South & West Cornwall Branch of The MS Society of Great Britain Monthly Magazine May 2014

The Lifeboat May 2014 South & West Cornwall Branch Monthly Magazine

Paula

Laura

Paula is painting your nails and Laura is face painting on the 17th May See details on page 6

This months cover picture is a reminder of our get together on the 17th May at the Carnon Inn, Carnon Downs Nr Truro.

All details are on page 6, lets try and make this a special event with as many people attending as possible.

All are welcome and it’s a family event so get your places booked now

Call Malcolm 01209 860754 at o b e if L e th e id s In this month MS News Page 3 PIP roll-out: problems from beginning to end Secondary progressive MS: researchers discover potential treatment, simvastatin Page 4 New treatment Lemtrada to be available for people with relapsing MS in England and Wales Young People Page 5 Hosting a party?

Bingo Jasper

Page 11 Sent in by Wendy Hughes Part 2 From Judy Reed Page 12 Mary Smiths blog - My army of friends Find more of Laona’s recipes on her website Page 13 Thought of the month Douglas Ham Mylor Craft Fayre

Page 6 Get Together

Page 14 13th June more cycling on the Truro Piazza Read-A-Thon news

Page 7 Laona’s page

Page 15 Megan’s page Page 16 Youth group

Page 8 1940’s night Page 9/10 Quiz page

Page 17 Young MS and Friends Page 18 Events Page 19 Information page

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Chairman’s Report We are in need of a secretary so if you are interested, or know someone who would like to help use, PLEASE LET ME KNOW. Hello Everyone,

Douglas Ham our new Support Officer has kindly allowed me to give you his telephone number so you can ring him and have a The time has come for me to make peace with Jasper, as he can somehow influence the chat. Douglas has MS himself and therefor cannot guarantee to be there all the time , editor and lately he has shown such a clever move in putting my picture in some ridiculous but leave a message. situations.

By the time you read this the Bingo On a more serious note I hope you have sessions will be in full swing in Chacewater contacted Malcolm on some of the events we Village Hall, my garage sale will also be over have planned. It appears that no one is and hopefully I will make a good amount of interested in photography as I have not one money ! Why don't you have an event to try reply for the idea I had, mmmmmmmm what and raise money. are you interested in I wonder.

Mike Take care Editors Note Hello everyone I hope you had a great Easter without too much Chocolate.

As you can see we have been busy arranging events for you.

Having had no response from my request for an awareness group I take it that there is no interest.

I would like to mention the carers group who have a grant for their monthly lunches but they are poorly attended considering that we have 270 members, the lunches are a great way to meet other carers in a social environment and exchange views and ideas, why not call Karen Moore and get yourself involved with the carers group.

We even give financial help for you to look after you loved ones while you attend.

I have to admire the efforts of our committee in setting up some of our events. Mike George’s garage sale, Karen Moore arranging the cycling on the Piazza and carer funding, the efforts made by the Young MS and youth group in raising awareness and funds, these things take time and commitment, I thank you all for your efforts.

The April craft fayre is no exception, run by Gill Bray and raising £1000.00.

Without these people we could not maintain the level of services that we do.

Another issues coming forward very soon is the Read-A-Thon, workload has held me up with completing the last round of schools but I will soon be back on the task and reporting on the success of the project, there is no failure as every school I attend becomes aware of MS. I must thank the schools taking part for their support, it’s been a fantastic experience, and of course I am addressing teachers and students at the Kernow Youth Book Awards 2014 on the 30th April.

Stay safe and get in touch.

Malcolm

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News from the MS National Centre PIP roll-out: problems from beginning to end The roll-out of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has continued to experience heavy backlogs and delays, according to a recent report from the National Audit Office (NAO). Today, the Public Accounts Committee examined how far things have progressed. Discussions revealed that problems are being encountered from the beginning to the end of the process.

Not fit for purpose Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of the MS Society, said: "It’s clear from the PAC hearing that the PIP process is not currently fit for purpose, and that the blame lies at the door of both the government and the assessment providers, Atos and Capita. It’s inexcusable that disabled people are being used as guinea pigs in a process that doesn’t work."

Hardship and isolation "The Government failed to properly consider the impact its reforms would have, and this has resulted in unexpected costs and extreme financial hardship for those affected.

"Some people with MS are waiting up to six months for their PIP application to be processed, leaving them at risk of isolation and unable to access the support they need, such as transport to hospital appointments, wheelchairs or help around the home.

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"Many tell us the delay in accessing PIP is preventing them, their carers and families accessing the other benefits they need, like Carers Allowance and the Blue Badge."

DLA reassessment needs to be halted "It’s nonsensical to press on with the roll-out of PIP before the system is fit for purpose.

The government must urgently halt its reassessment of DLA claimants to reduce pressure on the system and put plans in place to support people who are still enduring delays to their claims."

Secondary progressive MS: researchers discover potential treatment, simvastatin Research published today in the Lancet has confirmed high doses of simvastatin – a cholesterol lowering drug – might slow progression in people with secondary progressive MS. These are the first clinical trial results in recent years to show a drug could be beneficial for people with secondary progressive MS. There are currently no treatments available that can slow or stop disability progression in people with a progressive form of the condition.

The results The phase 2 trial involved 140 people with secondary progressive MS: 70 took the drug for two years, and their results were compared to 70 people who took a dummy (placebo) treatment.

Those taking simvastatin (80mg per day) showed: a significant reduction in the rate of brain atrophy (brain shrinkage) over two years better end-of study EDSS scores (a scale measuring disability levels) better end-of study MSIS-29 scores (a scale used to measure the impact of MS on somebody’s day-to-day life) The researchers reported that high dose simvastatin was well tolerated, but tests in larger groups of people with MS will need to be carried out to further validate its safety and effectiveness.

Effective treatment In trials, Lemtrada has been shown to be highly effective in reducing relapses and the accumulation of disability.

The treatment is taken by an annual hospital infusion lasting three to five days; Terrific news Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of the MS Society, said: “This is terrific news for people with relapsing MS. “Lemtrada has been shown to be highly effective in clinical trials and while it isn’t without risks, and it isn’t right for everyone, it has the potential to dramatically change the course of MS progression for those eligible for the treatment.

“For years there have only been a small number of injectable MS treatments available, but now we’re starting to see more effective medicines licensed and NICE approved that can be taken in other ways. It means there are increasingly more options available – and we hope this translates to fair and equal choice in treatment for people with MS.” Earlier this year Aubagio – a pill for MS – New treatment Lemtrada to be available for was approved for use on the NHS for people with relapsing MS in England and people with MS living across the UK. Early investment Wales The MS Society funded a trial in the early A new treatment for MS called Lemtrada 1990s looking at whether Lemtrada could (also known as alemtuzumaband / or treat progressive MS. Unfortunately the Campath) has been recommended by treatment was not deemed effective, but NICE for people with ‘active’ relapsing the work led to the development of trials for remitting MS in England and Wales. people with relapsing MS. A decision will be made for people in Scotland and Northern Ireland over the Young People coming months.

The NICE recommendation is now subject Forum on the MS website: to appeal, but if there are no hold ups it If you're young and affected by MS in some could be available on the NHS within the way, this is your opportunity to talk to next few months. others who might be experiencing similar A NICE approval is significant because it things. If you are under 16 you must have means the NHS will have a legal obligation supervision from an adult when using these to prescribe the treatment to anyone with message boards. For more on internet relapsing remitting MS who may be safety visithttp://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/ deemed eligible.

Further trials crucial Dr Susan Kohlhaas, Head of Biomedical Research at the MS Society, said: “There are no treatments that can stop the condition from worsening in people with progressive MS. Scientists have worked for years to find a potential treatment that could help people, and now, finally, one has been found. This is very exciting news.

“Further, larger clinical trials are now absolutely crucial to confirm the safety and effectiveness of this treatment, but for now, people with MS should be really encouraged by these results.”

The discovery was initially announced at a scientific conference by Dr Jeremy Chataway over a year ago; but the results of his study have now been further scrutinised by the scientific community and published in a peer reviewed journal.

Progression a priority Finding treatments to help people with progressive MS is the top research priority for the MS Society and the focus of the global research community.

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Hosting a party?

Hosting a party?

Celebrating a birthday, anniversary, engagement or wedding? Then why not make your day extra special by also raising some much needed funds for the branch along the way?

A free party pack containing everything to help make your event a success and also add a splash of orange to your party is available. Why not consider adding a fun activity like a raffle, tombola or guess the weight of the cake to your party? If you would like something a little more formal, why not prepare a meal and ask your guests for a donation?

Instead of receiving presents for your special occasion, why not ask your guests, family and friends to make a donation to the branch instead? You can do this by setting up an online fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/mssociety. It's easy to do and means your friends and family can make a secure online donation using their credit or debit card and leave a personal message for your special occasion.

If you would like your guests to make their donation on the day, Gift Aid donation envelopes are available.

MS Society wedding favours are a great way of showing your support. Pin badges, ribbons and wedding cards are available.

We ask for a suggested donation of ÂŁ1 per item.

We hope your celebration will be one to remember as well as help local people affected by MS! Please contact Malcolm to find out more.

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Great news from Mike George for Bingo lovers!

The great news is that Bingo will be offered at Chacewater Village Hall on the following dates.

29th May 26th June It will start at 7-30 till 9-30 pm. There will be refreshments on sale and good prizes.

All proceeds for these evenings will come to our branch.

This is an exciting trial to see if we can raise money for our branch. We have purchased a new top of the range Bingo machine and to this end, do you know of any village or town, where we could do a bingo session as Amanda and Richard would be more than willing to offer their services.

Eyes down and think of places PLEASE !

Mike Well! My tea runs cold with fear and my whiskers tremble with anticipation.

Could it be true that the hatchet has been buried other than in my head and Mike George is offering the hand of peace.

Yes I do belief that we are the best of friends at the moment, but don’t hold your breath too long it could change at any moment, and I am now getting stick from Nikki Jenkin.

Anyway, make sure that you support the efforts of your committee in any way you can, its not easy running a branch that is going from strength to strength.

I bet Mikes pinched my carrot!

Get together May 17th at the Carnon Inn, Carnon Downs Another great family event, with lots going on, come and enjoy the afternoon with your family and friends, all are welcome.

Paula Robins is the Avon representative and will be painting our nails, so don’t miss this chance to go home with beautiful nails Laura Ward from our Young MS group is coming to do some face painting so bring those little ones and get them painted up.

Nikki Jenkin will be our quiz master and give us some brain teasers during the afternoon. I am sure there will be some prizes plus a raffle.

And there’s a buffet, lovely food to enjoy. There’s lots of chat and many friendly faces. Come and have a chat, exchange ideas talk about what you want and just have fun!

AND IT’S ALL FREE! If you think these beauty treatments will take you from this to this they won’t but you will have great fun at our get togethers. Has anyone seen my carrot? Jasper

To book your place please call Malcolm as soon as possible Tel 01209 860754 Email malcolmglister@btinternet.com Do it Now!

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Laona’s page

My culinary leanings, I would say are firmly European. Recently however, I have found myself being drawn much further afield.

Just before Christmas I picked up a book called Fusion, a culinary journey and without meaning to offend, the author is male. The reason I remark on this is that most of my cookery books are written by women. There is the incredible Claudia Roden, who's books are not only an amazing source of recipes but also history, traditions and culture, quite literally my food bible. Then there is Anna del Conte, Diana Henry, Elizabeth David. If you don't have any books by these inspiring ladies I would recommend a little shopping spree ! The male authors, however are seriously in the minority. Fusion is written by Peter Gordon, who is famous for his East meets West cuisine. I have never before been drawn to Asian cuisine but now I find myself well and truly enticed. His book has followed me from room to room for the past few months and has set my mind racing and has inspired new recipes. I might not have mastered the fusion element, there have been one or two concoctions that although have been edible, have also been seriously confused ! But I am not one to give up, so hopefully one day I will get it right. For now however we are enjoying and experiencing food with Asian flavours and perhaps I can tempt you to try some too with my Aubergine, spinach and cashew nut curry, 7 hope you enjoy !.

A spicy vegetarian curry, the blended cashew nuts add sweetness and create a delicious creamy sauce.

• 1 large aubergine, cut into 2cm dice • 1 onion, thinly sliced • 100g cashew nuts • 1 large handful spinach • 3 garlic cloves, sliced • 1/2 - 1 medium hot red chilli, diced with seeds, according to taste • 1/2 tsp mustard seeds • 1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds • 1/4 tsp chilli powder • 1/2 tsp ground cumin • 3/4 tsp turmeric • 5 dried curry leaves • 3 tbsp olive oil • 250 ml water • salt Serves 2 generously 1. Mix the aubergine with 1/2 tsp of turmeric and 1/2 tsp of salt and leave in a colander for 30 minutes. Place 50g of cashew nuts in 75 ml of hot water and leave to soak for 30 minutes. Toast the remaining cashews in a hot pan or oven, until lightly browned and set aside.

2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil and gently fry the onions and garlic for 15 - 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft. Stir in all the remaining spices and diced chilli and fry for another 2 - 3 minutes, then add 175ml of water and leave to simmer over a very low heat.

3. Blitz the cashews and their soaking liquid in a spice grinder or blender, until you have a thick cream.

4. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large frying pan until hot and fry half the aubergine, until golden, remove from the pan and repeat with the remaining oil and aubergine 5. Fold the spinach into the onion and spice mixture, increase the heat and cook until wilted. Stir in the cashew cream, bring to a simmer and season with salt to taste.

Finally stir in the aubergine and toasted cashews.

On the 28th June 2014 at the Perran-ar-worthal Village Hall, School Hill, Perranwell Station, Truro, TR3 7LA, All are welcome so come and enjoy another 1940’s night in aid of the South & West Cornwall Branch of the MS Society.

Doors open 7.45pm No bar so bring your own alcoholic drink!

Tea, Coffee and soft drinks available Dancing to 1940’s music Evening buffet included

Tickets only £5.00

Raffle & Lucky Ticket prize

To book tickets call: 01209 860754

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

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April Quiz answers 1 3 5 7

ST IVES GUNNISLAKE REAWLA LANDRAKE

2 4 6 8

ROCK TORPOINT CAMELFORD MANACCAN

May quiz This months quiz is an Irish quiz 1 The Irish engineer and inventor Harry Ferguson (of Massey Ferguson tractor fame) developed the P99 in 1961, the first Formula One car with which 'gripping' advantage?

2 Which popular film is based around a tranquil character named Sean Thornton and his family's farm in Innisfree?

April spot the difference

April mystery object: Toasting fork Maker Unknown Date: 1750 - 1850 Place Made: Britain Materials & Techniques: Wood, Iron, Paint Happy birthday to: 20th Christie Drakely 22nd Pat Trevail 23rd Karen Holmewood 25th Lesley Heather 30th Rex Trethewey

Can you spot the ten difference

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3 Once upon a time it was widely accepted that rats in Ireland could be destroyed by which one of the following? a) Holy water b) The sound of pipes c) Rhyming verse 4 Some elementary particles in physics are known as Quarks. The word Quark stems from which famous Irish novel?

5 Name the two people in he following list who were NOT born in Ireland.

Pierce Brosnan, Richard Harris, Daniel Day Lewis, Gilbert O'Sullivan, Maureen O'Hara, Jonathan Swift, Chris de Burgh.

6 Which Dublin born 18th century writer created the first name Vanessa for one of his adventure novels?

7 Which female Irish pirate was known as 'The Sea Queen of Connaght'?

Across 1 Domesticated (4) 3 Lincolnshire seaside resort (8) 9 Brought back to life (7) 10 Last Greek letter (5) 11 Reside (5) 12 Playing a part (6) 14 Shrivel (6) 16 Grease used to make candles (6) 19 Lilting Irish accent (6) 21 Gem (5) 24 Back-hander (5) 25 Young goose (7) 26 Imperil (8) 27 Prepare for publication (4)

May Crossword

Down 1 Reject (4,4) 2 Film (5) 4 Abduct (6) 5 Phantom (5) 6 Everlasting (7) 7 Fraudulent scheme (4) 8 Gracefully slender (6) 13 Dusk (8) 15 Lingered (7) 17 Tweak (6) 18 Popular music of Jamaican origin (6) 20 Environment-friendly (5) 22 Eerie (5) 23 Woodwind instrument (4)

Money Boxes Target £2,000.00 April crossword

What’s this mystery object?

Actual to date £1,200.00

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Sent in by Wendy Hughes - Part 2

Sent in by Judy Reed

The committee experience In between fiascos Our family fruit I tried The loaf came out quite easily But the currents stayed inside

Nostalgic poem A POEM THAT MANY MAY RELATE TO: I remember the cheese of my childhood, And the bread that we cut with a knife, When the children helped with the housework, And the men went to work not the wife.

The cheese never needed a fridge, And the bread was so crusty and hot, The children were seldom unhappy And the wife was content with her lot.

I remember the milk from the bottle, With the yummy cream on the top, Our dinner came hot from the oven, And not from the fridge; in the shop.

The kids were a lot more contented, They didn't need money for kicks, Just a game with their mates in the road, And sometimes the Saturday flicks.

I remember the shop on the corner, Where a pen'orth of sweets was sold Do you think I'm a bit too nostalgic?

Or is it....I'm just getting old?

I remember the 'loo' was the lav, And the bogy man came in the night, It wasn't the least bit funny Going "out back" with no light.

The interesting items we perused, From the newspapers cut into squares, And hung on a peg in the loo, It took little to keep us amused.

The clothes were boiled in the copper, With plenty of rich foamy suds But the ironing seemed never ending As Mum pressed everyone's 'duds'.

I remember the slap on my backside, And the taste of soap if I swore Anorexia and diets weren't heard of And we hadn't much choice what we wore.

Do you think that bruised our ego?

Or our initiative was destroyed?

We ate what was put on the table And I think life was better enjoyed.

And now it was eleven (I’m in bed then as a rule) My cakes were a disaster WHY did I promise them at school?

Well, it called for drastic action So taking up my trusty blade I sawed off the burnt bits What a funny shape I’d made Never mind there's always icing Or some tassels, and a bow Slap in some sink colouring And they'd never know T thought I’d got away with it My daughter took a peek She said ‘a DIY disaster’ And fell down in a heap I decided to ignore her I’d reached the deadline now My ‘fairies’ needed sorting I’d have to salvage them somehow Well - cover cakes in chocolate And everybody thinks they’re grand And I was only helping numbers There was nothing underhand So I sent in all my efforts (but didn’t name the tin) Thinking all those hungry parents Wouldn't guess the effort I’d put in Next time of course there’s NO WAY I’d be baking cakes– NOT ME So why is it in my diary?

You know, I swear they drugged the tea!

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Mary Smiths blog - My army of friends I realise that I have a wide spectrum of friends; they go back to Alice and Jonny when I was three, through my school and university days, to my children’s school-friends’ parents, colleagues, a neighbour, and other MS-afflicted people.

Writing this makes me wonder what a friend is as, sometimes, some people have come to visit me here but never, or rarely, visited me at home, and they come, in effect, to show their feeling towards me.

(Collins English Dictionary: friend: one

attached to another by esteem, respect and affection; friendship: attachment to a friend founded on mutual esteem). My friends are the sort of people who visit me weekly or even more often, showing their true commitment to me. When I thank them for coming they often say they enjoy my company so it is no hardship for them. I find it stimulating for me to hear about their worlds and their lives as I don’t have very much other contact with the outside world except through television and the radio. I also have the use of my own telephone in my room; through this, using my Possum (Latin for “I am able”), I can contact friends and relations and they can contact me.

My blog has become a useful tool for communicating with people who live a distance away from me including my son in Australia, friends in Rutland, Totnes, London or elsewhere. I find it useful and nice if they write comments on the blog. I gather that various nephews and nieces follow the blog and say they enjoy it as it helps them better understand what it is like to be me. Another person who, I believe, is a follower is Tom, a friend’s child now a man, who I knew when he was young; so now my news can spread more widely than just among my immediate friends and family.

I have been married to Adrian for forty-odd years; his loyalty to me has been wonderful for, when my MS became more

pronounced and I could not move or cuddle him properly, this went on for twenty years, he did not abandon me. I came into this nursing home and he still visits me twice a week; he has proved a really good friend. Our four boys, of course, are very loyal and visit me whenever they come to Cornwall.

Between the visits of friends I have professionals who come in – which are the physiotherapist every two weeks, Soraya, my masseuse, who comes alternate weeks; at the moment my counsellor, Niki, visits weekly and the chiropodist comes fairly regularly; one of the members of staff here exercises my legs and arms, feet and hands daily during the week.

Like my various friends, I do talk to the professionals.

I use my friends as amanuenses (my hands for writing) or to read out loud my cards and correspondence. Another trait that I have noticed is that some people want to help me and they come up with “good ideas” like “Have you thought of talking books?”… or “I’m sure you could get books to show up on the telly”. In fact, unfortunately, I cannot see writing on the telly even with my glasses.

It is certainly nice to have people to exchange ideas, thoughts and laughs with which, I suppose, is the meaning of friendship.

Mary Smith

2nd March 2014

Find more of Laona’s recipes on her website Have you been interested in Laona’s recipes? Find out more on her website

Pilgrims Kitchen Tales Dairy and Gluten Free Healthy recipes

WWW.pilgrimskitchentales.com Laona@pilgrimskitchentales.com

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Thought of the month DOUGLAS HAM, SOUTH AND WEST CORNWALL TELEPHONE SUPPORT OFFICER

May Welcome to yet another peek into my mind. Not that there is much in there! Sitting here wondering what we might think about this month I took a look in my diary for some inspiration. Not much there either, just two Bank Holidays. Then I had another flick through the April Lifeboat. Why didn’t I think of that first?

We are so very fortunate to have such a fantastic, hard-working Committee, there is always something going on. What did I find? Well, if you missed it, take another look at the list of events that has been organised for us. Buffet lunch, a quiz, not forgetting the added bonus of a manicure, all arranged for 17th May at the Carnon Inn. So that’s where I would really like to go but my husband will be busy so can’t take me (I live in St Agnes, any offers?). I am really looking forward to meeting some of you if I can get there again. It would be good to get out and about after my recent hip replacement.

Enough of my ramblings!! Since the afore-mentioned operation I have been so well looked after that I spend a lot of time thinking of and praying for all the people I know who are waiting for results of scans, x-rays, tests and MRIs, or are on a waiting list for operation. And if I know so many, there must be a whole lot more who I don’t know. So here is the thought for May – Let us all remember those we know, because I do believe that the reason I have recovered so quickly is due in no small part to the prayers of my friends. With the bad weather hopefully just a distant memory, may I wish you all the very best of summers.

Ros

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My name is Douglas Ham and I will be providing telephone support on a part time basis to members of the South and West Cornwall Society who have MS. Whilst I have personal experience of long-term illnesses and disabilities, this does not make me an expert in MS or other disorders but I am someone who knows what it is like to live with life changing illnesses and disabilities. I myself have Type 1 Primary Multiple Sclerosis; Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Asperger’s Syndrome and Mental Health illness due to the conditions I have to live with.

Over the years I have worked supporting various charities and associations and I am now keen to do what I can to support those like myself with MS. Like a lot of you my MS limits how much I can do and this is why I am only able to provide telephone support on a part-time basis.

You can contact me on 01637 878953 if I am not available please leave a message on the answer machine and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

My e-mail address is: douglasgham@yahoo.co.uk

Douglas Mylor Craft Fayre Gillian Bray from Flushing in Falmouth raised £1000.00 through her amazing efforts organising a craft fayre.

Gill decided that she wanted to help people affected by MS and started putting the event together. There were stalls of every description and the Ord Statter hall in Mylor Bridge was constantly full.

Information Without people like Gill our branch would not be able to support the valuable services we currently offer.

Gills husband gave a very generous donation of £250, but that’s not all, Gill has a painting worth £600.00 and a gold bracelet to auction through our magazine.

I will be putting pictures of these items in the June magazine and inviting you to make a blind bid for them, just send me your bid in an envelope indicating which one you are bidding for and the highest bid will win the item.

Our very own, Laura, Alex and Nikki

Read-A-Thon news I will soon be reporting on the results of the Read-A-Thon, I have had much to do lately and time has not been on my side.

All returns are in and I just have to collate them.

I am attending Kernow Youth Book Awards 2014 On the 30th April, where I hope to meet many of Cornwall’s school librarians.

I will report back in next months magazine 13th June more cycling on the Truro Piazza

Elaine, Alicia, Kinda, Carole and Gillian

Plenty of stalls To visit

Cornwall Caledonian Pipe Band at the Craft Fayre The South & West Cornwall Branch thank you Gill and your team for your support.

Yes again on the piazza in Truro we will be peddling for MS funds, Those who attended the pedlathon on the 30th April will know that we are raising awareness and funds for our branch.

Thanks to our carer officer Karen we have a spot on the piazza in Truro but we need your help and pedal power to make it pay off.

We need pedlers, collectors and people to generally help.

Please call Karen 01872 274188 for more details or if you can help.

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page Megan’s

Easter vanilla cupcakes Serves: 12 Prep time:20 mins Cooking time: 25 mins (plus 10 mins cooling time) Ingredients:Ingredients:For the cupcakes: 110g unsalted butter, at room temperature 225g caster sugar, preferably golden 2 large eggs, free-range or organic 150g self-raising flour 125g plain flour 120ml semi-skimmed milk 1tsp good quality vanilla extract For the Icing 115g unsalted butter, at room temperature 60ml semi-skimmed milk 1 tsp good quality vanilla extract 500g icing sugar, sifted Few drops of food colouring (optional) Equipment: Electric hand beater 12 hole muffin tray or three 12 hole mini muffin trays with the appropriate size cupcake cases Preheat the oven to 160deg C. gas mark 4 Cream the butter and sugar in a bowl until the mixture is pale and smooth. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, mixing briefly after each egg is added.

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Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure the mixture stays well combined.

Add the vanilla extract to the milk in a plastic measuring jug.

Combine the two flours in a separate bowl.

Add one-third of the flours to the combined butter and sugar mixture and beat well.

Pour in one-third of the milk and beat again. Repeat these steps until all the flour and milk has been added.

Carefully spoon the mixture evenly into the cupcakes cases. Bake in the centre of the oven for approx 25 minutes (regular size) or 15 minutes (mini size) until slightly raised and golden brown. Check with a cake skewer in the centre of one of the cakes to see that they are cooked.

Leave in their tins for 10 minutes or so and then place carefully on a wire rack to cool.

When completely cool, you can ice these cupcakes with vanilla buttercream icing.

The cupcakes can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days at room temperature. Do not refrigerate.

For the vanilla icing: icing Beat the butter, milk, vanilla extract and half the icing sugar until smooth. This will usually take a few minutes. Gradually add the remainder of the icing sugar to produce a buttercream of a creamy and smooth consistency.

If you want to colour your buttercream, always start with a drop of colouring and beat thoroughly. This will be all you need to create a very pale pastel shade. You can then add more drops and beat after each addition to build up to your desired shade.

The buttercream can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Before re-using beat well.

South Cornwall branch MS Youth Group West “Making Sense” Hello again, well another month has flown by already and I hope you are all enjoying the lovely weather.

You may well remember that back in January our youth member Jamie, nominated our branch as one of the three charities to receive money from the bingo those of you attending the get together in held in St Just once a month. The last night May will be able to meet some of the youth for this was Tuesday 15th April. We had a group. great turn out that night and I am very Until next month take care pleased to say that each of the three Nikki xx nominated charities received £100 each.

I personally would like to say a big thank you to Jamie for nominating us and raising awareness about MS, and on behalf of the youth group and our branch I would also like to say a big thank you to Alison Grose and her team for all their hard work. It is a fantastic evening where we all have a great laugh as well as raising awareness and money for different charities. Thank you all!!!!

Changing the subject completely now, I would like to pass on some advice to Jasper!! Please listen VERY carefully Jasper. Firstly, it was me who saved you from Mike Georges stew pot. Secondly, again it was me who suggested you became the youth groups mascot, to avoid eviction, and finally but most importantly, please DO NOT encourage the youth group( they don't need it) at my expense!! I will take whatever Lauren decides as my punishment, however I did not cheat at skittles, I wasn't even the one keeping score!!

Megan, Jamie, Lauren, Ben and Jack would like to say a big thank you to Wendy Hughes for the Easter egg she gave to For Auntie Nikki’s punishment I would like each of them. Thank you Wendy. her to have either a make over or face Look out in next months Lifeboat for paints at the get together on the 17th May. Jamie's trip to watch darts and hopefully Lauren 16 16

Young MS and Friends Group

Craft Fayre Hello everyone, This month the Young MS and Friends Group were in Mylor Bridge to support the craft fayre organised by Gill Bray, raising money for the South & West Cornwall Branch of the MS society.

We had a great afternoon and I understand the event raised close to £1000 which is absolutely fantastic.

It was a great opportunity to not only raise money for the society, but to help raise awareness of MS, eating a healthy diet and show the support groups and activities available for people with MS in our South & West Branch area.

We were approached by many people including parents, partners, friends and relatives of young people between 20 and 35 recently diagnosed with MS. It was great to be able to talk about our experiences of being diagnosed and treatment options as two young people in our early twenties living with the condition.

One of the most common misconceptions about MS I have found when talking to friends, family and others, is the age of diagnosis. Whilst it can present at a younger or older age, it is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, which is why it is so important to raise awareness of MS and offer support and reassurance amongst young people affected by MS.

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We are not alone in this and I would encourage any other young people in Cornwall to get in touch.

Our young MS group is active in attending events, promoting awareness and having great monthly social outings, we are support for each other so don’t be afraid to contact us.

Laura Editors comment: I hope that the Young MS group won’t mind me taking part of their page but there are things to be said about the group.

The Young MS group was started to encourage young people with MS who would rather communicate with people of their own age, Talk about their issues and fears and do the things that are more applicable to their age group.

It is clear from our attendance at events that there are many young people with MS or have just been diagnosed.

Laura and Alex have made great strides in the development of the group, they are great company to be with and work hard to bring about awareness of MS in young people.

My message to you is don’t hesitate to contact them they are compassionate people who understand your concerns.

Malcolm You can contact the Young MS and Friends group: Telephone: 07710585556 Email: ymsgsouthandwestcornwall@mail.com

South & West Cornwall Branch events 2014/15

27th September - Concert at Beacon Village Hall by Marion Burch’s trio called Three’s Company, joined by that popular singing group Proper Job. Details to follow

All members are welcome to these activities 11th October - Get together at the Carnon wherever they are held, members from Inn. Details of activities to follow. other branches are also welcome.

November - Cabaret night in Falmouth 17th May - Get together Carnon Inn, 1st November - Get Together in West, to Carnon Downs, 11am till 2pm with buffet be held at the Godolphin Arms, Marazion provided.

Come and be spoilt by having your nails November - Western Area Christmas Lunch painted or join in the quiz.

Tregenna Castle if possible Avon rep Paula Robins will be there to paint 6th December - Christmas lunch at the your nails. Its free so bring the family and Membly Hall Hotel, Falmouth have a great afternoon. Laura is face painting too so bring the family.

January 2015 - Cabaret night at the Tregenna Castle if possible.

29th May - Bingo at Chacewater Village Hall, Starts at 7.30pm 26th June - Bingo at Chacewater Village Hall, Starts at 7.30pm 28th June - 1940’s night at Perran-ar-worthal Village Hall. £5.00 with a evening Buffet.

For tickets call Malcolm.

01209 860754 July ? get together west area, any ideas for a venue, let me know.. Malcolm July - BBQ at Mike George’s house, just a social evening, meet, greet and chat August - Your choice, what would you like to do? Call me.. Malcolm 01209 860754 20th September 1950/60’s night at Perran-ar-worthal Village Hall.

Live 50/60’s music from Fire ‘n’ Ice plus an evening buffet. Tickets £6.00. For more information and tickets call Malcolm 01209 860754

Supermarket collection dates 16th &17th May Morrison’s Long rock 7th June Sainbury’s Penzance 10th & 11th October Tesco’s Falmouth Your help Would you like Bingo to come to your area?

Let us know and we will arrange bingo sessions in your local facilities.

I am still waiting for more responses to my request for you to let me know what you want your branch to arrange for you, please respond.

Would anyone like to run a regular coffee morning?

One in the South and one in the West where people can come at chat about the day and communicate, it could be in your local hall. Contact me if you can For more information or to book tickets please call Malcolm: 01209 860754 Email malcolmglister@btinternet.com

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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 Stevens Telephone: 01736 360551 email: stevens475@btinternet.com Young MS & Friends Laura & 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