THE MISSING PICTURE

CHRISTMAS AND NEWS

THIS IS ONE OF MANY PICTURES FROM OUR TRIP TO BERLIN HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

WATCH OUT FOR MORE PICTURES OF OUR TRIP TO BERLIN

Open day and party

I have been playing with a new toy or extension of Google Picasa and found that I could make up a collage of the 2 days at Neurosupport so if you can recognize yourself or anyone else you have passed the new eye test that all volunteers have to take next year ( only joking of course ) one of the pictures on the left I have entitled "Too Many Cooks" see how many people you can see?

Open Day at Neurosupport

This is 3 of the many pictures that were taken on a very successful Open Day 09/12/08

The day didn't get off to a good start when Mick Ord of "Radio Merseyside" phoned to say that he could not make the opening but none of that mattered as as soon as 9.30 came people were coming through the doors so without much ado as they say Maureen welcomed everyone to the centre and declared us open to the public for all to see. Pictured also is a picture of Stan Ambrose of Radio Merseyside who did manage to make the day and kept us entertained on his harp.

Visitor numbers for the day were higher than expected and I would like to thank everyone involved in putting the display together, I myself really enjoyed the day maybe we could do it again next year? Check out a website www.liverpoolfh.org.uk Paul Miller who attended the day for the website which is involving the people of Liverpool to display their own works of art in the workplace " Face of the City" read more at the website.

More to come of our christmas party

The Man Himself "Zucchero"

Yes this is Zucchero for those who don't know him and what a great concert aging rockers and blues men were all united with one thing in mind to have a GOOD TIME and did he provide the music for a good time yes he did in spade loads.

What a voice, he has been seen in this country usually at charity concerts and in his own beloved Italy of course, but this was the first time I noticed that he was touring the country so Sally and myself decided to go and see this singer who we had only seen singing with Andrea Bocelli at a live concert in Verona, we only saw this on a DVd but he had a voice a bit like Joe Cocker for those of us who are old enough to remember and we both said we would like to see him if we got the chance and York was that chance.

Would we go and see him again? YES is the only answer
I might annoy some of you with a CD to listen to so you have been warned

Holidays and comings and goings

Hope everyone is well as they read this, but a certain person pictured is far from well.

Ameena Roberts pictured looking very studious is still in hospital as I write this blog. Last time I saw Ameena she was hoping to come out of hospital on Monday 24th November when I saw her on Thursday the week before after my stint in The Walton Centre, she was about to come off the oxygen and see how that went over the next few days and discharged on Monday. I called in for a few minutes before lunch(It arrived as I was there)so I didn't stay too long and dropped off some magazines that Sally had been saving to pass on as well as all the wishes of everyone at Neurosupport.
I have been off this last week travelling to York to see a singer that no one has heard of Zucchero, but more of that later and off this week to Germany,Berlin to enjoy a pre Christmas break taking in the sights and of course the real reason for the visit Christmas Markets (Sally loves to shop) and yes I will put up some photo's when we get back, but back to Ammena. I phoned the house to see how she was getting on and left a message, I was surprised she was out but then when Phil phoned later that night I found out what i was thinking when no one phoned back earlier Phil was at the hospital. Ameena is still in and still having problems and scans and drips and all the things that go with being in hospital.

So I would like to say along with everyone else, get well soon as we all miss your smiling face on a Tuesday.

Also sad to report that a certain Mr John Bailey who works on reception will be leaving us this week, he will sadly missed by all and I would like to wish him well in his new job along with the rest of the volunteers from Neurosupport.

So on to the last item before I have my breakfast and try and work out how to listen to songs on my very new MP3 player my nephews will help later are we all ready for the the "Open Day"09/12/08 and our Christmas Party on 10/12/08 I did hear a rumour that Santa himself was going to put in an appearance so have your lists ready along with sherry and mince pies on both days see you all there

News of trips will follow and "How we got Lost on the Underground in Berlin" it's a given

Quantum of Solace review by Michael Ord

While waiting for my holiday to start a gift has been dropped in my lap, a reveiw of "Quantum of Solace" written by my nephew Michael Ord, it was his homework. I never remember getting homework that involved me going to thre pictures although I do remember going to see "El Cid" starring Charlton Heston and Sophie Loren, I think it was part of history but I can't remember now after all those years that have gone by. So to the review
Quantum Of Solace (2008)

James Bond: Daniel Craig
Director: Marc Foster
Producer: Michael G. Wilson
Story: Ian Flemming (characters), Michael G. Wilson (plot).
After a long and anxious wait Daniel Craig is back in his second outing as everyone’s favourite agent, 007. Craig has brought a much more physical appearance to 007 as emphasised in the amount of enemies Bond kills in this new version of Bond. As usual this thriller has not failed to impress with an intriguing storyline which has various links to Casino Royale which also was a fantastic watch but was originally a spoof bond film written by Ian Flemming but adapted by Wolf Mankowitz in 1967 starring Peter Sellers and Ursula Andress.
The opening scene in itself is a great opener to this exhilarating film. This includes fantastic cars crashing, bashing, flipping and burning due to James Bonds crazy driving skills, even after losing a door. After this breathtaking opening Mr White is revealed to be in the boot of Bond’s car, surprisingly still alive. When taken back to the headquarters Mr White is interrogated by James and M, acted out as brilliantly as always by Judi Dench. Bond wants information to reveal the truth about the death of his ex-girlfriend in Casino Royale, Vesper. Mr White manages to escape without revealing any information about who he is working for. This leads to a jaw-dropping chase on rooftops, through houses and includes life threatening jumps from building to building. When Bond intrudes into one of the ‘bad guys’ hotel rooms he picks up his briefcase which reveals he is supposed to shoot the young Camille, who is played by the beautiful Olga Kurylenko. Camille reads his move like a book while she seems to know more about the next move than Bond.This leads to Bond escaping out of the car without either of them getting hurt even though that wasn’t James’ plan anyway as he wasn’t who Camille thought he was.
Dominic Greene acted by Mathieu Amalric, and General Medrano are the men James is after as they are the men behind James’ ex-girlfriends death but also Camille seeks revenge for Medrano due to her father’s death. James begins to spy on Greene when he talks to General Medrano, Joaquin Cosio, in a plan to take over one of the world’s major resources, oil.
He plans to do this by manipulating people into agreeing with his plans. In order to serve justice to the people behind the death of Vesper in ‘Casino Royale’ Bond allies with old friends to uncover the truth about Dominic Greene. This involves Bond staying ahead of the enemies, the CIA and even his boss M. Together Bond and Camille reveal that the resource Dominic Greene is actually offering in the deal with the General is not oil but it is water by a crash landing off a plane into underground caves.
James and Camille eventually get the chance they had been waiting for in the middle of a desert when Dominic Greene and General Medrano meet to sign the deal for the oil which in fact is water. The whole building ends up in flames even though it is Bond and Camille against henchmen and the two taking part in the deal, Greene and Medrano. Camille takes her opportunity without hesitation to kill the man involved in the death of her father, Medrano, immediately she kills him. However Greene does not manage to get away that easy as Bond wants to make him suffer with body blows, punches to the face and even an axe to the toes. That is not too mention the actual death, he is left in the middle of the desert with nothing to drink but oil. So no surprise when the next day he is found dead in the desert with lungs filled with petrol. Finally, the last of Bonds enormous list of kills is when he enters a small village and finds the man who was sent to kill.
So this really is an action packed thriller worth seeing but certainly not the typical Roger Moore type of Bond. However as we all know from previous 007 experiences, James Bond will never seize to amaze his viewers. The villains in this new epic film are also very believable due to the exciting action performed by Mathieu Amalric and Joaquin Cosio. This storyline in general is nothing similar too any previous films or books written by Ian Flemming. Now the fans of Bond are just looking forward to the next Bond acted by the new physical and distinguished 007, Daniel Craig.

I couldn't have done better myself, thanks Michael our very junior reporter

The English Language

When I first started writing a newsletter over 12 months ago for Neurosupport the one thing that was always my "friend" Spellchecker, but if you read the next piece I'm not so sure.

READ THIS QUICKLY AND YOU WILL BE AMAZED!!

I cdnuolt blveiee that I cloud aulacity uesdnatnrd what I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the human mnid aoccdrnig to rseearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is that the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. This is bcuseae the huaman mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the word as a a wlohe.
Amzanig, huh? Yaeh, and I awlyas tohuhgt slpeling was ipmorannt.

ANON

If anyone has any other word games although this item was the spellcheckers nightmare, let me know.

James Bond and A night Out

You maybe wondering what a picture of James Bond is doing on our site but then again I did ask if anyone has seen the picture "Quantum of Solace" well I did myself along with a very happy nearly 7 year old, who in his opinion "Was the Best" so who cares what the critics might say. For myself the now 60+ year old, bits of it had been pinched from one of the Bourne Films, the chase across the roof and how many times can somethings blow up but in different ways, but that said for me I will always be a fan of the James Bond films.

Now on to real reason of the picture, somewhere in the city on Saturday night a certain gentleman will be wearing a tuxedo and doing his best impression of the man himself, James Bond. This my way of saying I hope you have a very good night and maybe send me something that we can publish.

Have a very goodnight both of you , you deserve it for all the hard work you do to help others.

Halloween and Fireworks

Just some pictures of 2 nights that have just passed by in readiness for the big event in the next month

I have bought a new camera with my birthday money the on of the man I think is on the wrong setting but looks ok to me let me know what you think

Newsletter October/November2008

The Pictures shown don't match up the the newsletter and 2 are missing maybe that could be a competition in itself where have they gone and what 2 are missing answers as always ona postcard please This is still all new to me

Here we are 12 months later when I thought it would be a good idea to volunteer to help publish and produce a newsletter for ourselves, after all I had been on a course for 12 months learning all my computer skills, little did I know what I was letting myself in for, “never volunteer” words from my dad stretching back to the days he had a holiday abroad all paid for from 1939-1945!! His days were a lot different and volunteering meant extra guard duty or more spuds that needed peeling. How times have changed but have they? There is still fighting all over the world, not so very different from my dad’s day. So back to volunteering in the present, I suppose you could say that I enjoy my role as a volunteer and as I will be reporting later in this news about our AGM that 10 years have passed since I set foot through those doors to become a volunteer, by the way are we all enjoying our new reception area it makes a lot more sense to be near the door, why did it end up behind a post and wall in the first place? (Answers on a postcard please)
So have I enjoyed the last 12 months sitting typing away? You bet I have!! Even though some times in the early days when I wanted to throw the computer through the window and mumble to myself where did that go? That happened a lot, I still make mistakes, but not as many and I wish I could type using all my fingers, but that will come in time (I have found a programme for typing done by the BBC for children, I’m up to age six now and on stage 3)Now to thank a few people who have helped along the way in no particular order? Isabel, John, Wendy, Ameena, Jessie, Keith, David, Alan, Waddy, Malcolm and Brenda & Gordon and if I have missed anyone I am sorry but in some way everyone has helped to produce this along with of course the staff a mention for Danny Start for his encouragement at the beginning and his continued support and last but not least Maureen Kelly our manager.
Speaking of 12 months it was the AGM last year that started the whole thing off so here are the highlights for those who missed a good day out!!
AGM 15/10/08
The day started with a surprise birthday cake for a certain John Waddicar, a recently featured volunteer in our newsletter, his age; well let’s say that the candles were put out with the help of the local fire brigade. Staff and visitors joined in the traditional “Happy Birthday “ song, I did notice words on his lips as he tried to blow out the candles something about cars, proper and small, I couldn’t make it out my lip reading skills are not what they were since I retired from “The Government” although I was only licensed to serve ale. Speaking of which the new James Bond film will be out soon, would anyone like to write a review?
Speaking of birthdays I myself reached a milestone as they say 60, where have all the years gone and 10 years as a volunteer at Neurosupport, but more of that later.
When I was presented to my dad by the midwife he was heard to say “Can we fit shutters on’t pram mother” All those years watching Ken Dodd have paid off.
Prior to the meeting we all dined well with our buffet supplied by your friend and mine Mr Tony Bonner, take a bow Tony, once again keeping us fed and watered and also the guests, someone else who works in partnership with the centre, keeping our visitors happy a very important part of our business that is the Neurosupport Centre.

Now on to the AGM itself, Maureen Kelly opened the meeting and explained how the centre was about the importance of partnership, raising awareness and quality of life and that the AGM was about a celebration of everyone involved in the centre. Now, 14 AGMs later, 2 as Neurosupport. Maureen then went on to introduce our Chair of Trustees, Nick Pyne who told us that after 8 years of being involved in the centre, 5 as chair he was standing down and Ken Morris of Liverpool Women’s Hospital Foundation Trust who has as been involved since 2003 will be the new Chair. Nick then explained the changes that he had seen over those 8 years. How the” Working Life Service” has developed even when funding ran out and how the trustees supported it, to where it is now having been awarded the Section 64 grant recently for the next 3 years and the new Neuro Life programme. He then mentioned the library and how over 1 year we had had 700 inquiries covering 100 conditions, it now also being web enabled. Nick explained how room income was important and the 2 exhibitions that we had in the foyer by disabled artists and also the presentation to Ian Williams of a sculpture by Tommy McHugh, whose work that was featured on a television programme is now hanging in the foyer. Nick then introduced our new chair Ken Morris who presented Nick with a parting gift, thanking him for his time and support over the years. Ken explained how he was involved in the centre and its name change and how he is looking forward to the new challenges as chair. Ken then introduced Sir Bert Massie MBE, patron of Neurosupport who explained that after retiring from the Disability Rights Commission, how he was asked to take on the role of Commissioner for “The Compact” and then went on to explain about “The Compact” established in 1998 is an agreement between Government and the voluntary sector in England. It recognises shared values, principles and commitments and sets out guidelines for how both parties should work together. (Pinched from the website) Bert explained how they were raising the profile and made some interesting comments along the way one of which stuck which was about money for charities he suggested we change our name to Neurosupport Bank LTD and Gordon Brown would send us lots of money!!! As you can imagine this brought a few laughs. At the end he was asked to present the awards for 10 years service to 4 volunteers and as you may have guessed I was one of them along with Jessie Allerston, Sandra McKenna and Margaret Milner.

Maureen then introduced Charlotte Green of the Media Trust to talk about the Trust’s work and introduce a short film on Neurosupport and its volunteers. Charlotte explained that articles for the press can be made to into press speak to make it suitable for press release; they also help with training and website creationCharlotte explained that the Media Trust was a communication charity were people from the media offered to volunteer their services to charities; the film shown would normally cost £20,000 when we were only charged a flat fee of £1000. and also the community channel where our very own film has been showing. She then introduced Neil of Shadow films who filmed and produced ours and then the film was shown.

Maureen then introduced Liz Sayce, Chief Executive of RADAR, a national network of Disability organisations and Disabled people which campaigns for equality for Disabled people. Liz went on to tell us of the work of RADAR, mentioning lots of projects that would benefit people with disabilities. One statement she made which I thought said it all was “A just and equal society whose strength is human difference”

Liz then took questions from the floor, which led to a very lively debate.Maureen thanked everyone for coming and the meeting was closed for another yearexplained that the Media Trust was a communication charity were people from the articles for the press can be made to into press speak to make it suitable for press release; they also help with training and website creation and also the community channel where our very own film has been showing. She then introduced Neil of Shadow films who filmed and produced ours and then the film was shown. Maureen then introduced Liz Sayce, Chief Executive of RADAR, a national network of Disability organisations and Disabled people which campaigns for equality for Disabled people. Liz went on to tell us of the work of RADAR, mentioning lots of projects that would benefit people with disabilities. One statement she made which I thought said it all was “A just and equal society whose strength is human difference”
Liz then took questions from the floor, which led to a very lively debate.Maureen thanked everyone for coming and the meeting was closed for another year

A PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

I’m Dave Johnston; I help in the library at Neurosupport on Tuesdays. I’ve been a volunteer at Neurosupport for nearly ten years and apart from enjoying the work in the Library
I really appreciate the friendship and support of fellow volunteers and staff. I had to leave work at the end of 1997 due to lifelong problems with depression having been in the N.H.S. for most of my working life doing various ancillary jobs. I live in Thingwall on the Wirral and belong to Holy Family parish. I recently went on a Pilgrimage to Lourdes with a group from church. This was doubly special as 2008 marks the 150th anniversary of the Shrine. I would like to find a little part-time job but I hope to continue as a volunteer at Neurosupport. Here is an account of my trip. Most people have heard of this little Pyrenean town and the story of a poor peasant girl Bernadette Soubirous who saw a ‘Beautiful Lady’ in a grotto by the River Gave which flows through the town. The Grotto of Massabielle was in fact the site of the town rubbish dump! The ‘Lady’ was The Virgin Mary who came with a message of reconciliation, conversion, solidarity with the poor and a request to ‘come in procession, drink and bathe in the waters’. The wonderful story can be found in the many books available on Lourdes. I just want to share my feelings on what it is like to respond to this request. The town was packed with people from all over the World, China, Vietnam, South America, every country in Europe and a very large African pilgrimage. The atmosphere was one of friendship, togetherness and good humour which were just as well with thousands in the town and the ‘Domain’, the area of the Grotto and churches. The pilgrims who have first priority are of course the sick, and Lourdes over the years has been a place of cures which have defied logic and science but perhaps an ever present ‘miracle’ is the love and devotion of those who help the sick, many of whom are young people who work very hard but whose reward must he great both here and in eternity! To see the sick pilgrims made me count my blessings. During my short but wonderful stay I visited places in the town associated with Bernadette and her family, The Boly Mill, her home and the Cachot, the disused prison which poverty had forced the Soubirous family to eventually live in, but it was the Grotto, beautiful churches and superb devotions and ceremonies such as the Torchlight Procession, Blessed Sacrament Procession, Masses and the peace of the Grotto together with the friendship of those I travelled with and those I met from all over the World that I will remember. On a lighter side, I slipped backwards in the baths (trust me!) but was caught in time. Other good memories were of having a cold beer in the street café’s, watching the world (literally) go by and reflecting on how it really is possible for us all to get on together.
Competition time (only joking no prizes on this newsletter) I have added another picture from a trip to Lourdes Can you recognize anyone 2 pals together maybe it’s a clue.

Volunteer Meeting 30/10/08 Minutes courtesy of Carolyn Garlick.
Maureen Kelly asked those present to introduce themselves. As we all know sometimes we don’t all meet and new faces keep coming through the door and looking at the next item Reception Protocol Job Description I think a few more will be needed!! And yes further down the minutes new volunteers are being discussed.
MK circulated the Volunteer Duties for the Reception/Telephone role and went through the role as defined by the volunteers.
Questions were raised regarding illness and cover for holidays.
Maureen confirmed this is a problem which should be addressed and it is requested that volunteers phone if they cannot make it in.
The group discussed other issues with the reception. It was confirmed a white board has been ordered to have in reception to quickly identify if staff are in the building. It was requested photographs are put on the board. Resident charities staff also needs to be on the board.
Maureen confirmed all staff now have photo ID as do many of the volunteers. Carolyn is to complete the volunteer badges anyone not having had a photograph must see Carolyn ASAP
Badges Visitors Book.
Carolyn circulated a page from the new visitor’s book which is aimed at all people who visit the centre. Guidance notes for completion of the book will be drawn up by Carolyn. Visitors will complete the book be given a badge and advised to were the badge, return on leaving and sign out.
These processors are all to tighten up security access to the building. It is envisaged everyone within the centre will be wearing a pass or badge. Volunteers on seeing anyone in the building without identification should inform a member of staff, who will challenge that person.
The New Enquiry form
Kathryn introduced and circulated the enquiry form and informed the volunteers of its purpose. The guidance notes should help with completing the form. This is a trial of the form to iron out any problems. It will be used from Monday until after Christmas and then reviewed.
Maureen thanked Kathryn, Janet and John for the form and work that has gone into it.
Maureen stated she will meet with all reception volunteers and discuss the role and look at gaps in service to recruit new volunteers.
Some volunteers had not received notification of the meeting. Carolyn confirmed the database in place has not been kept up to date. It will be updated and minutes notes and a date for the next meeting will go out to all volunteers.
Maureen stated the same process will be carried out for the Kitchen. As reception/telephone role. The group discussed congestion in the kitchen when they are serving and clearing lunches. Maureen will bring this up at the staff meeting and tenant lunch. It was asked if the shutter to the lounge could not be raised. This was not viable due to noise.
Flasks were suggested for some meetings which will ease congestion at the serving window. This will be investigated although most groups enjoy the service offered.
The group discussed the fact the kitchen phone isn’t working, neither is the toaster. Chris confirmed the fire service advised this should not be replaced as it calls too many false alarms. He did request a chiller cabinet for merchandise would be useful
Yes it’s that time of year again Brian in a red suit.
Maureen confirmed the date of 10th December for the Christmas party. It was agreed a small committee to take this forward would be formed to finalise arrangements. The format will most likely be similar to last year with Christmas lunch being served.
Maureen confirmed the building will be closed from midday on Christmas Eve until Monday 5th January 2009.
The Walton Centre and Changes
Maureen informed the group that she has no new information about the changes to the arrangements or how the area will be in the future. Isobel stated she has no new information either. Maureen will find out all she can.
Volunteer Film
The volunteer film was shown and copies distributed to those who took part.
The Mocha Lounge 07/11/08 at 8.00pm
The flyer for the event was circulated all welcome. All proceeds to Neurosupport.
Open Day 09/12/08
The format for the day was discussed which will include exhibitions, tours of the building and the launch of the Neurolife service.
Health and Safety Committee
Chris asked for volunteers who would like to be involved in a health and safety committee. Malcolm and Wendy have previously expressed an interest. Chris and Maureen will liaise on this and set a date.
Friday 30th January 2009. 10am in the Seminar Room. For the next meeting so put it in your new diary that someone will give you for Christmas
So as I come to a close of this rather long newsletter I hope you are enjoying the news and check out our new BLOG for things that might interest you along the way. Also check out Gordon of the poems fame and his lovely wife Brenda his very own BLOG
gordonmilward-compo.blogspot.com/
Thanks for reading and hope to see everyone at our Christmas Party!!
Alan Clark on the night of nights The Fifth of November 2008

Mixed up and crazy

Just a quick explanation for anyone who is following my latest post was really about the AGM which I have only just edited while I was waiting for the minutes of the volunteer meeting 30/10/08 so watch out for them and our ramblings of a very tired man, I think the change in tablets is upsetting my sleep patterns

Also watch for some pictures of the Lantern parade in Sefton park when I work out how to put the pictures in the computer a new boys toy for my birhday a new camera with all the bells and whistles
When I saw the insrtuction book I thought it was in 4 languages until I looked it was all in English and nearly 200 pages long HELP but more of that later

Are the glasses lost or is it just me ?

As anyone knows who has been following my blog or thoughts as I think it should be maybe that statement alone I am in danger of being old before my time but I am trying to look to the future not back but to look to the future you need to have seen some of the world and life and things.
But back to the glasses when I lost my glasses were they lost? or was it just me thinking I had put them somewhere and couldn't find them in the place I thought they should be. I knew I had put them on the stairs and after loking at least 4 times up the stairs and down in all the rooms I was last in and yes they were on the stairs in full view for us all to see how I did not stand on them I do not know, at least I am in the lucky few were glasses are concerned I just by them of the shelf for £2.99 or in the market for £1.00 only, so where they lost no I think sometimes we do get lost ourselves
.
I had a conversation with someone who was looking for the teabags no where to be found but when going to the fridge yes they were there all along yes we are growing old and sometimes lose things but I don't think they are lost just misplaced .

Newsletter Part 1

I will be adding to this newsletter latter all concerning our last volunteers meeting held on 30/10/08

Issue 7 October 2008

Here we are 12 months later when I thought it would be a good idea to volunteer to help publish and produce a newsletter for ourselves, after all I had been on a course for 12 months learning all my computer skills, little did I know what I was letting myself in for, “never volunteer” words from my dad stretching back to the days he had a holiday abroad all paid for from 1939-1945!! His days were a lot different and volunteering meant extra guard duty or more spuds that needed peeling. How times have changed but have they? There is still fighting all over the world, not so very different from my dad’s day. So back to volunteering in the present, I suppose you could say that I enjoy my role as a volunteer and as I will be reporting later in this news about our AGM that 10 years have passed since I set foot through those doors to become a volunteer, by the way are we all enjoying our new reception area it makes a lot more sense to be near the door, why did it end up behind a post and wall in the first place? (Answers on a postcard please)
So have I enjoyed the last 12 months sitting typing away? You bet I have!! Even though some times in the early days when I wanted to throw the computer through the window and mumble to myself where did that go? That happened a lot, I still make mistakes, but not as many and I wish I could type using all my fingers, but that will come in time (I have found a programme for typing done by the BBC for children, I’m up to age six now and on stage 3)
Now to thank a few people who have helped along the way in no particular order? Isabel, John, Wendy, Ameena, Jessie, Keith, David, Alan, Waddy, Malcolm and Brenda & Gordon and if I have missed anyone I am sorry but in some way everyone has helped to produce this along with of course the staff a mention for Danny Start for his encouragement at the beginning and his continued support and last but not least Maureen Kelly our manager.

Speaking of 12 months it was the AGM last year that started the whole thing off so here are the highlights for those who missed a good day out!!
AGM 15/10/08
The day started with a surprise birthday cake for a certain John Waddicar, a recently featured volunteer in our newsletter, his age; well let’s say that the candles were put out with the help of the local fire brigade. Staff and visitors joined in the traditional “Happy Birthday “ song, I did notice words on his lips as he tried to blow out the candles something about cars, proper and small, I couldn’t make it out my lip reading skills are not what they were since I retired from “The Government” although I was only licensed to serve ale. Speaking of which the new James Bond film will be out soon, would anyone like to write a review?
Speaking of birthdays I myself reached a milestone as they say 60, where have all the years gone and 10 years as a volunteer at Neurosupport, but more of that later.
When I was presented to my dad by the midwife he was heard to say “Can we fit shutters on’t pram mother” All those years watching Ken Dodd have paid off.
Prior to the meeting we all dined well with our buffet supplied by your friend and mine Mr Tony Bonner, take a bow Tony, once again keeping us fed and watered and also the guests, someone else who works in partnership with the centre, keeping our visitors happy a very important part of our business that is the Neurosupport Centre.

Now on to the AGM itself, Maureen Kelly opened the meeting and explained how the centre was about the importance of partnership, raising awareness and quality of life and that the AGM was about a celebration of everyone involved in the centre. Now, 14 AGMs later, 2 as Neurosupport. Maureen then went on to introduce our Chair of Trustees, Nick Pyne who told us that after 8 years of being involved in the centre, 5 as chair he was standing down and Ken Morris of Liverpool Women’s Hospital Foundation Trust who has as been involved since 2003 will be the new Chair. Nick then explained the changes that he had seen over those 8 years. How the” Working Life Service” has developed even when funding ran out and how the trustees supported it, to where it is now having been awarded the Section 64 grant recently for the next 3 years and the new Neuro Life programme. He then mentioned the library and how over 1 year we had had 700 inquiries covering 100 conditions, it now also being web enabled. Nick explained how room income was important and the 2 exhibitions that we had in the foyer by disabled artists and also the presentation to Ian Williams of a sculpture by Tommy McHugh, whose work that was featured on a television programme is now hanging in the foyer. Nick then introduced our new chair Ken Morris who presented Nick with a parting gift, thanking him for his time and support over the years. Ken explained how he was involved in the centre and its name change and how he is looking forward to the new challenges as chair. Ken then introduced Sir Bert Massie MBE, patron of Neurosupport who explained that after retiring from the Disability Rights Commission, how he was asked to take on the role of Commissioner for “The Compact” and then went on to explain about “The Compact” established in 1998 is an agreement between Government and the voluntary sector in England. It recognises shared values, principles and commitments and sets out guidelines for how both parties should work together. (Pinched from the website) Bert explained how they were raising the profile and made some interesting comments along the way one of which stuck which was about money for charities he suggested we change our name to Neurosupport Bank LTD and Gordon Brown would send us lots of money!!! As you can imagine this brought a few laughs. At the end he was asked to present the awards for 10 years service to 4 volunteers and as you may have guessed I was one of them along with Jessie Allerston, Sandra McKenna and Margaret Milner, Jessie and I receiving them on the day see pictures. Sorry a certain Julia got hold of mine. Our budding David Bailey of the day a certain birthday boy had some problems with the camera not enough instructions from the camera owner he said so pictures courtesy of Carolyn Garlick and others. Maureen then introduced Charlotte Green of the Media Trust to talk about the Trust’s work and introduce a short film on Neurosupport and its volunteers. Charlotte explained that the Media Trust was a communication charity were people from the media offered to volunteer their services to charities; the film shown would normally cost £20,000 when we were only charged a flat fee of £1000. They are also a community newswire where articles for the press can be made to into press speak to make it suitable for press release; they also help with training and website creation and also the community channel where our very own film has been showing. She then introduced Neil of Shadow films who filmed and produced ours and then the film was shown. Maureen then introduced Liz Sayce, Chief Executive of RADAR, a national network of Disability organisations and Disabled people which campaigns for equality for Disabled people. Liz went on to tell us of the work of RADAR, mentioning lots of subjects, child poverty, if the parents of that child are disabled, disabled groups sharing experiences that lead to change. Quality of housing suitable for disabled and older people, how the social care package offered by one authority may be different from area to area. Liz covered lots of subjects’ peer support, access needs, disability equality, welfare reform and how someone with autism became a school governor. One statement she made which I thought said it all was “A just and equal society whose strength is human difference”
Liz then took questions from the floor, which led to a very lively debate.
Maureen thanked everyone for coming and the meeting was closed for another year.

A PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES I’m Dave Johnston; I help in the library at Neurosupport on Tuesdays. I’ve been a volunteer at Neurosupport for nearly ten years and apart from enjoying the work in the Library
I really appreciate the friendship and support of fellow volunteers and staff. I had to leave work at the end of 1997 due to lifelong problems with depression having been in the N.H.S. for most of my working life doing various ancillary jobs. I live in Thingwall on the Wirral and belong to Holy Family parish. I recently went on a Pilgrimage to Lourdes with a group from church. This was doubly special as 2008 marks the 150th anniversary of the Shrine. I would like to find a little part-time job but I hope to continue as a volunteer at Neurosupport. Here is an account of my trip. Most people have heard of this little Pyrenean town and the story of a poor peasant girl Bernadette Soubirous who saw a ‘Beautiful Lady’ in a grotto by the River Gave which flows through the town. The Grotto of Massabielle was in fact the site of the town rubbish dump! The ‘Lady’ was The Virgin Mary who came with a message of reconciliation, conversion, solidarity with the poor and a request to ‘come in procession, drink and bathe in the waters’. The wonderful story can be found in the many books available on Lourdes. I just want to share my feelings on what it is like to respond to this request. The town was packed with people from all over the World, China, Vietnam, South America, every country in Europe and a very large African pilgrimage. The atmosphere was one of friendship, togetherness and good humour which were just as well with thousands in the town and the ‘Domain’, the area of the Grotto and churches. The pilgrims who have first priority are of course the sick, and Lourdes over the years has been a place of cures which have defied logic and science but perhaps an ever present ‘miracle’ is the love and devotion of those who help the sick, many of whom are young people who work very hard but whose reward must he great both here and in eternity! To see the sick pilgrims made me count my blessings. During my short but wonderful stay I visited places in the town associated with Bernadette and her family, The Boly Mill, her home and the Cachot, the disused prison which poverty had forced the Soubirous family to eventually live in, but it was the Grotto, beautiful churches and superb devotions and ceremonies such as the Torchlight Procession, Blessed Sacrament Procession, Masses and the peace of the Grotto together with the friendship of those I travelled with and those I met from all over the World that I will remember. On a lighter side, I slipped backwards in the baths (trust me!) but was caught in time. Other good memories were of having a cold beer in the street café’s, watching the world (literally) go by and reflecting on how it really is possible for us all to get on together.
Competition time (only joking no prizes on this newsletter) I have added another picture from a trip to Lourdes Can you recognize anyone 2 pals together maybe it’s a clue. Please see newsletter on noticeboard for picture

life and plans

Who said life gets in the way of making plans who ever it was for me he/she was definitly right

How can you make plans when sometimes you are already in the biggest plan of all life let me know what you think of plans and life

birds and other things

While I am waiting for that hole to be filled in where my window use to be well adding new glass and bits of wood and filler I have been sitting as you know now in my kitchen with the heat on now so at least my fingers are starting to feel like I own them again, I have been playing around on this wonderful machine called a computer to some it is a machine of the devil to me it has given me a toy to play with in my old age to reach the world wide web as they say.

Now 2 years on and I am still learning how to do things still trying to work things out I am even learning how to chat on line and now I see Gordon has gone one better by putting his poems in something called Picasa web album what a good idea at last he will publish his poems his thoughts on how his life has changed over the years If you read his poems send him a comment he would love to hear from you

AGM pictures and our thoughts of growing old

Here is another picture of the "Usual Suspects" sorry Brian and Brenda enjoying the food at the AGM It all seems so long ago now.Maybe it's an age thing as I have reached my milestone in life see the newsletter for my exact age although is age a personal thing do we all feel different when we reach a certain age ?

As I sit in the comfort of my kitchen normally, typing away today is less than normal. My fingers are feeling the cold which is coming in through the window which has been minus the glass for most of the morning and now as I type the new glass is going in so I think a Little heat is called for Yes you've guessed someone is repairing my windows not the ball this time, old age like me although parts of the frame have rotted some parts are OK a lot like me come to think of it , some good some bad visiting the doctor and hospitals more on first name terms with a doctors secretary.I use to take my dad to the doctors thinking he is coming here a lot but I am following in his footsteps , So yes I am getting old, but with luck and tablets I will keep on going. My old partner in crime Margret Milliner is a case in question she keeps volunteering at her tender age which I know but will not tell Keep watching this space

photos of AGM and birthday boy

As you can see Danny and Kathryn chatting along with another member of staff can you guess who it is? no prizes but would you like to a add a caption to the picture "Back To the Future" springs to mind

The AGM for another year

Yes I am alive and well except I have reached that milestone in the world 60 years of age do I feel different not much is age a different number that the world sees us by or are we as old as we feel ? I dont feel much different except I see this Older man stirring out from the mirror I still feel the same with a few more aches and pains that seem to be growing as I do but that apart that I feel ok
So the AGM came an went for another year a good time was had by all see my report in our newsletter I will put in some pictures soon so watch this space

AGM wednesday 15/10/08 and birthdays

AGM 15/10/08
The day started with a surprise birthday cake for a certain John Waddicar, a recently featured volunteer in our newsletter, his age; well let’s say that the candles were put out with the help of the local fire brigade. Staff and visitors joined in the traditional “Happy Birthday “ song, I did notice words on his lips as he tried to blow out the candles something about cars, proper and small, I couldn’t make it out my lip reading skills are not what they were since I retired from “The Government” although I was only licensed to serve ale.
Speaking of birthdays I myself reached a milestone as they say 60, where have all the years gone and 10 years as a volunteer at Neurosupport, but more of that later.
When I was presented to my dad by the midwife he was heard to say “Can we fit shutters on't pram mother” Thank you Ken Dodd, if you see him enough times the jokes stick!!
Keep looking for more posts and pictures about the AGM

"Went the day Well" Wednesday 6.30am

Well it's arrived at last that day in the Neurosupport calendar that we all love to hate, with all the usual questions"Will it go alright" "Have we enough food"" Phil Redmond can't park is car" well maybe not the last one. All will be revealed later today so watch this space as they say.
I will try to give you a flavour of it all with pictures and comments, but also watch out for a more in depth look of the AGM in the published newsletter.

Keep sending in your stories and thoughts.
I'm off now to kill a few "Baddies" in the new Star Wars Game so I can get ahead of the game for my little nephew and find out where they are all hiding, he is only 6 and gets frustrated when he gets killed by the "Baddies" so good shooting from him and good shooting from me

last years AGM

As you can see plenty of food about

volunteer meeting

Monday 18-15pm
Have we all had our invite to the meeting I think Maureen forgot to mention that at great expense to the centre a private showing of that film masterpiece "Our Day Out for Volunteers and Other Parts" lasts all of 5 minutes but Wendy and Jessie will be going round with popcorn and ice cream at the interval so have the right money ready !! but don't eat too much as our very own well almost Tony Bonner will be making a late appearance with lunch
Hope to see some of you at the AGM on Wednesday and watch out for some unseen pictures of the day if I remember the camera and also on that day a certain person will be celebrating his/her birthday I don't want to give too much away see you Wednesday Waddy as well as Tuesday
What a busy week this will be so keep an eye for your intrepid reporter

on its way to the shed

this creature was seen roamoing the streets of Liverpol does it have rendevous with that unknown creature in black

news of the shed

Last night this man was seen very near the shed does anyone recognise him from this picture?

Has he come to take over the shed as the death star has exploded or it more sinister than that does he want to move in and make himself comfy watch this space for more news

Neurosupport poem

Working in Neurosupport in different ways
Some on the tea bar some on the phone
It’s a lot different than staying at home
We all come together but on different days
Here we are the same but in different ways
When we were younger we did use to play

Some in a wheelchair some on the bus
We don’t wont people to make a fuss
We try to help people who are a lot like us







so please come here
If you want a library we got one
to spare
We try to show people that we still care
If its information you want
You have come to the right place
We all try to help with a smile on our face

So this is the poem of a volunteer
We all like to help
Friday, 14 September 2007
Alan Clark

"Why Me" A poem

Why Me?

What’s happening to me? Is this a dream or reality?
First I was at home, now I wake up alone.
Voices all around, no familiar faces to be found.
I want to say more, please take hold my hand and walk me out through that door.

A sense of urgency rushing all around.
I’m there for a moment, then cannot be found.
How long have I been in this bed, what’s happening in my head?
Where can I be? What’s happening to me?

They won’t let me sleep. I can’t get on my feet.
I’m in so much pain, will I ever laugh again?
There’s needles again, oh no not more pain.
How long will this go on. Just let me be gone!

Machines are bleeping, tubes in my mouth,
White walls now dark places, I’ve got to hang on.
The retching the pain, another headache again
I try desperately to sleep. Oh! No! I can’t eat.

This time’s not right for me, there has to be more fight in me.
My family is so dear to me, how I need them so near to me.
Bright lights are a fear to me, like knives cutting into me.
Stay close be here with me, the nights are so long to me.

Confusion, hysteria are about to set in.
Don’t leave me know I’ll make a terrible din.
Bare with me be kind.
I’m not really going out of my mind.

There’s been problems in my head, the nice man just said.
I’m moved to another bed, what’s that he just said?
My hairs all gone, I’ve still got my nighie on.
I feel ever so weak, not more tablets I need sleep!

Now smiling faces, cards and gifts all around.
Well wishes are said, they want me home now instead.
A new day is dawning, life’s given me a warning.
There’s still fuzziness in my head, I wish I could remember what was said.

I’m leaving my hospital bed, I’m heading home.
I must do as I’m told and can’t be left alone.
I’m so glad to still be here, life is precious and dear.
I have fear held within but this battle I’ll win.

Maureen Mellor – July 2003

This was written by Maureen Mellor who had a Brain Haemorrhage its a poem she often reads to to people in the support group

AGM wednesday 15/10/08

Morning all the preparations are under way to the big day lots of things going on and butties as well. Some of us will be receiving 10 years service awards at the AGM, pictures to follow of all the highlights.I am hoping to print a Newsletter soon after the volunteers meeting 30/10/08 with all the information of the AGM along with a few thoughts of how the Neuronews has gone over the last 12 months so keep watching for your friend dropping through the letterbox

Hope to see you on the day

"Of time and the City" a film by Terence Davis

Last night I was the envy of a certain Danny Start after securing tickets to the world premiere of "Of time and the City" a film by Terence Davis The start at 8.00pm went to 8.20pm allowing time for the Dicky bows and dresses to be just right the man playing the organ was running out of puff, but was it all worth the wait of course it was with the man himself, culture secretary and producers talking prior to the film Terence Davis told us to watch it with our hearts because that is how he made the film with his heart
First shown in Cannes that film capital of the world it received rave reviews and sitting watching it last night you could understand why. A film showing Liverpool sometimes not in a good light but later on emerging from the rubble to become the city it is now and still growing It was a film through his eyes of where he grew up and how it has changed narrating the film himself their were lots of poignant moments and some laughter especially about "Betty's and Phil's" wedding. When we left to get the bus home the dresses and Dicky bows were of to a party I guess, but what a night to rememberfor our year as Capital of Culture 2008 and the man himself Mr Phil Redmond take a bow was there to watch it all.
More of Neuronews to come preparations of the AGM watch this space

poetry day

In this year of 2008
Lots of people got in to a state
Because we had an Archer
When really we needed a Redmond
This year has been full of lots of things
Spiders that walk that reach to the sky
Tall Ships that sailed that looked as though they could fly
Streets full of music and how we sang
Remembering our youth that went with a bang
The years have flown by, have we all changed ?
It's my birhday soon and i have changed
In this year of culture in 2008
I hope you enjoyed it withlots of your mates

news of neuro

Well at last we have moved on from the shed although the doors blew open again but no water inside that's because it's floating at the moment what rain
But on Neuronews matters had a chat to Gordon (of the poems) today at last a poem about The Capital of Culture 2008 and very good it is to, Brenda said it didn't take that long so all being well we can use it on our open day 09/12/08 a look back at 2008 not to forget 10/12/08 our very own youv'e guessed already that man in a red suit no not Danny or Gerry the "C" word but before that our very AGM 15/10/08 and a volunteers meeting 30/10/08 letters should be out soon and the film has anyone seen it? links to this Blog and Gordon's will appear in the next "Glance" so maybe i won't be just writting for myself Saw my old partner in crime Margaret Milner looking well even though she is the wrong side of 70 she might make the AGM autographs will be signed she taught me all i know cheers for now

finished at last

Yes that shed was officially handed over to the new owner on Friday 03/010/08 it has its own running water mostly through the roof, electricity or was that lightning heating but only when set on fire

The new owners are very pleased with the results although the doors did blow open on their own on Friday night a brick will solve that in front f the doors

So maybe i can get back to looking after "Neuronews "

shed progress

Yes they did answer the phone and a very nice man sent me an email of how we should have put up a 6x6 shed only a few errors but yesterday after the pouring rain i managed to get the felt on the roof and hang 1 door the other door is another matter lots of trying and not succeeding but at last some light no not a hole in the roof but a cutting down a support and the door 2 should fit in between rain showers of course all of this is very trying and just to make matters worse when i mentioned a chipboard floor to someone after a sharp intaske of breath and shaking of head that won't last very long you know
More work tomorrow so watch for the next installment

monday

trying to get in tuch with the firm about the shed sent an email to them dont hold your breath will phone soon

monday

sunday

another visit to SFX t see the exhibition and mass then followed by a long day trying to put up a 6x6 shed with only the instructions for 6x3 well it will get better

sunday

Sunday starts again in the world looking out to the bigger picture are we really their yet? This blogger site will help with some of the things that sometimes i cannot include in our newsletter thoughts and words that sometimes will not make the "Neuro News"