SPINAL
Life
SIS Winter Dinner Dance SCOTLAND
Inspirational
Karen Darke
Out & About WINTER 2017 • www.sisonline.org
Hardeep Singh Kohli Compere at our Winter Dinner Dance
Life SPINAL
ISSUE E THIS RECEIV ONLINE VIA SIS line.org ison www.s
SCOTLAND
CONTENTS 02
All enquiries and applications to our address at: Spinal Injuries Scotland Fullarton Court (Unit C) 11 Drumhead Place Glasgow, G32 8EY
WELCOME NEWS
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UK Disability – Under the Spotlight Disability for Edinburgh Airport
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The Inspirational Karen Darke
SPORT
Tel: 0141 427 7686 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 1363-6723
SPINAL LIFE 08
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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Office Hours: Our office hours are Monday to Friday 9-5pm. Anyone wishing to speak to any of our staff, please call 0141 427 7686.
Honorary President HRH The Princess Royal
Patrons Paul Warwick Harry Brown Tracey Brown
Board of Directors Jennifer Alan Ian Wilson Patricia Clay-Mackinnon Sharon Lansdowne Gary Caldwell Kathleen McMonagle Theresa Fern
In the Office Interim Manager Maureen Morrison Peer Support Staff Laura Torrance Fundraiser Coordinator (Clober Farm) Marianne Prentice
The Whole Truth, Part 1 - Steven’s Story Wheelchair World - Rwanda Ruth’s Incredible Journey The Whole Truth, Part 2 - Steven’s Story
OUT & ABOUT
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Glasgow to Edinburgh Kayak Race
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FEATURE The SIS Winter Dinner Dance
Legal and Welfare Advice Services: If you are concerned about legal or welfare issues, please call the office on 0141 427 7686 and we will put you in touch with our advisors. Tel. 0141 427 7686 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.
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REGULARS 21 22 28 31
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Cover Photo: Hardeep Singh Kohli Compere at our Winter Dinner Dance 2017 Editorial: Spinal Injuries Scotland and Clear Design (North) Design: Clear Design (North) Tel. 07971 182736 www.cleardesignnorth.co.uk
facebook.com/spinalinjuriesscot
Bullen Healthcare Welfare Advice Thank You to Our Fundraisers Classified Advertising
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twitter.com/sisonlineorg twitter.com/cloberfarmsis
www.youtube.com/spinalinjuriesscot
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SPINAL
Life WELCOME TO SCOTLAND
SPINAL
Life SCOTLAND
Yes, this is your free magazine from Spinal Injuries Scotland, but not as you know it!
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Newsline is a thing of the past and we are moving on with a fresh new magazine, Spinal Life Scotland. We hope you benefit from these changes other than just the name. Our new team of writers, editors and designers are ready for the challenge! For many years we have been sending the Newsline magazine to our members and we hope that it has kept you entertained and educated. However, we think we can do better. The time has come for us to bring you the magazine you deserve. So... Welcome to Spinal Life Scotland! 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 will be bringing you fascinating interviews, must-read features, real life experiences and all the latest news from the spinal community. 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. Remember, this is your magazine! Importantly, we want to make sure the magazine reflects real spinal life. That means we need to be honest. We will not shy away from the subjects that could be challenging you. 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. 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 Scotland. 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. Please, enjoy your new edition of Spinal Life Scotland!
The Editors. info@sisonline.org 0141 427 7686
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I N T HI S I S SUE ...
Our Winter Dinner Dance was held in November and was a brilliant night. Check out the photographs and story on pages 14, 15, 16, & 17. If you were unable to join us, maybe you can come along next year, it really is an event not to be missed. The word ‘inspirational’ is often overused, but not when describing gold medal winning Paralympian Karen Darke. Read her story on pages 5 and 6. We also have lots of useful advice and information on UK Disability and welfare issues. SIS volunteer, Steven McGhee shares his story in The Whole Truth on pages 8, 9, and 18, 19, 20.
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UK DISABILITY UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT
S W E N
Over recent years, more and more of us are taking an interest in politics. Events such as the Scottish Independence Referendum and now Brexit negotiations have shown how important politics are on day to day life. For anyone affected by disability rights and Government welfare, recent political activity is worth keeping a very close eye on.
In 2007 the UK was signed up to a UN Convention protecting the rights of persons with disabilities. In simple words, there is now a basic level of support available to all disabled people in the UK. The Government agreed on these standards with the UN and promised to maintain them. However, disability organisations have been concerned that recent governmental reforms are adversely affecting disabled people. Numerous organisations carried out their own reports and studies to assess the impact of these policy changes. The UN was paying attention and its committee was called into action to investigate. Over the last year, the 'UN committee on the rights of persons with disabilities' (CRPD) has revealed the findings of two separate investigations. Both reports highlight important changes for the disabled population of the UK, many of whom rely on the Government for protection and assistance. Spinal Life Scotland have taken care of all the heavy reading for you and we are here to focus on some of the key talking points.
The report was heavily critical in many areas of reform including sanctions on employment and support allowance, assessments into suitability to work and neglecting the fact that waiting on assessment results caused "anxiety and psychological strain". Stressing the importance of recent changes, UN committee chairwoman Theresia Degener claimed the situation was a "human catastrophe" and that the "evidence was overwhelming". Some more examples of recent welfare reform you may be familiar with include more stringent conditions to qualify for social care and changes to the criteria for PIP application. In relation to these changes, the report stated that they "hindered disabled people's rights to live independently and be included in the community". One more striking statement in the report was that UK welfare reforms led to "grave and systematic violations" of disabled persons rights. Very strong words from the UN that could suggest Persons with disabilities have reason to be concerned. Continued on page 4
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WHAT I S WE LFA RE RE F ORM? Continued from page 3 The findings led to the current Government coming under fire. Debbie Abrahams, the shadow work and pensions secretary claimed that the report confirms the Government is "failing sick and disabled people" while Mike Lambert, freelance journalist, wrote in the Guardian that the report was a "catalogue of shame".
This is when the Government attempts to change the social welfare system. Recent examples include: • Changing PIP application • Sanctions on employment and support allowance • Changing assessments into suitability to work • New conditions to qualify for social care
In response, the work and pensions secretary Damian Green (pictured below) dismissed the report. He claimed the findings demonstrated an "outdated view of disability which is patronising and offensive". He drew attention to £50bn spent each year supporting the sick and disabled. Damian Green also highlighted the quality of that support, claiming that the report failed to recognise the "wide range of tailored and effective support on offer". The report also points to failure of UK law to recognise the rights of disabled children to inclusive schooling. This subject was covered by article 24 of the convention and the current situation is unacceptable for the UN committee chairwoman. She points out that "article 24 is not about a choice. It is about a right to inclusive education".
EDINBURGH AIRPORT UPDATE
Overall, the report contained a total of 60 recommendations that would bring the UK closer to meeting the standards they agreed to. The Government is not obliged to act on these recommendations and on the whole is disappointed that the report "does not accurately reflect the evidence we gave the UN". Considering the committee is more concerned about the UK than any other country in its 10 year history, it seems that the UN and the UK government have very different ideas when it comes to acceptable care for those with disabilities.
The Government claims the report “fails to recognise all the progress we have made to empower disabled people on all aspects of their lives.”
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One year after being heavily criticised, Edinburgh airport has been praised for improving services for passengers with mobility issues. Their hard work and focus has been awarded with a jump in classification from 'poor' to 'good'. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) assesses the top 30 airports in the UK every year. It was delighted with the progress at Scotland's busiest airport. They have spent the year prioritising changes that will make flying a more relaxing experience for those needing assistance. Taking steps like hosting an open day, investing in new equipment, improving facilities and training dedicated staff paid off with the reclassification. Elsewhere in Scotland, Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick and Inverness managed to achieve a 'very good' ranking. This is great news for passengers in Scotland as only 6 out of all 30 airports were awarded this classification. Aberdeen and Sumburgh airport on Shetland joined Edinburgh in providing 'good' assistance to passengers with mobility issues.
T R O P S
THE INSPIRATIONAL
KAREN DARKE The word 'inspirational' is often overused but not when describing gold medal winning Paralympian Karen Darke.
Since breaking her back in a climbing accident at the age of 21, Karen has gone on to become European and World Paratriathlon Champion, silver medallist at the London Paralympics 2012, in the hand cycling time trials before capturing gold at the 2016 Paralympics. All while squeezing in adventures such as sit-skiing the Greenland ice cap and hand cycling the Himalayas. All that aside, Karen still faces the same difficulties and frustrations as many others with a spinal cord injury. After reporting news of her receiving a MBE from the Queen in our summer edition, we were lucky enough to catch Karen and talk about her extraordinary life. It doesn't take long to realise that Karen has a special drive to make the most of life. Whether talking to her or looking through her website you get the impression that nothing could get in the way of her sense of adventure. Karen broke her back after falling 10m when she was rock climbing in 1991. She woke up in hospital three days later paralysed from the chest down but having lost none of her determination. Continued on page 6
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Karen described how extremely tough the training for Rio was saying that she had to "squeeze every last bit out of her body and her equipment.� A pressure sore was the last thing she needed with such an intensive training regime. While in hospital recovering, Karen planned a new life of incredible adventure. She told us how the journey hand biking up the Himalayas holds a special place amongst those memories. She realises it was only a couple of years since she had been lying in hospital thinking she would never be able to do something like that again.
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It was to be the springboard for many other incredible exploits. Climbing El Capitan, a 1K rock face in Yosemite National Park, spending one month travelling across the Greenland ice cap in a sit-ski and hand biking 1250km of South American wilderness are some examples of the extreme activities Karen can't stay away from. However, it was to be in the competitive environment of the Paralympics that Karen would go on to achieve even more success. She told us that when entering the hand cycling time trials in London 2012 she believed a medal was a realistic goal but she did not think she could achieve any better than bronze. Karen was quite rightly proud of herself after finishing with a silver medal. Following this great achievement, Karen says that she enjoyed using her bike so much that the Paralympics in Rio, 2016, was the next target. Karen described how extremely tough the training for Rio was saying that she had to "squeeze every last bit out of her body and her equipment". A pressure sore was the last thing she needed with such an intensive training regime.
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I get down like everyone else and it’s challenging. But every day is a choice and you wake up and can decide to be miserable, or you just get on with it. Karen Darke
That is exactly what she developed after going out for a cycle on her birthday. Regardless, nothing could stop Karen sprinting ahead of the world's best to win the gold medal. A phenomenal achievement that led to being honoured with a MBE, presented earlier this year by the Queen. Given all those accolades it is easy to forget about Karen's spinal cord injury but she does face the same obstacles, both physically and mentally as many others. Somewhat ironically, when we spoke to Karen she was confined to bed with a pressure sore and admitted that "I try to be extremely vigilant but sometimes I make mistakes". A problem that is all too common amongst those of us with a SCI. A pressure sore can cause major upset to everyday life and for Karen, the consequences can be even more disrupting. Bed rest is the last thing she needs if in the middle of a gruelling training regimes for a major event. Highlighting the attitude of a true champion, Karen told us "I do worry that being stuck in bed can cause problems but I have just got to keep going and not give up". That is a sentiment shared by many of us. A reminder that attitude plays a huge part when the physical challenges of a SCI get in the way of our hopes and aspirations. As with the physical demands of a SCI, Karen makes no claims to be immune from the psychological challenges we all struggle with. When we spoke about this Karen said "I get down like anyone else and it is challenging but every day is a choice and
you wake up and decide to be miserable or you just get on with it". This mental strength has been essential over the years as Karen has achieved more and more success. It should also serve as some inspiration for anyone out there who thinks they are alone when feeling the strain of a SCI. Discussing this in more detail, Karen opened up about having a complete meltdown after winning gold at Rio 2016. She said she was "completely burnt out physically and mentally, lying on the couch unable to communicate with anyone". After missing out on the celebrations and parades Karen felt she "needed to go into lockdown to survive for a while". That notion will be familiar to many and Karen's honesty will hopefully show them that anyone can struggle but come through the other end and keep on going. Spinal Injuries Scotland is proud to count Karen amongst our members. Her life of chasing adventure has required incredible mental and physical strength. And let's not underestimate her sporting achievements. Paralympic gold medallist, the very best of the best, the standard setter for athletes across the world. At the same time, Karen faces so many of the challenges of living with a spinal cord injury. She is not spared the day to day struggles that many of us understand. She has achieved so much with the support of her friends and family and an inner strength that must be admired. Spinal Life Scotland would like to thank Karen for her time and her honesty. Everyone at Spinal Injuries Scotland wishes her all the best in the future.
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A few years ago, Steven decided to tell his story by writing a blog. Now Spinal Life Scotland is happy to share that story with you. THE ACCIDENT was the first post and the beginning of a truly inspirational story.
The Whole Truth continues on page 18 and more chapters will unfold in following editions of Spinal Life Scotland.
THE WHOLE TRUTH STEVEN’S STORY Steven is a volunteer with SIS who 10 years ago had an accident 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 ACCIDENT I always thought that it was the big decisions that shaped the course of our lives. Choosing the right career, where to live, deciding on the right partner and if/when to have children. Get these decisions right and everything else should take care of itself. I never considered that such a minor decision would be the one to dismantle my life as I knew it. My very good friend Ross was getting married in 2007 so a few days before the wedding I flew to Spain for a weekend of partying with Ross and another 14 of our friends. It was all set up to be the perfect stag do. On the day of the flight we all met at Ross's house for a few beers and to hand out the specially made 'stag do T-shirts'. An old picture of Ross dressed as a woman (a long story!) was printed on the front of the top. On the back, Ross had chosen a nickname for each of the lads. I won't reveal mine, my mother may end up reading this sometime!!! After landing in Majorca it wasn't long until our taxis drew up outside the hotel. The plan was to ditch our bags in the allocated rooms and head straight down to the pool to enjoy our first drink of the weekend together.
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You can also follow Steven's story on twitter @choose_living
During the next few seconds my way of life was altered beyond recognition. A few seconds and one carefree decision. Just like that. Twitter @choose_living
CHECK IN AT THE G IN AIRPO RT
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L A N E I F SP LI
My head smashed against the opposite wall of the pool and my limp body dropped into the water. Steven McGhee
We had gathered around tables at the poolside. I had one look at the pool, one small sip of lager and one moment later I was floating face down in the water. In the 2am darkness, I ran 4 or 5 steps and with all the power in my legs, pushed off into a dive. I was expecting to enter the cold water but instead my head smashed against the opposite wall of the pool and my limp body dropped into the water. It is a miracle I did not lose consciousness and I will always be glad. The alternative would be waking up in hospital with no idea what happened. I am glad to have the clarity I do. Without it I would forever wonder what happened and how I could have avoided it. Lying face down in the pool my initial concern was drowning. The fact that I couldn't move hadn't registered properly. I could hear my friends talking and I started to worry that nobody would notice me. As I was starting to struggle with my breath I heard Stuart shout out "what is Steven up to?". I felt a huge sense of relief knowing that I was safe. Ross replied "he will just be messing about as usual" and I began to panic. 'Luckily' when I hit the wall it split my head and that cut saved my life. It was only a few seconds later that Liam saw the blood spreading out and clouding the water. I heard bodies jumping into the water and dragged me to safety. Then I realised, my body wasn't working. Without panicking, I told everyone that I couldn't move. Ross was assuring me it was just shock and not to worry but I knew it was serious. I was calm but I was also realistic, this was bad. The next time my eyes opened I was in a brightly lit hospital ward, motionless, staring at the ceiling and listening to Spanish voices in the background. I will come to that in my next post. Despite the consequences, I look back and can honestly say that I do not regret my actions. I was enjoying life. Sometimes spontaneous actions can be harmful but I don't believe we can stop and analyse every decision. Life is too short. That is still my philosophy today. Continued on page 18
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VISITING THE RWANDAN MOUNTAIN GORILLAS BY WHEELCHAIR! I had long held the ambition to visit Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas there, and this seemed impossible when my mobility was impacted by MS. When I started using a wheelchair in 2012 I had lost all hope of realising my dream.
However, I set up a wheelchair travel website http://wheelchairworld.org which brings together hundreds of personal wheelchair user travel reviews and showcases some of their amazing adventures. Through wheelchairworld.org I discovered that wheelchair users had visited the mountain gorillas. I contacted park officials in Rwanda who informed that a stretcher could be used for people who were unable to walk. This involved hiring a team of porters which I considered a worthwhile investment. At the foot of the climb I was hoisted aloft onto the shoulders of the porters in the stretcher. I was actually quite nervous about this, about how high I would be and what would happen if they dropped me. But I felt absolutely no fear, I completely trusted that they were very surefooted, were very comfortable with the terrain, and I did not feel in any danger of being dropped. The boundary of the Parc de Volcans, where the various families of mountain gorillas live, is marked by a stonewall. Here was where the terrain became much more difficult and you could easily see that there was a huge amount of vegetation, trees and branches that would have to be navigated on the rest of the climb.
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Finally we came to a clearing in which we got our first sighting of the gorillas; a baby gorilla was blocking the path that we were following and near to him, more of the family were resting. Our guide excitedly pointed and said “look, gorillas!” Quickly, my wheelchair was positioned in a good, flattish spot and I was transferred into it. I am also partially sighted so even though the gorillas were very close to us, I was using a pair of binoculars to help me see them more clearly. There was a large silverback a few metres in front of me and three or four gorilla babies were clambering all over him. Further to my right, the mothers of the babies watched the scene. The adult gorillas barely moved the whole time I was there, the guide said it was their ‘coffee break’ and later I read that this was a very common occurrence and actually the gorillas like to coincide the time that they are observed by humans with their break time. The young gorillas, however, did not observe the break time and were very active, clambering all over their silverback father, swinging from overhanging vines and brilliantly for me, being mesmerised by the site of a wheelchair in their midst! One of the young gorillas came up and touched my spokeguards, extending a tentative finger until it was chased away by the guide. Later on, another baby gorilla came over and investigated my shoes. Fantastically, this priceless moment was caught on video and can be seen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vkj U7c5wM4. I think it would have climbed upon me if it hadn’t been chased away by the guide. Some more of the family were in another nearby clearing chewing on foliage but I was told that I had the best view where I was! The rest of the visitors disappeared off with one of the guides but the main guide and a
number of the porters stayed with me and ensured I could see the scene before me, pointing things out and describing what was happening. Since I came back I have shown the photos and video to a lot of my friends and the main question was always “weren’t you scared?” but in all honesty it really wasn’t scary at all; the silverback only moved once to sit up and the other gorillas barely moved. Besides I was always accompanied by the reassuring presence of the guides and the porters. After an hour, our time with the gorillas was over, the rest of the group rejoined us and we made our way back down the Parc a lot quicker than we made our way up! We stopped for a couple of group photos when the trackers left us and then once we reached the place where we had started our trip we just had to deal with the uncomfortable issue of tipping! After the excitement of meeting the gorillas, we went back to Kigali and I had the pleasure of meeting up with Emmanuel, who is a Rwandan wheelchair user whom I met through wheelchairworld.org. He is an amazing person; he lived through the genocide and he is never deterred by the fact that he is a wheelchair user! He is always trying to help people and at the moment he is working to fully set up the Rwanda Wheelchair Users Committee (RWUC). You can donate to them here: https://www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/susie-twydell
BY SUSIE TWYDELL www.wheelchairworld.org "Travel reviews and resources for wheelchair users"
Twitter: @worldwheelchair Facebook: WheelchairWorld
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RUTH’S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY
Thanks to the incredible support of her local community, a paraplegic woman has been able to enjoy her first holiday in over thirty years.
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Ruth Jenkins from Wick was left paralysed from the waist down 12 years ago after a neck operation went wrong and her life changed completely overnight. She noticed her right leg was kicking out while she was walking, and her GP referred her to a specialist who found her vertebrae were narrowing on one side. She needed surgery to prevent paralysis, but the operation was unsuccessful. Ruth spent five months in hospital with her spinal injury and was given more horrific news. The doctors found she had a pituitary tumour in her head and she had to have monthly injections to try to prevent it growing. Ruth returned home after several months in hospital but it quickly became apparent that she needed more specialist care than living at home could offer.
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Ruth’s story reinforces how vital respite breaks are. There are so many people like Ruth who could really benefit from the lifeline they offer.
For Ruth it was essential that she stay as close to home as possible so that she could see her husband Robert regularly. As a nondriver and with his own health problems, being close at hand was important. The only option open to her in the local area was to move to a residential care home in Wick. Last year she mentioned to a friend from her local church that she would love to have a break away somewhere. Her friend, retired solicitor Jean McLennan, had heard about Leuchie House respite centre in East Lothian and knew it would be the ideal place for Ruth to have a break. Leuchie House is an 18th century mansion located on a country estate near the seaside town of North Berwick. Leuchie offers short respite breaks with 24 hour nursing care, specifically tailored to people with long term physical and neurological conditions, including spinal injuries, MS, Parkinson’s and motor neurone disease. When Ruth told Jean how low she was feeling, Jean pledged to do whatever it took to get her friend there. A major local fundraising campaign was launched, for which she gained the support of the whole community. The campaign raised enough to cover the cost of an 11 night break for Ruth at Leuchie House plus expenses and spending money. Jean then tackled all the logistical difficulties involved in getting Ruth from Wick to East Lothian, including getting the support of Loganair to donate Ruth's flights from Wick to Edinburgh for free. A year in the planning, Ruth came to Leuchie in the summer for her longed-for break. “I felt a bit nervous at first,” she recalls, “because it was unlike anywhere I’d ever been and I wasn’t used to being with so many other people.”
She quickly relaxed however, and was able to enjoy her much-anticipated holiday to the full. “It has been absolutely brilliant. It’s like one big family and I’ve loved getting to know everybody. The staff can’t do enough for you. They don’t treat you like you’re disabled. You’re just ‘normal’ to them.” The Leuchie team aim to do everything they can to support guests to do things they wouldn’t ordinarily be able to do. As a classical music lover, Ruth had dreamt of going to a concert or musical performance – something she is unable to do at home. With the support of the Leuchie team, she enjoyed her first ever night at the opera with a trip to see La Boheme at Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre. She was also keen to go shopping, another thing she finds difficult at home, so the team arranged an escorted trip to one of Edinburgh’s main shopping centres. There’s a strong focus on socialising and fun activities at Leuchie, tailored to guests’ individual abilities and interests, just the kind of social interaction Ruth had been craving. “I’ve been doing art classes, quizzes and just having a laugh,” she said. “I’ve met so many great people.” For us, her story reinforces just how vital respite breaks are. There are so many people like Ruth out there who could really benefit from the lifeline they offer. After her break, Ruth felt refreshed and recharged and ready to take on daily life again: “Being at Leuchie has been amazing. I’ve never smiled so much in my life. I want to thank everyone in Wick for what they did for me – it has been an amazing experience.”
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JOANNA MARTIN AND GUESTS
WINTER DINNER DANCE
The 15th Digby Brown Winter Dinner Dance for Spinal Injuries Scotland took place on Friday 3rd of November at Glasgow’s DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels. This prestigious event was attended by over 500 guests and raised an outstanding £71,000 for SIS. As many of you know, Digby Brown and SIS have a longstanding relationship and Digby Brown have been instrumental in the ongoing success of the charity.
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JOANNA BUTTERFIELD AND FRIENDS
HARDEEP SINGH KOHLI (LEFT) STEVEN MCGHEE (RIGHT)
E R U T A E F
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Our guest speaker Steven McGhee spoke about his emotional journey from his injury to his life today.
Des Clark, our compere for many years was sadly unable to attend, he sent his apologies via video and in his inimitable style. He introduced Hardeep Singh Kohli, who is well known to us as a comedian, broadcaster, journalist, and chef, to name but a few of his talents, who got the night off to a great start. A video overview by the staff and volunteers of Spinal Injuries Scotland outlined the services that SIS offer our members. Our fantastic guest speaker, Steven McGhee, who is one of our Peer Support Volunteers, Steven spoke about his emotional journey from his injury to his life today. And about who has supported and inspired him along the way. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house, thank you Steven, you were an inspiration.
The entertainment was nonstop throughout the night. ‘Battle of the Buskers’ (pictured right & below), saw three highly talented local buskers, entertaining us. Sophie Bartholomew was our first busker on stage and gave us a beautiful rendition of ‘Dreams’ by Fleetwood Mac. Next was Andrew Nichol, who sang a wonderful cover of ‘Fall at Your Feet’ by Crowded House. Nicole Pacitti wrapped up the busking with a superb cover of ‘Your Song’ by Ellie Goulding. All three buskers played a second song and raised an incredible £550 towards our grand total for the night. Our guests voted Nicole Pacitti as the overall winner. The prize for Nicole is secured studio time to record at Radio Clyde. Remember where you first heard her name!
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Our treasure hunt had guests problem solving and running around looking for clues during the event, with the winning table each getting a bottle of champagne. Whilst TV stand-up Simon Evans provided the laughs on the night and stayed afterwards to catch up with us. Peter Vardy very kindly provided us with the top raffle prize of the night, which was a lovely new car, which created a huge amount of interest in the room. We were delighted to find that the raffle raised the highest ever amount of over £10,000. We are very grateful to all who entered into the raffle and we hope the winner is enjoying her new shiny car! Our auction, tombola and casino are a regular feature of the Dinner Dance. Once again we had some fabulous prizes donated, including the diamond bracelet from our Patrons Tracey and Harry Brown of Chisholm Hunter. Hardeep Singh Kohli’s home cooked meal for 8 people in your own home, unsurprisingly, went down like hot cakes. We also had a beautiful picture of ‘George’ the highland cow by Craig Semple, that we just delivered to the lucky winner. Unbelievably this auction raised over £12,000 on the night. We must pay a huge thanks to Lyndsay Gardener and Sam Whyte who kept these events running smoothly on the night. Our Ambassador for Spinal Injuries Scotland Joanna Martin, kindly took some time out of her night to thank our guests, table hosts and donors for their hard work and fantastic support. Thank you also to,
Joanna, for being an inspiration to those who know her and her tireless support to SIS. It was then time for a few words from Chris Stewart, Partner and Head of Serious Injury at Digby Brown, who said: “Every year we are humbled at the generosity shown by those who attend and this year is no exception – to raise £71,000 in just a few hours is incredible. In our day jobs we see first-hand the aftereffects of spinal injuries and that’s what makes the work of Spinal Injuries Scotland so important. Thank you to our buskers and Simon for their enthusiastic and memorable performances as well as Hardeep for hosting, everyone who attended, donated and to those who helped make the event possible. We are enormously proud of our long-standing bond with SIS and its volunteers and we are thrilled to help them, as they help Scotland.” On behalf of all of us here at SIS, we would like to give special thanks to Chris Stewart, Craig Semple and Susan Lawrie for the tireless support that they put into make the Winter Dinner Dance such a resounding success. This is a night of celebration of the charity’s achievements and a time for reflection, to remember how incredibly lucky we are to having such committed volunteers, sponsors, fundraisers, the clinical team in the QENSUI and our office staff. We could not do it without each and every one of you. Thank you.
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Joanna Martin, Ambassador for Spinal Injuries Scotland, thanked our guests, table hosts and donors.
JOANNA MARTIN
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THE RAFFLE PRIZE CAR FROM PETER VARDY (ABOVE)
STEVEN MCGHEE & FAMILY (BELOW) DR MCLEAN (BELOW RIGHT)
TV STAND UP COMEDIAN SIMON EVANS
ROULETTE GAMES
(ABOVE) JENNIFER ALLAN, SIS, LYNDSAY GARDENER, DIGBY BROWN, MAUREEN MORRISON, SIS
JOANNA MARTIN AND GUESTS (RIGHT)
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A few years ago, Steven decided to tell his story by writing a blog. Now Spinal Life Scotland is happy to share that story with you.
We now pick up where the first post, featured on pages 8 & 9, left off. Chapters from The Whole Truth will continue to unfold in following editions of Spinal Life Scotland.
THE WHOLE TRUTH STEVEN’S STORY Steven is a volunteer with SIS who, 10 years ago, had an accident 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.
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I opened my eyes in a brightly lit hospital. An oxygen mask covered my mouth. I was unable to move my head, I had a metal halo screwed into my skull. I tried to raise my arm but my body lay lifeless. Nobody seemed to be speaking English. Nobody seemed to be aware of me. I could only muster a mumble but was unheard. Never in my life have I been more scared, confused and utterly helpless. I have no idea how long it had been since my body was dragged from the water but I started to recall the events of earlier. My only option was to try and put the pieces together while waiting. Eventually, a British woman arrived with a team of doctors and nurses. She began to translate. In hindsight, I realise that the information provided at that point did not register with the impact it should have. It is possible that she tried to gently cushion the blow but it is more likely I filtered out what I didn't want to hear. I do not doubt she would have covered the basics, I had broken my neck and my condition was still very fragile. I would be paralysed from the neck down.
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I opened my eyes in a brightly lit hospital. An oxygen mask covered my mouth. I was unable to move my head, I had a metal halo screwed into my skull. I tried to raise my arm but my body lay lifeless...
L A N E I F SP LI
Steven McGhee
I would never wish this task on my worst enemy and to this day I am grateful to him for undertaking the horrible responsibility. I will always feel guilty for putting Ryan and my family through that experience. Writing this is difficult as it forces me to recall conversations that caused a great deal of pain to people I love.
Before she left she told me that I had friends who had been waiting downstairs and asked if I wanted to see them. 5 minutes later Ryan (my very closest friend) Ross (The Groom) and Liam (The Best Man) were by my side. The photo (above right) was taken way back in our younger days. Inseparable then and even stronger now. I was insistent that they would go and enjoy the weekend, I would be fine. I felt guilty for causing so much bother on the first day and didn't want them making a big deal out of nothing. I appreciate now what a difficult situation they were in. How would they get me to accept what was happening when I was still unwilling to face the situation? It was not long before the three of them were back. I had been talking some more with the doctors and I was starting to get my head round what had happened. When Ryan insisted that he needed to phone my parents I dejectedly agreed.
Ryan called my mother's mobile from my own phone. My mum was pleasantly surprised to see my name appear, assuming I was calling to let her know I was having a great time. As soon as she heard Ryan's voice on the other end she knew something was wrong. He didn't get very far before my mum broke down and dropped the phone. The image I have of her shaking in the hallway will always torment me. My dad, who is very calm and methodical in emergencies, picked up the phone and took in the rest of the information. After trying to settle my mum he had to find the words to break the news to my sister. He made the call and explained to her what had happened. My sister threw up where she was standing. I hate to imagine how horrifying that phone call must have been, one small mistake causing so much pain to others. My brother-in-law and my father finished the conversation before going on to make more difficult phone calls to family and friends. I will never forgive myself for putting them all through that. My actions should not have placed such a heavy burden on my friends. My actions should not have had my parents terrified they would never see me alive again. My actions should not have been the cause of so much pain and worrying for so many people. It was not just my life that felt the impact of my actions. It was only with time that I recognised how far-reaching the ripple effect was. Continued on page 20
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THE WHOLE TRUTH STEVENS STORY
That damage cannot be undone and painful imagery does not fade with time. I am told that my apologies are not necessary but they are all I can offer. The personal consequences of my actions are much easier to accept than the consequences they had on others. Within one hour flights were booked for my mum, dad and sister. Ryan organised a hotel near the hospital. While hearing the voice of my mum was comforting, I was terrified for her. She was talking to Ross and Ryan in the corridor and I could hear the distress underneath a thin mask of composure. My dad and my sister were there also but my mum came in alone first. Despite us both having spent so long worrying about what to say she just stood at the side of my bed in silence. I smiled and my mum placed her hand on mine. I could not feel it and she knew that but it wasn't important. My mum smiled back and no words were needed. I don't remember who spoke first but after we began talking my dad and my sister joined us. I remember plenty of laughter. I like to think that we helped each other through those days. There was no place for tears or pity. All we could do was stay positive and take one minute at a time. I am still proud of how the family held each other up. With my mother's medical training she and everyone else had a good grasp of reality. I was still somewhat ignorant, but they do say it can be bliss. At this stage of the story I am about to go into surgery and face a fight for my life. The Whole Truth will be continued in the next edition of Spinal Life Scotland.
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You can also follow Steven's story on twitter @choose_living
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I remember plenty of laughter. I like to think that we helped each other through those days. There was no place for tears or pity. Steven McGhee
HEALTHY MIND
N E E R L CA
L H T U B EAL H
We all know about the benefits of keeping our body healthy but we aren’t always as good about knowing what to do to keep our mind healthy.
100 unread messages in your WhatsApp group! Taking a break from technology, however short, can help you relax.
Dealing with bladder and bowel issues can be mentally as well as physically tough. Normal everyday things can sometimes seem insurmountable. That’s why it is important to take time to relax and to make sure that you are both mentally and physically ok.
Focus on your breathing Learning to breathe deeply can help you feel calmer and lower your stress levels.
MINDFULNESS & RELA XATION Mindfulness seems to be the “in thing”, but what exactly is mindfulness? The dictionary says that it’s “a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations”. That’s a bit of a mouthful… its simply just being more aware of yourself, what makes you tick, what makes you happy and learning how to relax and not let things get on top of you. Relaxation techniques are a great way to help with stress management. They can also help you cope with everyday stress as well as the stress caused by a chronic condition or pain. Practicing some simple relaxation techniques can have many benefits including: lowering blood pressure, reducing muscle tension and chronic pain, improving your concentration and mood, improving your sleep quality and lowering levels of fatigue. RELA XATION TECHNIQUES Take a break Taking a short break when you feel stressed or just taking time out from your normal routine can give you space to relax. Read a book or a magazine, watch your favourite TV programme or have a long soak in the bath. Picture yourself somewhere serene Think of somewhere that makes you happy. It might be somewhere you’ve been on holiday or somewhere you’d like to go. Close your eyes and think about the details, the colours, the smells. Let your mind wander and your body will relax. Take a break from technology Technology is great for keeping in touch with people, but sometimes it can become overwhelming. That moment when you pick up your phone to find
Listen to music Who doesn’t enjoy putting their favourite music on and singing along to it? But did you know that it’s thought that music releases a chemical in the brain, called dopamine, which plays a key role in making us feel better? Dopamine acts in the brain to promote the feelings of pleasure and makes us look forward to enjoying things. Join a club There are clubs out there for everything and anything. Joining a club or a group is a great way to meet people and either learn a new skill or practice something that you already enjoy. Have a look in your local free newspaper, your local library or coffee shop and see what’s going on in your area. Find your inner child Adult colouring books have become really popular over the last couple of years. There are so many different ones on sale; from the really detailed ones from people like Johanna Basford and Millie Marotta, to ones that let you colour in swear words for days when you just need to get your frustrations out! Meeting friends Catching up with friends for a coffee, having a day out visiting a new place or returning to a favourite place is always a great way to blow the cobwebs away and relax. Gardening If you’ve got any outside space then gardening can be a really relaxing way to pass the time. Plus you get to enjoy the flowers or the vegetables that you’ve grown, so a double win! Your local garden centre will be more than happy to advise you on the best plants to grow, either in the ground or in pots. 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.
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T OHT P S IG
SCOTLAND
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SPOTLIGHT ON WELFARE RIGHTS SCOTTISH WELFARE FUND As we all know, things don’t always go to plan in life and sometimes you can find yourself facing a crisis. The Scottish Welfare Fund can provide financial help in these situations. WHAT IS THE SCOTTISH WELFARE FUND? The Scottish Welfare Fund is a scheme run by local councils. The scheme provides grants that do not have to be repaid. The fund is discretionary, which means that even if you are eligible, you will only get a grant if the local council decides that your need is important and there is enough money left in the budget to pay you a grant. You do usually have to be receiving certain benefits to qualify for help but it is worth applying to check if you qualify. There are two types of grants in the Scottish Welfare Fund: CRISIS GRANTS Crisis grants provide help for people who need money quickly because of an emergency or disaster. An emergency might be if you lose your money or it is stolen. A crisis grant could be used for things like putting money into your electricity and gas meters or to buy food. A disaster is something like a fire or a flood. A crisis grant could be used to buy new furniture or household equipment.
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You cannot get a crisis grant if you have savings or family who can help you out financially. COMMUNITY CARE GRANTS Community care grants are intended to help with expenses so that people can live in the community and families can stay together. A Community Care Grant aims to help people who may have to go into care unless they get some support to stay at home or if they are leaving care and need help to set-up their own home. For example, this can be help with furnishing a house or by providing help with one-off items, like a cooker or a washing machine. You cannot get a community care grant if you or your partner have savings of more than £700 if you are below pensionable age or more than £1,200 if you are above pensionable age. Applications for Scottish Welfare Fund grants can be made by contacting your local council. Jacqueline Lange Welfare Rights Adviser Digby Brown Solicitors.
Clober Farm Accessible self-catering accommodation
• 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 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
• 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
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For some people, keeping busy and socially active is a way of life. For others, the practicalities of getting out make that more difficult.
At Spinal Life Scotland, our members share their experiences of being out and about across the country to give you the lowdown before trying yourself.
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OUT ABOUT
Like many others, for me going to the cinema is a favourite activity and I enjoy escaping for a couple of hours to see the latest thriller, comedy or all-action blockbuster. I’m there every week and want to share the experience with you. VENUE I am fortunate to live near Cineworld in Silverburn shopping centre, just outside of Glasgow. It’s fairly new so you would expect it to have all the facilities and services a wheelchair user needs. Mostly it doesn’t disappoint. The shopping centre is just off the M77, about a 10min drive from the city centre.
ACCES S Arriving by car, parking is rarely a problem. The Cineworld complex is one floor above the shopping centre. For wheelchair users, it is only accessible using one small elevator. This is one of my few criticisms. I do have a large wheelchair and I find the lift a tight squeeze. There is just enough room for myself plus one other.
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FACILITIES This is where the Cineworld at Silverburn comes into its own. When it was designed, they created 'Access Boxes' at the back of 8 out of its 14 screens. These boxes have space for one wheelchair alongside two standard seats and offer a fantastic view with total privacy.
SERVICE It is easiest to book tickets online and avoid any queues or disappointment if the film is sold out. Tickets can be bought at the kiosk along with food and drink, including alcohol if this takes your fancy! Customer service is usually excellent. The staff always talk to me, not my carers (a touchy subject for many of us!) and seem well trained with regards to how the CEA card system works (more on that below). Although it is not needed, they regularly ask if any assistance is required. VALUE An outing to the cinema can be expensive. Tickets, drink, and food all add up.Ticket prices are standard for most cinemas across the country, ranging from £9.10 to £13.10 for an adult. I have a Cineworld Unlimited card and this saves me considerably. For under £19 per month I can see as many films as I like. I go at least once a week. Realistically, you only need to go twice in one month to make a profit. If you require a companion/carer there is no charge for their entry if you have a CEA card. Just Google to find out more and apply for one. It’s easy and you can use it in all different cinema chains across the country.
It gives the sense of being in a box at the Theatre with no extra charge. For some reason, these Access Boxes are not advertised or promoted so make sure and look for them if you are booking online or ask if you are getting your tickets at the kiosk. They are becoming more and more popular so I would always advise booking online to avoid missing out. All 14 screens have wheelchair spaces at the front. Unfortunately, a few of these are so close to the screen it can be painful leaning back for a film (especially with a broken neck!). OVER ALL Anyone who might be anxious about going to the cinema need not worry if they are within travelling distance of Silverburn. A modern design, large open spaces, great value for money, friendly staff and those unique Access Boxes all help make for a relaxing experience.
If you are looking for any additional advice about getting out and about then please get in touch with SIS by telephone or e-mail. If you are planning to visit, or have recently visited somewhere of interest and would be willing to share your experience with other readers then please get in touch.
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GLASGOW TO EDINBURGH KAYAK RACE
This event is held over two days. The first day is 24 miles from Glasgow along the canal to the Falkirk Wheel. Day two starts at the Falkirk wheel and is 31 miles to Edinburgh.
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Last year a friend and I did this race as a relay with another two man kayak and although hard work. It was also good fun. So we made the decision to increase our training and complete the event ourselves. This meant increasing our training to three times a week and doing some longer paddles. Given that we were going to be in the kayak for a lengthy period of time both days, there were also pressure areas to think about. So I invested in a gel cushion and a pair of waterproof socks. Once I was in the Kayak I took my shoes off and put my feet on the memory foam cushion.
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The kayak in which we completed the race was a Perception Carolina, which is a sturdy plastic flat bottomed kayak which is quite heavy but very stable. The stability is obviously very important for me, but the weight and shape of the boat means it is quite slow so we knew it was going to be a long haul.
On day two we had arranged with the organizing committee that we would start ahead of the other boats, which were mostly racing kayaks and much faster, so we would finish at a similar time. We launched the kayak at 0630 hrs in the dark with our head torches and glow sticks on our back. Needless to say it was a good couple of hours before we saw anyone around apart from one of our support team who ran along the canal pathway giving us some encouragement. Day two was not only longer but was also more difficult, as the canal is much shallower and had lots of weeds along the way which your paddle could get caught in. The weather was cold and sunny, although unfortunately no tail wind!!! It took us 10 hrs to complete day two and I can certainly say that this was one of the hardest events that I have ever completed. The last few hours were certainly the most difficult and I had very little energy left by the end but a great sense of achievement. We had a very good support team with us who helped get me into the kayak and then get the kayak into the water. My friend who paddled with me is able bodied so she got into the kayak after it was in the water. The support team then met us at various pre-arranged spots along the canal to give us some food, water and encouragement.
Luckily one of the support team was doing the driving, as I slept most of the way back to Glasgow. My arms were sore and I was feeling a bit tired for the next couple days but otherwise no lasting damage. A great event to do, but it does require a lot of training, preparation and a good support team. Linda, Scottish Window Solutions.
On day one we started along the canal at 0900hrs. The weather was very good - cool with a bit of a tail wind - so could not have been better. We stopped for a couple of minutes every hour, to have a stretch, relieve the pressure on our bottoms and have a drink. We completed day one in six and a half hours, which was a bit faster than we had thought. Apart from a few sore muscles and feeling a bit tired, we were really pleased with our time. We had booked into the Premier Inn in Falkirk for the night, so we had dinner then an early night.
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FINSBAY, MILNGAVIE
D N G N FUISI RA
INTERVIEW WITH R ACHEL WESLEY, SUPERVISOR AT FINSBAY
Finsbay in Milngavie has been open 13 months. In that time, they have already won the accolade of Best New Bar at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2017.
I called in to thank the staff at Finsbay for their generous donation to the silent auction. The popular prize of a meal for two with a bottle of wine raised £70 towards the fantastic total of £71,000 at the hugely successful Winter Dinner Dance.
Co-owner Alastair Kellock is the former Scotland rugby captain. He has strong links to Glasgow Warriors who regularly frequent the bar after training. Through his professional career, Alastair has gained knowledge of sporting injuries and together they decided to support our charity.
I was keen to learn more about the new offer that Finsbay have advertised on their social media. Rachel Wesley, supervisor, revealed to me that they were eager to support a local cause. As Clober Farm is located less than a mile away, owner Billy Milligan seized upon the opportunity to link up with Spinal Injuries Scotland on an unexpected promotion. Finsbay are now selling empty bottles of Harris Gin and donating £5.00 to SIS for each bottle sold.
Finsbay encourage an inclusive community spirit by keeping a wide aisle through to the open area in front of the projector screen. They are able to open up the tables to provide flexible seating for customers using motorised wheelchairs or high chairs. Their regular customers often commented on the Harris Gin bottles which they use for table water. Staff are hearing of some innovative recycling projects including vases and lamps that twin the Harris Gin bottles with Harris Tweed lampshades!
Billy Milligan has family connections to the Isle of Harris, hence, why he chose the name Finsbay for the chain of restaurant bars.
Spinal Injuries Scotland would like to thank all at Finsbay for their continued generosity and wish this local business every success.
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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.
NABIL A SAT TAR Raised £131.50 by walking 20 miles from her home at 6am in the morning, to our SIS Glasgow office.
DR BA RBAR A TODD donated £ she bec 10.00 when ame a m ember.
HALLOWEEN The Lynda Turner School of Dance held a Halloween Fundraiser, raising £170.67 for SIS.
K N A H T YOU HALF MAR ATHON A big thank you to Dawn Campbell, who, despite the rain, successfully completed a Half Marathon in October with a time of 1 hour 50 minutes, raising £600.
R FR ASE E G R O GE ion. 0 donat .0 0 3 £ Sent a
JONATHAN LECKIE Donated £140.00 - raised by a sponsored cycle.
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The 15th Digby Brown Winter Dinner Dance for Spinal Injuries Scotland was a huge success, raising over £71,000 for SIS. We’d like to thank all those who attended and donated.
K N A TH U O Y TABLES
Alba Psychology Alex Findley Alex Quinn and Partners Ltd Ampersand Anne Cossar and Associates Ltd Arnot Manderson Bauer Radio Brian Fitzpatrick Brewin Dolphin Bullen Healthcare Capital FM Case Management Services Ltd Cochran Dickie Community Integrated Care Compass Chambers Fraser Oliver - Digby Brown Fraser Simpson - Digby Brown Gordon Dalyell - Digby Brown Graeme Garrett - Digby Brown Joanna Martin Laroque Software Ltd Liam Dorris Lisa Henderson Maureen Morrison Peter Davies Employment Consultants Resolve Medicolegal Ltd Robert Kernaghan - Digby Brown Scott Moncrieff Stephen McGhee Strange, Strange and Gardner STV Sue Grant - Digby Brown The DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central The Lane Agency Tilney
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DONATIONS A G Barr Ampersand Chambers ARAG plc Arnold Clark Bauer Radio Beaufort Castle Estate Bedlam Paintball Bilson Eleven Blythswood Hotel Bullen Healthcare Capital FM Castle Semple Clyde Muirshiel Reginal Park Celtic Football Club Chisholm Hunter Cochran Dickie Craig Semple - Digby Brown Crieff Hydro Daisy Group DoubleTree By Hilton Glasgow Central DX Edrington Finsbay Restaurant Gamba Seafood Restaurant Glasgow Science Centre Glengoyne Distillery Global Radio Greywalls Hotel H1 Complex Care Hamilton Football Club Hardeep Singh Kohli Heart of Midlothian Football Club Hibernian Football Club Ike Curran J Allan Jamie's Italian Kitchen Kebabish Grill Kilmarnock Football Club Langstanes Manchester United Football Club Mar Hall Peter Vardy Motherwell Pollock & Galbraith Rangers Football Club Rennie MacIntosh Hotel Revival Retreat S & S Argento Sally at Avalon Scott's Models Seamill Hydro Hotel Tania Brown Ltd Tennents Tunnocks West Brewery
HOLIDAY CLASSIFIEDS F ROM SI A ’S FORWARD MAGAZINE HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
FRANCE
PORTUGAL
COLLIOURE, SOUTH OF FRANCE
ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
Ground-floor, two bedroom apartment, sleeps four/six. Level access throughout. Designed specifically for people with spinal cord injury. Ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning, full heating. Height-adjustable beds, pressure-relieving mattresses. Separate upstairs apartment available for family or friends. www.origincare.co.uk click on L’Origine or call Nathalie on 00 33 632 56 61 75
Luz do Sol 4 bedroom villa with pool enjoys panoramic sea views, peaceful location Sleeps 7 spacious and light. Complimentary accessible car, pool lift, hoist, shower trolley, shower/commode chair, massage table, airport transfers. Fantastic family holiday villa. www.algarve-vacations.com Email: info@algarve-vacations.com or call 00 351 919 032 377
BRITTANY, FRANCE
ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
Spacious wheelchair accessible holiday accommodation close to the North Brittany coast. Sleeps up to 8 people with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Accessible ground floor double bedroom with large ensuite wheel-in shower room. Profiling bed, hoist and shower chair can be provided on demand. Another bathroom, and two further bedrooms upstairs. Situated in tranquil countryside, 20 mins drive to beautiful beaches. Within easy reach of ferry ports. Pets welcome. For details contact Clara and Martin Cronin on +33 296 47 17 86. Email: info@gites-en-tregor.com www.gites-en-tregor.com
Your home from home in the sun including accessible transport and airport transfers. Owned by C4 tetraplegic, 20-minutes from Faro airport with stunning views and privacy. Three twin bedrooms, two with wheel-in showers. Pool with hoist heated to 25°C. Inclusive accessible vans & airport transfers, electric up and down bed, electric indoor hoist, shower/commode chairs etc. Not to be missed. See full details on our comprehensive website. Tel: 00351 289 414 687 Email: sia@ouricodomar.com. www.ouricodomar.com
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
SPAIN
ALGARVE, PORTUGAL Spacious private villa with pool and hoist. Three bed, two bath with wheel-in shower. Shower chair provided. Wellequipped kitchen. Two barbecues. All doors one-metre wide. Level access throughout villa and pool area. Paraplegic owner. Debbie Wells. Tel: 01277 354 313
ALCOSSEBRE, SPAIN Superior, front line two bedroom apartment with ensuite level access shower. Modern low rise complex, beautifully kept gardens, swimming pools. Large terrace overlooking beach. Wheelchair accessible throughout. Level access to bars and restaurants. Secure parking. Email: tedbid@aol.com. Tel: 01228 561 219
COSTA BLANCA, JAVEA, SPAIN Spacious, fully-equipped, luxury, five-bedroom villa, sleeps 10. Three bathrooms (two ensuite, one with roll-in shower). Flat plot, fully accessible gardens. 12m x 6m pool with hoist. Sky TV. 2.5km to beach. Vehicle required. Contact John Kenny 07721 336 747. Email: enquiries@casadefloresspain.co.uk www.casadefloresspain.co.uk
COSTA BLANCA, TORREVIEJA, SPAIN Established, detached family villa with lovely gardens in sunny Torrevieja on the Spanish Costa Blanca. Huge wheel-in swimming pool. Custom built for C5 owner. Close to beach and all amenities. Airport 20-mins. Converted vehicle also available to hire. For details Tel: 01262 676 015 www.disabledvilla.com
COSTA BLANCA, JAVEA, SPAIN Lovely wheelchair friendly villa set in large colourful gardens on level, gated plot. Well equipped, three beds, two baths, master bed with large ensuite bathroom and wheel-in shower (chair provided). Cable TV with Sky and English channels, DVD player plus DVD library, free broadband internet access. Wheelchair-friendly gardens, 10m x 5m pool with easy-to-use water-powered pool lift and full-size outdoor tennis table. T1 paraplegic owner. Contact Norman or Sue. Tel: 01900 67280. Mobile: 07818 406 861 Email: info@accessvillaspain.com. www.accessvillaspain.com
ALAMANCIL, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL Outstanding, fully-accessible luxury private villa set in beautiful countryside. Three bedrooms, all ensuite with wheel-in showers. Private pool with hoist. Comfortable lounge/dining rooms and well-equipped kitchen. All you could wish for in a holiday home and so much more! To contact us call 01530 833 690 or www.villas-algarve.co.uk
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
CYPRUS VILLA CARPE DIEM, MARONI, CYPRUS Consistently rated five stars, spacious, accessible private villa, own pool and hoist. Sensory gardens, shaded verandah, spectacular sea and countryside views. Designed with SCI person. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Accessible suite – wheel-in shower including shower chair, level access, Theraposture profiling or Baltic turning electric beds, Likoroll ceiling hoist. Raise recline chair. Assistance available through local English agencies. Access statement www.villacarpediem.co.uk Child friendly. Wheelchair accessible vehicle, airport collection service. Local services and beach. Call Andy 00357 99968418 or Niki 07866 441204. Email: office@villacarpediem.co.uk POLIS, CYPRUS
Three-bed accessible villa Private pool with electric pool hoist, wide steps and handrails. Ramp access throughout the villa and grounds. Walking/pushing distance from shops, village and beach (with sea trac chair available in the summer season - see website). Wheel-in wet room with wall mounted shower seat and self-propelling shower chair available. Accessible hob and sink in kitchen. Child friendly. Owned and designed by an SCI person. Email: timilyvilla@outlook.com. www.timilyvilla.co.uk
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HOLIDAY CLASSIFIEDS F ROM SI A ’S FORWARD MAGAZINE HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
AMERICA
ENGLAND
ORANGE TREE, ORLANDO, FLORIDA, USA
TODSWORTHY FARM HOLIDAYS, CORNWALL, ENGLAND
Five bed/four bath, purpose-built wheelchair accessible villa overlooking lake and conservation area. Level access throughout. Wheel-in shower and shower chair. Non-chlorine x-large pool with spa, both accessible by hoist. Free Wi-Fi, sleeps 12, short drive to attractions and amenities. Paraplegic owner. www.ayersfloridavillas.com Email: lucy@ayersfloridavillas.com
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
SCOTLAND CLOBER FARM, MILNGAVIE, GLASGOW, SCOTLAND Spinal Injuries Scotland were bequeathed this Grade C-listed property and have converted it to fully accessible accommodation, with extensive gardens, situated around 30 minutes from Glasgow city centre. The accommodation sleeps five/six and comprises adaptable kitchen, two double bedrooms, one with ensuite wet room, a single bedroom, plus a modern accessible bathroom. For further information, see the SIS www.sisonline.org. Email: clober.farm@sisonline.org Tel: 0141 427 7686 / 0800 0132 305
CRATHIE OPPORTUNITY HOLIDAYS, DEESIDE, SCOTLAND These four fabulous cottages are 40 miles west of Aberdeen and are located in the old Manse Courtyard of Crathie Kirk. They are situated within the Cairngorm National Park on the banks of the River Dee and offer stunning views.
Luxury and spacious barn conversions on a family run working farm. Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty in the picturesque Tamar Valley. Owned by a C6/7 tetra both self-catering cottages are superbly adapted for wheelchair users and their families. Both cottages sleep 6 and have a level access bedroom with a spacious ensuite wetroom. Shower chair, hoist and profiling bed can be provided. Both cottages are pet and family friendly. Perfect location for touring Devon and Cornwall. Open all year. Tel: 01822 834 744 www.todsworthyfarmholidays.co.uk
TREWORGANS FARM HOLIDAYS, MID CORNWALL, ENGLAND Specially converted cottages (sleep 4 & 6) that are fully wheelchair accessible. FREE use of 4-section electric profiling beds, air mattresses, electric hoists, shower chairs and rise/recline chairs as well as numerous other mobility aids. All bedrooms have en-suite facilities – each property has one level-access wet room. Adapted kitchens. Accessible decked patio areas. Detached. Ample parking areas. Care available from local agency. Exposed beams, wood burner. Ideal location for exploring the whole county. Tel: 01726 883240 or 07762 173860 www.treworgansfarm.co.uk
POOLE, DORSET, ENGLAND
While accessible to all, the cottages offer facilities so that disabled people can also enjoy relaxing holidays in wonderful surroundings. The range of additional equipment is extensive and provided at no charge. The cottages have a security gate and are surrounded by a fenced play making them also ideal for families with children. www.crathieholidays.org.uk. Tel: 013397 42100 or Email: info@crathieholidays.org.uk
Hill Lodge. Owned by C5/6 Tetra. Holiday let in beautiful rural location just 10mins from Poole Harbour. Three double ensuite bedrooms. Sleeps up to 6 people. The accessible room is on the ground floor with ensuite wet room. Shower chair provided. Electric height-adjusted and profiling bed. Accessible kitchen with wheel-under hob and sink. Free WI-FI. Level access and exclusive use of gardens. Further equipment provided on request. View at www.endeavour-uk.co.uk Contact Becky becky@endeavour-uk.co.uk Tel: 01202 630 075
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
ENGLAND
WALES
CENTRAL CORNWALL, ENGLAND
GLAN Y GORS COTTAGE, WALES
Two barns, sleep 2/4 and 4/6, converted for wheelchair users, each with 2 wet rooms. Quiet level site on small working farm, 480 metre easy walk/wheel to village shops, pub, etc. Open all year. Owners live on site. www.roperswalkbarns.co.uk Email: peterandliz@roperswalkbarns.co.uk Tel: 01209 891632
Snowdonia. Fully accessible, self-catering cottage in beautiful rural location, with open views of Snowdon and surrounding mountains. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large kitchen/diner, lounge with log fire. Ground floor bedroom and shower room. Hospital bed and mobile hoist available. Sleeps 10 (12 with sofa bed), reduced rates for smaller groups. See website for details: www.wilsons-holidays.co.uk Email: info@wilsons-holidays.co.uk Tel: 01286 870 261
ABNEY, DERBYSHIRE, ENGLAND Room for all Seasons, fully adapted, luxury, self-catering property in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Wheelchair accessible, hoist available. Sleeps three. www.laneendfarmtrust.co.uk Tel Viv for leaflet or more information 01433 650 043
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