Poole and Bournemouth Myelitis Support Group

Minutes of meeting 29th July 2006

Held at St George’s Church Hall, Oakdale, Poole

Attendees:
Teresa Bryant, Carol Burnett, Olga Cowden, Philippa Cowden, Frank Devine, Lorraine Exley, Lyn Graham, Barbara Houston, Barrie Houston, Sue Hyatt, Malcolm Plested, Kerry Poll, Peter Poll, Alan Rowe, Gill Rowe, Rob Reeves, Barbara Sadler, Kath Vincent, Graham Ward, June Ward, John Withey, Rita Withey, Robin Young, Elliot

Apologies received:
Hilary Barefoot, Ian & Wendy Bruce, Phil & Connie King, Katie Steadman

The meeting opened at 2.00

After welcoming everyone, Teresa introduced Kath Vincent, who had been in contact following the small piece in the Echo. Kath had TM 40 years ago.

Teresa then informed everyone that the cost of hiring the hall was £24, and suggested that perhaps everyone could pay a sub of £1. All agreed to this, and thought it very reasonable.

Teresa mentioned that Lew had attended the John Hopkins Symposium, USA, and was waiting to hear his news and any new information.

Dr Hillier is expected to be a guest speaker at the next meeting in October, although Teresa is still waiting for confirmation!

Teresa then went on to inform everyone as to the response from the questionnaires. 13 out of 20 members had sent replies, of which 9 liked meetings every 3 months. Saturday afternoon was popular, as was the location. All 13 wanted to have a neurologist as a guest speaker, followed by members wanting a physio, an O.T., a representative from C.A.B., Social Services, Expert Patient Programme and pain clinic.
Regarding social meetings, it would need someone to organise this, and when would be a good time? Would people be too tired of an evening, do many people work in the daytime?

With regards to fundraising, Val Young had made cards to be sold, with all proceeds going to the group. It was agreed that these should be sold for £1 each. Olga Cowden has supplied Teresa with quiz sheets at £1 each. These should be ready for the next meeting.

Teresa pointed out the display board, which had photos from the last meeting. She suggested that we should have photos taken at the next meeting to send to the Echo. There was also information on the board regarding websites.

Teresa asked if all members would be willing to fill in a sheet regarding the consultants and hospitals treating them.

Rob Reeves was introduced to the group. He had come from Wellington in Somerset, and is in the process of developing a support group in the South West. His first meeting is scheduled for October.

A discussion then ensued with regard to various newspaper reports about TM, MMR vaccine and MS drugs. Press cuttings were passed around.

At the tea break, everyone mingled. This was followed by a very entertaining raffle run by Elliot, Graham and June’s grandson.

At 3.45 Teresa called the meeting back to order. Malcolm told the group about East Dorset District Council’s mobility days out at a range of venues. One needs to book, but the venues are made more accessible, such as ramps and boards being put out to make it easier to get around. Places such as Kingston Lacey and Badbury Rings are on the list. Peter and Barbara mentioned that there is a boat trip from Poole Harbour for disabled passengers including wheelchair users. They had taken a trip to Wareham. The boat holds about 14 passengers, and they had had a very enjoyable fish and chip supper at Wareham which was fetched for them.

Teresa concluded by suggesting that any more suggestions for questions to Dr Hillier be e-mailed to her in advance.

The next meeting is set for 28th October.

The meeting closed at 3.55p.m.