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The Survivor Newsletter: Summer 2011

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FROM THE EDITOR

It is an un-seasonal summer’s day as I write this – cloudy with flurries of rain. Perhaps it’s to create an appropriate atmosphere in which to report that since the last edition of “The SURVIVOR” three of our most hard-working and popular members, Hugh Hamilton, Nuala Harnett and Breda Healy, have passed away. All three were well-known among members and held in the highest esteem by all. Their loss has affected everyone and they will be sorely missed. I do know that everyone joins with me in sending our heartfelt condolences to their families and friends and may they now rest in the peace they have earned and so rightly deserve.

Since my first editorial, the daffodils have come and gone and we’ve now got a new government. The change of government did create a sense of renewed hope and optimism and a little of that still prevails. But deep down, we are all only too well aware of the fundamental problems facing us, and that there is a long and difficult road ahead. That this will entail financial hardship for many Survivors, there can be no doubt. But as John McFarlane said at the Annual Conference, the PPSG will endeavour to continue to help its members as much as it can, even in these difficult financial times.

One could be forgiven for thinking that due to the crisis facing the country that there might have been a sombre mood at the Conference. But this wasn’t the case. Everyone I spoke to was upbeat, notwithstanding the sad news. They all had that determination that has taken them thus far in life and will see them in good stead in the years ahead – hopefully a great many years indeed. John Dolan, CEO of the Disability Federation of Ireland, said that the Post Polio Support Group was the best group of its kind he had ever encountered. That’s high praise indeed from someone who is involved with a great many groups, and well-merited, and both the Board and all those others involved with the Group’s work and especially, YOU, the members, should take a well-deserved bow.

While I started out on a sombre note (and the weather still hasn’t improved) we do have the summer to look forward to. There will be sunshine – I guarantee it – though I cannot guarantee the amount. So take the advice of a farmer’s son – make hay while the sun shines and keep smiling. Did you know that fewer facial muscles are required for smiling than for frowning? So why use more energy when less could make you feel happier and, more important still, make someone else feel happier? And we can all do with as much happiness as possible.

When I took over as editor of “The SURVIVOR” I intended to remain for the “long haul”. Unfortunately, personal circumstances have changed since last December and I will have to stand down as from this issue. But I have no doubt that there are many among the members who are well capable of taking on the challenge and putting their own imprint on what is a very important part of the PPSG.

I’d like to finish by thanking all those have been so supportive of me over the past six months or so, especially John McFarlane who was always there to give me much needed advice and support. Enjoy the summer and the sunshine. Whatever you do, keep smiling and may your God bless you and keep you safe.

Vincent McDonnell
Email: newsletter@ppsg.ie

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Castleblayney Social Group Convenor Steps Down

Jim Murphy, who was the convenor from the start of the social group meetings, decided at the last meeting to step down.

Under Jim’s guidance’s the group grew as he conducted the meetings in a courteous and pleasant manner. He arranged meetings etc. without any fuss. Jim will still be an active member of our group and we all look forward to seeing him and his wife Margaret at the next social support meeting.

On behalf of the group, we thank him for all his hard work.

Mairead Mathews

 

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HUGH HAMILTON, RIP.

I knew Hugh Hamilton as a Polio Survivor, a fellow Board member and our most recent former Chairman, but most of all as a friend. Hugh was always an active man and it greatly saddened us all when he died peacefully at home after a short illness on the 14th May last. He was the dearly loved husband of Clare, and father of Rupert, Linda, Vanessa and David. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all, and with his many grandchildren, who all must surely miss him greatly.

Hugh joined our Group in 1999, just after he attended our International Conference in the Green Isle Hotel. Shortly afterwards he joined our Board and worked tirelessly on behalf of our Group until his untimely death. Hugh concentrated much of his work on fundraising, where he was extremely successful, and enabled the Group to increase the benefits available to Polio Survivors. Hugh was very matter of fact about fundraising; how many times have we heard him say, “Nobody likes Fundraising, but we just have to do it” – and we knew we were off again!

Although Hugh was always prepared to listen carefully to others, he was very much a man of firm views and an inspirational leader. I think his legacy will be the benefits to our organisation of the changes he promoted, especially encouraging more members to be active in developing the Group.

Hugh’s passing has left a substantial void. We celebrate a wonderful life and wish to see his legacy come to fruition

Jim Costello,
Board Member.

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PPSG CONFERENCE & AGM 2011

Tullamore was the venue for this year’s event and although the official proceedings were restricted to the Saturday, Friday saw many arriving at the hotel. Registration opened up at 4 o’clock and was still doing swift business at 9 o’clock when those working it began to flag and called it a day. The Tullamore Court Hotel was the main venue for the Conference and AGM, as well as the gala dinner on the Saturday evening. Although a large well-appointed hotel, the response from the membership was so overwhelming that an overspill hotel, the Central, had to be utilised for even more accommodation than the Group had booked at the Court.
The Saturday dawned bright and sunny although from all reports from the hotel many of the delegates had enjoyed a late night and their own impromptu entertainment. Registration re-opened and even more delegates arrived, some by the kind co-operation and courtesy of the local Civil Defence and a branch of the Irish Wheelchair Association, who ran a shuttle service from Tullamore station. They repeated the act, in the opposite direction, on the Sunday morning when members were going home.

Apart from the Registration desk, stoically manned by Michelle Wainwright, her mother and others, there was one covering fundraising, as well as general information. For a large part of the morning, the fundraising desk was manned by Breda and John Healy. Breda was taken from her family and from us all by a short illness a week later – our hearts go out to the whole Healy family. The book stall was well-stocked and looked after by Mairead Mathews and Brendan Moore.

Then it came to the star turn to kick off the whole Conference, which had the theme “A Celebration of Life”. In this case, we celebrated with the poetry of the world-renowned poet, Micheal O’Siadhail, who regaled us with verses on love, life and its meaning. His words had extra poignancy, as Michael is a fellow polio Survivor, having contracted the virus at the age of 9. Jim Costello and he are also old boys of the same school, although they hasten to add some years apart. There was many a damp eye in the hall with the rendition of his last poem, written purely from the heart and with a theme to which many could relate. Michael was presented with a magnificent piece of bog oak carving executed by one of the Laois/Offaly support group members, Paddy Fitzpatrick. Michael stayed on to sign his books, which were on sale, and to talk with many of the other delegates because, as he said, he is a part of the polio community and found the experience cathartic.

There followed a short lunch break and then the room was rearranged to accommodate the Group’s Annual General Meeting. It is a legal requirement that as the Group is both a charity as well as a registered limited company by guarantee, that it holds such a meeting every year to present its accounts to members and conduct other business under the Companies Act. Presiding over the meeting for the first time was John McFarlane, the Group’s Chair, who gained the gatherings attention in a most unusual manner. Not satisfied by just calling for attention, he elevated his wheelchair until he was above the head height of his fellow Directors; talk about getting above things. He then went on to give the report on the Group’s activities for the year. His main message was that the PPSG is an organisation owned by, and with responsibility to, its members.

John ended by thanking his fellow Directors for all their support, as well as thanking members of staff and lastly the membership in general. As a final act before conducting the rest of the AGM business, he singled out Anne Burns, Paula Lahiff and Bridie McMahon for extra special attention, as they had decided to stand down from the Board.

Each was presented with a piece of bog oak as a “thank you” from the membership for all their hard work over the years. The pieces were made by local young people with learning difficulties and mental health problems.

Following on, Hugh Conlon gave the Company Secretary’s report and then the Treasurer, Clara Dunne, presented the Group’s accounts for the memberships’ scrutiny and approval. The final act of the AGM was the declaration by the outgoing Deputy Chair, Paula Lahiff, of election results for the unfilled seats on the Board of Directors and Trustees. Under the Group’s rules, one third of the Board must stand down by rotation each year, but they may make themselves available for re-election. This meant that this year, the first one for many years, there was a contested election. There were 13 candidates chasing 8 places. Both Joan Bradley, the Group’s founder, and Jim Costello, previous Chair, retained their seats. The others elected were (in no particular order) Susan Dowling, Rose Russell O’Donovan, Marie Boland, Pat Guy, Hugh McHugh and Tom Carberry. So, the AGM of 2011 closed and the attention turned to speakers on Sleep Apnoea and the rights of disabled air passengers.

Edwin Bailey is the Group’s Convenor for the Clare Social Support Group and was diagnosed some time ago with Sleep Apnoea. An increasingly common condition diagnosed in those with PPS, it causes interrupted and shallow sleep patterns. In plain terms, it causes the affected person to stop breathing, sometimes many times an hour, thus causing tiredness, irritably and other symptoms associated with sleep deprivation. But the condition is treatable with a CPAP machine Edwin talked the audience through his experience and how he manages his own condition. His talk gave understanding and hope, and prompted more than a few to say, “That’s what I am experiencing; now I’d better talk to my GP”.

Edwin said before the Conference that he was very nervous about standing up and talking to his peers, but when on his feet he showed no such feelings, but warmed to his subject and spoke in clear understandable terms to which all could relate. His talk was illustrated with a series of slides and a handout and like all the best Irish traditions there was one for every member of the audience. Unfortunately, some delegates had left to have a rest before Edwin spoke and when one of these read his talk later, they admitted that they had been diagnosed with Sleep Apnoea but had not understood what they were being told. Edwin’s text demystified it and they were no longer anxious. That is the best result that can come where a sufferer explains to others in a similar situation the art of self-management.

 

(Anyone seeking further information, please check Edwin’s informative article on Sleep Apnoea in the Autumn 2010 edition of “The SURVIVOR”. Editor)

The final address was given by Patricia Barton, Air Passenger Rights Executive, Commission for Aviation Regulation on rights and responsibilities for travellers with disabilities on air travel within the EU. In 2008, the EU passed a Directive that meant the responsibility for caring for passengers with disabilities fell on the airport authorities not the airlines. With the rights this enshrined, it also places obligations on passenger to be fair to the airports and their staff by giving adequate notice of travelling, as well as some other minor points. Patricia’s talk was also accompanied by a handout that built upon her talk. She only covered travel within the EU as to try to cover the plethora of regulations that exist for the USA and other countries would have taken all day, and as she said: “I don’t think there is a single person who understands, let alone, has mastered them all.”

The meeting then broke for a rest period before the delegates, spouses, partners and carers came together for a Gala Dinner followed by entertainment by a local musician, Tom Nolan, who turned out to be related to the Chairman’s wife. They always said that Offaly was the faithful county. A raffle took place with bottles of Tullamore Dew and Kilbeggan Whiskey on offer, and a collection of signed books by Geraldine O’Neill, a fine writer, who was also in attendance. Once the prizes were dispensed with, it was on with the music, song and dance. What a fine performer Tom turned out to be. His repertoire covered almost every musical genre, and so infectious was his performance that at times the dance floor was crowded, with those in wheelchairs joining in to rock along to some Elvis numbers. The members of that Congolese band, which featured in a previous edition of “The SURVIVOR”, are not the only polio Survivors who can rock. There were recitations and songs from the Members and it was a very happy but tired group of revellers that eventually retired for the night.

The next morning a mass, celebrated by local priest, Father Shane Crombie, was broadcast by RTE Radio from the hotel. Polio Survivors took part in the readings while a local choir supplied the hymns. The following day, Father Shane expressed his pleasure at his involvement with the PPSG. ‘I was very happy with yesterday, and I am delighted that our celebration added to the proceedings of the weekend. Please pass on my kindest regards to all the members of the association. It has been a great honour for me. Kindest regards and God’s blessings.’

Now it was time for farewells as Survivors headed off home, somewhat tired but hopefully well pleased with the weekend, which was most enjoyable. Well done to all involved in the organisation of the weekend, which judging by the evaluation sheets, was a great success. So now, here’s to next year, where hopefully we will all meet up again in good health and spirits.

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POLIO SURVIVORS HELPING EACH OTHER – PART 2

This document has been written to inform Polio Survivors who wish to learn more about the Post Polio Support Group.

HOW TO GET THE SUPPORTS THAT YOU NEED

It is clear from the mission statement of the Group that its work is designed “to ensure that the needs of Polio Survivors relating to their condition are met to enable them to live with dignity”. It is very important that this work is done carefully and patiently because the correct supports can make a huge difference to someone’s lifestyle.

The Guiding Principles are:

• Services and supports will be provided, based on needs identified through consultation with members, fairly and within the financial capacity of the Group
• The Group will act according to best practice and in line with its Code of Conduct
• Sensitivity, empathy and understanding are central to communication with Polio Survivors
• Polio Survivors will be encouraged and enabled to live their lives with dignity
  

How to make contact:

Any Polio Survivor can contact the Group at any time for support. The central office in Dublin 01-8898920 is open generally from 8 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon and callers are welcome. Most of the supports are provided by Lillian working with the HSE and drawing on the talents of occupational therapists and perhaps additional medical and other staffs.

Outside office hours Joan Bradley 01 4549237 can be contacted.

There are answering machines on the office phone and on Joan’s phone. Please leave a message and your call will be returned. Please leave your name and phone number, speaking as slowly and as clearly as you can. We are very frustrated if a message has been left and we can’t return a call to the sender.

The Questionnaire

Self assessment of a Polio Survivor’s needs is usually done by completing a Questionnaire. Most Polio Survivors complete this and return it in the Business Reply envelope provided. No stamp is needed. Many people in Ireland, as in other countries, do not like form filling - Polio Survivors are no different, but remember the Questionnaire is the single most important tool that the Group can use to help a Polio Survivor.
Filling it in can be the most useful thing for any Polio Survivor to do to help him or herself. It is a chance to give a bit of thought to your situation and pass the updated information to the Group. If you would like to fill the Questionnaire over the phone ring the office and it may be possible to do it this way. The Questionnaire has a box for a Polio Survivor to tick that he or she has an urgent need. This can trigger an early call from the office.

Polio Survivors are encouraged to contact the office by phone or letter if they have an urgent need, or if circumstances are changed in any way.

Confidentiality

The Questionnaire information and other details on Polio Survivors are held securely at the central office. Generally, after the Questionnaires have been examined, a staff member will contact each person in turn by phone. An assessment is made following this, which may be assisted by information from HSE staff and reports from professional staff such as occupational therapists (OTs). Any contact with such people will only be made with the permission of the Polio Survivor following discussion. The Post Polio Support Group will work with others, principally HSE, but also perhaps medical professionals, various voluntary and statutory bodies and suppliers to provide the best solution possible.

The final assessment, building on the work done on the phone and the information given in the Questionnaire are the basis for the support of the Polio Survivor.

If you give the best picture that you can of your disability and your situation in your Questionnaire you are giving the Group the best chance to support you properly.

Remember

A Polio Survivor can call the office and speak with Lillian who is the Services Co-ordinator. A third party such as a General Practitioner, Polio Survivor’s family member or even a supplier can call Lillian, but only with the permission of the Polio Survivor.

Some Polio Survivors write to the office from time to time to describe their situations and to seek assistance.
The staff respond to email enquiries about self-assessed need. Queries to sic@ppsg.ie .

Personal visits to the office by Polio Survivors are another way to facilitate the assessment of need. These are welcomed, but please make an appointment in advance, as the person you want to meet may not be in the office that day.

“Services for persons with disabilities seek to enable each individual with a disability to achieve his or her full potential and maximise independence, including living as independently as possible”.

HSE National Service Plan 2009

Designing the supports to assist the Polio Survivor

Every Polio Survivor is an individual and always remember that the solution for one person may not necessarily be the same as for another. The following are the areas that are considered in assessing support provision:

Making sure that a Polio Survivor feels as well as she or he can

Trying to assess whether the Polio Survivor is getting proper care and medical attention.

General Practitioner (GP) is usually the first point of contact for primary care of the Polio Survivor. It is very important that the GP does not dismiss the Polio Survivor’s condition. This can happen with chronic conditions, and the Polio Survivor may have to insist that the GP deals properly with the polio patient.

Assessment and Diagnosis is an essential part of the care of a Polio Survivor. There should be good linkages between the neurologist who diagnoses the condition and the medical services that support him or her. These may be hospital based staff that support the neurologist, or primary care staff such as the general practitioner, public health nurse, etc.

The Blue Book, Post Polio Syndrome-Management and Treatment in Primary Care, is the key document to inform medical staff about Post Polio Syndrome. If a Polio Survivor wants to give a copy to someone who treating her or him just ask the office for a copy. If a Polio Survivor would like someone from the office to speak to his or her general practitioner, or to send a copy of the Blue Book, just make a call.

Counselling may help a Polio Survivor if she or he would like to talk about a personal situation, which may be causing distress in her or his life.

Speech and Language Therapy is the correct area to approach for help for a Polio Survivor who is experiencing problems with swallowing or with speech.

Making sure that a Polio Survivor walks as well as she or he can

Trying to prevent uneven wear on the body, the skeleton in particular, and strain on the muscles. Someone with a good walk is less likely to fall, less likely to suffer a fracture.

This assistance may be sourced through the HSE, or the Group, and the choices of the Polio Survivor are respected in so far as they can.

Orthotics can be used by some to improve gait. They can make up for any irregularity in the feet or shortening of a limb. A good orthotic can significantly reduce pain levels.

Customised shoes can help to improve the walk. Often they are worn with orthotics inserted to make sure that the shoes fit exactly.

Callipers or splints can help to support a weak leg. These can be simple support devices or complex ones, which assist the functioning of joints. They must be custom made for each person and require patience from the orthotist and the Polio Survivor to get them working as effectively as possible.

Mobility Scooters can give extraordinary freedom to a Polio Survivor who is experiencing fatigue while walking. They can make so many activities possible that a walking Polio Survivor could not do otherwise. They can be disassembled quite easily and packed away. They will fit easily into the boots of cars and a hoist can be fitted to a car to assist with lifting.

Rollator can be useful for a person that needs more support when walking. Because of its seat, it can be used for taking a rest while walking. A rollator can be a great help while working in the home or in a workshop.

Crutches can be useful to steady a person, but do not necessarily promote good posture. Under arm, weight bearing crutches are not recommended, as they can worsen the skeletal problems by distributing the person’s weight badly.

Walking sticks of various designs can be useful for some to maintain balance while walking. A stick should be of a type and size to suit the person.

Trollies can be useful for support, and for moving pieces of equipment or household effects. Trollies can be designed for the sitting room, the workshop or the kitchen, and some even have brakes on the wheels to give even greater stability.

Making sure that a Polio Survivor manages his or her mobility as best she or he can

Wheelchair A Polio Survivor knows that the option of a wheelchair is available. There may be increasing problems in balancing or decreasing strength in the leg muscles. Some may have endured fractures of the leg bones, but the advice would always be to take to the chair before fractures occur.

Lightweight manual wheelchairs are useful for short transits and can be self-propelled. They can be folded to save on space or to fit in the boot of a car. It can take too much effort for a Polio Survivor to push her or himself in the chair. The advice will always be to conserve strength and to work in stages. Some may have problems with muscles in the upper body.

Powered Chairs can give great freedom. Because this kind of chair is battery powered, moving around causes no extra pressure on muscles or joints. There are many different kinds of chair and it is important that a skilled occupational therapist listens to and works with the Polio Survivor to deliver a good mobility solution.
We intend to publish the final part of this series in a forthcoming edition of “The SURVIVOR” (Editor)

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BREDA HEALY 1952–2011

Breda was born in England in 1952, the first-born child of Christy and Kitty and sister of Helen and Kevin. Back in the 1950s it was very difficult to find accommodation if you had children, so her parents brought her back to Cork when she was three months old to her grandmother, Bridie and family, until they themselves got settled in England. That was it! Breda was the apple of her aunties and Nana’s eyes and became part of their family. From then on, home was in Cork.

Breda was a very happy and contented little girl and started school at the age of five in North Pres. At the tender age of eight Breda was outside playing with her friends in Suttons Buildings when suddenly she fell over and couldn’t get back up. An epidemic of polio had broken out in Cork and Breda was one of the last victims of the virus. She endured years of hospital stays and many, many operations.

Shortly after that Nana Bridie, Mary, Kevin and their family moved to Liam Healy Road but Breda spent a long time at the orthopaedic hospital confined to bed. She kept herself busy by making things. She was gifted with her hands. My memory of that time is being lifted up by my Dad to look in the hospital window and wave at Breda as children weren’t allowed to visit. Each week Breda would hold up our ponchos until finally they were finished. Mine was blue in colour and I was so proud to wear it.

While Breda may have had limited power in her legs she never let it stop her doing anything. She was never negative, never said ‘why me?’ and went through life with a positive attitude. She went to work at a young age and worked very hard throughout her life. Breda could do anything she put her mind to: cooking, sewing, painting – you name it, Breda could do it. She was often found at the kitchen table at two o’clock in the morning mending holes in the lads’ jeans.

She was a member of the I.W.A. for many years and was on hand to do anything for her friends. She liked to go out and socialise, have a drink and a sly cigarette. Apparently, one night she nearly fell out the window as Nana was on the prowl and nearly caught her smoking. But Breda could do no wrong in Nana’s eyes. She loved her so much.

In 1980, Breda met John, the love of her life and they married and went on to have four beautiful children. Breda put her whole self into caring and rearing her family, and at times when they were young, it was very hard. But as usual, she never complained or asked for help. Breda was so independent and proud. She was devoted to them and loved them all unconditionally. Her individual bond with each of them was amazing. She would have been so proud of them all this past week.

Breda joined the PPSG and it opened up a new lease of life for her and John. They spent several weekends away together, something they hadn’t done since the children were born. John will treasure those memories.
Breda was the most kind, loving, honest and caring person whom everyone loved. She enriched all our lives and when there were dark days she was my rock, the voice of reason and wisdom, the non-judgemental listener and always there.

This past week we have cried, laughed and prayed together, trying to comprehend the devastation that was before us. The loss of Breda, who mastered so many hurdles throughout her life, has left us numb. For our Mum, who loved her like her own child, her husband John, children and grandchildren, and we, her brothers and sisters, we will hold her in our hearts forever. Her spirit will always be with us. Sleep Peacefully, My Darling Sister.

We love you.

Carol
(Breda Healy was a member of the Cork Group. May she rest in peace.)

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CITIZENS INFORMATION SERVICE

On Wednesday, March 23, the Cork Group held their spring social gathering. There was a large group in attendance (over 40) for a very worthwhile and interesting and informative talk and presentation by John Beausang from the Cork branch of Citizens Information. This is an Irish government information service which is available free of charge, and which provides information and advice on a great many subjects, including: Social Welfare, Employment, Social Welfare Payments, Housing, Money and Tax, Birth, Family and Relationships, and Education and Training. John outlined many of the changes introduced by the Department of Social Welfare (now Protection) in entitlements for those who receive disability payments, or carers’ allowances, or respite care or other benefits. These are too complicated or substantial to go into here, but information can be obtained on the Citizens Information website: www.citizensinformation.ie You can also phone: Lo Call: 1890 777 121, or you can drop into your local Citizens Information Centre. Details of where these are located, along with their opening hours, are on the website. They are also listed in the Golden Pages and your local library should also have the addresses.

The Citizens Information also provides a National Advocacy Service for People with Disabilities. This was set up to provide independent, representative advocacy services for people with disabilities. It is organised and managed on a regional basis by five Citizens Information Services and is supported by the Citizens Information Board. From January 2011 this new Service has taken over the work of 46 pilot advocacy projects, with a particular remit for more vulnerable people with disabilities.

The new Service will be regionally structured with five regional teams to provide a service to people with all types of disability across the country. It is planned to have a Lo Call number for the Service and when this is available it will appear on the website. In the meantime, the names and telephone numbers of the five regional managers are available on the website.

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Towns of Connaught Quiz

ANSWERS TO QUIZ IN SPRING ISSUE OF “THE SURVIVOR”

1) Festering (5) Boyle

2) A lake that gives hope (8) Loughrea

3) An urban “Charlie” (11) Charlestown

4) Strange fish ringing (9) Belmullet

5) A lion dwells under the cliff (7) Clifden

6) Proceed sneakily (5)  Sligo

7) No longer shining (7)  Dunglow

8) Sly crossed (7) Foxford

9) This town had good luck (11) Strokestown

10) Opposite starboard in the west (8)  Westport

11) Vintage vehicle from the Banner county (11) Claremorris

12) Could be thought of as ordinary or run-of-the-mill (9) Roscommon

13) Footie in a wild fruit (11)  Ballinasloe

14) Sunshine on this fort (9)  Castlerea

15) Once there was a quiet man here (4) Cong

16) Strange Indian dish (10) Tobercurry

17) Tavern in a fortress (9)  Castlebar

18) Soccer in a vestment (10)  Ballinrobe

19) Rock on a river (16) Carrick-on-Shannon

20) Mint haven for a boat (7)   Newport

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TELEPHONE SUPPORT SERVICE

by Susan Dowling

Last summer, I took over from Paula Lahiff as the Coordinator of this service to members. The telephone is a great way for members to give support to one another, particularly those who do not have a great deal of opportunity for social contact. We currently provide this service in two ways. Firstly, a one-to-one service where one member rings another: we call this the “RingRing”. Secondly, by arranging a telephone conference where, with the help of modern technology, we connect several members on the phone so they can talk as a group: we call this the “PhoneChat”.

It was clear that the demand for this form of contact was likely to increase as members become less mobile and are therefore less likely to be able to get out of their homes to socialise. In order to identify those who might wish to be involved in this project, the office staff gave me a list of names and contact details of those members who had requested telephone contact with other Polio Survivors on the 2010 questionnaire. I rang those on the list: some volunteered to take on a leadership role and underwent training to prepare them for this vital work: others wished to receive a call from another Polio Survivor. I am pleased to say that we now have 40 members acting as Leaders with the project and 95 members who are receiving the service. Those making the calls have told me that they get a great deal of pleasure from ringing another Polio Survivor: those who receive a call have said that they really look forward to having a chat!

It is hoped that the service will be expanded further in the future. If you would like to be involved in this project, please indicate this on the next member’s questionnaire.

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FUNDRAISING NEWS

FLORA DUBLIN WOMEN’S MINI-MARATHON REPORTS

The Post Polio Support Group wishes to thank sincerely all who took part and/or sponsored participants in this year’s Flora Women’s Mini-Marathon, or who sent donations (no matter how small) to the Office. As usual, this was a great fun day out with in the region of 60 members, their families and friends having taken part in the 10 Km. marathon event for the PPSG. A flavour of the day is illustrated in the two accounts given below by Joan Bradley, who is already looking forward to the 2012 marathon event, and by Siubhan Ni Chriostoir. As mentioned in the last “The SURVIVOR”, this was Joan’s 10th consecutive Flora marathon and congratulations to her and thank you to all the members around the country who have sponsored her over the years.

“For once, it was ideal. The weather was cloudy and cool with no rain, which my pushers found great for this year’s Dublin City Marathon. I want to thank, sincerely, all who supported it in these hard economic times. The office has already received some sponsorship. They say, ‘please do not send cash’.
I heard our name called out twice. I met two and saw two more at a distance, taking part for PPSG. As we gathered I saw a number of ladies dancing on the spot, flexing their legs and feet while waiting, testing if they would last the ordeal; just like the tennis players do when expecting the next ball. There were fewer than usual very large ‘ladies’ with hairy legs, dressed in ridiculous outfits. But I saw one group wearing cerise shirts with matching cowboy hats. Another group had pale pink shirts with caps to match. The cowboy hats would have given some shelter from rain or sun but I am not sure about the caps. PPSG was not ‘in’ on this new fashion.

I heard no ambulance or fire brigade siren, but saw and felt the usual, bored firemen playing with the water hose at Donnybrook. Here’s to next year!”
Joan Bradley.

“I didn’t realise doing a marathon would be so much fun. Myself and a friend of mine, Isobel Flynn, left Dungarvan with a group of girls who were also participating in the marathon in support of the Dungarvan Youth Centre and cancer. The transport was supplied by the Gárdaí of Dungarvan. We reached Dublin at around 12p.m. giving us plenty of time to prepare for the day ahead. The weather was lovely and sunny and we were looking forward to a warm day, so we left the bus in our shorts and T-shirts and proceeded to the Stephen’s Green area, picking up a bite to eat en route.

Unfortunately, the sun didn’t last long and it got a bit chilly as the day wore on. So by the time the marathon started we were all anxious to get moving and warm up. Thankfully, the rain held off for the day and we kept dry during the race.

The atmosphere surrounding the marathon was absolutely electric. While we waited for the start amongst the 40,000 participants, we were entertained by some fun music, including Jedward’s ‘Lipstick!’ After various Mexican waves and cheers, the race finally got underway.

The course through the streets was a great sample of our capital city with some interesting architecture to gaze at. At every kilometre interval we had music and entertainment spurring us on for the next stretch. The camaraderie among the participants was fantastic, and myself and Isobel encountered another few girls who were walking for Post Polio along the way. At around the 7km point we were getting a little tired, but were pushed on by a soaking from a fire engine! The last few kilometres flew, with masses of supporters out waving and clapping people on. We eventually reached the finish line in just under 2 hours to claim our medals…

We headed back home on the bus at the end of the day and reached Dungarvan at about 9p.m. where we stopped for a well-deserved pint.

I’d like to thank Isobel Flynn for joining me in the marathon and fundraising, and also Nicola Cowming, who raised funds for the Post Polio Support Group, but unfortunately couldn’t participate due to illness. Thanks also to all the people who supported me for the event.”
Siubhan Ni Chriostoir

CORK CITY MARATHON REPORT

TEAM G4S ATHLETIC

“My name is Stephen Murphy. I am a supervisor with G4S secure solutions in the Cork area. I was approached by my manager, Donal Cronin, who asked me if I was interested in running in the Cork City Marathon on 6 June 2011. I was interested in doing the marathon while also attempting to raise money for a charity. Donal and I began organising a team of five for the relay event and persuaded four others, Martin Dunlea, Patrick Coughlan Eugene Ivanovas and Jamie Cronin to join the Team, which we named the G4S Athletic. This quartet managed to raise money for their nominated charities. We also organised a three-man team from our Limerick office to take part in the marathon where other charity organisations in Limerick benefited from the event. We managed to get some sponsorship from G4S who paid for registration and supplied us with running tops.

Recently, my partner, Clara Dempsey’s aunt, Breda Healy, passed away. Breda was heavily involved with the PPSG organisation, so I decided this was going to be my nominated charity. My partner, Clara, informed me of the amazing work that this organisation carries out in the Cork area. This was uppermost in my mind in deciding to whom to donate any money I made from this event, which turned out to be €500, and I am happy in the decision I made.

On the morning of the marathon, Donal and I met with the other team members at City Hall, where we gave each member a running pack, which consisted of a team jersey, water and energy foods. The running order was discussed and agreed. I, as captain, would carry the timing tag over the finish line on Patrick Street. This was the first marathon attempt for each of us and we were very happy with a finishing time of four hours and one minute. I was very happy with my own personal time of thirty-two minutes for my leg of five miles from Model Farm Road to the finish line on Patrick Street, where I was greeted by my partner, Clara and my daughter, Jodie. This gave me great satisfaction.

I would like to thank the organiser of this event, Donal Cronin and my team-mates Martin, Patrick, Eugene and Jamie, and my family and friends who sponsored me for this event. I would also like to thank G4S general manager, Mr Liam Wade, for the registration and running tops.

I look forward to participating in other charitable events in the future and I will certainly keep the PPSG in mind when donating any money made.”
Stephen Murphy

Castleblayney Easter Egg Raffle

Mairead Mathews and Brendan Moore organised an Easter Egg raffle in aid of the PPSG. They kindly got permission from some of the managers of the shopping centres in the Dundalk area to sell tickets in the centres.

The draw took place on Saturday, April 16, and the winning tickets were drawn by Mr Peter Fitzpatrick, T.D., who is also the manager of the Louth Senior Football Team. The three lucky winners were as happy as Easter Bunnies with their prizes. Our thanks to the shopping centre managers and to Mr Fitzpatrick. In total, the raffle raised €850 for the PPSG.

Punchestown Race Week in Co. Kildare

For a first outing for the PPSG, congratulations to Tom Carberry for organising the selling of tables and bucket collection on 3 May which, combined, raised over €3,500, a terrific amount for the organisation. Our thanks also go to those who helped namely, Hugh McHugh, Mary McFarlane, Joan Carberry, Bernie O’Sullivan, Robert Alcorn, Avril Lahiff and John O’Connor, who travelled there all the way from Cork, and not forgetting Punchestown Races Management, Dick O’Sullivan, Liam Holton and Janet Creighton. The PPSG hopes to hold a similar fundraising day there next year.

Week-end Church Gate Collections in May

Jackie Minnock once again organised Church Gate Collections in a number of north County Louth churches, which raised in the region of €700. The PPSG wishes also to thank those who helped namely, Mairead Mathews, Brendan Moore, Jimmy Murphy and Jackie’s daughter and son, Aoife and Colm Minnock.

Barbara McDonagh also again organised Church Gate Collections in several churches in the Connemara area. PPSG thanks also go to those who helped namely, Hugh Conlon and Dudley McDonagh.

Special Acknowledgement and Thanks

The PPSG wishes to acknowledge the recent receipt of a large donation from Monkstown Hospital Foundation, County Dublin, and to thank the Foundation most sincerely for this very generous donation, which will be used directly to provide stairlifts for the benefit of Polio Survivors.

Dates for your Diary

Books and CD sale in aid of the group, takes place on Friday, July 1, and Saturday, July 2, in the Longwalk Shopping Centre, Dundalk. Further details from Mairead Mathews at 042 9356706 0r 086 8158156.

Eddie Roycroft, Convenor, Dublin Finglas Social Support Group tells me that the 34 art groups will be holding an exhibition and sale of their art work in several disciplines at the Axis Centre, Ballymun, Dublin from 10 – 24 August. Proceeds from the sale of their work will go to the PPSG. Also on display will be their impressive PPSG logo represented in mosaic, which you will have seen on the cover of this magazine

Cork “Evening Echo” Mini-Marathon takes place Sunday 25 September. More details can be had from Evelyn Wainwright, 021 4847313; 086 8829267; email: evelyn99911@hotmail.com

New ideas for fundraising are always welcome at the office!

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TWO TIPS TO SAVE MONEY

It seems that ESB are giving 8%, and up to 14% discount to customers on their electricity bills, which is quite a substantial saving. Now the procedure is as follows: You must call 1850 30 50 90 and listen to the instructions. Do not press 1-2-or 3, but instead wait for the person to answer your call. Have your account number to the ready, then ask for special discount, and away you go. Evelyn Wainwright, who sent me on this information, assures me that she has passed this onto quite a few people and all have gotten this discount.

Another piece of information from Evelyn for people who are paying for their medication: they need to shop around as pharmacists have their own prices. Example, for the same antibiotic, there was €6.00 in the difference between one chemist and another. On asking if this was a mistake, Evelyn was told by two different pharmacists that they all have there own prices. So the motto seems to be: Shop around.

Conference and AGM 2011

Tullamore Court Hotel – 7th and 8th May 2011
Summary of Evaluation Analysis
Paula Lahiff

Introduction

One hundred and forty-two (142) evaluation sheets were returned. The sheets were distributed after the dinner on Saturday evening, and collected 15 minutes later, which accounts for the very high returns. However, this arrangement did not allow for the participants to rate the entertainment (therefore this question was removed from the evaluation), or to rate the Mass in retrospective.

Results:

Q1: How would you rate the weekend overall?

Some of the general comments relating to this question are as follows:

1. Well done! Start Saturday events a bit earlier if possible.
2. A good mix of information.
3. Speakers should be limited to half an hour.

Q2: How would you rate the election process for Board Members?
Ninety-one (91) (64%) of respondents rated the election process as Very Good, 41 (29%) rated it as Good and 5 (4%) rated it as average. One (1) (1%) rated this question as Not Good, while 4 (3%) did not rate this question.

Some of the comments in relation to this question are as follows:

1. Very happy with overall election.
2. Difficult if members not computer literate to view candidates.
3. Well organised.
4. I feel you explained everything very well.
5. Very hard to understand.

Q3: How would you rate the Celebration of Poetry?
Sixty-eight (68) respondents (48%) rated this event as Very Good and 48 (34%) rated it as Good, 23 (16%) said that it was Average, while no one stated it was Not Good, although 3 (2%) did not rate this question.
Some of the comments in relation to this question are as follows:

1. Terrific.
2. Sorry, I don’t like poetry.
3. Really enjoyed Michael’s poetry.
4.  Excellent poet, but too long to concentrate as it deserved (there were several more comments to this effect)

Q4: How would you rate the talk on Sleep Apnoea?
Seventy-eight (78) (55%) of respondents rated this talk as Very Good, 44 (31%) said it was Good, and 3 (2%) stated it was Average. No one rated this talk as Not Good.

The comments relating to this question are as follows:

1. Glad I don’t have it – yet!
2. Very interesting and lasted right amount of time.
3. Suffer from this myself so it was very welcome.

Q5: How would you rate the talk on Air Travel?
Seventy-nine (79) (56%) of respondents rated this talk as Very Good, 38 (27%) said it was Good, 4 (3%) stated it was Average and 2 (1%) rated it as Not Good.

Some of the comments related to this question are as follows:
1. Was not of interest to me.
2. Very well presented.
3. Very informative (there were several comments in this vein)
4. Excellent speaker.

Q6: Do you think it is a good idea to have Mass in the Venue on Sunday morning?
One hundred (100) (70%) of respondents ticked YES to this question, 10 (7%) ticked NO, while 32 (23%) did not have an opinion.

Some of the comments re this question are as follows:

1. What about an ecumenical service? (there were many more comments in this vein)
2. It is a great idea to have Mass in the venue, as it is hard for people with Polio to get out to Mass.
3. Finishes off the meeting in a spiritual way.

Q7: How would you rate the Location and the Food?
One hundred and eighteen (118) (83%) of respondents rated this question as Very Good, 20 (14%) stated that it was Good, 2 (1%) said it was Average, no one rated it as Not Good, while 2 (1%) did not rate this question.

Some of the comments relating to this question are as follows:

1. Very high standards of food and staff very helpful.
2. Hotel very central, but very poor main course choice. Would have expected lamb/beef/pork. Turkey & ham not appropriate
3. Easy access from all parts of the country. Food very good and hot.
4. Central Hotel only average. Food in Tullamore Court excellent

There were many more remarks which included the word ‘excellent’ and praising the friendly staff and the food, although there were a few comments on the lack of choice in the dinner menu.

Q8: Suggestions for venues for future events.

Q9: Suggestions for topics at future events
The suggestions for topics showed that many would like practical assistance with all aspects of coping with PPS, and shown below:

• A comedian.
• Entitlements for the disabled.
• Good options when independent living becomes almost impossible.
• Managing your finances and enjoying life and leisure.
• Primary Medical Cert - availability etc. (There were several who suggested this topic)
• Prof Ed Walsh, former President UL. (2 people suggested this speaker)
• Self-help for pain management. (There were many suggestions for this topic)

Conclusion:

This evaluation, with 142 respondents, gives an overwhelming positive response to the Conference/AGM on all counts, with an agreement that the location was excellent and easy to access and the food was tasty and served by pleasant and helpful staff. The overflow accommodation in the Central Hotel was, however, deemed to be not up to standard.

The election process was considered to be efficient and well organised, although there were some comments that those who do not have access to computers were unable to read up on the candidates beforehand.
The talks were generally well received, and attendees were quite happy with the shorter, simpler conference topics, although quite a number of people felt that the Celebration of Poetry went on for too long.
While there was generally a very positive agreement that Mass should be celebrated at the venue for convenience to those who wish to attend, there were also many comments that an ecumenical service would have been more appropriate, given that ours is a non-denominational group. There were a small number of people who had no opinion, and one can assume that they felt they were excluded from this question, which was sad and not the intention. It must be remembered that this question was asked before the Mass was held and refers to the question of whether or not it is a good idea rather than the quality of the actual Mass. Verbal comments after the Mass were all very positive.

Suggested topics for future conferences were many and varied and the suggested venues gave an overwhelming endorsement to the Tullamore Court Hotel, with other most popular suggestions being somewhere else in the Midlands, followed by Galway or Kerry.

Recommendations:

• Going on the endorsement of the Tullamore Court Hotel from the evaluation, it is recommended that the same venue, or one of similar standard in the Midlands, be considered for next year’s Conference/AGM.
  It is recommended that all members be circularised with background information on candidates for the Board Election, along with the ballot papers.
• The most popular topics, which emerged from the questionnaire can be summarised as follows: Pain Management, Coping with Ageing, Entitlements for People with Disabilities. It is recommended that these should be given consideration for next year.
• There were also two (very different) suggestions for an opening speaker, i.e. either Prof. Ed Walsh from University of Limerick, or a comedian. The reason for choosing Prof. Walsh was not stated, and it is recommended that these should be investigated for next year.
• It is recommended that presentations do not go over thirty minutes, as older people’s concentration levels can be poor.
• An ecumenical service should be considered at the event, or at least all denominations should be made very welcome to the Mass, which was well received by the majority.
• Overall, an excellent Conference/AGM – well done to all involved.

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NUALA HARNETT RIP

Nuala Harnett was a highly respected and valued Member of the PPSG. She was actively involved with the Bray Social Support Group and compiled and edited two publications for the PPSG, “Polio and Us” and “The Arts and Us”. She also published “Party Pieces”, which contained words of songs, stories, poems, jokes etc. These were sold at several PPSG AGM’s and at Christmas time with all proceeds going to the PPSG. Convenors were also given complimentary copies, which are frequently seen in use at Social Support Group gatherings.

Many of the members of the Bray Group attended the funeral Mass for Nuala in Dalkey Church and were also present at the Church the previous evening. There was a large attendance both days. The liturgy was very moving with beautiful singing, incl. “Eagles’ Wings”, “Panis Angelicus”, “Pie Jesu” (Andrew Lloyd Webber) etc. Nuala’s daughter and two sons did the readings, while several of her grandchildren presented the offerings, which included the two volumes of Nuala’s own publications, “Party Pieces”, along with the PPSG’s publications, “Polio and Us” and “The Arts and Us”. The celebrant, while admitting he did not know Nuala, gave a beautiful account of her life as though he did know her. Towards the end of the ceremony John, her husband, gave in his own words a wonderful appreciation of Nuala’s life, referring to polio, the PPSG organisation, her publications (already mentioned above) and her various changes in career paths, illustrating what a full life she had led.

May she rest in peace.
Anne Burns

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SOCIAL SUPPORT GROUP
CONTACT DETAILS

Bray Group

Location: Glenview Hotel, Delgany
Area: South Dublin, North Wicklow
Contact: Maggie Gillespie
Tel: 086 858 2406
E-mail: Maggie@Tonygarrow.com
Meetings: Meets at 8pm on the first Tuesday of most months from March through October.

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

Carlow Group

Location: Dolmen Hotel, Carlow, Co. Carlow
Area: Carlow
Contact: Betty O Regan
Tel: 086 081 6816
E-mail: betoregan@eircom.net
Meetings: Monday or Tuesday three or four times per year

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

Carrick-on-Shannon Group

Location: Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon
Area: Leitrim, Roscommon, West Cavan
Contact: Patrick McNamara
Tel: 071 966 8308
E-mail: Not available

Castleblayney Group

Location: Glencarn Hotel, Castleblayney
Area: Cavan; Monaghan; Louth.
Contact: Mairéad Mathews
Tel: 086 815 8156
E-mail: maireadmathews@gmail.com
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly on Mondays at 2 pm

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

Clare Group

Location: The Templegate Hotel, Ennis
Area: Clare
Convenor: Edwin Bailey
Tel/fax: 061 368 373
E-mail: edwinbailey@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 Edwin a call.

The arrangements for a July meeting of the Clare Social Support Group have just been finalised. This will take place in The Templegate Hotel, Ennis, at 8p.m. on the 6 July 2011. Michael Murphy, Product Specialist with Ability Matters, Waterford, will attend to show Ability Aids to members. They hope to see items to make dressing, bathing and everyday living easier for those find some tasks a little difficult. These products will be available to purchase on the night, or to order if stocks run out.

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Cork Group

Location: Vienna Woods Hotel, Cork.
Area: Cork
Convenor: Evelyn Wainwright
Tel/fax: 021 484 7313 or 086 882 9267
Email: evelyn99911@hotmail.com
Meetings: Meets six times yearly
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Evelyn a call.

Deirdre Hennessey, from the Disability Federation of Ireland, will attend a meeting of the Cork Social Support Group at the Vienna Woods Hotel at 3p.m. on Sunday, 17 July 2011. Deirdre is meeting with four Social Support Groups around the country to learn how they operate and what is important to them in terms of support from PPSG, especially in light of the new strategic plan – Plan2015, and she is keen to hear the opinions of the Cork Group

Donegal Group

Location: Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny or The Villa Rose Hotel Ballybofey
Area: Donegal; Derry
Contact: Donal Quinn
Tel/fax 087 679 2359
E-mail: quinnlad@iol.ie
Meetings: 2-3 times a year at 8pm
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Donal a call.

Dublin Finglas Group

Location: Ardmore Hotel, Finglas
Area: North Dublin
Contact: Eddie Roycroft
Tel/fax 087 280 0010 or 01 820 840
E-mail: Not available
Meetings: Last Wednesday of the month at 11:30 am (except July, August & December)
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Eddie a call.

Dublin South West Group

Location: Maldron Hotel, Tallaght
Area: South and West Dublin
Convenor: Pat Guy
Tel: 01 456 6581 or 087 641 6472
E-mail: patwguy@gmail.com
Meetings: Meets four to five times yearly on Mondays or Tuesdays
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Pat a call.

Dublin Swords Group

Location: Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords
Area: North Dublin
Convenor: Joe McGee
Tel: 086 813 7195
E-mail: mcgeeaj@gmail.com
Meetings: Monthly. Daytime
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Joe a call.

Enniscorthy Group

Location: Riverside Hotel, Enniscorthy
Area: South Wicklow; Wexford; Waterford
Convenor: Povl Thim
Tel: 053 942 1857 or 086 810 7598
E-mail: povlthim@gmail.com
Meetings: Meets on the 1st Tuesday of most months in the lounge at 8pm.
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Povl a call.

Galway Group

Location: Menlo Park Hotel, Galway
Area: Galway; South Mayo.
Convenor: Barbara McDonagh
Tel: 091 593 664 or 087 695 7097 (evening)
E-mail: babamcdonagh@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 Barbara a call.

Kerry Group

Location: Manor West Hotel, Tralee
Area: Kerry, West Limerick
Convenor: Dolly Lawlor
Tel: 066 718 5475 or 087 204 3795
E-mail: Not available
Meetings: Meets twice yearly – to be arranged.
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Dolly a call.

Kildare Group

Location: West Gate Hotel, Clane
Area: Kildare
Convenor: Tom Carberry
Tel: 045 876 402 (Home) or 087 233 5206
E-mail: Tom.carberry@diversey.com
Meetings:
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Tom a call.

Kilkenny Group

Location: Aspect Hotel, Kilkenny
Area: Kilkenny, Waterford, South Tipperary
Convenor: Susan Dowling
Tel: 059 972 6998
E-mail: dowlingsl@eircom.net
Meetings: 4-5 times a year on Mondays or Tuesdays at 7.30 p.m.
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Susan a call.

Limerick Group

Location: Strand Hotel, Limerick
Area: Limerick; East Clare; Nth. Tipperary.
Convenor: Marie Boland
Tel: 061 417 928 or 086 228 2000
E-mail: marieboland36@gmail.com
Meetings: Meet 1st Monday of the month Feb to June & Sept to Nov at 8.00 pm. On Bank Holiday weekends – the 2nd Monday.

If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Marie a call.
On 18 May, a group, consisting of 28 members, went on a trip to Thomond Park Stadium, Limerick, home of the Munster Rugby Team. The trip commenced with a tour of the Museum, which was amazing. There were all sorts of memorabilia on display, some of it dating back for many years.
Pride of place was given to the Heineken Cup replicas. Also on display was a tray of the type of food that the players consume daily; it was enough to feed two people for several days. Finally, the group was escorted out the tunnel onto the pitch to be greeted by the roar of the fans! Alas, not for us – it was just a recording. Yet, it was great. After all that excitement, lunch was served in one of the function areas overlooking the pitch and a section of the stadium. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Mayo Group

Location: McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris
Area: Mayo.
Convenor :?????
Tel: ?????
E-mail: ?????
Meetings: Meets twice yearly on Wednesdays at 8pm
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give ????? a call.

Midland Group

Location: Cregan Court Hotel, Athlone
Area: Westmeath; Roscommon; East Galway
Convenor: James Kinahan
Tel: 0906481 372 or 087 676 8076
E-mail: jtkinahan@gmail.com
Meetings: Meets twice yearly at 8pm
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Jimmy a call.

Navan Group

Location: Ardboyne Hotel, Navan, Co Meath
Area: Meath, Westmeath and Louth
Convenor: Joan Gargan
Tel: 046 943 2956 or 086 375 3024
E-mail: joangargan@eircom.net
Meetings: 2nd Monday of every 2nd month at 7.30 p.m.
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Joan a call.
The next meeting of the Navan Support Group will take place in the Ardboyne Hotel on 8 August 2011.

Laois-Offaly Group

Location: Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise.
Area: Offaly; Laois
Contact: Bernie O’Sullivan
Tel: 057 934 3760 or 086 064 7227
E-mail: ggcp@iol.ie
Meetings: To be arranged – Contact Bernie
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Bernie a call.

Sligo Group

Location: City Hotel, Sligo
Area: Sligo; South Donegal; North Leitrim
Convenor: Brian Crummy
Tel: 071 916 0404
E-mail: Briangcrummy@Hotmail.com
Meetings: Meets twice yearly – to be arranged
If you live in this area and would like to attend these social meetings, please give Brian a call.

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POETRY CORNER

WINTER 2010

When the purple skies fall
Upon the winter snow
And the swirling patterns
Emerge from the wind’s flow,
From enclosed hilltops,
Through springly branches,
She sweeps her silent advances.
When the robin’s singing
Pierces the frosty air
Her eyes crying for company
If they dare,
She sees the swirling
Patterns in the snow
But deems it wise
To let her go.
Her dreams of dancing
In the purple snow
Of flying with her
And the wings flow.
But purple skies will come again
And swirling patterns meet with rain.

Brendan Moore

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COMMITTEES

Compliance & Governance

Jim Costello, Séamus Ó Cinnéide, P. Guy

Ethics & Benefits

Susan Dowling (Chair)
Joan Bradley, Marie Boland

Fundraising

Tom Carberry (Chair)
Hugh McHugh (who has special responsibility for PR)

Social Support

Marie Boland (Chair)
T. Carberry, S. Dowling, P. Guy, R. R O’Donovan, E. Wainwright

Social Support Convenors

Edwin Bailey, Marie Boland, Brian Crummy, Susan Dowling, Joan Gargan, James Kinahan, Dolly Lawlor, Barbara McDonagh, Joseph McGee, Eddie Roycroft, Povl Thim, Evelyn Wainwright, Pat Guy, Bernie O’Sullivan, Donal Quinn, Mairéad Matthews

Phone Support Co-ordinator:

Susan Dowling

Phonechat Project Hosts

Paula Lahiff, Shirley Martin, Patricia Milburn

RingRing Project Leaders

Joan Bradley, Stephanie Blake- Ryan, Nuala Buckley, Leo Dempsey, Georgina Farrelly, Joan Gargan, Josephine Gaunt, Patrick Guy, Olive Haslam, Joyce Henderson, Frances Hill, Michael Keegan, Paula Lahiff, Geraldine Mardy, Mairead Mathews, Hugh McHugh, Christina O’Connor, Ann O’Kelly-Guerin, Maureen O’Sullivan, Sheila O’Sullivan, Anne Pepper, Eddie Roycroft, Zaynab Salman, Seán Bennett, David Bray, Mary Byrne, Tom Carberry, Helen Jordan, Josie Morrissey, Anne O’Connor, Muiris ó’Criostóir, Delores Pierce, Donal Quinn, Rao
Rapolu, Ann Reilly, Joan Ryan, Monica Sheehan, Ted Tanner, Ann Wendland Greene Survivor Email (editor): newsletter@ppsg.ie

Survivor
Email: newsletter@ppsg.ie

Published July 2011 by
Post Polio Support Group,
Unit 319, Capel Buildings, Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7
Tel: 01 889 8920
Fax: 01 889 8924
Email: info@ppsg.ie

Registered Charity No: CHY11356
Company limited by guarantee and not having share capital.
Registered in Ireland No: 354283

"The SURVIVOR" is supported by:

DISCLAIMER: Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the Editor and the Board can accept no liability. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily their views or the views of the Group. The Group does not endorse any product or service that may be featured.

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Post Polio Support Group, Unit 319 Capel Building, Mary's Abbey, Dublin 7, Ireland
Tel: +353 1 889 8920 Fax: +353 1 889 8924 Email: info@ppsg.ie