October 2018
SILC NEWS
A publication by the Samutprakarn International Ladies’ Club
Breast Cancer AWARENESS MONTH
@silc_bangkok
In memory of king
In loving memory of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej 1927 - 2016
IN THIS ISSUE
5. Diaries at the ready!
8. Hear from Dr Donna
11. ‘60 seconds’ with Liliya!
12. Workshops galore!
13. Lotus throwing time
26. Can you help?
A WORD FROM OUR CHAIR Many of you joined SILC for the opportunity to get involved in supporting good causes. This month we have even more than usual to offer in this respect: THINK PINK! All of us have loved ones who have been through the horror of cancer. Come join us on Tuesday 30th October for a fundraising coffee morning to benefit breast cancer charities.
⁕⁕⁕ This month’s edition is dedicated to
Paradee
KNITTING We are knitting scarves and hats for those in need. We are meeting every Monday morning to ‘knit & natter’. Even if you have never knitted before you will be made very welcome. PRE-SCHOOL CRAFT Once every month we head to the two SILC supported pre-schools and do simple craft with the children. You will love it as much as they do! OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY & ART THERAPY If you have experience in either therapy please get in touch as your skills are needed in a centre for children with physical disabilities. These are just a handful of ways to volunteer your time this month... “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted”
x Tracey x
A brave and kind soul, who was a great friend to SILC and brought joy to everyone who knew her. May you rest in peace. You will be sadly missed.
⁕⁕⁕
COMING UP IN OCTOBER
Monday 1
Tuesday 2 Thai cooking with Jimmy
8 English @ Prakasamai
9 Basket workshop
Knitting
15
Wednesday 3 Craft @ Prakkasam. Aqua Aerobics Mahjong
4
10 Aqua Aerobics Mahjong
16
17 Aqua Aerobics
Knitting
22
29 Knitting
Thursday
Saturday
Sunday
5
6
7
11 Craft @ Mahawong Zumba English @ Mahawong
12
13
14
18 Zumba
19
20
21
26
27
28
Zumba English @ Mahawong
Mahjong
English @ Mahawong
23
24
25
Rub Bua festival
Aqua Aerobics
30
31 Aqua Aerobics
Think Pink coffee morning
Friday
Hilltribe cooking course
Mahjong
We try to schedule activities well ahead of time to allow you to plan your diaries, however please note these may change. Keep an eye on the SILC Facebook page and the next newsletter for updates! Contact silc.activities@gmail.com with any questions.
COMING UP IN NOVEMBER
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 1
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
2
3
4
8 Zumba English @ Mahawong
9
10
11
15 Zumba English @ Mahawong
16
17
18
22 Krathong making Zumba English @ Mahawong
23
24
25
29 Zumba English @ Mahawong
30
English @ Mahawong 5 Yoga trial English @ Prakasamai
6 Diwali potluck
7 Aqua Aerobics Mahjong
12 Sunita’s open house English @ Prakasamai
13
19 English @ Prakasamai
20
14 Aqua Aerobics Mahjong 21 Aqua Aerobics Mahjong
26 English @ Prakasamai
Lotus leaf painting
27
28 Aqua Aerobics
SILC BAZAAR
31
Olive night-out
Mahjong
We try to schedule activities well ahead of time to allow you to plan your diaries, however please note these may change. Keep an eye on the SILC Facebook page and the next newsletter for updates! Contact silc.activities@gmail.com with any questions.
Breast cancer: be aware It can be easy to forget to take the time to do the simple things such as getting to know your own body. Breast cancer affects over 2 million people per year yet if caught early, the rate of survival in the next 5 years is greatly increased to 99%. This means that it is important to take the time to get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts as part of your daily routine. This could be whilst showering, dressing, putting on body lotion or simply looking in the mirror. You don’t have to be an expert or use a special technique. Knowing what’s normal for you will help you to detect any new breast changes that could potentially change your life. If you do find a change in your breasts that is unusual for you, see your GP without any delay. 9 out of 10 breast changes are not due to cancer, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. For women aged between the 40-49 year age group, mammograms are not as effective as they are for older women because breasts are denser in this age group than for older women, making any early signs of breast cancer more difficult to see. This is due to breasts becoming less dense as women get older, particularly after menopause, which is why mammograms become more effective closer to 50 years of age.
Dr. Donna Robinson, is a UK qualified, doctor, resident in Thailand for over 26 years. She is one only a few western doctors with a Thai Medical Licence, and owns the Medconsut Clinic.
Who should take the test? ● ●
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● ●
Women above the age of 50 should take the test annually Women between 40 and 50 years should be examined once every two years Women whose families have a history of breast cancer should be examined regularly Women who have had a false positive detection of cancer Women who have symptoms of breast cancer such as lumps and persistent breast pain
Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of surviving the disease. It is important to remember that you don’t need to be an expert to check your breasts.
Changes to look for include: ● ● ● ● ● ●
a new lump or lumpiness, especially if it's only in one breast a change in the size or shape of your breast, a change to the nipple (eg. crusting, ulcer, redness, inversion) a nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing a change in the skin of your breast (eg. redness or dimpling) An unusual and persistent pain
Being in a foreign country, it may be stressful to think about where and how procedures such as a mammogram take place. However in Thailand, the mammogram and ultrasound are offered together. We have found for you that at all private and Government hospitals including the National Cancer Institute and Prachachuen MRI center, there is a very high quality standard to the procedures so you don’t have to worry about not getting the treatment you need.
The price of a mammogram in Thailand varies but can start at around 2000 THB in public hospitals. In the Camillian Hospital Clinic the price is 4000 THB with a service charge of 150 THB, and to consult with a Doctor 300 – 800 THB. International Hospitals such as Samitivej cost around 6000 THB with a service charge of 300, and 600 -1000 THB to consult with a Doctor. Breast cancer should not be a taboo subject, make sure to check your own body and let your Doctor know ASAP if you notice any changes to your breasts to ensure your any risk is greatly reduced. Finally, it is important to remember that women should make the decision that’s right for them. Surgery is not the only option – women can opt to have intensive surveillance for early signs of breast cancer, either with mammograms or MRIs. These can pick up cancers when they’re small, localized, and easier to treat successfully.
SAVE THE DATE
60 seconds with… Khun Liliya!
Liliya and her family originally come from Russia, and moved to Bangkok 2.5 years ago. Her 3 kids attend 3 different schools: the eldest in London, the second in Bangkok Patana and the youngest at a small kindergarten on Thong Lor. Liliya is doing her second year volunteering as SILC Treasurer, for which we are eternally grateful! When she’s not balancing the books or juggling her parenting commitments, she’s an active member of our Book Club and Mahjong circle and enjoys helping at fundraising events like the Bazaar! ●
Who knew... that seasons were so important to me? I mean I love Thailand but the climate is quite a challenge. I really miss wearing jackets and scarves! Having said that I do NOT, miss mornings spent digging the car out of a snow drift for 6 months a year!
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I really miss... going for ‘proper’ walks, not like here when after 15 minutes outside I start looking for the nearest coffee shop to hide from the heat.
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I never thought I would ... enjoy Muay Thai! But I do! Especially fun sessions with friends! And I never thought that I would lead excursions for visitors around BKK! But I did that too - very successfully I might add!
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Favorite eatery… Now that’s a long list! We moved here from Japan and Japanese food is still one of our favorites. Thong Lor is the best place to find: Umenohana in Nihon Mura is a great tofu place. Ainu is one of our favorite beer bars, Aoi in Emporium, Utaro on Soi 51, Kitaohji on Thong lor Soi 8…., I should probably stop there!
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Best Girls’ Night Out… The Sala Rattanakosin bar on the riverside directly opposite Wat Arun.
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Best holidays... are always when all three kids are with us. Pimalai on Koh Lanta and Rayavadee on Railay beach have been the best in Thailand so far. Halong Bay in Vietnam is stunning. And the architecture of Angkor Wat in Cambodia is simply amazing!
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My ‘must visit’ recommendation ... If you’re a wine person then it HAS to be Monsoon Valley Vineyard near Hua Hin. It’s such a fantastic experience with a breathtaking view, great wine pairing & delicious food.
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Must do... There is 2 month course on Buddhism and Thai history at the Bangkok National Museum. I did it last May and found it incredibly helpful in understanding the culture and traditions of our unique host country. Invaluable for Bangkok newbies!
SILC OUT & ABOUT
EASY AS THAI!! Due to the popularity of this course, Jimmy has laid on a second session - from 09:00-13:00 on October 2nd You’ll learn all about Thai ingredients, cooking techniques, not to mention prepare (and eat!) a 3-course feast. Price: 900 THB/person. To book: silc.activities@gmail.com
BASKET CUSTOMISING WORKSHOP Be the envy of your friends with your very own, customised and fashionable basket. Join us 9:00-12:00 on Tuesday October 9th when we visit the lovely ladies of Atelier 49 (near Thonglor BTS). Price: 1,000-1250 THB (depending on size of basket). Please RSVP quickly as spaces are limited: silc.activities@gmail.com
HILLTRIBE COOKING CLASS Courageous Kitchen is a non-profit organization inspiring community leadership through the power of food. On Friday 12th October, from 09.00-13.30, the CK team will be giving SILC a market tour, hill tribe cooking class and lunch. We will meet at Punnawithi BTS and travel by taxi. Cost: 1000 THB/person. RSVP: silc.activities@gmail.com
‘RUB BUA’ LOTUS THROWING ‘Rub Bua’ is unique to the Bang Phli District in Samutprakan, and takes place one day before the end of Buddhist Lent. This year on Tuesday 23rd October from 8:00 to midday. The festival is a way of showing generosity to newcomers while preserving the canalside way of life. The crowds throw lotus flowers (as a sign of respect) into a beautiful parade of boats carrying a large Buddha statue. Join SILC to visit this spectacular parade! We will meet on Bangna Trad Road at 07.30am. Email: silc.activities@gmail.com
SILC OUT & ABOUT
YOGA TRIAL You are warmly invited to join SILC for a free trial session at Bangkok’s newest yoga cafe (in the Danfa building, Lasalle Road 33 - walking distance from Bangkok Patana school) on Monday November 5th 10.30-11.30. Why not round the session off with a delicious vegan lunch?! Contact silc.activities@gmail.com to book your space.
DIWALI POTLUCK Kala invites you to a Diwali-themed potluck lunch 11:00am-1:00pm on Tuesday 6th November. We will share some Indian customs associated with the“festival of lights”, eg. the rituals of 'aarti' and 'rangoli'. Dresscode: As Bollywood as you dare! Please bring
nibbles to share, and RSVP as space is limited: silc.activities@gmail.com
SUNITA’S CHARITY OPEN HOUSE Continuing our Indian theme, one of SILC’s founder members, Sunita, would like to extend an invitation to her popular open house event on Monday 12th November. She will treat us to delicious home-cooked North Indian cuisine, with a collection in aid of the Thai children's charities she supports. You will also have the opportunity to browse her company’s range of delightful jewellery, made in Thailand. RSVP: silc.activities@gmail.com
SILC OUT & ABOUT
LOTUS LEAF PAINTING There is nothing more therapeutic than a morning of painting, but if you’re new to Thailand, this is something a little different… Join a group of SILC ladies on Friday 16th November, to paint your very own Lotus-leaf canvas. No artistic skills needed - the patient teachers at the Himapan gallery (near BTS Phrom Phong) will teach us everything! Fee: 2500+ thb depending on canvas size. Email: silc.activities@gmail.com
KRATHONG WORKSHOP One of Thailand’s most popular festivals, Loy Kratong, will take place on Thursday 22nd November this year. “Loy” means “float”, and a “krathong” is a special Thai sculpture particular to the festival. Jimmy will show us how to make our own kratongs (from banana leaves and flowers) and tell us more about the history of this festival. Fee: 500 THB/pers. RSVP: silc.activities@gmail.com
A GREEK TREAT SILC has a delicious night out planned at Olive Greek Restaurant (Ekamai Soi 10) on Friday 30th November. The evenings have even been known to end in some spontaneous zorba-dancing, so bring some comfortable shoes! RSVP: silc.activities@gmail.com
SILC OUT & ABOUT
BOOK CLUB We’ve chosen our books for October (Trailing by Kristin Duncombe) and November (Amitav Ghosh’s Sea of Poppies)! Please contact Andi to find out when and where the group is next meeting: amccolough@gmail.com
MAYBE EVEN MAHJONG WILL GO PINK THIS MONTH! Do get in touch if you would like to play Mahjong with us! Beginners very welcome. We meet on Wednesdays at members’ houses. Contact: Sally mikeandsally@bluewin.ch
SAVE THE DATE
SILC SPORTS
aqua aerobics If you would like to join our weekly sessions at Ekamai Gardens on Wednesdays 10-11:00 (400 THB), please contact silc.activities@gmail.com
zumba We would like to run sessions on Thursday mornings in Bangna. If you would like to join please contact silcmagazine@gmail.com
tennis? If you’re a keen tennis player but need a partner, we can put you in touch! Please contact: silc.activities@gmail.com
Is there another social or sporting activity you’d like to try with SILC? Email silc.activities@gmail.com with any ideas.
SILC OUT & ABOUT LAST MONTH SILC members new and ‘not so new’ kicked the new school year off in style with our best coffee morning yet! It was a fabulous opportunity to reconnect, and tell ladies new to SILC about about what we do.
SILC OUT & ABOUT LAST MONTH We learnt more about the ancient art of weaving in a silk weaving community only a stone’s throw from the famous Jim Thompson house. We even got to meet an old man who has been working with silk since Jim Thompson's time.
The girls (and boys!) were back in town for a Chao Phraya cruise!
Prada eat your heart out - look what these clever SILC ladies made!
A big thank you to the team at Steps with Theera cafe for our delicious brunch! Try it out soon!
We nattered and knitted - all in a great cause. And some of us learned how to make our own natural shampoo bars with Bangkok Soap opera!
COMMUNITY PROJECTS
VOLUNTEER FOR COMMUNITY CRAFT! As usual, we will be using our craft activity to reinforce the vocab that the kids have been learning in their English lessons. This month, we’ll be helping the kids make spinning tops, decorated with parts of the body words for them to practice. We will visit Prakkasamai daycare on Wednesday 3rd October and Mahawong on Thursday 11th. For details, email: silc.community@gmail.com
LET’S KNIT! After our first very productive session, we will be meeting every Monday at different members’ homes as we continue to knit simple scarves and hats for charity. Even if you can't join, please get in touch and we’ll send you the pattern/instructions! RSVP: silccraft@gmail.com
Would you like to volunteer or do you have an idea for a charity that needs support?PLease contact silc.community@gmail.com
ENGLISH PROGRAMME A group of dedicated SILC ladies teaches English twice a week at the pre-schools SILC supports in Samutprakan. This month lessons at Mahawong will break between 18th Oct and 1st Nov, and at Prakkasamai between 8th Oct and 5th Nov. If you would be interested in knowing more about the programme or potentially volunteering later in the year, please email henk_janna@hotmail.com
THANK YOU ALEX & SASKIA! You have both done a huge amount to help make SILC’s English programme what it is. Thank you so much for your energy and commitment. The kids will miss you enormously!
SILC NEEDS YOU! CAN YOU HELP WITH OUR KHLONG TOEI ‘OIL RUN’? Every fortnight, on Friday evening, SILC supports Sister Joan’s food project in Ron Moo, a poor district in the Klong Toei slums. We distribute food (incl. 1 bottle of soya bean oil sponsored by SILC, rice, fish sauce and tinned sardines) to 110 elderly and disabled people. The 8 heavy boxes of oil are bought in Makro several days before. The atmosphere on Fridays is very lively and friendly. After having checked the ID, we hand out the food (in reusable bags of course!). Our team really needs help: to buy the oil fortnightly, transport it to the distribution point, and hand it out on Fridays. Please contact Laura if you can help: silc.community@gmail.com
REFUGEE OUTREACH Do you have any mornings to spare? Are you looking to make a real difference? Laura, our Community Team lead, visits detainees at the IDC (Immigration Detention Centre) in Sathorn most mornings to give those in most need some valuable human interaction and a few essentials. Please message Laura on 0617762504 if you’d like to join.
CAN YOU HELP?
Art /Physical therapists needed A charity that SILC wishes to support (Camillian Home), which is a residential and day care facility for children with disabilities needs voluntary Art therapists to come and work with the children in a purpose built art classroom. Ideally, once a week but they are grateful for any time that can be given. Minimum period of 6 months. They are also looking for someone with a physical therapy or nursing background to help offer therapy to the children. This is a voluntary position too. Even if you don’t have the above required skills but would like to volunteer at Camillian Homes they always need people to help push wheelchairs or just spend time helping and playing with the children Camillian Homes depends almost entirely on donations. It is located in Lat Krabang. RSVP: silcchair@gmail.com
SILC OUT & ABOUT
SILC OUT & ABOUT
SILC MEMBERS: Aims & policies Organisation of the Club SILC creates an opportunity for women of all nationalities living in Samutprakarn and Bangkok to meet and participate in a variety of activities. We invite members to join monthly events and interest groups. Members pay an annual fee of 1000 Baht. Privacy The membership list is for the sole use of SILC members in a social setting and may not be used for commercial purposes. E-Newsletter The e-newsletter is published ten times a year with articles and information on club activities. Contributions are welcome and can be sent to the newsletter editor. Committee Meetings These are held monthly and are open to all members. Please inform the SILC Chair if you wish to attend. All SILC events are subject to change. Please confirm your attendance with the relevant contact, and advise of any cancellation asap so another member may take your place. Committee Contacts Chair Secretary Treasury Team Membership Team Community Projects E-newsletter & Ads
Tracey Hewison Sandra Crane Liliya Andreeva & Janna van Duyn Aakriti Sultania & Amelia Deely Laura Troncoso Charlotte Wawrzyniak
silcchair@gmail.com silcsecretary@gmail.com silctreasurer@gmail.com silcthai@gmail.com silc.community@gmail.com silcmagazine@gmail.com
Jimmy James, Barbara Clarke, Trijnie Geuzinge, Kala Khanna & Malin Nauska Gowri Kumaran Marta Skeen, Arminta Ochoa Lek Burrell, Manprit Kaur, Renee Lua, Hanneke Langschmidt, Saskia Leeuwangh, Alex Rogan, Herma Vos, Shirley Tan, Helen Hardwick-Jones, Marina Drake
silc.activities@gmail.com
SILC teams Activities
Website Online/Marketing Community Projects
silc.websites@gmail.com silcpromo@gmail.com silc.community@gmail.com
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SILC News goes every month to over 170 SILC members throughout Bangkok. Advertisements for non-profit community events are welcome and free of charge. Personal advertisements for SILC members are free of charge. Email reminders for SILC and non-profit community events will be sent out free of charge; other events must be advertised in our magazine.
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Advertising requests and payment must be received prior to the published deadline. To advertise in the Newsletter, please contact: Charlotte - silcmagazine@gmail.com To advertise on the SILC Website, please contact: silc.websites@gmail.com To arrange payment, please contact: Liliya - silctreasurer@gmail.com
SILC News Copy Deadline for November e-Newsletter: 20th October If you have any activities, events, book reviews, recommendations for holidays or items for our bulletin board please forward them to the Newsletter Editor: silcmagazine@gmail.com