks, deeds etc.

Who keeps the Will?

You are entitled to keep it yourself but most people lodge it either with their solicitor or bank for safekeeping.

What happens when you die?

Your Executor/s will be informed of your death, their appointment and the contents of the Will.
Details of all your assets will be prepared and a Schedule of Assets prepared for the Revenue Commissioners (Death does not preclude you, or rather your estate from paying taxes where due.)
When the Schedule of Assets has been passed by the Revenue Commissioners your Executor/s will extract, through legal process, Probate to your Will. Such Probate allows them to administer your estate in line with the wishes expressed in your Will.
Your Executor/s will first discharge all liabilities against your Estate, i.e. money owed, taxes due etc, and then distribute the net assets in accordance with the Will and legal entitlements.

What happens if there is no Will?

The Succession Act 1965 comes into force and your estate mazy be tied up in litigation for years to come, high legal costs may ensue and people may benefit from your estate whom you would rather exclude. At the end of the day the biggest beneficiaries may be the legal profession, the State and those who may well lose out will be those dearest to you.

PARKING AT DUBLIN AIRPORT

Parking at Dublin Airport for those who have the Blue Parking Card for People with Disabilities is quite straightforward.You drive into Block B, which is straight across from the Main Terminal Building. You press the assistance button at the barrier. Someone will speak to you and you show your blue card. It is photographed and as is your car registration number. You then take a ticket from the machine at that barrier and keep it safely for your return. The barrier will then be raised; you drive through and will find spaces with the wheelchair sign.

Make sure you leave your blue card displayed on the dashboard. On returning, you put your parking ticket into the cash machine just at the entrance of the parking building and pay your fee. You will be charged €9.50 per day. Obviously, this method of parking is suitable for a couple of days only, otherwise it becomes too expensive and an alternative means of transport to the airport would be better.

OBITUARY - Leo Harris.

It was with sadness that we learned of the sudden death of Leo Harris. Leo and his wife Brigid were on the very first Post Polio Support Group Committee in 1992. He was also the first to run a fund raising event. It was a musical evening in a Pub. in Ballylinan, Co. Laoise. Leo had many talents and was no mean musician. With travelling to Dublin regularly it proved too much for him to remain on the committee. Both Leo and Brigid gave great encouragement in the setting up of the Post Polio Support Group and continued their interest ever since. We extend our deepest sympathy to Brigid in her loss.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís

Back to Top

Photo Of George LeeWE MEET Dublin South's NEWEST TD

When having a cup of tea in the Dáil, as you would, we met George Lee who was hearing about Post Polio Syndrome for the first time. George was very interested in the life stories and life situations of Polio Survivors and offered any help, if he could, if the future.

We asked George if he was enjoying the new job as TD. He smiled and said he was but he was looking forward to the holidays; it had all been so hectic!

 

PLEASE 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 YOU

Back to Top

GLOBAL POLIO ERADICATION INITIATIVE

A Brilliant Message: End Polio Now

Photo Of Sydney Opera House with 'End Polio Now' floodlit on the buildingFrom Sydney's Opera House to Rome's Coliseum, from Cape Town's Table Mountain to New York's High Falls, Rotary's commitment to "End Polio Now" was lighting up the night sky. Every night during the last week in February this year - Rotary's 104th anniversary - floodlit messages across some of the world's most iconic landmarks called on the millions that see them to join the remarkable 20-year campaign to rid the world of polio. "By illuminating these historic landmarks with our pledge to end polio, Rotary clubs are announcing to the world that we will not stop until the goal is achieved," said Jonathan Majiyagbe, the Rotary Foundation's trustee chair.

"We hope people everywhere will see these words, either in person or through the media, and join with us and our partners in this historic effort to rid the world of polio once and for all."

This year, Rotary has committed to raising $200 million to be spent in support of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, a partnership spearheaded by WHO, Rotary International, the US Centers for Disease Control and UNICEF.

To see the full landmark slideshow go to: http://www.polioeradication.org/

Ed. Note: Since then the Bill & Melissa Gates Foundation have donated another $150 million to support the cause, dependent on Rotary raising the same amount. Now Polio Survivors all over the world need the same commitment to help them, and combat Post Polio Syndrome.

PHOTO: Mark Wallace/Rotary Down Under

KEYS FOR DISABLED TOILETS

The Group has recently had a number of requests from people who were anxious to obtain a Key for use of Disabled Toilets.

These can be obtained from:
J. Williams, Locksmith, 13A, Mercer Street, Dublin 2
Phone: 087-2438053 or Shop number: 01-4756307
Cost of Key is €14.50 + postage of €10.00
Total cost is €24.50.

Faces at the Conference 2009

Pauline Keyes is the lady in red!

Pauline Keyes is the lady in red!

Kay McShane, Larry Delahaunty, Anne Flannery and Sheila Hudson have a natter

Kay McShane, Larry Delahaunty, Anne Flannery and Sheila Hudson have a natter

Terry lays down the law for Ann and Patricia

Terry lays down the law for Ann and Patricia

Back to Top

BOOK CLUB

with Anne Shanahan
Thank you very much to all who brought along such a great selection of books to the Book Stand at the AGM. A big thank you to the members of the Limerick Group, especially Marie Boland and Helen Jordan who were kept busy all day, meeting and greeting and handing out twice as many book as last year! Well done Marie and Helen!

The following are titles that have been recommended by members:

  1. Book: Angels in my Hair
    Author: Lorna Byrne
    This is a beautiful book. I enjoyed every page. My best friend died two years ago. I am aware of her presences on a daily basis since reading this book. I can understand. She has joined the angels.

    Dolly Flanagan

  2. Book: It's All About Him
    Author: Colette Caddle
    With the health of her son always an issue and bills constantly flooding in, the last thing Dee Hewson needs is a visit from her ex-boyfriend and father of her child, not only did this man break her heart, he abused her trust too.
    Though she managed to pull the pieces of her life together and with a lot of love and hard work, changed her adored son, Sam, from a delicate toddler into a fun-loving four-year-old.
    Money worries are finally receding, there are some very interesting business opportunities on the horizon and she's even found love again with strong and reliable Conor.
    She wouldn't really jeopardize all that in order to reunite Sam with his father … would she?
    Great read would recommend it to all.

    Mairead Mathews

  3. Book: Guarding Maggie
    Author: Ellen McCarthy
    This novel set in Donegal. It is a rollercoaster of emotions. The story, about Maggie, a sixty year old woman living with her older brother quickly turns into a very abusive character of Maggie so well drawn - a sad lonely woman who made a big mistake in her life and has paid for it ever since. Her lost son turns up on the doorstep, so begins the strange mysterious telephone calls and even murder. You think you've worked it all out then another twist happens and you never know what to expect next. Suspense until the very last page.
    A fabulous debut novel I'd recommend this one to all.

    Mairead Mathews

  4. Book: One of our own
    Author: Hugh Weir
    My dear Anne,
    Thank you for my birthday present. Once again you found a book that is just the right one for me. I have had a great time travelling around my beloved home county of Clare in the company of Hugh Weir. Being a bit of an historian myself, I am familiar with many of the places mentioned in this book. As I turned the pages, I was once again wandering round the ruins of Quin Abbey (by the way, this was founded by one of our own McNamara clan), bringing visitors to Bunratty Castle and pointing out to them that Fireball McNamara was the main man long before the O'Briens had any say! Ennis, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Corofin, Sixmilebridge and of course my beloved Cratloe. Didn't we have great days fishing on the lakes at Dromore, Cloonmacken, Inchiquin and Trevaun.
    I was very interested in the history of Dromoland. You will remember many a good rabbit dinner as a child, thanks to my bit of poaching at Dromoland of a Sunday morning when the house was gone to church. There was no one better than your mother to dress a rabbit. Lord rest her soul.
    I really enjoyed going back in my mind to Killaloe and dropping in to your cousin Niall, now living at The Lookout on the Tipperary side. What a view! It would be a great artist indeed that could capture the constantly changing light over the hills of Clare. But best of all was to launch the "Mary Anne" (named after yourself and your sister) that wonderful 18ft wooden boat build by your uncle Tommy. I can hear the outboard purring sweetly as we trawl the whole day long. Do you remember Garrykennedy, Youghal Bay and Dromineer, then across to Scarriff and down to Inishcealtra and Tineranna Bay. Do you remember the day we were out fishing and the wind came up suddenly and the waves rose up and we were carried all the way down to Terryglass? Your Auntie Ellen was watching from the shore, with the picnic ready, and thought we were done for!
    This book brought me back to my youth when I spent many happy days fishing around Tineranna Bay. What it joy it was watching for the may-fly to rise. While the trout were few (we wouldn't touch the pike as you know) at least I was lucky occasionally. I remember your Auntie Ellen trying to suppress the smile as, like a great hunter, I proudly presented her with my 8oz trout for the dinner!
    As you know, they are all busy here preparing for my 97th birthday on Saturday. I am expecting yourself and Terry so don't let me down.
    Thank you again Anne for your thoughtful and most enjoyable gift.
    Your affectionate uncle

    Michael McNamara

Back to Top

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

Bray Group

Location: Ramada Hotel, Bray
Area: Sth. Dublin; Nth.Wicklow.
Convenor: Nuala Harnett
Dep. Convenor: Maggie Gillespie (primary contact)
Tel: 01 2862859 or 086 8582406
E-mail: tonygarrow@eircom.net
Meetings: Meets at 8 pm on the first Tuesday of most months from March to October

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Maggie a call.

In spite of the wonderful weather and the fact that the meeting was the day after the June Bank Holiday week-end, there was a good and enthusiastic attendance.

We discussed the Variety Show in which we took part at the AGM, and it was agreed, by those who performed in the show, that it was a very enjoyable and fulfilling experience for us. The fact of working together brought us closer together as a group and gave us the idea that it would be fun to work on another project in the future.
Nuala Harnett, Colour and Image Consultant, gave a talk on 'Looking Good, Feeling Good'. She pointed out to us that by making a little extra effort to look well, we feel better and have more confidence. When we are confident, we are more inclined to interact with people and to concentrate on them, rather than on ourselves. She gave us some tips that make it easier to have a simple co-ordinated total look. There was good audience participation and questions were asked and answered

One of our members, would like to go on a coach tour holiday, perhaps to the Lake District in England, and wondered if the PPSG would ever arrange a holiday for its members.

Our Summer Event was a lunch at the Glenview Hotel, Co. Wicklow, on Tuesday, 7th July. It was a great day!

Castleblayney Group

Location: Glencarn Hotel, Castleblayney
Area: Monaghan; Cavan; Louth.
Contact: Jim Murphy
Tel: 042-9371266
E-mail:
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly on Mondays at 3pm

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Jim a call.

John, Terry, Brendan, Dolly, Anne, Eamonn, Toni, Maireád, Jim, Marion, Bridie enjoy a cup of tea in BlaneyThe Castleblayney group has been meeting since October 2008. We have met about four times and are still at the stage of finding our feet. We have found that people are more interested, at the moment, to meet up with people who have had the same life experiences as themselves and we enjoy sharing self-help hints. Anne has been excellent in offering her support and through her participation we have been able to access information through the office in Dublin which has been of great benefit to our members. Those who attend are delighted to get information that they need and a social outlet with others with whom they have a shared history. We have a good attendance of family members and friends of survivors at our meetings and we are delighted with this.
Our last two meetings, on the 9th March and 28th April, were facilitated by Joan O' Donnell, the DFI regional representative, and this has proved very useful in getting us focused and helping us to plan for the year ahead. There was no shortage of ideas and suggestions from the group.

Our most recent meeting was on 8th June at 3pm and we were delighted to welcome a visit from our CEO Eamonn Farrell. Eamonn brought us up-to-date on the services and supports available to members and briefly outlined the progress of PLAN2010.

We look forward to many more meetings in Castleblayney and we are delighted to be up and running with Jim Murphy as our Convenor. If there are any members in the Louth/Monaghan/Cavan region who could make it to Castleblayney to join us we will be delighted to welcome you.
Jackie Minnock

Local fundraising

On the June bank holiday weekend the PPSG was granted a Church Gate Collection permit for Knockbridge and Kilkerely areas. Despite it being a bank holiday weekend we had a very successful result. Thanks are due to Jackie Minnock, - her husband Colm and children Ronan and Aoife who helped out on both days, and to Brendan Moore, also from the Castleblayney support group, who made this a very worthwhile effort. The fundraising from the North East is hoping for a boost in 2010 when we will apply for other Church Gate permits in other parts of the region. The assistance of members and their families in the region is always greatly appreciated.
Jim Murphy

Clare Group

Location: DPOC Ennis
Area: Clare
Convenor: Tom Gallery
Tel/fax: 086-3251251
E-mail: tgallery@eircom.net
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly on Wednesdays at 8 pm

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Tom call.

We held a meeting in the meeting room of the Disabled People of Clare. Ms. Josephine Keaveney, manager of the centre gave us a wonderful talk on the services they offer. Twelve of us went to St. Bridget's Gardens in Moycullen in Co. Galway for our summer outing on the 27th.June.

Tom Gallery

Back to Top

Cork Group

Location: Vienna Woods Hotel, Cork.
Area: Cork; Kerry.
Convenor: Evelyn Wainwright
Tel/fax: 021- 484 7313 or 086-882 9267
E-mail: evelyn99911@hotmail.com
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly on Wednesdays at 8 pm
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Evelyn a call.

Cork Gathering Post Polio Support Group

Wednesday March 11th brought us to our 2nd. gathering in 2009 ( excluding our night at the dogs ! ) I have to admit, with the weather up untl then not condusive to moving away from the fire, I wondered how many would attend ? However as the days drew nearer, Spring decided to poke her head around the corner, giving that extra little bit of energy and we had a great attendance and welcomed two new members, Marion Thompson and Noel Quin.

Evelyn with her bright approach and great attention to detail introduced the evening, giving details of the AGM booking arrangements and life membership details.

We finalised the fundraising ideas and cards were distributed for the June Marathon Sponsorship. The table Quiz was arranged for May 13th in the Vienna Woods Hotel.

Posters were distributed and boxes given out for shops to collect small change ( or large!). The CD is selling well. Tony Lyons told us about "Home Instead" - an organisation giving anything from a couple of hours a week to full 24 hours a day care. This seems ideal as staff are thoroughly screened and trained.
Our guest speaker for the night was Ruth Bray. She is a highly qualified Reiki teacher. This is a quite fascinating therapy as it can be applied with or without any physical touch. It is used for stress relief - many members found this very interesting and helpful and have signed up for her next visit.

Then came the welcome cup of tea/coffee and biscuits handed out by Michelle and Geraldine, who happened to have her birthday that day ! How many would give that up for polio survivors? There was plenty of time to chat in Vienna Woods Hotel, catching up on each others lives since our last time out together. We had a whip round for Michael and Anne (hotel manager) as they will be getting married shortly. W are very lucky to have the use of the hotel free of charge and were delighted to wish them well. However - all good things come to an end and then it was time to thank Ruth and Evelyn, bid our goodbyes and head home with plenty to think on after a great night out.

Sheila O'Sullivan

Re: Social with a difference

On Wed 13th May, a fund raising was held in Vienna Woods Hotel. Approx 80 people attended the occasion. There were four people to a table. It was an enjoyable night despite some of the questions having unusual answers. A large selection of prizes was donated for the draw and was very much appreciated. Along with the efforts of the volunteers, a big thanks you to all who make the effort to come.
For the first time we had a fundraising social it was a quiz night. Our grateful thanks to George O'Donovan and her Daughter Bobby who put so much work into making it a great success. George is one of the member's wives and has always helped out in so many ways.
Anne Burns came all the way from Dublin for the quiz; she has told me she enjoyed meeting up with the members and had a great night. Over 47 prizes were there for the raffle. These were gathered by so many members but let me tell you most of all by George her family and friends Well done again to all that helped out in anyway. Remember that what keeps the Cork group going are members helping out when needed. Thank you very much.
Gerard Feehan

Outing July 12th

Our outing this year was to the Blackrock Castle where we had a wonderful treat waiting for us. This is the international year of ASTRONOMY and there is no better place to find out what that is all about then to visit a place where you get to learn all about the universe. It was certainly a good fun day. At 5-pm approximately we had a meal at the Castle restaurant to help finish off the day and went home feeling wonderful.
Until the next SURVIVOR keep well and enjoy the summer.
Evelyn Wainwright

Visit to Blackrock Castle Observatory by Cork PPSG

Sunday July 12th 2009

The Cork Convenor, Evelyn Wainwright, arranged a visit to the Blackrock Castle Observatory for the Group's Summer Outing on the afternoon of Sunday July 12th. There were 34 members attended. After the atrocious weather so far this year the choice of such a venue by Evelyn was a very farseeing decision. However, for a change the weather was very kind during the afternoon, and although cloudy the rain held off apart from one heavy shower when the Group was in the Castle enjoying the various displays and the interactive theatre. These displays exhibited aspects of the Universe and the Earth both in the far distant past and the foreseeable future. In the interactive theatre there was an opportunity for the members to solve problems which would have faced them in space had they been astronauts. Afterwards, the Group was able to take advantage of the Castle Bar and Trattoria for the arranged evening meal. As the name suggests most of the food consisted of Italian dishes, although there were chicken and salmon main courses available for those of us who were not so adventurous. The meal was delicious and well cooked, well prepared and presented, and it appeared that everyone enjoyed themselves. To finish off there was a free raffle with some excellent prizes. The whole outing went off extremely well, and the members now wait for the next gathering arranged by Evelyn, which is the 'Chill-Out Day' in September, full details of which will be sent to Cork Group members.
by Sheila O'Sullivan

Dublin All Hallows/Finglas Group

Location: All Hallows College, Drumcondra
Area: North Dublin
Contact: Eddie Roycroft
Tel/fax 087-2800010
Meetings: Last Wednesday of the month. Daytime
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Eddie a call.

Achievements and plans

The All Hallows PPSG has gone from strength to strength since it was set up year and a half ago. It is a credit to our members who have shown such enthusiasm and interest in making this group strong and organised and we intend to keep it that way. I cannot emphasise enough the help and support we have received from the PPSG in Head Office, especially Eamonn and Lillian and our co-ordinator Margaret McCarthy. They have been the key to making our Group successful and keeping us on our "toes"

As a Group of about 17 members we meet in the All Hallows College in Drumcondra, Dublin on the last Wednesday of every month. These meetings are always well attended, about 12 to 13 people in attendance each month and they can be very lively and informative. This gives members an opportunity to make new friends and chat about their various problems and worries to people who have similar difficulties.

During the year we have met on a number of social occasions. We have visited the Dail, Botanic Gardens and met in member's houses for a little chat over tea and buns, to name a few events. We also have some members attending art courses every Monday from 1pm to 2.30pm. Members have produced lots of art pieces, such as: paintings, clay models sculptures, stained glass and lamps. The course is held in the library in Finglas and has been a great success, continuing on until the end of the year. We hope to exhibit our masterpieces in the near future so watch this space. The art course provides instruction in painting; sculpture in clay, model making, glass painting, and anything else your imagination can come up with.

We have plans to visit Farmleigh House, the Race Track and a weekend away.

Another idea we have come up with is the "Buddy System" within our Group. Its aim is to keep communications open between members. Each member is given a buddy with telephone number and they ring or contact their buddy regularly to see that things are ok in their lives or if they can help in anyway. It is up to each member to keep in contact. For example, if any member was in the hospital, their buddy can inform other members and arrange to visit them.

At some of our meetings we invited guests to give talks on various subjects that might be of interest to our members. For example, we had a talk and a session on chair/yoga exercise and that was very helpful. We had a representative from the patient/hospital welfare board give us a talk on our entitlements. Also, a representative from the Alsa Leisure Centre in Santry demonstrated the Infra -Red Massage bed. This was of great interest to some of our members and we hope to organise a few sessions very shortly. As you can see, we have been very busy.
On a personal note I would like to say that the All Hallows Finglas Group has been very successful in keeping people in contact with each other. Sharing similar problems makes it easy to talk with other polio survivors, which we have found to be very helpful. I have made new friends and I feel I can give back something to the Group and to get involved with people. Most people have similar views and have found the Group informative, supportive, and a great way of forming new friendships.

The most important aim of PPSG and our Group is to keep communications open and we intend to do that.

Bridget Quigley O'Brien

Back to Top

Dublin South/West Group

Photo of Dublin South West GroupLocation: Maldron Hotel, Tallaght. (Formerly The Tower Hotel)
Area: Dublin south and west.
Contact : Frank Clancy: 087-9461129 or Pat Guy: 01-4566581. 087-6416472
E-mail: patwguy@gmail.com
Meetings: 4 or 5 times yearly on a Tuesday. Time: Alternating between afternoon and evening meetings.

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Pat a call.

It was great to see such a large number attend our first meeting on the 24th of March. Unfortunately, we were unable to get a room to ourselves as the hotel was extremely busy. It was a very lively and enthusiastic gathering. Thanks are due to Joan Bradley, Anne Burns, Lillian McElvaney and Margaret McCarthy who came along to support and answer questions. Joan kept things lively with a few timely jokes!
Our second meeting was held on 25th May at 2:30pm. Again there was good attendance and several apologies from people unable to come due to work commitments.

Photo of Dublin Francis, Sandra and Anne sorting the agendaOur most recent meeting was held on July 6th at 7:30pm, with many apologies all around for those who were unable to make it due to holidays.

Anne Burns, Chairperson of the Social Support Committee, joined us, and she was welcomed by several friends. We were delighted to welcome four new members. There was great excitement when two members met again after thirty years. This was a very sociable, relaxed meeting. Several people volunteered to help organise future events.

The next meeting will be held on the Monday 31st of August at 7:30pm. All are welcome.

Anne Shanahan

Dublin Swords Group

Location: Carnegie Court Hotel
Area: North Dublin
Contact: Joe McGee
Tel/fax 086-8137195
Meetings: Monthly. Daytime.

Photo of Dublin Swords Group: Joe, Alice Crowe, Tony and DennisIf you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Joe a call.

A social meeting was held in June. Eddie and Bridget from the All Hallows group joined us. We decided to hold our next meeting in the evening on the first of July. We were joined by Anne Shanahan (Regional Support Officer.) We enjoyed the chat and there was no shortage of news and views on many topics! A summer outing was discussed and we agreed to tie in with the All Hallows group for a summer picnic in Ardgillan Castle on 28th July - weather permitting.

We are hoping to launch the "Buddy System" in the autumn. We would welcome new members to our group, so if you are interested, give me a ring.
Joe McGee


Enniscorthy Group

Location: Riverside Hotel, Enniscorthy
Area: Sth. Wicklow; Wexford; Waterford.
Convenor: Povl Thim
Tel: 053-942 1857 or 086-810 7598
E-mail: povlthim@gmail.com
Meetings: Meets at 8 pm on the first Monday of most months

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Povl a call.
We have experimented a little with the time and day for our monthly meetings, as most of our 'steadies' would like to have a try.

We have held our meetings on Tuesday afternoons, (first Tuesday of the month, from 2.30 pm) at our normal venue, the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy. Well, we have to admit it did not work out as we had hoped, so we will now revert to our old schedule of the first Monday of the month, from 8pm. However we will not meet in July and August, due to the Summer holidays.

Our next meeting will be on Monday the 1st September 2009 at 8pm (20.00 hrs.) All members in the area will be notified with the schedule for the Autumn period up to December.

Povl Thim

Back to Top

Galway Group

Location: Menlo Park Hotel, Galway
Area: Galway; Sth. Mayo.
Convenor: Bridie McMahon
Tel: 087-958 0567
E-mail: sbmcmahon70@eircom.net
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly on Wednesdays at 8 pm

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Bridie a call.

We had our Social Support Group meeting on the 9th March in the Menlo Park Hotel Galway and we had a speaker from the Irish Osteoporosis Society; she advises us all to have a scan done.
After the talk we had a cup of tea and chat.

Barbara McDonagh.

Kerry Group

Area: Kerry; West Limerick
Convenor: Dolly Lawlor
Tel: 066-718 5475 or 087-2043795
Meetings: Sunday afternoon.
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Dolly a call.

Photo - Dolly welcomes Evelyn to TraleeNine members attended our first meeting in Tralee in April. We were expecting a larger attendance – so next time we will try not to clash with important local sports fixtures! Some people travelled a long distance and as the group was small there was time for everyone to have their say.

Evelyn Wainwright and husband Terry came all the way from Cork to help get this first meeting launched and since Evelyn is known to almost everyone in the Cork/Kerry region we got off to a good start. We had plenty of suggestions about how best to go forward with this group. The staff at the Manor West Hotel was very attentive and we all enjoyed the freshly made scones.

Our second meeting was on Sunday 28th June at 2:30 PM. We are taking a break for the summer months, and our next meeting will be in October, when we hope to have an interesting speaker.

Dolly Lawlor

Kilkenny Group

Location: Days Hotel, Kilkenny
Area: Kilkenny, Waterford, South Tipperary
Convenor: Susan Dowling
Tel: 059 9726998
E-mail: dowlingsl@eircom.net
Meetings: 4-5 times a year on Mondays at 7.30 p.m.

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Susan a call.

Following the Christmas break, the next meeting of the group was arranged for 23rd February at the Days Hotel, Kilkenny. Anne Shanahan had been in contact with the Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI), who offered support to PPSG Social Support Groups. As Kilkenny is a relatively new group, it was decided to take advantage of their kind offer. P.J Cleere, Support Officer for the South East was invited to the meeting to facilitate a discussion about the future of the group. P.J. encouraged those present to say what they hoped to gain from attending meetings as well as the role of the Convenor, the venue, frequency, day and time that meetings would take place in the future and the form that they might take. It was agreed that the next meeting would be given over to identifying some topics which are of interest to Polio Survivors and having some discussion on these issues. P.J. agreed to attend the next meeting and lead the discussion once more.

The next meeting took place on 27th April. P.J. Cleere invited people to suggest topics which they would like to discuss and the following 5 topics were put forward:

P.J. divided those present into 4 groups and gave each group a topic for discussion: he set up a 5th group himself for Access and Transport. Following some discussion, people were invited to move to another group and so participate in a discussion on a different topic. There was much lively chat and exchange of ideas and experiences.

Susan Dowling

Back to Top

Letterkenny Group

Location: Letterkenny
Area: Donegal; Derry
Convenor: John Mangan
Tel: 074-9137465
Meetings: To be arranged
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give John a call.

Limerick Group

Location: Greenhills Hotel, Limerick
Area: Limerick; East Clare; Nth.Tipperary.
Convenor: Marie Boland
Tel: 061-417928. 086-87771400
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly on Mondays at 7.30pm

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Marie a call.

We had our third meeting on Monday 2nd March at the Greenhills Hotel. We were delighted to welcome our CEO Eamonn Farrell and also Anne, the Regional Support Officer. There was great attendance of members and also some family, friends and carers. We all enjoyed Eamonn's talk which had plenty of light-hearted banter mixed in with the business of what goes on in the Head Office. He talked about the services and supports available to members and pointed out that while we are all conscious of the changing economic climate, this should not prevent members from contacting the office if they find themselves in need of support.
Eamonn brought us up-to-date on the progress of PLAN 2010 and answered questions from the members. This was followed by the usual refreshments and general chat.

Our 4th meeting took place on 26th May. Unfortunately, our guest speaker Toni Gleeson from DFI was unable to attend. Instead, we divided into 3 groups and discussed ideas and suggestions for future meetings. One suggestion was to arrange an outing to Killaloe in June and there were several suggestions regarding interesting speakers for the Autumn. We have a very enthusiastic group and we welcome any members who can conveniently travel to The Greenhills Hotel Limerick to join us. They can be sure of a Céad Míle Fáilte.
Marie Boland

Mayo Group

Location: The Courthouse Hotel
Area: Ballina; Belmullet; Westport.
Convenor: Bridie McMahon
Tel: 087-9580567
E-mail: sbmcmahon70@eircom.net
Meetings: Meets twice yearly on Wednesdays at 8pm
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Bridie call.
All quiet in the West - elections seemed to take over these past few weeks.
We hope to have a day out on 15th August in Turlough House, Museum of Country Life.
Fundraising: We had a Church gate collection in Claremorris, with takings of €941.00
Bridie McMahon

Midland (Athlone) Group

Location: Cregan Court Hotel, Athlone
Area: Westmeath; Roscommon; E. Galway
Convenor: Seán Mulligan
Tel: 087-2053821
E-mail: j2smulligan@eircom.net
Meetings: Meets twice yearly at 8pm

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Seán a call.

A meeting was held on the evening of March 6th 2009 in The Creggan Court Hotel, Athlone.
The guest speaker was Ms. Clare Kinahan, a qualified Pharmacist from Moate, Co Westmeath. (daughter of Jimmy, one of our members).

The meeting, chaired by Seán Mulligan, commenced at 8 o'clock and the following items were discussed before Clare's presentation:

  1. Change of venue for AGM, to the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght, the same week-end as was previously planned.
  2. The Mini Marathon, Dublin on Bank Holiday Monday, June 1st. Entry forms are appearing in the Evening Herald at present. Members were encouraged to participate in this Fund Raising event. Jimmy Kinahan, a member of the Fund Raising Committee, spoke and encouraged people to take part in the Mini Marathon, also the importance of funds at this time.
  3. The membership fee of €10.
  4. Polio Eradication: Global Polio Eradication Initiative, "To End Polio Now"
  5. The Newsletter "Survivor"
  6. The Annual Survey.

Firstly, I think it's worth looking at a short background to Clare herself. She is a qualified Pharmacist from Trinity College Dublin. In the year 2000 Clare developed an interest in Alternative Therapies and she travelled extensively in Asia. She has been awarded a Licentiate in Traditional Chinese Medicine and in Acupuncture by the
Acupuncture Foundation of Ireland. She also has a Certificate in Yoga Teacher Training, by Atma Vikasa Mysore in India and has participated in silent Vipassana meditation retreats in Thailand, India, England, and Ireland and

practiced in a Buddhist Monastery in Myanmar (Burma).
At this point, Clare was called on to make her presentation. Her talk provided three methods of subtly manipulating energy flow in our bodies for our well-being: namely; ACUPUNCTURE, YOGA, and MEDITATION.
The following is a condensed account of the three aspects of which Clare spoke:

Acupuncture

The basis of acupuncture is the belief that energy flows through the body along particular pathways, which can become obstructed. By inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body, these energy flows can be improved and better health restored. Auriculotherapy (ear), which involves the placement of tiny needles in the ears (where key energy flow routes converge), has demonstrated great benefits in the treatment of nerve related problems in post-polio sufferers.

Yoga

The basis of Yoga is similar to that of acupuncture. Yogis believe that there are two forms of energy within us: the body is maintained by life force, and mind is maintained by mental force. When you practice yoga postures, they exert mild pressure on the six important junctions in the spinal passage to balance these energies. Whatever the origin of a disease is, man's body and mind both suffer at the same time. Post polio survivors showed significant improvement in areas of fatigue, weakness and pain at the end of a 12 week programme of practicing gentle yoga postures.

Meditation

Vipassana meditation, which means 'to see things as they really are', is one of the most ancient techniques of meditation taught by the Buddha as a universal remedy for universal ills. Vipassana is a way of self-transformation through self–observation. It focuses on the deep interconnection between mind and body, which can be experienced directly by disciplined attention to the physical sensations that continuously interconnect and condition the mind. It is this self-exploratory journey that dissolves mental impurity, resulting in a balanced mind and may alleviate many physical disease states.
During the presentation and tea-break, there was great participation by all present, by means of comment and questions.

Clare is contactable at Clare Kinahan clarekinahan@yahoo.co.uk
Seán Mulligan closed the meeting by thanking Clare for her excellent presentation and, judging by the audience's enthusiasm, she put across difficult topics in a most interesting and understandable manner.

Seán Mulligan

Newbridge Group

Location: Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge
Area: Carlow; Kildare
Convenor: Paddy Moyles
Tel: 059-914 1283 (Evenings)
Meetings: Meets three to four times yearly at 8pm
If you would like to attend these social meetings, please give Paddy a call.

Ten Pin Bowling at the K Club Newbridge

In conjunction with the 'Kildare Sports Partnership (KSP)', the Newbridge branch of the Post Polio Support Group entered a team for a meeting held from 11 to 12pm on March 10th. Our four member team competed against opposition drawn from a wide range of organisations.
This initial meeting was run on a trial basis, to see what limitations might be imposed by contestants' disabilities and, more importantly, how these limitations could be overcome with the help of the KSP and the K Club. Some of the concessions made were:

All members managed to play a very enjoyable ten pin game and achieved good average scores for first timers. After the game the team met up for tea and a chat.

The KSP have organised future meetings to run every four to six weeks. These are open to all PPSG members in the Kildare area.
Vincent Scully

Portlaoise Group

Location: Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise.
Area: Offaly; Laois; Nth. Kilkenny.
Convenor: Paddy Fitzpatrick
Tel: 0505-46738
E-mail: paddyfitz3@eircom.net
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly at 8 pm.
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Paddy a call.

We held a meeting in April and we all enjoyed seeing friends again and catching up on the news. We also had a meeting on Tuesday 9th June at 8pm. We discussed the possibility of arranging a summer outing or maybe a dinner.

New members and visitors are always welcome.

Paddy Fitzpatrick

Sligo Group

Location: City Hotel, Sligo
Area: Sligo; Sth. Donegal; Nth. Leitrim; Nth. Roscommon.
Convenor: Brian Crummy
Tel: 071-9160404
Meetings: To be arranged
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Brian a call.

New meetings starting

Donegal – September.
Navan – October.
Anyone interested in helping to get these groups started please contact Anne Shanahan 01 2953630

Back to Top

Cork City Marathon 2009

by Ray Linehan

Photo of Ray LinehanWithout doubt this year's Cork City Marathon, 1 June 2009, will be remembered somewhat as a war of attrition. With temperatures soaring in the mid twenties, the sun-baked streets took their toll on many marathon runners with up to 20% of the full distance athletes not making it to the finishing line. The tropical temperatures increased the number of cases of foot blisters, dehydration and sunstroke, which kept the medical services and personnel on the course and in some of the Cork Hospitals busy for the day. There were a record number of entries this year in both the individual and team relay events. A total of 1269 people completed the full marathon and 1139 relay teams closed out the course.

Two teams represented the Post Polio Support Group in Cork. Team 1 called "Toad Runners", (don't ask!) comprised of Rosaline Kelly, Ray Linehan, Charles Russell, Colin O'Brien and Jimmy Hill (not the footballing legend) and posted quite a brisk time of 4:00:27. Team 2, named "Toad Runners Too" (don't ask again!!), consisted of Peter Kelly, Tony O'Donnell, Martin Mulcahy, Kevin Coughlan and Michael O'Sullivan and finished hot on the heels of Team 1 with a time of 4:11:58.

Due to the nature of my own 'polio affliction' most of my training consisted of hour-long swimming sessions three times a week and bi-weekly 2 hour cycles. Not much running there, which kept me off my own 'left foot', but I did quite a few long walks and shorts jogs in the weeks coming up to the big day. A few close friends gave me a bit of a ribbing about my training regime saying my main preparation was "staying off the beer the night before!" They won't like to hear this but they were well wide of the mark as I did have a bottle of Miller with my dinner. This year I selected the stage from Silver Springs hotel in Tivoli to Ringmahon Road, going through the Jack Lynch Tunnel en route. This section measured 5.5 miles and I jogged most of the way in a time of 55 minutes. From there I quickly made my way into Patrick Street, collecting my camera along the way to get a few shots at the finishing line.

Photo of Colin O’Brien, Michael O’Sullivan and Tony O’DonnellI was just there as Michael Herlihy (28), a native of Charleville competing in his first ever marathon, broke the tape in a time of 2 hours, 30 minutes and 36 seconds. When interviewed he stated, "I am really thrilled. I kind of entered at the last minute. To win a marathon at the first time of asking is unbelievable and even more so in the hot conditions that were out there today. It is a great honour, especially here at home in Cork." Meanwhile, the first woman over the finish line was last year's winner, Lucy Brennan (50) from Sligo in a time of 2 hours, 51 minutes and 25 seconds. "It was great to come here and regain my title for the second year," she said. "This is marathon number 15 for me. The support in Cork is fantastic and is hard to beat." Jerry Forde from Blarney won the Wheelchair event in a time of 4 hours 50 minutes and 34 seconds.

Of course for the spectators the conditions were ideal, balmy weather combined with pulsating street bands performing along the route and in the city centre contributing to a carnival-style atmosphere. Local heroine and much-loved athlete Sonia O'Sullivan participated in the Team Relay event and brought home the baton (wrist band) to the delight of the massive crowd in Patrick Street. Other celebrities taking part this year included Cork Hurling Maestro Joe Deane, Cork Footballing Star Anthony Lynch and Super Hero Spiderman.

However my own heroes and heroines this year were the people who fund-raised and collected for the many worthy charities around the county and country. People like Jim O'Donovan, Gerard Feehan, Sheila O'Sullivan, Sunny Osbourne, Phil O'Reilly, Tom Lane, Finbarr Bruen, Ann Beale, Siobhán Jackson, Breda Healy and Evelyn & Terry Wainwright, the people who 'manned the stands' or filled sponsorship cards for the PPSG cause. If in terms of fund-raising for this event there was a Man-of-the-Match award then there could only be one winner – a man who spent many, many, hours at both Cork University Hospital and Barry Collins Supermarket collecting pledges - John O'Connor – A Real Marathon Man!

Personally I would like to thank all the runners from the two teams for participating in this year's event, Charles Russell, Martin Mulcahy, Colin O'Brien, Michael O'Sullivan, Tony O'Donnell, Kevin Coughlan, Jimmy Hill and husband and wife Peter and Rosaline Kelly. And finally I would like to pay tribute to Richard Kelly, Security Officer at Barry Collins, who proved extremely kind and generous to John during his two-day stint at the Supermarket. Roll On 2010.

Dublin Flora Women's MiniMarathon 2009.

By Joan Bradley & Her Sombrero

Photo Of Joan in her sombreroHot, Hot, Hot. I believe that is the sound one should use when calling sheep, but it describes the Dublin Women's MiniMarathon. Even the tar on the road melted. About 50 took part on behalf of the Post Polio Support Group. Thanks to all who sponsored us; for the money already in and coming in. The office is always glad to accept such, no matter how late, but please do not send cash. I set out with 3 pushing my wheelchair, but we lost one half way; we did not see her again.

When I realised that the day might be warm, I found I had no sun hat. My delicate skin would burn up and my brain would overheat. After a fruitless search in local shops, my cousin agreed, on the phone, to loan me one but she said it was rather large. Large it was, 20 " in diameter, as wide as my wheelchair; it was a Mexican hat. How could one move through a crowd in that? However, it had a chin strap so I donned it and we set out. All was well until I saw balloons, responding to the thermals from all the bodies, soaring overhead, I then tightened the strap.

Considering the heat of the day not many fainted as far as I could see. One collapsed within the first 50 yards; she was on the road in a beautiful white outfit, hopefully not in the melting tar. Only 3 ambulances, in total, had to pass us and I saw no casualty displaying our logo. The event was completed in a slightly longer time than usual, with most entrants reaching the end. I can assure you I completed it, but only for the Mexican hat!!!

Photo of Deirdre Horan, Una Fallon, Felicity Kelly

Photo - Minister Moloney receives the written report on the polio Survivors work in North Dublin

Back to Top

EMOTIONAL STRESS IN POLIO SURVIVORS AND POST-POLIO SEQUELAE

By Richard L. Bruno, PhD

Emotional stress is the second most frequent cause of Post Polio Syndrome (PPS) symptoms, causing fatigue in 61% of polio survivors, muscle pain in 51% and muscle weakness in 45% (Bruno & Frick, 1987; Bruno, et al., 1991). Polio Survivors report other symptoms of chronic stress, including trouble falling asleep because "their minds are racing" in 58%, frequent feelings of anxiety (49%) and a frequency of ulcers that is 80% higher than in the general population (Bruno & Frick 1987; Bruno 1995a).

There appears to be two sources of Polio Survivors' stress: having had Polio and having PPS.

Stress and Polio

Three North American surveys and two clinical studies of more than 2,200 Polio Survivors found 23% more "Type A" behaviour – being hard driving, time conscious, pressured and over-achieving – as compared to those without disabilities or those who have Spina-Bifida, a physical disability apparent at birth (Bruno & Frick, 1987; Bruno, et al., 1991; Creange & Bruno, 1887, Frick, 1997). It should not be a surprise that Polio Survivors also have more years of education, work more hours of overtime and take fewer sick days than do non-disabled workers (Bruno, et al., 1991; Bruno & Frick, 1987; 1989; Lomberg, 1993).

"Type A" behaviour (TAB) seems to have developed in Polio Survivors as an attempt to prevent abuse (Bruno & Frick, 1989). Polio Survivors who were emotionally, physically or sexually abused as a result of their Polio related disability are at least 15% more sensitive to the criticism of others and more ready to believe that they are failures than Polio Survivors who had not been abused or those without disabilities (Frick, 1987). The more sensitive Polio Survivors are to criticism and failure, the more "Type A" they are and less likely they are to agree to complete or even begin PPS treatment programme (Bruno, 1995b; Bruno & Frick, 1995; Frick, 1997).

Whether or not TAB actually did protect against criticism, failure or abuse, it has taken a heavy toll on Polio Survivors. Post polio fatigue and muscle pain are more common in "Type A" Polio Survivors, as are trouble in falling asleep, frequent headaches, neck pain, back pain, or muscle spasm (Bruno & Frick, 1987; Schanke, 1998).

"Type A" Polio Survivors are less likely to agree to be evaluated for PPS and are less willing to take rest breaks during the day to treat PPS (Creange & Bruno, 1997; Frick, 1997).

What's more, many Polio Survivors' stress response system is compromised. Polio Survivors with fatigue do not release enough ACTH in response to stress (Bruno, et al., 1995b). ACTH is a hormone produced by a part of the brain damaged by the Polio virus that activates the brain and turns on the body's stress "breaking" system (Bodian, 1949). Sp Polio Survivors with fatigue are less able to activate their brain and concentrate when they need it most, that is when under stress.

Distress and PPS

Unexpected and disabling PPS symptoms occurring in the prime of life are understandably a cause of distress (Frick, 1985; Frick & Bruno, 1986). And Polio Survivors do have "significant psychological distress" and symptoms of depression (Bruno & Frick, 1991; Conrady, et al., 1989). Interestingly distress and depression are not caused by PPS symptoms themselves, but when new symptoms cause the loss of functional abilities necessary to work, socialise and participate in family life, or when Polio Survivors believe that their PPS symptoms are beyond their control and will progress (Schanke, 1997; Kemp, et al., 1997; Conrady, et al., 1989, Diard, et al., 1994; Mullins, et al., 1995; Kirsh, et al., 1989; Peterson, et al., 1989).

Depression is more common in Polio Survivors who have less social and family support to help them deal with functional loss (Tate, et al., 1994). A lack of family support is also related to Polio Survivors not completing or even beginning a treatment for PPS (Creange & Bruno, 1994). Using crutches or a wheelchair is associated with Polio Survivors feeling inadequate as family members, while embarrassment about having an obvious disability is associated with the refusal to use assistive devices necessary to treat PPS (Creange & Bruno, 1997; Bruno & Frick, 1987).

Both stress and distress must be addressed if Polio Survivors are to make the lifestyle changes and use assistive devices necessary to manage PPS.

It is recommended that all patients of post-polio receive a psychological assessment as well as individual and group psychotherapy to teach "more effective coping behaviours", decrease TAB and help deal with past abuse and feelings of inadequacy, embarrassment and sensitivity to criticism and failure to prevent Polio Survivors from treating their PPS (Bruno & Frick, 1991; Conrady, et al., 1989; Tate, et al., 1994).
Richard L. Bruno, PhD is chairperson of the International Post-Polio Task Force and Director of The Post-Polio Institute and The International Center for Post-Polio Education and Research at Englewood (New Jersey, USA) Hospital and Medical Center.

Reprinted from Forward Motion, Florida, USA, June, 2007

Photo of Paula on her scooterTravels with my Scooter - By Paula Lahiff

Two of the things on my 'bucket list' – you know that list of things you have to do before you 'kick the bucket' – was to visit the Chelsea Flower Show in London and to take a trip on the Eurostar train from London to Paris through the Channel Tunnel. So having done my homework online, and having booked all through the Internet with my credit card, my better-half and I were all ready to go.
We had decided to travel by ferry to Holyhead and by train from there to Euston, so that we could bring the electric scooter. Yes, I know we could have flown Ryanair, but we wanted to have the freedom that the ferry brings.
Train from Sligo to Dublin was no problem and a taxi brought us to Dublin Port, although we were left at the wrong terminal and had to walk about a mile to get to Stenaline. Thank God for a fully charged scooter and a suitcase on wheels! The ferry was very comfortable and we found ourselves in first class by default. We didn't complain!
We had to change trains at Chester, and we had met a very interesting fellow-traveller, who insisted on helping us get the scooter up on both trains, buying us a cup of tea, and telling us his life story all the way to London. I find that the vast majority of people are so nice and more than willing to assist.

Our hotel was lovely – with a fully accessible room. The only problem here was that the wet floor area was more than that –with the water from the shower going all over the bathroom floor and into the bedroom until we realised that we had to put one of the towels down to create a barrier. We brought this to the attention of management, who agreed that the slope in the floor was not steep enough. I have seen this problem in lots of places.

The Chelsea Flower Show was something else again! We got a special ticket for people with disabilities – with the better-half going free. We were fast-tracked through all queues, and the organisers had gone to great lengths to make everything accessible. The show gardens, the floral displays, the demonstrations and the stalls were everything and more that I hoped it would be. We bought lots of seeds and got good advice on growing vegetables, making raised beds, when to plant, etc. The better-half was in his element!

Then it was on to the next adventure – the Eurostar to Paris. It was just like checking in on a plane, and as soon as they saw the scooter, the ramp was arranged and again we travelled first class as this seemed to be the only carriage with a wheelchair space. Apparently we were travelling at 190 miles per hour, although there was no sensation of speed. Then we entered the Channel Tunnel, and you could feel yourself going down and down – pity we could not look out at the fishes (I know, I know!) – but all was dark outside and 20 minutes later we emerged on the other side – in France. The whole journey took two and a half hours and we were in the middle of Paris before we knew it. Having spent a year in this beautiful city when we were young, we were happy to just stroll along and re-visit old haunts. We saw the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower. We had lunch in the restaurant where the better-half had worked all those years ago, and met a good friend whom we knew from that time. Of course, we had to eat moules-frites (mussels and chips), and drink a ca-ca (a café calvados) for old time's sake. It was so good just to breathe in the sounds and smells – which brought back so many good memories of times gone by. All pavements were dipped, and the only thing we had to worry about was making sure we had enough charge in the scooter to get back to the hotel. In fact, we were allowed to recharge while we had lunch. It is amazing what happens when you ask nicely!

We travelled back to London the next day, and spent a day on the Big Bus Tour, where were got on and off at various tourist spots – we even went up on the London Eye and had a magnificent bird's eye view of the city. Again there was no problem with the scooter, with every bus fitted with a ramp. The London taxis were also accessible with the scooter fitting in without even having to be disassembled.

All in all it was a great holiday, and I would recommend it for those who use a small electric scooter on the one condition that you have a strong companion who can manhandle it everywhere, as I was lucky enough to have – and of course, don't forget the charger!

That's two things crossed off the 'bucket list' – what's next?

Back to Top

Heuston Station Buggy Problems

Following difficulties encountered by some delegates using Heuston Station in Dublin when travelling to the 2009 Annual Conference, the Chief Executive, Eamonn Farrell, took up the matter of why the buggy service had been withdrawn for use by those with difficulty in walking – the response he received from Ionrod Éireann is reproduced below:

Mr Eamonn Farrell
Chief Executive
Post Polio Support Group, Ireland
Unit 319 Capel Building
Mary's Abbey
Dublin 7
Date: 8th July 2009
Our Ref: 09.46.2252.01

Dear Mr Farrell
From the outset I offer my sincerest apologies for the delay in responding to your query regarding the buggy and alternative methods of assistance available at Heuston station.

With the introduction of the validation barriers at Heuston station in April of this year, the buggy, which had up to that point been used to provide assistance for any person who might require it, was removed from service as part of the risk assessment undertaken. Currently we are in the process of determining as to whether the buggy can be re-introduced to service in the near future.

We also provide assistance when required through the use of wheelchairs. Passengers who require assistance when travelling are advised to contact their departure station as soon as possible prior to travel, informing Iarnród Éireann staff of the date and time of travel and their destination, thus allowing us to have assistance readily available at both the departure and arrival stations and also on board the service travelled upon. If a person is unsure of their local stations number, a full list of all stations within the Iarnród Éireann network is available at www.irishrail.ie/your_journey/your_station.asp.

If a person is departing from Heuston station, they may contact the Customer Service Information Desk on 01 7033299, again providing all the relevant details and the Customer Service Team will ensure that the appropriate level of assistance is offered. In the event that a person who requires assistance is unable to contact Iarnród Éireann via telephone or email prior to travelling, they (or a companion) should approach the nearest staff member at the departure station (or the Customer Information Desk in Heuston) and inform them they require assistance. This will then allow the staff to ensure appropriate assistance is given at all times throughout the journey with Iarnród Éireann.

Once again I would like to apologise for the delay in responding to you regarding your query and I hope that this information is of use to you. Should you have any further queries regarding this matter, please have no hesitation in contacting by post / email or telephone at the number listed above.

Yours sincerely,

David Bettles
Customer Relations Department,
Southern & Western.

LETTERS TO EDITOR

Dear Editor,
Congratulations on the Spring 2009 issue of "The SURVIVOR". It is beautifully presented and the content is very comprehensive. The painting on the cover is inspirational. How clever of you to seek it out and get permission to use it!

The survey done on 'What do we think as a group?' is very interesting and a very worthwhile study. A huge amount of work must have gone into it and those responsible are to be commended. Maggie Gillespie is 'a saint' to have analysed all the questionnaires and compiled the answers.

The PPSG organisation is doing a wonderful job. To ask all our members what they require and need, and then to try and fulfill all these requirements is a huge task and yet, they continually strive to do so.

Through The Survivor, we are all kept informed, both by professionals and fellow polio survivors, of different ways to help us along the way in coping with Post Polio Syndrome. Also they give us advice as to WHERE AND FROM WHOM to get help when needed. It is a wonderful publication and unites us all.

Fundraising and seeking funds from various sources must be a most challenging job, but yet we are lucky enough to have people who steadfastedly do it for us. They are marvellous people. A note of caution - it is very, very difficult to obtain this money, so we all must be very careful as to how we spend it. I, personally, greatly appreciate all the very hard work our fundraising committee do for us.

Nuala Harnett

Dear Editor
Observer Magazine (p.11), 29 March 2009, 'This much I know' page had as its subject the historian of Tudor England - David Starkey with this quote:

"I was born a cripple, with two club feet, and mild polio in the left leg. I was in orthopaedic boots right through my teenage years and, unfortunately, the fashion then was for light shoes. I discovered very quickly that I had a sharp mind and an exceedingly sharp tongue."

Can you be born with polio?

In future if I am taken to task for my quick tongue - I have my excuses.

Regards
Ciaran Nicholson

Back to Top

Tying the Knot

Two of our members were married recently. Anne Marie Maguire and Paul Mc Evoy celebrated their wedding with their many friends. Their witnesses were Joan Gargan, also a member of the Group, and Pat Shannon, one of Paul's oldest friends. We wish all the best to you both!

Photo of Anne Marie Maguire and Paul Mc Evoy on their wedding day


Tea at all hallows

We had a sad gathering in All Hallows saying goodbye to Margaret Mc Carthy but at the same time a great pride in telling Minister John Moloney, Minister of State for Disabilities, of the great work which had been done by Polio Survivors in North Dublin.

Photo of John Maloney Photo of Margaret delivering final words

NORTH DUBLIN PROJECT

Photo of Phil Brophy with her paintingOne of the outcomes of the project was the "art squad" – all with talents that could rival the international artist "Banksie".  The cover for this edition was painted by Phil Brophy.  It is our intention to highlight more of the art squad's work in forthcoming editions of "The SURVIVOR"


 

THREE GENERATIONS OF MARATHONERS

Pamela Dillon, one of our newer members from North Dublin, did the Mini Marathon this year. She was in a chair which was pushed by her daughter Edel. Not to be outdone, Marie Healy, Pamela's mother and Edel's grandmother took part. The three generations crossed the line together at one hour and a half-no mean achievement! They asked that we thank all their supporters who ran with them and all who sponsored them.

Outbreak

Congratulations to Rose, Willie and Donal on their perfomances on the recent Outbreak programme on RTE. It was a great boost to all polio Survivors to see you make such wonderful dignified statements about your lives.
Many polio Survivors were encouraged by the positive attitude that the three of you had to your lives and made enquiries to the office for the first time. Many just needed that little boost to get in touch and the strong performances from our new TV stars did the trick.
Great credit also to Janet and Eanya Gallagher of RTÉ for their careful and thoughtful production of the programme.

Back to Top

SKY REMOTE CONTROLS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

If you are a sky satellite subscriber Sky are giving a free sky remote control for people with visual impairments or dexterity problems. Sky Remote Controls.

There are two types:

The email address is: Accessible.CustomerService@BSkyB.com


The Conference in Tallaght

Didn't we all look bright and bushy tailed……at the startTHE POSTAGE FOR THIS EDITION OF "The SURVIVOR" HAS BEEN SPONSORED BY WHEELCHAIR CARS IRELAND OF Glasson, Co. Westmeath

Photo of Members attending the conference in Tallaght

 

 

 

Back to Top