The South & West Cornwall Branch of The MS Society December 2013 Magazine "The Lifeboat"

December 2013

The Lifeboat The 1940’s night

South & West Cornwall Branch Monthly Magazine

Our cover picture this month is of the 1940’s night at the Carnon Downs Village Hall.

What a fantastic night, but I’m not sure about the crew here on the left. Dads Army comes to mind, but don’t they look smart!

It’s worth reminding ourselves why we call our magazine “The Life Boat” our slogan is: The South & West Cornwall branch consider themselves to be a lifeboat ready to be launched for anyone affected by MS

onth m is h t t a o b e if L Inside the MS News

Page 11 South & West Cornwall Branch Services Malcolm and Jackie Thorne

Page 3 Social care eligibility too high.

Government says ‘no’ on changing PIP 20 metre rule

Page 12 Alex’s Survey Page 13 Page 14

Page 4 Coping with diagnosis.

Independent Living Advice Line

Page 15 Megan’s page.

Young MS and Friends Read-A-Thon.

Page 5 A message to all carers

Page 16 Youth group

Page 6 The 1940’s night

Page 17 Important message to all branch members regarding the transfer of membership from West Cornwall to South Cornwall.

Fire ‘n’ ice cabaret at the Tregenna Castle Hotel St Ives

Page 7 Laona Latham Page 8 Thoughts for December Page 9/10 Quiz page

Page 18 Events Page 19 Information page 1

Chairman’s Report Des is excited to front such a good cause..

In the future we will print leaflets to go into Hi Everyone , Truro and give to disabled people trying to use the cobbled pavements. Get your friends and family to help us.

On Saturday, I ran my usual Computer With it coming up to Christmas, may I firstly Awareness day at our bungalow and was make a request that all of you who are disappointed by the poor attendance. If this going to come to either our carer's, or was not your cup of tea, let us know what branch lunch, to inform Karen or Christine. you want and we will endeavour to get a Secondly the Des Coad campaign to programme to suit you. improve Truro for the disabled is getting Finally we have been lucky to recruit a loads of letters of support, BUT! we need young graduate to help Mike May to loads more before our branch can contact produce a new web page. Max Bridges has the mayor and other influential people. done a fantastic job and soon we will be We intend to get great media coverage and giving you details of how to access it to this end PLEASE write to Malcolm with on-line. So watch this space. all your details.

Mike Soon we will contacting other disabled groups to support us.

Editors Note Hello everyone I must first make an apology for my postage error. Our printer used a heavier paper and the weight of letter went above the normal postage rate, I should have checked it before posting, we will of course refund the postage cost you paid. If you send me the amount or the post office information slip. It is not our intension for you to pay for delivery of your magazine.

Christmas is looming upon us right now and I hope to see you all at our Christmas lunch.

The 1940’s night went so well that I have had requests to hold another, so on the 1st February we will have a pre valentine 1940’s night so you can let your imagination run away with you as far as your dress is concerned.

I haven’t heard from our new members in the West, it would be nice to hear some comments or views, why not send in an article.

With the end of year fast approaching it is time to appreciate the work and commitment your committee has shown over the past twelve months, with a change of treasurer, Young MS and Friends group, Max bridges working with Mike May, the Read-A-Thon starting, our youth group, West Cornwall membership joining South Cornwall, a new carers officer, a new fund raising officer and much more.

South and West Cornwall branch is growing both in number of members and the available services. It is our intension to build on our successes for the future development of our branch.

I would like to thank all the members who have supported the magazine by sending in articles, your communication means a great deal. I would also like to thank our committee for giving me the support and freedom to manage my part of ship.

I wish you all a happy Christmas and a fantastic new year.

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Government says ‘no’ on changing PIP 20 metre rule

News from the MS National Centre Social care eligibility too high The Government needs to reconsider their plans to only offer social care in England to those whose needs are deemed ‘substantial’, according to the Care and Support Alliance (CSA), of which the MS Society is a member.

Thousands of people with MS need help in getting washed, dressed and preparing meals – that’s social care.

As part of the Care Bill, the Government has been debating moves to create a new system from April 2016. They aim to end the postcode lottery of care, and to cap costs for individuals above state pension age to £72,000. There will be a lower cap for those of working age.

Impact on people with MS The reforms have generally been welcomed by charities and the CSA. However, cashstrapped councils are squeezing the number of people who are eligible for care.

It appears that people whose needs are not deemed ‘substantial’ and above will have to pay for all of their own care; will not receive any funding from their council; and will not have a cap on their care costs.

This is particularly concerning considering the number of people in England with MS who have ‘moderate’ needs and require some form of social care on a weekly basis.

As part of the CSA, we’re calling for the Government to set the eligibility threshold for social care to ‘moderate’.

The Government’s decision will be published in spring, and voted on and 3 agreed in autumn 2014.

The Government have announced they’re sticking with plans to keep the qualifying walking distance of 20 metres for anyone claiming the mobility part of the disability benefit PIP. Under these plans, if disabled people can walk more than just 20 metres – even using aids such as sticks – they will no longer qualify for the highest rate of the benefit.

The government previously used the well-embedded distance of 50 metres which has been used as a measure of significant mobility impairment for the last 35 years.

The decision is despite a Government consultation over the summer when the Disability Benefits Consortium (DBC), of which the MS Society is a leading member, and thousands of disabled people signed a letter to David Cameron and Nick Clegg calling for a rethink of the shorter distance.

Financial savings over people’s independence Claire Nurden, Co-Chair of the DBC and Senior Policy and Campaigns Officer at the MS Society, called the decision ‘short sighted’.

She said: “We are extremely disappointed that the government has ignored grave concerns about the 20 metre rule, and has instead chosen financial savings over the independence of disabled people.”

Read the full response on the DBC website.

The DBC is now calling on the government to: Publish the responses to the consultation provide assurances that the government will make plans to ensure those who lose the benefit do not disappear from the system or fall into isolation with no form of help or support.

Further change The Government also announced today that assessors will need to confirm that they have considered whether claimants can carry out activities "safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and in a reasonable time period" in face to face assessments for PIP. Dates for reassessments There’s been a further delay in when claimants will be reassessed. From 28 October reassessment will start for DLA claimants where: • The DWP receives information about a change in care or mobility needs on or after 28 October; • A claimant’s fixed term award is due to expire on or after 17 March 2014; • Children turn 16 years old on or after 7 October 2013 (unless they have been awarded DLA under the Special Rules for terminally ill people); or • An individual chooses to claim PIP instead of their DLA

MS may mean you have to make changes over time, but you are the same person you have always been.

MS diagnosis - the roller-coaster ride One way of understanding the initial reaction is to look at it like a rollercoaster ride.

At first there is fear and anticipation. Once you're seated there's the realisation that you can't turn back. Then the ride then begins and you go through different emotions - there are highs and lows.

Some people are able to cope with the ride and others find it too frightening.

It's not only the person given the diagnosis who might go through these reactions, but also those around them.

Each family member and close friend may react differently. For example, the person with MS might feel relief, while their partner is in denial. This experience is very common.

Independent Living Advice Line

Coping with diagnosis Doctors might have already talked about MS as a possible explanation for your symptoms, but equally it might have been a 'bolt from the blue'.

For some people, being diagnosed with MS can be overwhelming, frightening, and distressing. For others it can be a relief, especially if they've had symptoms which couldn't be explained. Others might shut down emotionally.

Often, it's a combination of all the above.

Getting the diagnosis could raise as many new questions as it answers, and reactions will vary from person to person and over time.

Try to remember: • it is different for everyone • there is no right or wrong way to react • however you do react, it is part of a normal process

Disability Rights UK run an advice line for people who have questions about independent living and getting direct payments. In particular the advice line can help with enquiries about personal budgets, social services funding (including appealing decisions) and general advice on hiring personal assistants.

Call the advice line on 0300 555 1525 between 9am and 1pm on Monday or Thursday, or alternatively email independentliving@disabilityrightsuk.org The advice line cannot help with enquiries about claiming benefits, but there are other helplines you can call – search www.gov.uk for details or contact the information team on 020 8438 0799 to find out.

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A message to all carers The South & West Cornwall branch carers group have been lucky enough to have received a grant for monthly luncheons.

The grant is available for lunches or dinners so that any carer has the opportunity to come along and enjoy a good meal and have the opportunity to meet with other carers and chat about what their experience has been and to find out what the carers group can do for you, while enjoying yourself.

The following are suggestions for venues in different areas so that all can participate.

These may change in the future.

I would be most grateful if you could let me know if there is one that you would like to attend. I will then book the venues and the dates will be printed in our monthly magazine, so watch out for these. We usually have 10-12 people attend any one venue, but we can change these numbers if required.

At present we are using the Falmouth Hotel and have had very enjoyable lunches there.

Venues: Falmouth area: Falmouth Hotel Luncheons have been held here and have been excellent, easy access by train from Truro.

Very enjoyable venue.

Truro area: Luncheons at the Alverton, I have tried this one and it is very good.

Beautifully refurbished building well worth a visit.

Dinner at the Katmandoo in Truro City Raj the owner has kindly offered a Dinner evening for us. The food is very good here, Nepalese and very tasty for those that cannot join in during the day or would prefer an evening venue.

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St. Ives area: Tregenna Castle which is well known for good food and surroundings.

Hayle area: The Premier Inn has been suggested for this area for luncheons.

Camborne: Cornwall College is known for excellent food and service would be a great venue.

Please contact Karen on 01872 274188 or e-mail on karen@kov500.wanadoo.co.uk It is a question of use this grant or loose, so let us know your choice of venues and we will do our very best to arrange a luncheon or dinner that you can come to and enjoy.

Don’t forget that we can help with paying for care for your loved ones while you are away If you have any other ideas for venues please let me know Many Thanks

Karen I must say its getting a bit lively round here, carers lunches, 1940’s nights with Mike George in a German uniform (he looked better as a budgie), Lauren going to London, another 1940’s night on the 1st February 2014, computer awareness day, Christmas lunch coming up, the Read-A-Thon starting, functions in the western area, I can’t keep up with it all, I will have to have more tea.

From Jasper

Jasper

The 1940’s night What a fantastic night we had at the 1940’s night, the hall was packed and the dancing never stopped.

Thanks to all those who helped and made it such a great night. It was so popular that we are holding another: Pre valentine 1940’s night on the 1st February 2014 at the Perran-ar-worthal Village Memorial Hall, all are welcome so book your tickets NOW!! 01209 860754 £5.00

René Artois was there along with soldiers, sailors spivs and the land army.

Even the warden from dads army turned up I’m not sure who these three are, they look a bit suspicious to me.

I have to say that our lads kept law and order

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Hi, my name's Laona, and I was diagnosed with MS in February this year. I was originally referred to the neurologist for a sleep disorder but when I was told my MRI showed some irregularities and I would need a spinal fluid analysis it didn't take long for me to put the pieces together, all those other little things that I had been ignoring and putting up with, now made sense ! I knew I had MS. The time between the MRI result and diagnosis was a distressing, anxious and frustrating five months but now as I look back, I realise it gave me time to come to terms with what was happening, so when I eventually received the diagnosis, what I felt most was an overwhelming sense of relief. Those five months also gave me time to read and research. I frantically gathered and googled as much information as I could find on MS. I had already decided that the drugs available, whether I was eligible or not, were not for me, It was not the road I wanted to take so I feel lucky that early on I came across Dr Terry Wahls and her diet for MS. Her story gave me hope and inspiration, what she says makes a lot of sense. I started following the main elements of her diet and my ever supportive Husband, Andy, is following it too. However I love cooking, baking and eating good food and Andy loves his cakes! Food is not just a necessity, it is meant to be enjoyed and despite cutting out the gluten, dairy and limiting refined sugar I discovered that I could still make cakes and according to 7 Andy they still tasted good!

I wanted to share my recipes in the hope of inspiring others, so I created a website, pilgrimskitchentales and started blogging.

The encouragement and support of my husband, family and friendly cake eaters has given me a little more confidence in my recipes, so I am here now to share them with you. I really hope you will try some of them and hopefully you will enjoy them!

Maybe you will even consider changing your diet. If you have any feed back, comments good or bad or any questions I would love to hear from you, email: laona@pilgrimskitchentales.com Happy Christmas!

Recipes: These are delicious. The pastry is not as easy to handle as ordinary pastry but it holds together well and just requires a little care. You won't be disappointed, well I hope not anyway !.

• 60g buckwheat flour • 50g ground almonds • 50g potato flour (starch) • 40g brown rice flour • 20 g coconut palm sugar • 6 tbsp olive oil • 5 tbsp orange juice • zest of 1 orange • flaked almonds for decoration Oven 200C /425F/gas 6 12 hole pie /patty tin 1. Sift the flours and the ground almonds into a bowl and add the sugar if using, mix well.

2. Stir in the zest, oil and 4 tbsp of juice bring together to form a dough.

3. Divide the mixture in half, roll out on a floured surface and with a large pastry cutter ( 7.5cm/3 inch ) cut out 12 circles for the base and 12 smaller ( 6 cm/2 1/2inch ) for the lids.

4. Assemble the mince pies, then brush the tops with the remaining orange juice and sprinkle over some flaked almonds.

Bake for 15 - 20 minutes, until lightly golden. Leave to cool slightly before removing from the tin and transferring to a wire rack.

I think this little cake is a great alternative to Christmas cake, all the flavour and no fat. If you want to make it look a little special, decorate the top with some dried fruits and nuts.

• 200ml well brewed tea • 225g mixed dried fruit • 50g dates, chopped • 75g buckwheat flour • 40g ground almonds • 25g potato flour (starch) • 1/2 tsp mixed spice • 1/2 tsp ground ginger • 1 tsp baking powder • 20g honey • 20g date syrup • 1 egg, beaten • 1 1/2 balls stem ginger, finely chopped • zest and juice of 1 orange (about 50 ml) • 1 1/2 tbsp brandy Oven 150C/300F/gas 2.

1 x 16cm/6 1/2 inch round cake tin greased and lined 1. Soak the fruit and dates overnight in the tea.

2. Sift the dry ingredients together. Drain the fruit and transfer to a large bowl.

3. Add the honey, date syrup, stem ginger, brandy, orange zest and juice to the fruit and mix well. Stir in the beaten egg and fold in the dry ingredients.

Spoon into the prepared tin and bake for 60 - 70 minutes. Leave to cool slightly then remove from the tin and transfer to a wire rack.

Thank you for your input Laona, welcome to a regular page in the Life Boat magazine.

Sent in by Judy Reed BRITISH EATING HABITS IN THE NINETEEN FIFTIES Part 2 will be in the January addition of the Lifeboat

December So, here we are – Advent, the countdown has arrived at last.

Presents are all bought (or made if you have had an industrious year), cards are written and turkey ordered. So there’s nothing to do but sit back and look forward to Christmas Day Well, maybe in an ideal world!

As I write I am looking forward to all the festive meals – not forgetting Membley Hall on 7th of course. See you there? (Note to self ‘Remember the bathroom scales will be

waiting on 1st January).

All that aside, this time of year is great fun for many of us, with family get-togethers, parties and presents but there are those who for many reasons it will not be good; it’s a time for remembering and not all memories are happy ones. So, please, this Christmas and New Year, let us all remember them.

I end this last thought of the month in 2013 with a prayer for 2014 to be a year of peace for you and your loved ones.

Items wanted for fund raising Do you have any small items we can use for fund raising activities, those soap sets or unwanted gifts.

We can use them to raise funds for our branch so don’t throw them away!

If you have any items please contact our fund raising officer Marlene Stevens, Tel 01736 360551 Or myself (the editor) 01209 860754 Everything you donate will help support those affected by MS. Thank you.

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November Quiz answers 1 LAUREN 2 MURIEL 3 ROSEMARY 4 SHARON 5 JENNIFER 6 SANDRA 7 CHLOE 8 LOUISE 9 THELMA 10 LINDSEY

November quiz Name the Christmas song or carol, the following lines come from.

1 Underneath his beard so snowy white.

2 On a cold winters night.

3 And love me I pray.

4 Used to laugh and call him names.

5 He sings a love song.

6 Won't be the same dear.

7 Just as poor as was the stable then.

8 In a manger for his bed.

Happy birthday If you want us to mention your birthday please contact our membership office Betty Alderton: 01872 270901

What’s this mystery object?

Money Boxes Target £2,000.00 Actual to date £950

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Happy birthday to: 4th Carole Martin 12th Wendy Stumbles 20th Carol James 23rd Judith Reed 29th Patrick Seymour

November mystery object Across

Answers to November crossword

1 Street musician (6) 4 Spring-flowering bulb (6) 8 Top of the head (5) 9 Stop for a period (7) 10 Flawless (7) 11 Uniform jacket (5) 12 Infamous (9) 17 Viper, for example (5) 19 Kitchen appliance (7) 21 Without assistance (7) 22 Asian country (5) 23 Less burdensome (6) 24 Loathe (6) Down

December Crossword

1 Arm muscles (6) 2 Pouch worn with a kilt (7) 3 Premium bond computer (5) 5 Italian rice dish (7) 6 Free from dirt (5) 7 Beguile (6) 9 Soaked (9) 13 Altered (anag.) (7) 14 Released (3,4) 15 Shrewd (6) 16 School absentee (6) 18 Gather (5) 20 Saunter (5) 10

South & West Cornwall Branch Services As promised last month here are the services open to the members of the South & West Cornwall Branch: Vouchers: Members with MS are entitled to vouchers to the value of £200 per year to be used for the following in conjunction with participating professionals: Physiotherapy Chiropody Oxygen Call Chris on 01209 315386 Fast track access to Citizens Advice Bureau: Call your support number 01872 274911 Grants: For more information on grant applications call 01872 274911 Carers group: Carers support group call Karen 01872 274188 Monthly magazine: A monthly magazine Social events: Social events throughout the year in different locations, giving the opportunity for all to attend.

Support: If you need support of any kind or you need something not listed above please call your support number 01872 274911 Please attend our meeting on the 19th January, it is relevant to the services we provide.

Malcolm and Jackie Thorne

Malcolm and Jackie Thorne have resigned from your committee to follow other pursuits having given great service to the branch over the years.

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Jackie: Jackie first met Mike & Lin George when she started a self – help group at the Tyackes Hotel in Camborne & they came to support it.

Jackie then started going to the Budock Water group & eventually joined the Carrick Branch in about 1995.She took on the Support role from Karen Holmwood but had to leave that after a couple of years due to a deterioration in her health, but took on membership instead, with Malcolm doing most of the work but Jackie sending out the birthday cards. She has helped with collections when possible and organised get – togethers and was lately the Voucher Administration Officer. Along with Malcolm she was for some years attending County Council disability meetings and the Disability Cornwall Forums and Consultations on behalf of the branch .

Malcolm: Malcolm came on to the Carrick committee when he left employment in 2001 and helped Jackie with membership, sending out the renewal forms which arrived from MSNC in a great batch in November each year and had to be posted out to members. He then took over as Treasurer in 2006 just at the time of the amalgamation with Kerrier when it became the South Cornwall Branch, and subsequently, in 2008, also Chairman and Secretary for a time until Mike George came on board as Chairman and twisted arms to fill the other positions and he was able to revert to just Treasurer. During all this time he attended with Jackie the Cornwall Council disability meetings and the Disability Cornwall Forums and Consultations on behalf of the branch.

They both wish the branch well in the years to come.

Thanks Malcolm and Jackie for your friendship and support over the years, we all wish you well in your future endeavours.

Alex’s Survey, I found this interesting reading, it’s Alex’s survey carried out for her university course. If you feel like answering the questions I would be pleased to receive them.

In the strictest confidence of course.

1. Which category below includes your age?

[17 or younger 0] [18-20 1] [21-29 8] [30-39 10] [40-49 9] [50-59 5] [60 or older 1] 2. In which County do you live? If you do not live in the UK, please state which Country?

Four in the USA including Seattle, WA Two in Australia One in South Africa One in Canada One in Rep. of Ireland Twenty five in the UK including Shropshire, Leicestershire, Norfolk, Buckinghamshire, Staffordshire, London, Scotland, Cheshire, Essex, East Sussex, Surrey, Oxfordshire, 3. Do you have MS? Yes No I am a carer or close to someone who suffers with MS

94.1% 5.9%

32 People 2 People

4. Do you use your local MS society branch? (please give reason for your answer) Yes: 20.6% 7 People I decided it was time to find others in the same boat But not very often Local news events I have used it in the past for counselling.

They are great with support and information MS Society Kings Lynn and District. Speak to others in same position and understand.

I've met someone from the local branch once but haven't heard from them since.

No: 79.4% 27 People I haven't found the need for it.

I go to a different support group It is full of older more disabled people, which I find depressing.

Not eligible 5. Do you feel it is useful and caters for your needs? How? (answer only if you choose yes to Q4) Yes: 75.0% 6 People Sometimes I have a group of friends who understand and give me coping strategies local area news Yes, it helped my wife and me to discuss things.

Good information, peer support, counselling Yes in help and support but everyone is so much older than me so alone in age.

No: 25.0% 2 People Not enough things to do that are not during the week They do a lot for the MS community but it is not welcoming to young MS'ers.

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6. What services would you like your local branch to offer that it doesn’t already?

A bit more on the social aspect, but I know that its run by volunteers‌ I am not aware of any services they would provide and I have always hated seeing the worst case scenarios of what could happen to me in the future.

I would just hope to be associated with working at the moment. I would love to get help with that. I am though seeing shaw trust next week.

More evening/weekend activities More information of DMD's Sporting challenges & support in achieving them.

More social events Services for those of us that have had all other dx ruled out, have classic MS symptoms, disability, etc but have not met the elusive criteria (which in fact some with MS will never meet or may take a decade or more until they do). Too many people with MS are not taken seriously, do not have resources such as access to the services provided by the MS society for way too long.

Outreach and information for the newly diagnosed.

Some of the items you listed below would be good. I like talking to other MSers.

Not needed yet Open more hours!

Id like to hear from a speaker not professional just real people saying how it is for them then a chance to mingle and chat over tea informally Services for younger people. When I was diagnosed aged 35 they thought I was too young and wouldn't like it. Instead I joined a small charity run therapy centre and it's fab!

Meeting for young people with MS and information evenings.

Meetings in the county so everyone can be included not just those in and near to the city, Not that I can think of.

7. If there was a service that could offer you social activities, guest speakers, coping mechanisms, exercise tips, support for carers, family and a chance to speak to people in the same position as you, would you be interested?

Yes 67.6% 23 People No 0.0% 0 People Maybe 32.4% 11 People 8. Would you be willing to pay for these services?

Yes 64.7% 22 People No 35.3% 12 People 9. If yes, would you pay: One off payments 59.1% 13 People Weekly 22.7% 5 People Monthly 9.1% 2 People Yearly 9.1% 2 People

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10. How much would you be willing to pay?

Minimal amount. most people with MS, including myself, can't work and so are on benefits. you CAN have a social life but not a costly one. And predicting if you will be well enough to join in at any time is impossible I don't have any extra money at the moment. If I had, I would be more than happy to invest in to something like this.

Depends on activity?

Depends on what was being offered. My answer of one off payments relates to a payment per service being accessed. The cost would need to be relevant to what was being received.

Minimal consultant charges Depends entirely on what I was paying for, I'd happily pay market rates for exercise classes etc. but wouldn't want to pay just to sit around drinking tea and comparing symptoms! £40.00 per month? depends on the service.

Depends not sure Depends if it is for activities or a place to chill, like some sort of centre £7.00 - £20.00 per event, depending on cost It depends what it consisted of.

It would depend entirely on what was being offered and how frequently I would use the services It would depend on the service, but most of these things are offered by for-profit health services, so if the cost was competitive with them, and it specialised in MS then I would be interested I’d probably like to pay a donation a on the days I go to the meeting being able to pay what you can afford but without obligation would be good for people of all income types. depending on regularity most people are happy to pay between £5 - £10 per visit/event and more if a special event was on I’d commit to a £20 monthly direct debit but would prefer paying for sessions on the day £10-20 depending on the service. Currently paying £12 for oxygen therapy and £18 for massage.

Depends on the services on offer. £5 £10-£15 £5 per week Depending on the service £15 A small contribution to help offset costs.

Well done Alex, a really interesting piece of work.

Why not complete Alex’s survey and send it to me (the Editor) we would love to hear your views.

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page ’s n a g e M

COOKIES!!...

You will need: -tin foil -two large baking trays -Hand mixer (If you have one) -1 Egg -75g cocoa powder -300g sugar (caster or granulated) -275g flour -White chocolate * - Milk chocolate * -200g butter (at room temperature) * Optional 1. Line the trays with tin foil.

2. Pre-heat oven to 200 degrees.

3. First put sugar and butter into a bowl and beat together.

4. Then sieve flour and cocoa powder into the mixture.

5. After this crack egg and add also.

6. If mixture is to dry add a small amount of milk.

7. Mix everything together using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon.

8. Break chocolate into chunks and mix in with the cookie dough.

9. Take a handful of mixture at once and squeeze into a ball and place onto baking tray, then flatten it slightly.

10. Do the same for the rest of the mixture.

11. Put in the oven for ten minutes.

12. When the cookies come out they will be soft and spongy leave for about half an hour and then serve.

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Read-A-Thon news I have given presentations to: Cape Cornwall School Kehelland School Lanlivery School Darite School And they all started the Read-A-Thon on the 18th November.

The feedback indicates that there are more taking part in this round but only time will tell.

I will report in January Young MS and Friends

Alex and Lauren

Alex and Lauren are working on a launch programme for the Young MS and Friends group.

The programme should be ready for January 2014 and will encourage young people to come forward to join the group and their activities.

If you are interested in being part of the Young MS and Friends group please make contact and I will put you in touch with the group co-ordinators, there direct contact information will be in January’s magazine.

Alex and Lauren wish you a happy Christmas and all the best for the new year!

South & West Cornwall branch MS Youth Group “Making Sense�

Lauren went to London and wrote this quiz on her return Do you know the stations?

Answers in next months magazine.

1.

2

3 How well do you know London Stations?

1; This station is also known as a palace.

2; This station is also a brand of car.

3; This station is also a queen.

4; This station is a well known tennis tournament.

5; This station has a animal promoting its bank and what we drive our cars on.

6; This station sounds like a noisy dog.

7; This is where a large animal with a trunk will go to see a king.

8; This is where Elizabeth the second might go and play.

9; This station sounds like a lucky number of females for a brother.

10; This is the home of a well known bear.

4 5 6

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I came across this on a media site. Its part of an exam paper of a student who gained 0%.

Q: In which battle did Napoleon Die? A: His last one.

Q: Where was the Declaration of Independence signed?

A: At the bottom of the page.

Q:River Ravi flows in which State?

A: Liquid.

Q: What is the main reason for divorce?

A: Marriage.

Q: What is the main reason for failure?

A: Exams.

Q: What can you never eat for breakfast?

A: Lunch and dinner.

Q: What looks like half an apple?

A: The other half.

Q: If you throw a red stone into the blue sea, what will it become?

A: Wet.

I'm so glad Megan, Jamie, Lauren, Ben and even 2 year old Jack (your MS Youth Group) are all switched on and are all gaining fantastic grades at school.

On behalf of the youth group including Jasper, who is very busy making tea.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year.

Nikki, Anna and the Youth Group xxx

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Important message to all branch members regarding the transfer of membership from West Cornwall to South Cornwall

Fire ‘n’ ice cabaret at the Tregenna Castle Hotel St Ives

The transfer of West Cornwall membership to South Cornwall has raised the question of service continuity and additional services throughout the now, South & West Cornwall branch.

It is essential that we listen to our members, get their views and where possible provide the services required.

To this end I have arrange a members meeting at the Tregenna Castle Hotel on Sunday the 19th January 2014.

The meeting will be an opportunity for the South & West Cornwall branch committee to present how they would like to see the branch progress, and for the branch members to discuss their local needs/requirements both for now and in the future.

An evening with Fire ‘n’ Ice has been arranged for Saturday the 1st March 2014 Fire ‘n’ Ice are a popular Duo and have held several successful cabarets for the previous South Cornwall branch of the MS Society The evening consists of a two course meal with cabaret starting at 9.00pm with Fire ‘n’ Ice and a guest artist appearance.

The meeting will run from 12.00 till 3.00pm.

Food will be provided and further details will be in the January edition of the Lifeboat magazine.

It is important that you make every attempt to attend or send a representative, we want to get our services right.

To book your place please call or email me (Malcolm Glister) as soon as possible.

Tel: 01209 860754 email: malcolmglister@btinternet.com Please state when booking: Number of places required Your name Your contact number Thank you for your support we look forward to meeting you on the 19th January 2014.

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Malcolm Glister

The evening is: Free for people with MS £5.00 for carers £10 for others Details of the menu will be published in January’s magazine, and of course there will be a vegetarian option. This promises to be a great night out so get your tickets booked now!

To book please contact me at: Tel 01209 860754 or email: malcolmglister@ btinternet.com This is a ticket event and payment will be required prior to the event.

Please make cheques payable to: MSS South Cornwall

South Cornwall Branch events 2013 Christmas Lunch Christmas lunch 2013 is on the 7th December at the Membly Hall Hotel, Falmouth.

Book your places with Chris Tel 01209 315386 Free for people with MS £5.00 for carers £13.00 for guests Pre Valentine1940’s Night 1st February 2014 at Perran-ar-worthal Village Memorial Hall, call Malcolm for tickets 01209 860754 Price £5.00 Members meeting, Tregenna Castle 19th January 2014 Am: 8th February 2014 at the Carnon Inn Carnon Downs Nr Truro, please contact Richard Stevens if you are attending 01736 360551 Fire ‘n’ Ice cabaret: 1st March 2014 Free for people with MS £5.00 for carers £10.00 for all others Please book early for these events Merlin MS Centre starts Daily Respite Service A new daily respite care service is now available at Merlin MS Centre. This new service offers a safe place where loved ones will be looked after in a warm bright and friendly environment. Structured days will include activity workshops, plenty of chatter and some quiet time. .

Carers can leave their loved ones knowing that they are happy, giving them a much needed break.

This service is open to all but priority will be given to those living with MS in Cornwall For more information contact Shelley King.

Respite Manager on 01726 885530 or email Shelley@merlinmscentre.org.uk or visit our website at www.merlinmscentre.org.uk Events taking place at Merlin MS Centre

Sat 7th Dec Sing With The Stars, Padstow Church £15.00 Thurs 12th Dec 6pm A Time Of Thanks....A Place To Remember, join us for a special evening at the centre to celebrate the lives of those who are special to us.

Dates and times subject to change.

Sign up is open for the Grand Canyon TrekTrek- 10th-17th May 2014 Trek. Are you ready to experience the breath taking beauty of the Grand Canyon whilst raising money for the Merlin Ms Centre?

With a year to fundraising you have plenty of time to join us for this trek of a lifetime.

Contact the centre for more information 01726 885530.

Looking for collectors Merlin MS Centre are looking for willing and friendly volunteers to help with their supermarket collection days throughout the year and throughout the county. If you think you can spare an hour or two to help then please get in touch with the centre on 01726 885530.

Ellie May, Communications and Corporate Events Manager Tel: 01726 885530

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South & West Cornwall Branch Information

Branch contact details: Whispering Winds Crellow Hill Stithians Nr Truro Cornwall TR3 7AQ Tel: 01872 274911 www.mssociety.org.uk/southcornwall Satellite events Last Monday of each month: Helston & Lizard Group meeting: Wheal Dream Restaurant, Helston from 11.00am to approx 2.00pm.

Lunch at discounted rate.

Every Thursday: Yoga at the Well Being Centre, Nance Lane, Churchtown, Illogan. 11.00am to 12.15pm. with Carolyn Smith by appointment only.

Every third Thursday of each month Carers meeting at Mike George’s Useful contacts: MS National Centre: 02084 380 700 MS Helpline: 0808 800 8000 Care Direct: 0800 444 000 NHS Direct: 0845 4647 Need help or advice, call our support number 01872 274911 Editors Contact details: details To send in articles or comments.

Malcolm Glister Whispering Winds, Crellow Hill, Stithians, Nr Truro, Cornwall, TR3 7AQ

Chairman: Mike George Telephone: 01872 862031 email: cornishmike@talktalk.net Treasurer: Hilary Merton Telephone: 01872 863896 email: hilarym.southcornwallmssociety@aol.co.uk Address: 7 Agar Meadows, Carnon Downs, Truro, TR3 6HS. Voucher Admin Officer: Christine Sargent Telephone: 01209 315386 email: christine.southcornwallmssociety@live.co.uk Secretary: Richard Stevens Telephone: 01736 360551 email: stevens475@btinternet.com M S Support : Telephone: 01872 274911 Carer’s Officer: Karen Moore Telephone 01872 274188 Branch Profile manager and Magazine Editor: Malcolm Glister Telephone: 01209 860754 email: malcolmglister@btinternet.com Branch Web manager: Mike May Telephone: 01872 272 957 email: mikem.southcornwallmssociety@live.co.uk Membership: Betty Alderton Telephone: 01872 270901 email: betty.southcornwallmssociety@live.co.uk Minute Secretary: Moe Fisher email: moefisher@hotmail.co.uk Branch Safety Officer and Youth Team: Nikki Jenkin Telephone: 01736 787089 email: nikkijenkin@googlemail.com Events CoCo-ordinator: Malcolm Glister Telephone: 01209 860754 email: malcolmglister@btinternet.com Fund Raising Officer: Marlene Richards Telephone: 01736 360551 email: stevens475@btinternet.com Young MS & Friends Lauren & Alex ymsgsouthandwestcornwall@mail.com

All views expressed in this publication are individual and not necessarily the view or policy of the charity and its supporters.

Multiple Sclerosis Society Registered charity nos. 1139257 / SC041990 Registered as a limited company in England and Wales 07451571