Summer 2019 Magazine

All enquiries and applications to our address at:

Spinal Injuries Scotland

Fullarton Court (Unit C)

11 Drumhead Place Glasgow, G32 8EY

Tel: 0800 0132 305

Email: info@sisonline.org

www.sisonline.org

SIS is a company registered in Scotland by guarantee and recognised as a charity.

Scottish Charity No: SC015405. ISSN 2517-2670

Any opinions expressed in the Spinal Life Scotland and Newsline are those of the person writing and not necessarily shared. Articles from Spinal Life Scotland and Newsline are available on disc or in large print on request.

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Our office hours are Monday to Friday 9-5pm. Anyone wishing to speak to any of our staff, please call 0141 427 7686.

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Tel. 0800 0132 305

If you need someone to talk to, use the above number for enquiries great and small. If no-one is available then please leave your name and number with your message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

Honorary President

HRH The Princess Royal

Patrons

Paul Warwick

Harry Brown

Tracey Brown

Ambassadors

Steven McGhee

Linda Bamford

Claire Byrne

Dr Elizabeth Ferris

Joanna Martin

Emma Douglas

Board of Directors

Kathleen McMonagle

Sharon Lansdowne

Theresa Fern

Stuart Bowie

Tricia Ward

Evelyn Morrison

Fraser Payne

Operations Manager

Maureen Morrison

Peer Support Staff

Laura Torrance

Stuart Mcmillan

Raymond Brown

Greg Faryno

Cover Photo: Barbecue and Activities Day 2019

Editorial:

Spinal Injuries Scotland and Clear Design (North)

Design:

Clear Design (North)

Tel. 07971 182736

www.cleardesignnorth.co.uk

WELCOME TO THE SUMMER EDITION OF

Life SPINAL SCOTLAND

It is summer and we are delighted to bring you this bumper edition of Spinal Life. We are sure there is something for everyone with features from others who understand life with a spinal injury, plenty of ideas for staying active, and all the latest news from Spinal Injuries Scotland including our fantastic summer barbecue.

This is your magazine, about you and for you. At Spinal Injuries Scotland we want to provide a quality magazine, free of charge, and offer something for everyone. We also want your input. Have you been anywhere or done anything that other members might find interesting? If so, get in touch and get involved. We would be delighted to work with you. You are always welcome to let us know what you think about the magazine. Maybe there is something you would like us to include. Maybe you want more information about an article from Spinal Life. Maybe you just need some advice and don't know where to go. We are here to help and promise to do everything in our power to meet your needs.

Importantly, we want to make sure the magazine reflects real spinal life. That means we will not shy away from the subjects that could be challenging for someone with a spinal injury. We want to let you know that you are not alone by including real life stories about real life struggles. Spinal Injuries Scotland will always be here if you need to get in touch.

If you are not a member of Spinal Injuries Scotland then what are you waiting for? It is completely free to join, we will send you each edition of this magazine and you can take advantage of all the other benefits our members enjoy. Just get in touch through the e-mail address or phone number below. You can also join up online at www.sisonline.org

Please, enjoy your new edition of Spinal Life.

The Editors.

info@sisonline.org

0800 0132 305

IN THIS ISSUE...

On pages 18,19, 20 & 21 see the annual Spinal Injuries Scotland Barbecue and Activities Day, which was an outstanding success again this year. The day had something for everyone from sailing, kayaking, canoeing and hand biking to powerboating and yoga.

The Glasgow Spinal unit (QENSIU) did a sponsored ‘Park Push’ with the patients to celebrate Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day (SCIAD) Read about the event on page 3.

Read about our Peer Support Outreach Team, based in Aberdeen, Inverness and Dumfries & The Borders on pages 12, 13, 14 & 15

Spinal Life Scotland is your free magazine courtesy of Spinal Injuries Scotland and is packed full of great stories and important information.

SCIAD SPONSORED PARK PUSH

To celebrate Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day (SCIAD) the Glasgow spinal unit (QENSIU) decided to do a sponsored “Park Push” with the patients to raise money for further outings and to provide a different form of rehab for those in the unit.

Spinal injuries Scotland went along on the day to support the patients and Laura Torrance joined in on the fun, raising an astounding £885 for the Spinal Unit, all thanks to donations from our members!

Thankfully it was a sunny day with catering provided by Digby Brown for the event. Thank you everyone who came along, both current and ex-patients!

HORATIOS GARDEN’S FABULOUS SUMMER TEA PARTY

Horatios Garden located within the QENSIU hosted a fundraiser tea party and our volunteers went along to enjoy home baking, cream tea and sandwiches and music by Flautist Bogdan Geller and quartet. It was a fabulous event which was enjoyed by everyone who attended it!

STUART’S STORY

POWERCHAIR FOOTBALL

Stuart started playing powerchair football 3 years ago for South Ayrshire Tigers Powerchair Football Club. The club has two teams competing in the Scottish Powerchair Football League.

South Ayrshire Tigers train at Whitletts Activity Centre in Ayr on Thursdays between 3.30pm and 7pm. They are currently on the lookout for new players. The club is open to everyone and they actively encourage competent powerchair users of all ages to come and try the sport for themselves.

If you are interested in joining the club please contact us at: southayrshiretigerspfc@gmail.com.

Powerchair football is the fastest growing disability team sport in the UK but many remain unaware of the sport. Powerchair football gives people with a physical disability the opportunity to play the beautiful game of football and is the only active team participation sport for people who use powerchairs.

Matchplay

Stuart Niven (left) plays for the South Ayrshire Tigers Powerchair Football Club based in Ayr. Stuart, 36, is hoping one day to represent his country at his favourite sport.

“It has always been a dream of mine to represent my country at any sport I play. I won’t stop dreaming until I’ve achieved it.”

Stuart had a road traffic accident in 2010 which resulted in him sustaining a spinal cord injury at C4/C5. At the time Stuart was working for an engineering consultancy in England. He was left with very little movement in his arms which left him initially dependent on a powerchair to get around.

“My life was turned upside down as I spent eight months in the national spinal unit in Glasgow and eventually lost my job.”

However, over the last few years he has had two tendon transfer operations giving him back more movement in his arms. As a result he is now able to get around using a manual chair although he still needs to use a powerchair the majority of the time. A few months ago he even managed to complete a 5k sponsored push in his manual chair and raised £1600 for his powerchair football club.

“From a very young age sport played a big part in my life. Before my accident I was really active and enjoyed the outdoors especially hillwalking. I was a keen golfer and I also played tennis as well as 5-a-side football with my friends. With so much taken away at a relatively young age, being able to compete in any sport again makes a huge difference.”

SPORT

Stuart remembers watching the London 2012 Paralympics and thinking he would love to get back into sport. Hence, he looked into playing other wheelchair team sports like wheelchair rugby, but because of the limited movement in his arms he isn’t able to play. He is, however, able to play wheelchair tennis in his powerchair which he does most Wednesdays at Prestwick tennis club.

Stuart’s occupational therapist made him aware of a local powerchair football club that had recently been set up called “South Ayrshire Tigers” and introduced him to the guy that was running the club. He decided to go along to a taster session and hasn’t looked back since. Stuart now trains every week and also plays for the team in the national league and cup competitions each season.

Stuart says, “off court all players are good friends, however the minute we face each other on the pitch, our competitiveness kicks in. There is no better feeling when you're being hoisted into your football chair with your team kit on, ready to play. There are no words that can describe it. You have just got to experience it for yourself.”

Stuart was also appointed to the role of Club Chairman last year. Currently, much of his time is being spent trying to secure a team sponsor. This would help ensure the club has enough funds to be able to compete in the national league next season. The club also actively fundraises by holding events like race nights and doing a sponsored walk. The club has just submitted an application to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) to become a registered charity.

Thanks to grants from a number of charities including Aspire and Spinal Injuries Scotland, Stuart was able to raise enough funds to buy a Strikeforce. The Strikeforce (above) made by Power Soccer in the USA is designed specifically for playing powerchair football.

Strikeforce Powerchair

Right: SFA Grassroots regional Award-Winners “Best Para Football Project 2018.”

Left: Players and Supporters at the League Cup- September 2018

OUR VOLUNTEERS AND THE NURSES OF TOMORROW

Anyone who has been hospitalised after a spinal injury will understand the special relationship with the nurses who are there throughout the journey to recovery. That's why the Spinal Injuries Scotland volunteers are happy to be involved in application events for new student nurses at Glasgow Caledonian University. The University uses these events to assess individuals who have applied for a place on its BSc/BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies programme over a half day of presentations and activities. The sessions are designed to identify those who possess the suitable values and attitudes that underpin contemporary nursing practice. The Spinal Injuries Scotland volunteers go along and give a presentation to the applicants, numbering over 1500 this year. We openly discuss the impact, good and bad, of working with nurses since our injuries to highlight the importance of these values and attitudes.

Spinal Life Scotland spoke with William McDonald who is a Lecturer in Mental Health Nursing and Admissions Coordinator of the BSc/BSc (hons) Nursing Studies programme at the University. He explained that nurses of tomorrow hearing about the lived experiences of our volunteers helps to "give them a very real idea of the impact of their actions and approaches in supporting someone through either a high-quality care

experience or an upsetting, negative one". The time spent in hospital after a spinal injury puts us in a unique position to share examples of our own positive and negative experiences with nurses. We hope this helps provide an understanding of how important nursing can be for the potential students to contemplate.

The volunteers also recognise the importance of their involvement and feel privileged to share our stories. Mary is one of our volunteers who regularly speaks at the events. She told Spinal Life Scotland that "it's good to speak to the nurses and convey how much they are appreciated for the work they do, or will be doing in the future, and how important they are to the patients". This view is shared by many of our volunteers who have helped at the University.

Another Spinal Injuries Scotland volunteer, Kevin, who has spoken at the recruitment events told us about a conversation he had with a first-year student. He had heard our volunteers speak the year before and told Kevin "it was the talks from Spinal Injuries Scotland that made him more determined to choose nursing as a career". We are certainly proud to be asked back year after year and knowing that our experiences can influence students like the one Kevin spoke to makes it worthwhile.

SPORT

GRAMPIAN FLYERS WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TEAM

Our Peer Support Advisor for Aberdeen Raymond Brown was recently invited to attend the Grampian Flyers Wheelchair basketball teams practice session on a Monday evening.

Raymond was quite shocked at the speed and precision of the players as they managed to manoeuvre around the court while picking up the ball and launching it into the basket. It was great to see people of all ages and levels of disability taking part from the age of 10 upwards. Definitely a great way to participate in physical activity and stay healthy! If you’d like to get involved please contact them or visit www.flyersbasketball.co.uk.

The Grampian Flyers Wheelchair Basketball Team are a North East registered charity. Founded in 2013, the team offers young people and adults with disabilities the opportunity to take part in a team sport. The club not only aims to promote sports and fitness, but also gives its members a sense of belonging and fun through meeting and socialising with others and working as part of a team.

The Flyers currently train at the Beach Leisure Centre and are affiliated with Basketball Scotland. They work closely with other charities and local authorities to bring wheelchair basketball into the community. The team have an inclusive approach to players looking to join, helping to identify the opportunities that would best suit their goals. The Flyers strive to ensure that there is a high standard of competition

across the UK and offer players the opportunity to compete at higher levels should they choose.

The Flyers Wheelchair Team have had massive achievements to date including:

• 17/18, 18/19 RGK League Champions

• 17/18 Scottish League runner up

• 17/18, 18/19 Scottish Cup semi-finalists

• 16/17, 18/19 Team Of The Year

• Twice Granite City Cup winners

• Two players selected for U’14 Scotland Squad

• Four players selected for U’21 Scotland Squad

• One player Selected for Scotland All Stars Squad

• Three players Selected for Scotland Masters

• Two players selected to play at National Level

The Flyers Wheelchair Team are always happy to welcome new members into their basketball family and details of how to get involved can be found on Facebook and Instagram or by contacting:

kirsty@flyerswheelchairbasketball.co.uk http://www.flyersbasketball.co.uk @grampianflyerswb

DISABILITY MOTORSPORTS

The purpose of DMS is to help Improve life conditions, encourage inclusion in motorsport for those with a disability and advancement of public participation in sport.

Kames in Muirkirk, Cumnock is a sleepy little village with a golf club, a campsite and a few shops. Nothing much really happens. It’s reputed that the first trial of John Loudon Macadam’s new road surfacing technique was in Kames. Jim Clark, the most feted of all F1 drivers, also cut his teeth on the little-known Motorsport Circuit.

The circuit itself is a very short, narrow bumpy challenging piece of tarmac, which when strapped into a 300+ bhp 4-wheel drive race car is an absolute hoot to drive!

Disability Motorsports is spearheaded by Colin Duthie, a one-legged ex biker who, like all bikers has a penchant for speed! Alongside Colin and the trustees there are a team of volunteer mechanics and helpers who work together to make Disability Motorsports Scotland (DMS) successful. DMS is now a recognised club within Motorsports UK

The purpose of DMS is to help Improve life conditions, encourage inclusion in motorsport for those with a disability and advancement of public participation in sport.

The day starts with a sign-on for drivers and passengers. The participants vary in terms of disabilities, with many like myself in wheelchairs and some with other mobility issues. All are catered for, as the car is equipped with hand controls.

Having been to DMS at Kames one previous time last year, which I was only able to participate as a passenger, annoyingly, due to the lack of my driving licence! This first on-track experience was incredible, as my driver threw the car around the circuit at a mind-warp speed. I was immediately hooked and vowed to return once I had my licence.

When I was able to return to drive the circuit, thankfully the weather was kind to DMS as the track managed to dodge the rain all day. This meant that dry track time was enjoyed by all.

For myself a T6 complete paraplegic, the transfer into the car over a bucket seat and into position is a bit of a faff first time around. Once in and secured with the 4-point harness and shoulder and neck support on to my helmet I felt very comfortable and snug.

As a driver already, I was immediately comfortable with the hand controls and with Colin as my co-driver we set about learning the circuit. I asked Colin if he’d operate the DSG gearbox in manual, as it would be too much to operate the brake, accelerator and gearbox whilst trying to negotiate the circuit. Following Colin’s instruction I had the most amazing session which literally flew by, leaving me itching for more.

On my second session, with time to absorb the information from the first, and more confident in my ability and that of the car, I was able to push the limits that little bit further and improved my top speed on the “straight” above 75mph, which albeit doesn’t sound fast, believe me feels a hell of a lot faster!

If anyone out there feels the need for speed and would like to support DMS I can’t recommend this highly enough. In summary all I can do is thank Colin and the team for the opportunity to get on track. Please keep up the good work!

http://www.disabilitymotorsport.com

Email: info@disabilitymotorsport.com

BULLEN HEALTHCARE

It has been over two years since Spinal Injuries Scotland (SIS) and Bullen Healthcare launched their partnership to provide a dedicated home delivery service for Spinal Injuries Scotland members. Over 100 SIS members are now using this service.

Each year Bullen Healthcare sends out a satisfaction survey to all SIS members using the service and we are delighted to share the 2019 results with you.

It’s great to see that 85% of the members who responded have been using Bullen Healthcare for over a year and 92% thought the service was extremely or very reliable.

95% of those asked thought our staff were extremely or very helpful and a whopping 98% of all respondents said that they would recommend Bullen Healthcare’s home delivery service.

Bullen Healthcare has been operating for over 160 years. We have a branch in Glasgow, we work closely with other charities such as Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland, the Spinal Injuries Association and Shine and we have been providing tailored home delivery services for many years.

The key benefit of our partnership with SIS is that we can deliver your urology and stoma products and prescription medication directly to your door, discreetly and efficiently.

There are two options available:

• You can either get both your products and medication delivered at the same time by Bullen Healthcare

• Or alternatively you can just get your products delivered by us and continue getting your medication from your local pharmacy.

Members who use Bullen Healthcare say there are several reasons why they prefer the service: we call you each month to go through your order; the quality of the service is excellent; we supply all makes and manufacturers and there’s a great range of complimentary items. Joining Bullen Healthcare is really easy and we take care of everything, including dealing with your GP, and keep you informed throughout.

Here are what some SIS members say about our home delivery service:

“Receiving my prescription from you has made a difference to me. It is hassle-free and I don’t worry about running out of things. It’s been a real game changer for me and your staff are so nice and friendly and always really helpful.”

“It’s a fantastic service from Bullens. Their staff are helpful and friendly and my parcel always arrives on time. I would never use anyone else now.”

For more information on how Bullen Healthcare can help you with your bladder and bowel products and prescription medication needs please call 0800 756 2423 or email us at sis@bullens.com.

HAVE YOU MET OUR PEER SUPPORT OUTREACH TEAM?

Spinal Injuries Scotland strives to do more to support those people whose lives have been transformed by spinal injury. We have fully established the Glasgow Peer Support Service and attend the Spinal Unit at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital on a daily basis. These Peer Supporters use their own experience of a spinal injury in a meaningful and positive way by drawing on their own personal experience of recovery to help others going through a difficult rehabilitation. They offer empathy and understanding, and encourage the development of mutual support relationships. Our new members tell us that they wish to continue to receive support when they return home after hospital.

To this end we have hired three new Peer Support Advisors based in Aberdeen, Inverness, and Dumfries & The Borders.

Spinal Injuries Scotland is a national charity which Spinal Injuries Scotland aims to be an agent for positive change for people with spinal cord injuries.

RAYMOND BROWN – ABERDEEN AND GRAMPIAN

I was a self-employed floor layer, working in a very physical role, providing a dedicated quality service to individuals and through contract work for John Lewis Plc and House of Fraser.

In June 2004, my life changed forever. Firstly I got married, and then on day 12 of a wonderful honeymoon, I became a C5-C6 complete tetraplegic.

I knew from the moment of impact, on a sandbank off the Dominican Republic that I had, in my own words “ruined everything”. Looking back now, those words do not reflect my life. I have a different life, and a good life. Maybe not the one I would have chosen, however, I am alive and enjoying life to the full. It took a year of intensive rehabilitation at the Spinal Injuries Unit in Glasgow to get me back to a position to start my new life as a functioning disabled person who was able to live independently within the community and believe me, it was a hard transition. Everything terrified me, and looking back I am so grateful for all the support that was given to me, especially by the medical staff and the Peer Support team from Spinal Injuries Scotland. I now have a superb team of nurses and carers who assist me to get out of bed every day and once I am up, there is no stopping me!

What I’ve done since my injury

I now drive, I have a job as tutor for a local college, where I support over 70 students to complete computer courses. I cook, I clean, I wheel (walk) the dog, and generally, I do almost everything able bodied people do. Everything is a lot slower. I have damaged almost every door and wall in the house. I drop things

constantly and hear my wife shouting “what have you done now”... but these things bring laughter and humour to a life where “I did not ruin everything”

My life, 14 years post injury has had challenges. I see everything through different eyes, and I appreciate even the smallest things.

As mentioned previously, I have regained my driving licence, after my second attempt, which has given me greater independence. I attended my local college to learn new skills and was subsequently offered employment as Distance Learning Tutor. That was several years ago which seems like only yesterday. I completed a number of other courses in web design which enabled me to take my career on a different path.

It has not been easy and it has taken me a number of years to adapt to my new way of life, learning new skills and adapting to everyday tasks. It’s been a long journey with many ups and downs, but from day one I’ve had the support and encouragement of my amazing wife Frances.

Why I wanted to be involved with SIS and hope to achieve in my role

When the opportunity to join SIS as a Peer Support Advisor came along, I was really excited about the opportunity to get involved both locally and within the wider community. I would love to offer support to new and existing individuals with a spinal cord injury. I would like to pass on my knowledge and experience, providing one to one support, practical help and advice with encouragement and a listening ear.

I would like to assist family members and friends, allowing them to talk through the impact of a spinal cord injury with someone who understands or who can signpost them to the most appropriate help.

Raymond Brown

GRZERGORZ FARYNO – INVERNESS

Before my injury I was living in Poland where I worked as a physiotherapist in a neurological ward. There I helped those with neurological conditions including those affected by SCI’s to progress in their rehab.

In 2005 I moved to Scotland where I started working as a Care Assistant for the elderly. I worked in this position for over 10 years until I had my accident in 2016 when my bicycle collided with a lorry.

Before my injury I was very interested in sports including squash and bicycle racing and even took part in Etape Loch Ness. After my injury it seemed that I would never get to enjoy these things again and I remember feeling quite hopeless.

What I’ve done since my injury

I am currently learning to drive so that I can gain better independence, although I don’t mind travelling by public transport and regularly get the train from Inverness to Glasgow. After my accident I was transferred from Inverness to the Spinal Unit in Glasgow where I met the Spinal injuries Scotland peer support team. They helped me through the different stages of my recovery.

While I was in the unit I attended the summer BBQ at Castle Semple as a patient. Here I was given the opportunity and the confidence to try different activities which I never thought I would do when first injured.

When I left hospital I quickly realised that I needed more support. I had no willpower and I was struggling with my health problems and chronic pain. My family did not understand what I was going through, and they were

pushing me to do things I wasn’t ready to do. During one of my outreach clinic appointments I reconnected with the Peer Support team that travelled up to Inverness with the Spinal Cord Injury medical team, who reassured me that help and support was available.

Why I wanted to be involved with Spinal Injuries Scotland and hope to achieve in my role

After seeing the fantastic work that the Charity does first hand, I just wanted to be part of the team. Working for Spinal Injuries Scotland has given me a second chance at getting my life back by helping others who are facing the same challenges that I did.

STUART MCMILLAN – DUMFRIES & THE BORDERS

I worked offshore from 2003 in the Forties Field with Apache North Sea. Previously I had worked at Grangemouth in the oil and gas sector. I loved my new career, one of the main benefits being the work pattern of two weeks offshore and three home leave.

As an offshore worker I would spend my downtime going to the gym and planning all my two wheeled exploits for when I returned to terra firma. These would be bike trips with mates to foreign countries or around the UK. A family holiday to Tenerife or Glentress / Innerleithen action.

All my plans and hopes would come to a very abrupt end when I made the mistake of colliding with a car at 40mph!!

No more motorbikes! No more mountain bikes! No more offshore! Everything which shaped me and my life was stripped away and effectively I’ve had to reinvent myself.

Greg Faryno

In rehab after my accident the realisation that all the things I loved doing would no longer be available to me. At this time, I met with Mike Thomas and Laura Torrance from Spinal Injuries Scotland. They both made me realise that there could be life after injury and it could still contain some of the elements of my previous hobbies.

This is where Spinal Injuries Scotland entered my life and began the next and current chapter.

It’s very easy to get into deep dark places mentally when one’s physical capabilities are taken away so severely, especially when you have been so used to living an active life pre-injury. Being able to speak to people who can not only empathise, but who have experienced these emotions first hand, to me was invaluable. This lifted me hugely and I vowed that I would get involved with Spinal Injuries Scotland as a volunteer to help others.

While I was in the SIU at QEUH Glasgow there was the annual Spinal Injuries Scotland BBQ, which I attended for the first time. I was able to sample hand bikes and sailing. I loved it! There were other activities such as powerboat, kayaking and canoeing but they couldn’t get me off the sailboat or hand bike!

What I’ve done since my injury

I now pursue hand cycling as a means of getting around, having invested in a BATEC Hybrid attachment for my wheel chair, I've also been able to get out in a proper recumbent hand cycle through Access to Cycling in Edinburgh. As for sailing, I was able to get out on Lochwinnoch at this years BBQ.

Since my accident I have been Skiing in Colorado, through BackUp. This was amazing, and involved my first intercontinental flight and first-time skiing. I also attended an over 50’s activity course in the Lake District which involved sailing, kayaking, abseiling and a push around Lake Derwent.

I regularly get the opportunity to take to the track in a race car thanks to Colin Duthie and the team at DMS (Disability Motorsport) I have also been gliding through the Charity “Walking on Air”.

Fortunately, as soon as I left the SIU I was already driving my own sports car, a BMW Z4, which isn’t the ideal transport for a wheelchair user but it harked back to my able-bodied days. This has allowed me the freedom to pursue all these events and generally maintain an active life without having to rely upon my long-suffering wife Lynda.

Why I wanted to be involved with SIS and hope to achieve in my role

As I said before, I was made aware of the brilliant work of Spinal Injuries Scotland by Laura, Mike, Kiera, Andy and all the other volunteers in the SIU. This meant as soon as I was able, I jumped at the opportunity to volunteer myself. In due course a further opportunity arose to take up a position with Spinal Injuries

Scotland as an Outreach Support Advisor for the Borders and Dumfries, I knew that car would come in handy!

Stuart McMillan

These Peer Supporters use their own experience of a spinal injury in a meaningful and positive way by drawing on their own personal experience of recovery to help others going through a difficult rehabilitation.

JEAN STONE MBE

We at Spinal Injuries Scotland were very sad to hear of the passing of Jean Stone who was a founding member of Spinal Injuries Scotland from its initial conception as Scottish Paraplegic Association in 1960. Jean was also instrumental in the development of Stoke Mandeville as a centre of excellence for international disability.

Jean left school in the 1950s and trained as an Occupational Therapist, a relatively new career at the time. Jean got a job at the Thistle Foundation working with disabled ex-servicemen. It was while working with them that she was first introduced to the National Games at Stoke Mandeville

Following her time at the National Stoke Mandeville Games in 1962, Jean worked to get funding from the Secretary of State, writing to him in her capacity as secretary of the Scottish Paraplegic Association for sporting activities of the disabled in Scotland to be recognised.

In 1963 the National Stoke Mandeville Games were held in Edinburgh at Dreghorn Barracks. Jean was also instrumental in arranging a Scotland v England wheelchair basketball competition in Princes Street gardens in the centre of Edinburgh during the Edinburgh International Festival with spectators from all over the world watching.

Scottish teams coordinated by Jean competed annually in the National Stoke Mandeville Games and the GB Team was made up of a significant number of Scottish team members at the International Stoke Mandeville Games

Jean was heavily involved with the Third Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh in 1970 and served the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) as a volunteer for decades. She was fittingly awarded the Paralympic Order in recognition of her incredible contribution to the Paralympic Movement.

Jean Stone and the late Bob Mitchell were the driving forces behind the establishment and development of disability sport in Scotland throughout their lives.

Spinal Injuries Scotland was saddened to hear of Jean’s passing as she was a huge part of our history. The Charity is grateful for her influence and development of disability sports in Scotland.

BARBECUE & ACTIVITIES DAY 2019

Spinal Injuries

Scotland’s annual BBQ and Activities Day was an outstanding success again this year.

While not as sunny as the previous year it stayed dry and warm enough for everyone to spend the whole day outside. We were proud to be able to offer the opportunity to patients currently in the Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit (QENSIU) the opportunity to get out and try new activities as part of their rehab. We were also very happy to see a good turn-out from our members and ex-patients who had attended the event in previous years and wanted to try it again. With the continued support from National Lottery Awards For All we are able to offer activities throughout the year completely free for our members.

We were joined on the day by our partners Digby Brown and Bullen Healthcare as well as the charities Disability Equality Scotland, and I Am Me who were promoting their Keep Safe campaign in conjunction with Police Scotland Country Corner Cycles were present giving a demonstration of their wheelchair power add-ons.

The day had something for everyone from sailing, kayaking, canoeing and hand biking for the more intrepid to powerboating and yoga (provided by Yogability) for those who wanted to stay in their chairs, with one attendee saying that though they are “not sporty I would like to try the speedboat again”. Digby Brown once more provided an excellent barbecue that was demolished in record time leaving those who went back for thirds disappointed.

Continued on page 20

‘‘

Lots of familiar faces to catch up with and a wide variety of activities.

‘‘ Thank you for the chance to leave the unit for the day, it made me smile.

I was too scared to try the watersports but really liked the yoga.

The usual variety of hand bikes were available including performance-orientated recumbent bikes designed around getting the best speed out of your available arm power. The Mountain Trike was also available to try with the unique lever drive system that allows the rider to have clean dry hands whatever the terrain. Hand-cycle trikes and side-by-side trikes were also at hand. Equal Adventures travelled down from Grantown-on-Spey with their all-terrain BOMA, which was very popular and had lots of people whizzing around at top speed!

The wind allowed lots of people to try the sailing boats which can fit one or two people. The boats have hand controls to allow riders to control the boats themselves.

The kayaks and canoes are fitted with a floating device on the back of them that prevent them from capsizing, allowing those with balance issues to feel confident as they tour the 1.5 mile long Castle Semple Loch.

It was a fabulous day and Spinal Injuries

Scotland would like to thank everyone who came along and took part in the available activities. We would also like to thank STV for coming along on the day. We hope that we will see those who and want to try more back for another session this year!

If you would like to try kayaking, canoeing, sailing or hand-biking please contact Spinal Injuries Scotland on info@spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk for more information. We can arrange opportunities to try these sports completely free for our members.

I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to do anything and now I want to do more.

‘‘

Listening to my son’s laughter as he shouts “go faster” on the speed boat made my day.

‘‘

Being able to sit together as a family enjoying the BBQ for the first time since my injury was great.

‘‘

It was fandabydozy, I wouldn’t change a thing.

A few years ago, Steven decided to tell his story by writing a blog. Now Spinal Life Scotland is happy to share extracts from that blog with you.

The Whole Truth will continue to feature in future editions of Spinal Life Scotland and previous editions of the magazine can be found at www.sisonline.org.

THE WHOLE TRUTH STEVEN’S STORY

Steven is a volunteer with Spinal Injuries Scotland, who had an accident 12 years ago leaving him with no movement below his neck and needing a ventilator 24 hours a day. Despite these challenges Steven is an example that no disability should mean an end to fun and enjoying life.

THE BUBBLE BURSTING

During my 15 months in hospital I stayed motivated by focusing on the day when I would eventually be discharged and able to get back home. I still had short term goals while in intensive care like being able to eat, drink and talk again, sitting up in bed and eventually getting into a wheelchair.

Next was a move to the Philipshill rehab ward where I concentrated on chest management, strengthening my neck muscles, developing a steady bowel regime and creating a care package for living at home. All this work was designed to help me reach my ultimate goal of getting out of hospital and getting on with my life. I never realised that the greatest challenges were still to come. I would only face them when the bubble of being in hospital was burst and I was challenged with building some sort of meaningful life again.

You can also follow Steven's story on twitter @choose_living

Over those 15 months in hospital I was surrounded by the best medical care available and the reassurance of having fantastic nurses on hand if anything went wrong. I was comfortable living in an environment with so many other wheelchair users to help me feel like a 'normal' part of society. When I eventually got home, the reality of life in a wheelchair was overwhelming. I was physically ready for life away from the hospital, but psychologically, I was not prepared for how difficult life was about to become.

SPINALLIFE

When the support network of the medical team and other patients was pulled away I found myself sitting at home, vulnerable, confused and lacking any motivation. One of the major problems was losing the routine of hospital life. Without any structure in place I found myself lying in bed or sitting in front of the TV all day, wasting one day at a time. It was so easy to fall into a rut of nothingness without the nurses, physios, occupational therapists and other patients to keep me busy. I do remember feeling like my life had little meaning or purpose. After all, I was on so much heavy medication while struggling to accept my situation that I had forgotten about any ambition to enjoy life.

I have no doubt that I was experiencing extreme depression. Comfort eating quickly led to me gaining around 5 stone, I had blocked off much of my social circle, I had no interest in getting out and about and I was neglecting my health. The latter was becoming a serious problem for me. Being ventilated, it was crucial that I took care of my chest, but despite the best efforts of my care team I refused to carry out the essential tasks like nebulisers and cough assists. I was admitted to intensive care on three occasions with life threatening chest infections, yet I still failed to recognise the destructive impact of my negligence.

I'm glad to say that in time and with hard work, I found my way through these dark times. I think it is so important that anyone confined to hospital after a traumatic injury is prepared for life after leaving hospital. That said, struggling to adjust to life after an injury is an important part of the recovery process. I don't feel like I am weak and certainly don't have anything to be embarrassed about. Everyone has their own journey coming to terms with a new life and for me, the experience of facing the real world after 15 months in hospital was my most challenging time. However, I found an inner strength I didn't know was there and that experience has helped to shape me into the person I am now.

What matters most is that I decided life was too important to give up and that I was not going to let my disability change me as a person. My only regret is leaving it so long before asking for help and finding the clarity of mind to get life back on track. I would encourage anyone who identifies with these feelings of helplessness and depression to recognise how important it is that life is still for living and loving and having fun.

the bubble of being in hospital was burst and I was challenged with building some sort of meaningful life again.

POLICE SCOTLAND HATE CRIME

Scotland is a rich and diverse country, made up of many communities who bring a wide range of skills, experiences and cultures to the way in which we live and work.

Unfortunately we also have to recognise that not everyone appreciates Scotland’s rich diversity and that means hate crime can cause problems across our country.

WHAT DO WE MEAN BY HATE CRIME?

Hate crime is a term that most people will be aware of, but often they are not clear on what it means. The official definition is “any crime motivated by malice or ill will towards a social group”. What does this mean? In basic terms if you are targeted by a person or group and you think the reason you have been targeted is because of your:

• Disability;

• Race;

• Religion;

• Sexual orientation;

• Transgender Identity; then this could be a hate crime.

Hate crime happens in many different ways, for example, it can range from someone calling you names or shouting and swearing at you to offensive graffiti to your home or being physically attacked or receiving online abuse. Research tells us that hate crime is not always reported. This can be for lots of different reasons. In particular research by Mencap states approximately 97% of disability related hate crime does not get reported to the police. That is a frightening statistic. So what are we, Police Scotland doing about it?

By working with partners like Spinal Injuries

Scotland we get information to communities and give people the confidence to report incidents.

We also support Disability Equality Scotland’s Disability Safety Hub where you can find information on what hate crime is and how you can report it.

In some cases people do not feel comfortable reporting hate crime directly to the Police, and may be more comfortable reporting it to someone they are familiar with. Police Scotland work with a variety of partners to perform the role of 3rd Party Reporting Centres. These partners have been trained to support people in submitting a report to the police, and can make such a report their behalf.

We believe the best solution to hate crime is prevention. A key to this is education. We work with the charity I Am Me Scotland who educate school pupils on disability hate crime and its impact on people and communities. They also work with us to create a network of ‘Keep Safe’ places. Keep Safe works with a network of businesses such as shops, libraries, cafes who have agreed to make their premises a ‘Keep Safe’ place for people to go if they feel frightened, distressed or if you have been the victim of a crime in the community. There are nearly 700 Keep Safe places in Scotland. You can identify them by this logo.

Has hate crime affected you or someone you know? If you want to talk about it please contact us here at Spinal Injuries Scotland on 0800 0132 305.

You can get more information on I Am Me, Keep Safe and the other projects mentioned as well as how to contact Police Scotland on these links:

disabilitysafety.scot

www.iammescotland.co.uk www.scotland.police.uk

Has hate crime affected you or someone you know? If you want to talk about it please contact us here at Spinal Injuries Scotland on 0800 0132 305.

EDINBURGH ALL ABILITY BIKE CENTRE

I had great pleasure in attending the Edinburgh All Ability Bike Centre at Saughton park in Edinburgh. The day took place at the centre’s base in Saughton Park, which offers people the chance to get cycling whatever their ability or background, using a range of adaptive bikes as well as standard solo bikes and tandems.

While there I enjoyed sampling the recumbent handcycle, which is very low but allows people with a higher, T6 in my case, injury to handcycle at a much more intense level.

The next cycle was a side-by-side where an able bodied co-cyclist does all the work and I was able to sit alongside and enjoy the view! Ha! ha!

The benefit of this cycle, apart from the obvious free ride was the movement of my legs which are velcro’d into the pedals and the movement allows additional blood flow which helps with bone density. The sit up position also meant I could enjoy the view as an ablebodied cyclist would, which adds to both physical benefits and mental benefits.

The huge array of different cycles means that there shouldn’t be any ability/disability which isn’t catered for. Even those who cannot transfer from their wheelchair can be accommodated in a cycle with a platform which accepts the chair which can then be clamped into position in front of the cyclist.

In addition, the handcycling project has two types of handcycles and has just taken delivery of a Triride wheelchair clip-on handcycle with power assist. The project is also due to take delivery of a pair of youth handcycles as well as a tetra equipped cycle and a special seat that can be raised and lowered to assist with transfers.

The park is large enough to allow a meaningful amount of exercise and can be experienced without pushing first timers beyond their own limits.

Drop-in sessions for all bikes are currently on Monday from 1-5pm and Friday from 1-6pm, with handcycle only sessions on Thursdays from 11am-4pm.

Contact Ken Talbot for further information on:

Ken Talbot

Development Officer

Edinburgh All-ability Bike Centre

Handcycling Project Cycling UK

Mobile: 07788 646198

ken.talbot@cyclinguk.org

www.cyclinguk.org

Facebook: Enhance Edinburgh-abc

TONY’S STORY

You’ll probably hear Tony Kane before you see him. He’s the vibrant Spinal Injuries Scotland volunteer whose arrival usually precedes laughter from patients and staff at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital’s spinal unit. But how does a man who can’t walk keep his spirits, and the spirits of others, so high?

Here, the 35-year-old from Wishaw, Lanarkshire shares his backstory, and the secret to winning at life after a spinal cord injury.

In 2005, Tony was driving a fully-loaded dumper truck around a building site. While manoeuvring the machine it suddenly plunged forwards over a blind ledge. The labourer, who was strapped into his seat, tumbled down the ledge until the force of the six-tonne truck rolled on top of him and broke his neck.

Opening up about his life-changing workplace injury, Tony “just knew” he’d never walk again. “I remember arguing with my pal at the time”, he said. “I kept telling him it felt like my legs were above my head and he said ‘What are you on about, they’re where they should be - you’ll be fine’. But it was in that moment I just knew I’d never walk again.”

Tony was right.

The crash broke his C6 and C7 vertebrates resulting in loss of movement and feeling in his legs. However it also fractured his C1the tiny bone that connects the skull with the spine. This affected the mobility of his hands but, mercifully, because it did not break fully Tony maintained the use of his arms.

Sadly, at the time, Tony did not see the silver-lining and sank into a deep depression. He said: “I remember leaving the hospital at the time and just being angry. I was angry for the accident happening. Angry I couldn’t walk. Then I’d simply get angry at myself for being angry. I was stuck in a vicious cycle and I stayed there for two years where I didn’t go out and didn’t see people.”

To this day, Tony doesn’t know what changed in him – but something did. And it “dragged his butt out of the depression” and one morning he remembers just waking up feeling like a new man wanting to seize the day. He sprang into his chair, he reached out to friends, he reached out to Spinal Injuries Scotland, he swapped alcohol for the gym, he swapped sitting in front of the TV to getting outdoors with his dog Chico, he joined a wheelchair rugby team, he started going to Ibrox again to watch Rangers play, he attended concerts again like Avicii at Bellahouston Park in Glasgow.

Tony says that for him, what he realised then was that the only thing that had been holding him back was himself.

He said: “To this day I still feel lucky - but I think a lot of it is about choice.

SPINALLIFE

“You could choose to be negative and spend your life feeling unlucky at having an accident and feeling unlucky at not walking.

“Or you could choose to be positive and feel lucky at what you do have.

“I really do feel lucky because if my C1 broke instead of fractured then I’d not be able to use my arms - I might even have died.

“Obviously my life has changed but it has not stopped - it’s just taken a different path.

“In some ways it’s even a better path I think if the accident hadn’t happened then there’s a good chance I probably would have just worked during the week, sat in the pub at weekends and wasted my life away. Now I’m healthier, I’m helping people and I’m still able to do things I used to.

“The only difference is that now when I go to Ibrox I’m sitting right at pitch level next to the dug-outs rather than up in the stands!

“After going as low as you can and coming out the other side, I can assure you – just like all of us at Spinal Injuries Scotland can – that you don’t need legs to move in life, just a positive attitude.

“Too many people worry about their physical condition when their accident happens. But just let the doctors worry about that. ll you should focus on is your mental health because if your head is in the right place then you’re never really disabled.”

To hear more about Tony’s incredible story visit:

https://www.youtube.com/watch

?v=Qwc5kLhTWS0

Clober Farm

Accessible self-catering accommodation

Fully accessible living accommodation and accessible garden with patio area and raised beds, designed with the wheelchair user in mind. Close to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Open all year.

Please get in touch with Spinal Injuries Scotland on 0141 427 7686 Twitter@cloberfarmSIS. Email: info@sisonline.org www.sisonline.org

• Level access throughout

• Sleeps 6

• Master bedroom with Liko 200 ceiling tracking hoist, height adjustable profiling bed and Invacare pressure relief air mattress, plus single bed

• Ensuite wetroom with shower chairs provided and righthand transfer accessible toilet

• One double room and one twin room

• Family bathroom with over bath shower, height adjustable sink and accessible left-hand transfer toilet

• Combined kitchen/living area with patio doors leading onto a patio area and landscaped wheelchair accessible garden

• Wi-Fi internet access

• Private accessible parking, 2 spaces

• Fully accessible kitchen with low level fridge, freezer, microwave & oven. Adjustable height worktop with induction hob and sink

• Utility room with washing machine, dishwasher and clothes airer

• Assistance dogs welcome

• Pets welcome

• Non smoking

THE EVOLUTION OF COUNTRY CORNER CYCLES

A friend announced one day in 2017 that she had something she thought I’d enjoy... And so I was introduced to the world of triking!

All I can say is, one exploration to the far corner of fields that I had last been able to do before my spinal cord injury, and the corny phrase became oh so true – ‘I felt like a bird that had been let out of a cage’!

I was devastated when my friend was well enough to want her trike back! I really did feel like someone had taken my legs away! So, the search was on for something I liked that was cheaper than the UK prices of about £4,000, some going up to £7,000!

I finally found one manufacturer in China making five different power add-ons but they had a minimum order of ten, so good old social media. One shout-out on there for anyone wanting an affordable trike, and before I knew it, I had an order for twelve! Yes, we were all gambling our money. We had no idea if the Chinese company

33 years of perambulating had worn my shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands to the point I had to back off pushing anywhere that wasn’t dead smooth and as I had miniature horses on a smallholding, that was a terrible situation.

was trustworthy but I’d done a lot of research on them and felt confident enough. But yes, still a gamble.

15 days of build time, then 40 days on the water. On the 4th September 2018 they arrived!

After thoroughly testing them, best for traction was a white one with a 10” wheel with a smoother, wider tyre than the 12” wheel version shown above in red.

I would also not want to be without the black scooter, light enough to easily put in the car.

I will be attending Castle Semple with two of the scooters.

I think they make a worthy addition to anyone’s rolling lifestyle. And don’t assume because they’re so much cheaper to buy, that they’re shoddily made. I’ve given all of them a hammering and all are still going strong!

Look forward to seeing smiley faces as people enjoy a bit of speed with ease…

EMMA DOUGLAS BLOG

It’s been a while since my last addition to the magazine. Long story short, I had a bad fall in 2016 where I managed to break my back again in 2 places. Along side this I broke my pelvis and my right ankle which took some time to recover and a year out of the saddle, then making the decision to sell the horse I had at the time.

After a long search, Rabbit came into my life at the end of 2017. I spent the winter/spring of 2018 getting to know her, and after a few competitions we were selected for our first international which was held at Bishop Burton College. We then qualified for our first major championship the Para Dressage Winter Championships which we sadly never got to as I had an unplanned dismount 2 days before we were due to leave. I ended up in Stoke Mandeville Hospital for 5 days with a fractured left femur, so I was in a full leg brace for 6 weeks. Hoping to be back in the saddle this summer!

I was very honoured to join Team Hybrid Clip on Handcycles as an Ambassador last summer, and was very kindly suppled with a Cougar Hybrid Handcycle to assist with my fitness programme! I have owned a Team Hybrid Handcycle for the last 10 years and just love the freedom they give for getting about in the great outdoors, and the excellent cardio work out you get! The Hybrid option gives you the benefit of power assist which is a fantastic feature. It helps get you get up inclines you may struggle in a manual cycle and also it gives your shoulders a break if you struggle. My Cougar will also be my latest bit of kit to come to competitions with me to help me get about the show grounds. We headed to Solihull on the 11/12th of March for British Equestrian Federation World Class Programme selection trials, to hopefully be selected on to the Pathway squad. I was obviously not taking part in the riding element. Hopefully I will be able to update you with more exciting news in the winter.

ONE MAN'S INCREDIBLE FUNDRAISING MISSION

At Spinal Injuries Scotland we know how fortunate we are to have individuals and groups all over the country raising money to help the charity continue with its work. One man who has gone above and beyond over the last year is Captain Toby Oliver who serves in the 154 (Scottish) Regiment Royal Logistics Corps at Dunfermline.

I was lucky enough to catch up with Toby and talk about his gruelling campaign that has raised more than £1800 over the last year.

A colleague of Toby's sits on the board of directors of Spinal Injuries Scotland, so when Toby was looking for a charity to support everything fell into place seamlessly. After meeting with Maureen and Marianne who work for the charity Toby recognised the importance of our service and was determined to raise as much money and awareness as possible. Not satisfied with pushing himself through one physically demanding challenge, Toby planned a series of events to complete. The list below describes each event and shows how dedicated Toby has been to help the charity.

• Scottish 2 Day Garelochhead Marches 2018 – a 2 day march covering 50 miles, carrying 10kgs, which I completed alongside a team of officers and soldiers from 154 Regt RLC

• Cateran Yomp 2018 – a 54 mile march to be completed in 24 hours or less in Blairgowrie, which I completed alongside several soldiers from 154 Regt RLC

• Nijmegen Marches 2018 – a 4 day march covering over 120km carrying 10kgs

• Tartan Warrior – a 5 mile obstacle course race in Alloa, in which I won my heat

• MacTuff Obstacle Course Race – a 15km obstacle race at Knockhill Racing Circuit, which acts as a qualifier for the Obstacle Course Race World Championships

FUNDRAISING

• PARAS 10 – a 10 mile march carrying 36lbs over the Catterick Training Area, where UK Airborne forces undergo selection. I completed this event alongside my wife who ran the route

• Cateran Yomp 2019 – a 54 mile march to be completed in 24 hours or less in Blairgowrie, which I completed alongside a team of officers and soldiers from 154 Regt RLC

• Edinburgh Marathon Festival – my first ever full marathon, which I completed in 4 hours and 5 minutes – I already want to do another and run a sub-4 hour time

• Gin Tastings x 3 (Aug 18, May 19 and Jun 19) – numerous gin companies from across the UK kindly provided me with samples which we enjoyed across the Regiment, with all funds raised going towards Spinal Injuries Scotland. After sampling over 50 gins we now have a Regimental batch kindly created by Nerabus Gin, a Scottish company from the Isle of Islay.

Toby took time to pay special tribute to his wife. While all his friends, family and colleagues have been very supportive throughout his fundraising, his wife went the extra mile. She joined in fundraising and completed two of the events alongside Toby, the PARAS 10 and the Tartan Warrior. Toby has plans to continue fund-raising and we wish him all the best in his future challenges. Everyone at Spinal Injuries Scotland is extremely grateful to Toby and those who have supported him through these events. It is thanks to people like Toby that we can continue to offer support to everyone in Scotland with a spinal injury. We all appreciate the selflessness and dedication shown by Toby and everyone else across the country who takes the time to help the charity through their own fundraising. We thank you all very much. If you are interested in fundraising then please keep us in mind and get in touch if you have any questions

REPSOL SINOPEC RESOURCES UK LIMITED

The business has been divided up accordingly to support the five charities which are:

• Horseback UK

• Forget Me Not Club

• Alzheimers Scotland

• Maggie’s

• Spinal Injuries Scotland

Repsol accelerated their goal to raise 1m over five for their staff selected charities, to do this they donated £50,000 to Spinal Injuries Scotland which we are very grateful for as it will allow us to carry on the work we have been doing this year.

Spinal Injuries Scotland have been honoured and impressed by Repsol Sinopec’s fundraising so far which have included a casino night, a Wimbledon day and a sky dive! We can’t wait to see what other adventurous ideas they come up with!

Repsol Sinopec Resources UK Limited is committed to supporting five charities in 2019 with a combined target of £200,000 for the year (total of staff fundraising target of £20,000 per charity with corporate matching for every £1 raised).

Thanks to all of you who have been hard at work fundraising for our charity. We are always so delighted to hear your stories, so please keep up the good work. Your efforts are hugely appreciated.

THANK YOU

FINLEY HUNTER ran the MarathonEdinburgh and raised £1897.54

FUNDRAISING

PASSING PLACES TOURS

who made Spinal Injuries Scotland their nominated charity for their annual Sunart Wildcat Rally. The rally consists of a treasure hunt around the Ardnamurchan Peninsula. This year they raised over £2000!

KATIE CARTER ran the MarathonEdinburgh and raised £1028.56

KAREN BENTLY Donated £110

DRUMMOND MILLER LLP for their continued support

TOBY OLIVER ran the Edinburgh Marathon and his continued fundraising over the year

MR BRIAN ROBSON

Donated £1000

MR MRSANDMACKAY Donated £100

GORDON FRASER

Donated £30

DR K G JACKSONDORMAN Donated £250

SHARON BLACK ran the Stirling marathon raising £270

MR A DAVIEDonated £10

CHRISTINA MUTCH

Donated £450

CAMERON CAMPBELL Donated £80

WOULD YOU BE ABLE TO FUNDRAISE FOR US?

At Spinal Injuries Scotland we are dedicated to helping people who are living with a spinal cord injury. We need your help so we can be there - on the other end of the phone, in local communities and building relationships with decision makers.

There are so many different ways you can make a difference, from a coffee morning, to running a marathon, to a gift in your Will.

If you are interested email info@sisonline.org for a fundraising pack filled with ideas and advice for your fundraising event.

FUNDERS

BECOME A MEMBER OF SPINAL INJURIES SCOTLAND!

Becoming a member of Spinal Injuries Scotland is completely free, allowing you access to:

• Confidential advice and support from out office team and/or our Peer Support Team, all of whom have been affected by a spinal injury

• Legal and welfare rights advice

• Our small grants scheme

• Reduced rates to stay at Clober Farm

• Our magazine delivered to you

• Dedicated healthcare home delivery service – provided by Bullen Healthcare. You will benefit from your own dedicated personal adviser and a great range of complimentary items.

• Discounted tickets for the annual Digby Brown Winter Dinner Dance