16th July
My good nights sleep
Before i go to bed, it is 2210 and i have to get up at 0300 for a 0530 start. i just want to close by telling you that my worse fear was that i would not get a good nights sleep. A stiff back was happening on while i slept on my stretcher...My best means of a bed because of the ease of moving and raising ... My bed at home is an electrical bed and i never get a stiff back or pain in my hips or lower back...Think said i, the answer maybe to raise your legs...right said i lets do a google search...I found a Harley 4028 Leg Raiser available from www.mrpillow.co.uk . It worked. A comfortable pain free and moring free night. I will report to you more on this leg raiser through this blogs
Deatils
Product Description
Manufactured to an ergonomically beneficial angle designed to support the back of the knee and heel whilst allowing the calf to relax.
Features
Takes pressure from the lower back and stimulates circulation
Eases symptoms of oedema, varicose veins, back pain and fatigue
Fitted with removable fleece cover
Spare covers available
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Vans Are Packed
16th July
My hired Euro Van and my van are now packed
To day in Newcastle the sun has been shining down all day. Well part of all day...
This morning we sorted out all the stuff ready to load into the Euro Van. Half of our stuff was in the garage, half was out side the garage. Must have taken the best partof 4 hours before we patted ourselves on the back, well Addy and Jackie did, i cannot....being disabled and all that..
Anyway as i was saying, just as we sat down for a well earned cup of coffee and you can guess what happened next, the heavens open up and it poured down with rain and it poured down with rain...even the wet gear we had outside has now to be dried...still, the stuff that we could not get wet was in the garage safe from storms way.
At 5 o'clock the guys arrived to fill the Euro Van. The amount we had i felt we could get into the van easy. Wrong...The guys did get most things in but our plan of only having me and the two Alex's in my van. Wrong again. Philips bike will be in my van along with one or two other bits..
So there we have it. I have now handed over to my team, this challenge and i am now on board for the ride...May God Bless them all..
I have a great team, and if any team can become a World Record team, i have them..
As the next few days, weeks unfold, i shall write on my blog about the ups and downs of a World Record Challange..
To anyone living in Newcastle, Metro Radio are following me on my World Record attempt.
I am now closing for a while. See you all when i get to Lands End..
Bye for now...
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
4 Days to Go
Only 4 days to go!
We are now on the final count down to the start of this World Record Attempt.
Jack and Molly go into kennels. I am off to the town for yet one more last shop. The house looks like a tip and has to be put into order. This evening we are watching a DVD of some one who cycled the E2E. That should be very lightening!
Keep watching this blog for up dates.
The picture is of my pups.
Please do not forget to donate to my charity, Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. With what i have seen on the news of out guys coming back from Afghanistan in a coffin, the work of the RBL is needed now more than ever.
Speak again soon.
Mary
Monday, July 13, 2009
Alex Arrives Today
Alex arrived at 1300 hrs on the 13th July 09
Today goes down in the history of this ‘World Record Attempt’ in so much as ‘Alex’ arrived today with lots of spars and guy to instructions us on how to change batteries, re-charging batteries, changing wheels. We hope that we do not have to change the motors. If we do, then Handicare will have to be called to the rescue.
Getting into the ‘Alex’ I am using for this challenge was for me, a quite an emotional time. All the planning, fundraising, praying and been told by people who should be supporting me, they would not be supporting me. Been told from all the people who are supporting me to go for it and be come a World Champion, take no notice of the others. There is so much I could put here, including trying out different modes of beds, I am still not 100% set on what I shall sleep on. If I had my way, I would take my bed I sleep on at home. Making sure that we had all have all the equipment, we need and all the equipment we do not need. Some will slip through the net!
I still have to see my Doctor for a final check up. This I am doing tomorrow. Take ‘Alex’ for his registration and number plate, if we have time. Go and burn some rubber in Alex. I think you get the picture.
Today I also received the tee shirts from Petal Back Clothing, see link on left. The ones I am to wear are easy to put on; they have my E2E logo on. Petal Black also had made especially for the team, tee shirts with a large mouse on wearing clogs. The wording escapes me at the moment. Thank you Petal Back Clothing.
So there you have it. Final count down to Saturday 18th July 2009 at 1400 hrs has now begun…
Speak again soon…
Friday, July 10, 2009
7 Days to Go
7 Day to go
With only 7 days to go we have been busy putting the teams information packs together and finalizing our route and accommodation paperwork.
In the teams information pack we have such information as letter from RBL giving them permission to collect for the RBL. Where they will be staying and a job description.
On Monday, Alex will be arriving here. He will be kitted up and fitted to my somewhat bent body. I lean to the right.
Even though I want to do this challenge in one Alex, I am been given a spare. HC do not want my world record attempt to end because Alex did not make it. Thank you HC.
With now only 7 days to go, it is now a matter of putting everything together. Fill packing boxes. Make sure that I have all my personal equipment. Cross all the right X’s.
This weekend I go out with Philip – my cyclist - on a training run, for the second time. We went out yesterday for the first time covering 22 ks. This first training run was on footpaths, main A roads and minor A road. I loved every moment of the time we spent.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
FairTrades Big Lunch Day
8th July 09
Big Lunch Day
While i am on my E2E i am going to try and get involved in the FairTrade Lunch Day. I shall be inviting anyone who wants to join us to share our evening meal and to sample FairTrade coffee and tea. I will report back.
This is FTs press release...
When Good Neighbours Become Good Friends
Mighty oaks from little acorns grow. A groundswell of goodwill is spreading across the land as friends and neighbours come together for a common (and gloriously uncommon) purpose. With just under two months to go until The Big Lunch on 19 July, events up and down the country are starting to take shape. T he turn out on the day is currently estimated at around half a million, but as more and more people sign up to take part, that figure continues to grow.
The Big Lunch, the ambitious idea from the Eden Project, in partnership with MasterCard, and supported by EDF Energy and the Royal Mail Group, aims to bring together as many of the 61 million people in the UK to simultaneously eat lunch with their neighbours and put a big smile on people’s faces.
Whether it’s their prize-winning courgettes, secret-recipe homebrew or playing a mean set of spoons, finding out what our neighbours are made of is one of The Big Lunch’s great joys; forging firm friendships another. There are as many ways to get involved as there are people to turn up. From home-made art, cakes or beer, to garage bands, mini-olympiads and open mics, or simply showing up and having a great time with the people on your street, the possibilities are endless.
So far, over 6.900 lunches have been set up across the country, including:
· a 5,000-strong Big Lunch in Toxteth, Liverpool, hosted by Arts in Regeneration, which will see 5 streets transformed into an open-air gallery promenade with cultural food, film, football, art, dancing, choirs and buskers
· Garstang, the world’s first ever Fairtrade town twinned with the Ghanaian town, New Koforidua, and now twinning their Big Lunch too
· Sikh gurdwaras in London and Bradford will be sharing a magnificent curry for The Big Lunch through the institution of ‘langar’ - people from different religious and social groups cooking and eating together
Paul Twivy, CEO of The Big Lunch, commented: “Let’s all express our talents, get over our embarrassment, shake hands and work with our neighbours and realise that the neighbourhood where we live is the biggest untapped source of happiness we possess.”
Eden Project Chief Executive, Tim Smit, commented: “Imagine a summer's day on which millions of us, throughout the UK, sit down to have lunch together with our neighbours: in the middle of our streets, around our tower blocks and on every patch of common ground. The food, entertainment, music and decorations we will have grown, cooked, or created ourselves. This will be a day to break bread with our neighbours, to put a smile on Britain's face.”
The Big Lunch takes place on Sunday July 19, 2009. Looking for inspiration? Check out Easy Ways to Serve The Big Lunch, our multi-purpose high-energy manual packed with wild ideas and straight up facts (available for £2 from the website, Waterstone's, WH Smith, B&Q, Amazon - proceeds go towards the Eden Trust), plus our spread-the-word leaflets that will start a Big Lunch buzz in your neighbourhood. Visit www.thebiglunch.com for more information.
Ends
For Further Information please contact:
Rhona Hurcombe
07976 847594
rhona@thebiglunch.com
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
My FairTrade Day
Monday, July 6, 2009
"Alex Becomes..."
Alex becomes and Honouree Member of The Lands End to John O’Groats Association
I have just heard from Don of the LEJOG Association , that in view of the fact that Alex is going for a world record, he is to be made a Honouree Member of the Association. What greater accolade than that, except of course holding, a “Power Chair World Record”
As soon as I have got a few training miles in, I will report back to you.
Only 12 days 6 hrs to the off gun……
Friday, July 3, 2009
Official Paperwork
3rd July 09
The official paperwork.
In my email box today was the official paperwork from the Guinness Book of Records. This paperwork tells us the rules and regulation that the GBR lay down for my E2E to be recognized as a world record. The list is long and i have a lot of paperwork to fill in, notes to take, pictures to take and proof to obtain that i am where i say i am at the time i say i am. You get the message.
What this paperwork say, and this is very important to all E2E ers, that the E2E is now back on the books as a recognised world record. This means a lot to us all, and no more than the Lands End to John O'Groats Association who have world endlessly to have the E2E reinstated. Thanks Jack.
Tomorrow i do the final, if there is such a statement as final buying when preparing for the E2E, simple things like chopping boards, bread knife and two Orange mobile phones.
Now back to cheering for Murrey at Wimbledon...
Press Box
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
We Are Now Awaiting "Alex"
Monday, June 29, 2009
My Chosen Charity
Sleeping On My Streacher
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Emral Gardens Caravan ParkHolly
Tel: (01948) 770401
Mobile: (07774) 275266
e-mail: enquiries@emralgardens.com
www.emralgardens.co.uk
Dealing With My Nerves
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Please Remember Me In Your Prays
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Physically Feeling Sick
Physically feel sick
Photograph of last years attempt
With only 3 weeks to the off I am now feeling physical sick and have been sick once. As I write this entry, my tum is churning away. I never had a baby but if this is what morning sickness is all about, I can feel empathy with all you moms.
Why am I feeling this nervous I keep asking myself!
For me to get from one end of the country. Lands End to the other end, John O’Groats, due to the extent of my disability, takes many people. There is my team of 7 in all. Without just one of them, this World Record Challenge could collapse like a pack of cards. Not trying to put pressure on you guys!
Then we have Handicare who are giving me Alex and either Ales or my Alber Adventure will be up for sale to offset the costs, some £6000, this challenge is costing £1000 give or take a few £’s.
We then have the RBL Poppy Appeal. They are supporting me where and when they can. They will be at the start with the RBL Standard and Standard Bearer. If you would like to make a donation then please go to my Bmycharity link on the left.
I am promoting Fairtrade and they have been a great help. My local FT rep gave me a FT hamper, thank for that.
Euro cars are providing my second vehicle with a very good discount.
Petal Black Clothing are giving a donation to my expenses and providing some tee shirts.
Jack Adams along with Don Dyer of the Lands End John O’Groats Association has worked to get The Guinness Book of Records to recognise this challenge as a World Record. See link to the left.
Back here at home, my friends and carers are working very hard to make sure that this challenge happens. Emmanuelle is doing all the paperwork. Addie is working on the food side, Eileen is making sure I have everything I need, and Eileen has worked with me for 17 years and was very much involved in my last attempt. Margaret is dealing with the bank and arranging for wages to be paid while I am away. Jacky, new to my team, is out doing 26 ks with me so I can do some serious training; Karen is getting my cloths altered. All of this is on top of feeding, watering and toileting me and doing my sleepovers.
Three of my team, Emmanuelle, Addie and Margaret are taking turns on the actual challenge by doing a week, encase of Emmanuelle, two weeks, out on the road with me. What can I says guys, but thank you.
Without all of the above and the massive fundraising efforts of a lady who likes to be in the background, Jenny Robson and a guy call Gary, some and not so small donations from friends and strangers in Tyne & Wear, then the funds for this challenge would not be in place. With the knock on effect that this challenge will not take place.
When I think off all of the above, then I remember I have forgotten the one person who will be out there on the road with me, Philip my cyclist, then no wonder I have morning and day sickness. Just opening my side gate has to be done by me.
The Campsite and Youth Hostel owners I have spoken to in booking our overnights stay, have been just great to speak to and making sure at this busy time of the year, ‘that we have a place to hang my hat’ you have the list here on the blog.
Put all this together and a once in a lifetime chance of becoming at the age of 62 years a World Record Holder.. Wow. Can life get any better?
To those of you who read my blog, and there are a few of you, you will know that I have a very strong faith. Would you please put me and this challenge onto your pray list and get the word out to other pray groups. Thank you and God Bless.
While my team and I are out on the road, we would love to hear from you and see you supporting us along the route, you can ring me personally and time on Mobile 07975649162. I would love to hear from you.
Well there you have today’s blog entry. Hope it is not too long but it has helped my tum if only for a short time
3 weeks and 4 hours to go!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Now The Nerves Are Kicking In!
Rescue Remedy to the rescue
Now the nerves are kicking in.
With still three weeks to off, my training is going well but the verves are now kicking in. This is something I have never experienced before. My tummy that is taking the blunt of my nerves. Already this week I have been sick twice and had bad heartburn once.
If anyone has any advice to pass on then I am only too pleased to read, and may, act
Today I was out fundraising towards my expenses and raised £150. Not bad. This evening I am off to a Forces Night, I am ex-WRAF and hope to get up on the floor in my Alber Power Chair and do some jig a budding. I just love it.
See you in my next entry
Thursday, June 25, 2009
World Record Attempt
LEJOG 18th July/12th August 09
The Guinness Book of Records TM http://www.guinnessworldrecords/ have now agreed to recognise “The Lands End to John O’Groats” challenge as a “World Record” and that The Lands End to John O’Groats Association are the official judicator of the LEJOG Challenge. http://www.landsend-johnogroats-assoc.com/
Mary Laver (62) is now going to take on the challenge under the rules of the “Guinness Book of Records TM,” of driving her Handicare “Alex” Power Chair from Lands End to John O’Groats between 18th July/12th August 09
Mary, who is severely disabled with Rheumatoid Arthritis, is totally human and wheelchair dependent will be with a team of seven, made up of two drivers, two vehicles, four carers, one cyclist... They plan to stay in campsites and Youth Hostels on this epic journey.
Mary says, “While this is my World Record attempt, I also consider it is also a team event. We will cross the starting line as a team and cross the finishing line as a team.” She also goes onto say. “This will be my second attempt but this time, thanks to friends and strangers in ‘Tyne & Wear and the support of my team;’ we will go for that World Record in their name.
Mary knows that the safety and the safety of others is a prime importance, and will if deemed necessary, Mary will get into her van to pass any danger knowing that by doing so her World Record attempt is finished.
Mary hopes the challenge will raise awareness of the work her chosen charity “The Royal British Legion and Poppy Appeal” and raise them lots of cash. Her target is £8000
Mary is also very passionate about the work of ‘Fairtrade’ and ‘Organic Food’, so will be promoting their work on this World Record attempt..
The team will be feed, where possible, on Organic and Faitrade produce.
Mary says’ “The World Record is there for me to take, all I have to do take it. Easy to say, very hard to do!”
For more details of the challenge, please go to
http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/
To support her chosen charity please go to
https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge
To contact Mary on her mobile, she would love to hear from you.
07975649162
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Guiness Book of Records
I can confirm that subject to you finishing your end to end journey successfully you will be recommended by the LEJOG Association to the GWR for world record status, on behalf of the LEJOG Association I wish you well with your adventure. After meeting you and conversing via email I can think of no other person that deserves success more than you.
Kind Regards
Jack
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Everything Is In Place
Everything is in place
It is now 1915 and I am playing catch up to tell you what has been happening.
Firstly, I can now say that this challenge is fully equipped with all its camping gear and all but three overnight stops are in place. My Fairtrade donated hamper has arrived, thank you for that. The contents have now been packed into to 85 lit plastic boxes, of which we have nine and are now slowly been packed with various items the boxes are numbered to identifie the tasks the contents will perform. 1. Our cooker 2. Our cooking stoves, BBQ, lighters, gas cylinders in another. 3. Fairtrade dry rations take up three. 4. Kitchen stuff takes up one, ect. I think you get the picture.
For sleeping on, I have bought good quality inflatable single beds.Everyone has been asked to bring their own sleeping bag. I have even thought of the tags to identify which belongs to whom.
For safe storage of food, we have cool bags. Two are electric and the other two are just cold bags. We are been very careful with our food hygiene, making sure that the meat and chicken keep away from each other and other foods. We shall be following health and hygiene rules to the last letter when it comes to preparing our food.
On Wednesday, we have our first team meeting. My local park has given us permission to put up our tents and to use this time as team building. We shall also try out using the hoist on the rubber mat that we have.
The pups are booked into kennels; the van is booked and paid for. Today I became a paid up member of the Lands End to John O’Groats Association http://www.landsend-johnogroats-assoc.com/ who are monitoring my challenge, see left-hand panel for their web site. All that now remains is to pull it all together and pack the vans.
This now means that for the next 4 weeks, well 3 weeks and 6 days, I am going to get as much training in as I can using my Alber Adventure. The most I can do is 20 miles per day as this is about the length of Albers batteries. I am hoping to have ‘Alex’ in two weeks time and then he and I can burn some real rubber together.
In the mean time, now that thanks to the support I have been getting from local people, I also have to fit in some fundraising for my chosen charity, ‘The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal,’ so please will you now move over to my Bmycharity link and sponsor me.
Thank you.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Booking Our Campsites
18th June 09
Booking our campsites
INDEX FOR ACCOMMODATION
FIRST WEEK
Day 0
Friday 17th July/18th July
Arrive Penzance
Bone Valley Caravan Park
Tel: 01736 360313
Deposit paid
Total cost £150 for 2 nights
www.caravancampingsites.co.uk/cornwall/bonevalley.htm
Day 1
Saturday 18th July
Lands End to Penzance
Bone Valley Caravan Park
See above
Day 2
Sunday 19th July
Penzance to Treyarnon
Treyarnon Caravan and Camping Park
Treyarnon Bay,
Padstow,
Cornwall.
PL28 8PN
Tel 01841 520681
http://www.carnevasholidaypark.com/amenities.html
To pay. Booked
Day 3
Monday 20th July
Treyarnon to Bridestowe
Okehampton (p191-192)
Ms & Mr Sargent
Bundu Camping & Caravan Park
EX20 4HT
Tel: 01837 861611
Confirmed pay by cash £40
email frances@bunduy.plus.com
www.bundu.co.uk/
Day 4
Tuesday 21st July
Bridestow to Cullompton
Mr Wellard
Forest Glad Caravan & Camping Park
EX12 2DT
Tel: 01404841381
www.forest-glade.co.uk/
Donated Thank you Mr & Mrs Wellard
Day 5
Wednesday 22nd July
Cullompton to Street
Isle of Avalon campsite
Godney Rd
Glastonbury
Somerset
BA6 9AF
Tel 01458 833618
Cost £60 To pay. Booked
http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/sites/reviews.asp?revid=2109
Day 6
Thursday 23rd July
Wells to Chepstow
YHA
St. Briavels (11miles)LydneyGloucestershire GL15 6RG
Tel 01594530272
Booked and paid £150
http://www.yha.org.uk/find-accommodation/heart-of-england/hostels/St-Briavels/index.aspx
Can take both road scenic and high.
Day 7/Day 8
Friday 24th July / Saturday 25th July
Chepstow to Burley Gate
“Change over”
The Millpond Camping & Caravanning Park (6 miles)
HEREFORDSHIRE
HR1 4JA
TEL 01432 890243
Deposit £28.60
http://www.millpond.co.uk/
SECOND WEEK
Day 9
Sunday 26th July
Burley Gate to Bridges
The Green Caravan Park (3 miles)WentnorBishop's CastleShropshireSY9 5EF
Tel 01588 650 605
Deposit £10
http://www.greencaravanpark.co.uk/
Day 10
Monday 27th July
Bridges to Holt (Wrexham)
Robert and Julie Broad
Emral Gardens Caravan ParkHolly BushBangor-on-DeeWrexhamLL13 0BG
Tel: (01948) 770401
Mobile: (07774) 275266
e-mail: enquiries@emralgardens.com
www.emralgardens.co.uk/
Day 11
Tuesday 28th July
Holt to Leigh
Day 12
Wednesday 29th July
Leigh to Slaidburn
Gallaber Park ( 9 miles )
Long Preston,
Skipton,
North Yorkshire.
BD23 4QFtel. 01729 851397
Booked to pay £18 per pitch
E-mail: info@gallaberpark.com
Web: www.gallaberpark.com
Day 13
Thursday 30th July
Slaidburn to Orton
None so far
Day 14/15
Friday 31st July/Saturday 1st August
Orton to Gretna
Hoddom Castle Caravan Park (14miles)
Hoddom
Lockabie
DG11 1AS
Tel 01576 300 251
Booked Paid £140 paid in full
http://www.hoddomcastle.co.uk/index.html
Change over
THIRD WEEK
Day 16
Sunday 2nd August
Gretna to Elvanfoot
Abington (7 miles)
Mrs Stirling
Mount View Caravan Park
ML12 6RW
Tel: 01864 502808
Email: info@mountviewcaravanpark.co.uk
www.mountviewcaravanpark.co.uk/
Booked in
Day 17
Monday 3rd August
Elvanfoot to Airdrie
Craigendmuir Park Business CentreSteppsGlasgowG33 6AFTel : 0141 779 4159Email : info@craigendmuir.co.ukWeb : www.craigendmuir.co.uk/
Deposit
Day 18
Tuesday 4th August
Airdrie to Ardchullarie More
Mr Richards Strathyre, Near Callander, Perthshire
FK18 8NJ
Tel 01877 384285
www.immervoulin.com
Email: immervoulin@freenet.co.uk
Donated Thank you
Day 19
Wednesday 5th August
Ardchullaire More to Archallader
YHA Crianlarich (12 miles)Perthshire
FK20 8QN
Phone: 01838 300 260E-mail: crianlarich@syha.org.uk
Booked by email
http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Crianlarich-YHA-050019.en.htm
Day 20
Thursday 6th August
Archallader to Spean Bridge
Gail & Andy Markham (4 miles)Bunroy ParkRoy BridgeInverness-shirePH31 4AG
Tel 01397 712332
http://www.bunroy.co.uk/
Booked Paid
Day 21/Day 22
Friday 7th August / Saturday 8th August
Spean Bridge to Drumnadrochit
Cannich Caravan & Camping Park(12miles)CannichStrathglassInverness-shireIV4 7LN
Tel 01456 415364
Booked To pay
http://www.btinternet.com/~highlandcamping/contact.html
FOURTH WEEK
Day 23
Sunday 9th August
Drumnadrochit to Bonar Bridge
Susannah
Dornoch Firth Caravan Park (13 miles)Meikle Ferry SouthTainIV19 1JX01862 892292enquiries@dornochfirth.co.ukwww.dornochfirth.co.uk
To pay £40
Day 24
Monday 10th August
Bonar Bridge to Tongue
SYHA Tongue,
By Lairg,
Sutherland,
IV27 4XH
Tel 01847 611789
http://www.syha.org.uk/hostels/highlands/tongue.aspx
Booked
Day 25
Tuesday 11th August
Tongue to Isauld
No accommodation so far
Day 26
Wednesday 12th August
Isauld to John O'Groats
John O’Groats caravan
Mr Steven
Tel: 01955 611329
Email: info@johnogrotscampsite.co.uk
www.visitjohnogroats.com/johnogroatscampsite.co.uk/
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Solving problems
On this challenge, as with any other challenge, there are many problems we have to solve.
One problem we have to solve in my case is lifting me safely. This will be done by using a portable mobile lift.
Mobile lifts are designed to use indoors, none has come up with one to use outside. Why I do not know, as more and more disabled people are venturing out and using our campsites, me being one of them.
Getting back to hoisting.
Problem one is hoisting me on grass. Not easy, we have tried it. The solution has to be in the form of a firm base. Having looked at some, we have opted for a very thick rubber square, putting the hoist on it and moving my bed, or chair to the hoist. That problem that problem solved
Next problem, what happens if it is raining!
While we are out on the road, I will have to be taken out of Alex while he is having a battery change and general check over, and be put onto my stretcher or into my manual wheelchair. No problem in care parks and roadside parking areas as they have a hard surface. The problem is, ‘what happens if it is raining?’ ‘How to I keep the hoist dry?’ They are not designed for getting wet, mine is not, I have checked with the manufacture Solution a large winding up garden parasail, -see photograph. - over the hoist. To keep the handset/battery dry, we will be wrapped in Clingfilm
I hope we never have to put this to the test but it is one of the many things we have to be prepared for. Watch this space.
The Guiness Book of Records
17 June 2009
The Guinness Book of Records
To bring you up to date as regards my application to the Guinnes I am appealing against this dission as driving a power chair is totally different to driving a power scooter. In addition, there is a big difference between 1600 miles and 1000 miles. I will let you know their verdict
15th June 2009
Book of Records.
Claim ID: 257257
Mrs Laver,
Thank you for your enquiry regarding your intention to attempt the record for '!000 miles in a power chair'. Your proposal is very similar to an existing record that we monitor and so we suggest you attempt this instead: 'Longest journey on an electric mobility vehicle (scooter)'.
The current record (current as at the date of this letter) is:John Duckworth (UK) travelled 2,662.8 km (1654.6 miles) around mainland UK on a Horizon Mayan electric mobility scooter between 20 June 2004 and 27 July 2004, finishing in Hincaster, Cumbria, UK.
You may wish to check with us again closer to submitting your full claim to be sure that a new record has not been set in the interim.
Please note that any current record information is provided to you to the best of Guinness World Records knowledge and belief as at the date of this letter and is based on the record information currently logged on the Guinness World Records database. This current record may change at any time due to a new record being approved. You are responsible for keeping yourself up to date with any new records as Guinness World Records will not inform you of any change to the current record.
We have attached specific Guidelines for this record category which detail the requirements you must follow to make your record attempt. You should ensure that all those participating and those witnessing the attempt are aware of the contents of these Guidelines. We would also draw your attention to the specific authentication we require when you come to make your claim for this particular category. This is in addition to the general authentication requirements as detailed in the Record Breakers Pack also included with this email.
These Guidelines will be appropriate for achieving a Guinness World Record as at the date of this letter. However, please be aware that as and when required, the Guidelines may be updated by us from time to time and without further notice to you.
Using the Guinness World Records T or logo is a great way to help promote your attempt. If you are interested in using our logo and trademarks during your record event, please log in the website, select the appropriate claim number and click on 'Use our logo'.
Once the record has been attempted and you have compiled your claim and completed the Agreement Regarding Supporting Materials which you will find in the attachment, all the information should be sent to us here at:
GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS LIMITED 3rd Floor184-192 Drummond StreetLondon NW1 3HPUNITED KINGDOM.
Please ensure that your Claim ID (above) is clearly marked on your package and all documentation.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Alex & Me
“Alex and Me”
At the heart of all this challenge is a guy called “Alex” you can visit his web site http://www.handicare.co.uk/handicare/pages/newspage____158284.aspx?epslanguage=ENhe
Alex is a normal sort of guy, he has the usual four wheels, his heart in his hand control, and I can snuggle up to him on his lap. He would like to do nothing more than to take me out for a nice ride in the country.
Alex and I have only met a couple of times, the first being on a blind date at Newcastle International Airport. I would not say it was love at first sight, I am not that sort of girl, I need a bit of time to get to know a guy, you know the sort of thing!
I well remember the first time I saw Alex; he was driving towards me at slow, and gentle speed with his friend called Mechanic. I was in my Alber Adventure, a trusted and tried friend. We said "Hi" and as we were there for a meeting, he went into the room with us. Not together I must add. Alex just sat quietly in the corner of the room
As our meeting was ending, it was time for Alex and me to get to know each other more intimately. It was then that I was hoisted onto Alex’s lap. Wow, that was a good feeling. I could feel his comfortable seat, a girls dream. His friend Mechanic, made a few adjustments to his wonderful armrests and made sure that my legs fitted securely onto his feet rests. “Enough” I said we want to be alone to get to know each other a bit more. The door was opened and Alex and I drove slowly at first, but then started to burn some rubber and together we drove into the airport, the others trying, but failing to keep up.
Alex and I were not together for very long on this first date. We did a few twirls on the open floor, had a few photos taken and ventured outside for a few moments to be alone having to return to the group for a sad parting. Alas Handicare, they made Alex, wanted to take him home and talk to him as man-to-man about him driving me all the way from Lands End to John O’Groats. – This is what the meeting was all about and they wanted Alex to be there as they planned that he might like to be the chosen power chair for the challenge. - They were to be frank with him, this was no romantic drive in the park or sitting in the back row of the cinema, no, this was the big adventure. Did he want to do it? The verdict I was to get at the NIDEX Show in Birmingham.
When I got to the NIDEX Show, I was a bit apprenticed. Was Alex going to do the End 2 End with me? Was he going to let me sit on his lap through the sun and rain? Was he going to be up to doing 40 miles a day and 1000 miles in all? Would he beable to do this when both of us wanted to call it a day knowing we had to carry on. Could he cope with the publicity, been in the lime light afterwards.
All these questions raised through my head as the train pulled in to Birmingham International.
With my heart raising, I made my way in my DHSS wheelchair, - Alber Adventure did not want to meet up with his rival again, so flatly refused to go with me, understandable -, to Handicare stand. Alex was there waiting for me. We were taken to a stand that sold hoists so I could be hoisted once again into Alex lap. Nothing had change. We still wanted to be together.
I had to ask Alex, “do you still want to take me all the way from one end of England to the other?” His answer was yes he did. If he had been able to do so, my disability stopped me, I would have hugged him there, right in front of thousands of people. I am just glad that Alber was not there. He would have turned on his wheels.
After spending, the day with Alex visiting various stands, drinking loads of coffee, we had to say good by, but this time knowing we will meet up again soon.
Yesterday I had an email from Eddie at Handicare who is a good friend of Alex. He told me that Alex is getting ready for our big day. Alex want to be at his best fitness, so is making sure that all his parts are in top shape and his new long distance batteries do not affect his performance on the road. Thanks Alex for that thought.
Alex and I will be meeting up again at the beginning of July to do some training runs. After the E2E we have been invited, with Eddie of Handicare, - remember they bought us together - and a couple of friends, to the House of Commons for lunch and a tour. What accolade is that?
Keep reading this blog to see how Alex and I fair in our new relationship and if at the end of the E2E our relationship lasts and my Alber decides there is not enough room in my heart, and my house, for two guys and leaves me.
Who will win my heart Alex or Alber? Only time will tell.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
My Faith
My Faith.
My faith is very real to me and has helped me through many events in my life, the worst been my marriage break up and the death of my mom and dad.
During all the hours, the ups and downs of organising this challenge, the disappointments, getting to the point where i was going to have to call it off, there is one place i go to for guidence and strenght, the Groto at Lourdes. There I leave a pray. You might like to pay the Groto a visit, they have a live Web Cam http://www.lourdes-france.org/index.php?goto_centre=ru&contexte=en&id=405
This is the pray i left there this morning.
"Dear Mary mother of Jesus. Dear Jesus, thank you for your spirit being in my E2E challenge. Please be with me when the road is long, the body is week and i want to call it a day. Give me your strength to carry on." Amen
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Swindon
10th July
Swindon visitor
Someone from Swindon is visiting my blog a great deal. You are extremely welcome glad you find the blog of interest but pray please revel yourself and tell me why.
The Highway Code
10th July 09
The Highway Code for Power Chairs
The Highway Code
Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters (36-46)
(Called Invalid Carriages in law)
36
There is one class of manual wheelchair (called a Class 1 invalid carriage) and two classes of powered wheelchairs and powered mobility scooters. Manual wheelchairs and Class 2 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 4 mph (6 km/h) and are designed to be used on pavements. Class 3 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 8 mph (12 km/h) and are equipped to be used on the road as well as the pavement.
37
When you are on the road you should obey the guidance and rules for other vehicles; when on the pavement you should follow the guidance and rules for pedestrians.
On pavements
38
Pavements are safer than roads and should be used when available. You should give pedestrians priority and show consideration for other pavement users, particularly those with a hearing or visual impairment who may not be aware that you are there.
39
Powered wheelchairs and scooters MUST NOT travel faster than 4 mph (6 km/h) on pavements or in pedestrian areas. You may need to reduce your speed to adjust to other pavement users who may not be able to move out of your way quickly enough or where the pavement is too narrow.
[Law UICHR 1988 reg 4]
40
When moving off the pavement onto the road, you should take special care. Before moving off, always look round and make sure it’s safe to join the traffic. Always try to use dropped kerbs when moving off the pavement, even if this means travelling further to locate one. If you have to climb or descend a kerb, always approach it at right angles and don’t try to negotiate a kerb higher than the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
On the road
41
You should take care when travelling on the road as you may be travelling more slowly than other traffic (your machine is restricted to 8 mph (12 km/h) and may be less visible).
42
When on the road, Class 3 vehicles should travel in the direction of the traffic. Class 2 users should always use the pavement when it is available. When there is no pavement, you should use caution when on the road. Class 2 users should, where possible, travel in the direction of the traffic. If you are travelling at night when lights MUST be used, you should travel in the direction of the traffic to avoid confusing other road users.
[Law UICHR 1988 reg 9]
43
You MUST follow the same rules about using lights, indicators and horns as for other road vehicles, if your vehicle is fitted with them. At night, lights MUST be used. Be aware that other road users may not see you and you should make yourself more visible - even in the daytime and also at dusk - by, for instance, wearing a reflective jacket or reflective strips on the back of the vehicle.
[Law UICHR 1988 reg 9]
44
Take extra care at road junctions. When going straight ahead, check to make sure there are no vehicles about to cross your path from the left, the right, or overtaking you and turning left. There are several options for dealing with right turns, especially turning from a major road. If moving into the middle of the road is difficult or dangerous, you can
stop on the left-hand side of the road and wait for a safe gap in the traffic
negotiate the turn as a pedestrian, i.e. travel along the pavement and cross the road between pavements where it is safe to do so. Class 3 users should switch the vehicle to the lower speed limit when on pavements
If the junction is too hazardous, it may be worth considering an alternative route. Similarly, when negotiating major roundabouts (i.e. with two or more lanes) it may be safer for you to use the pavement or find a route which avoids the roundabout altogether.
45
All normal parking restrictions should be observed. Your vehicle should not be left unattended if it causes an obstruction to other pedestrians - especially those in wheelchairs. Parking concessions provided under the Blue Badge scheme (see 'Other information') will apply to those vehicles displaying a valid badge.
Other information
46
These vehicles MUST NOT be used on motorways (see Rule 253). They should not be used on unrestricted dual carriageways where the speed limit exceeds 50 mph (80 km/h) but if they are used on these dual carriageways, they MUST have a flashing amber beacon. A flashing amber beacon should be used on all other dual carriageways (see Rule 220).
[Laws RTRA sect 17(2) & (3), & RVLR reg 17(1) & 26]
Team to Visit Poppy Factory
Invitation for team
Clair O’Dowd, the Events Assistance at the RBL, on completing the E2E wrote quote “We would like to offer you and your volunteers a chance to visit the Poppy Factory in Richmond once you have completed the trip” unquote.
This is great news and will show how much appreciation from the RBL, have for all the team and their effort.
If anyone reading this blog has any other suggestions as a treat for the team a long the route, then can you please email me. Thanks
Monday, June 8, 2009
5 Weeks to Go
Camping Arrangements.
Sleeping arrangements.
We shall have four tents.
Tent 1 for the guys sleeping two.
Tent 2 for the girls sleeping 2/3
Tent 3 for me plus 1
Tent 4 for the mess tent and using the hoist, my personal care.
First, can I say thanks for coming?
That I see this challenge as a team effort. None is greater than the whole team. Remember we are here to do a challenge to raise lots of cash for the RBL. Also, remember to have lots of fun and enjoy the moments as they unfold. Not many people do what you are doing going from one end of England to the other. You are going to visit some beautiful parts of the UK, enjoy them and enjoy each other’s company. We are taking a second bike in case anyone of you wish to do a days cycle or just get away from the group for a bit.
To help this challenge move along easily I am going to allocate each one of you, in addition to mucking in with everything, a responsibility within the team. Please help each other in any way you can and all hands to the deck to set up camp or the Youth Hostel.
Team leader for each week, and holder of the credit card, will be
Week 1 Addie
Week 2 Emmanuelle
Week 3 Margaret
Week 4 Emmanuelle.
The team leader will be responsible for paying all the bills, including the campsite, YHAs when we use them, shopping and petrol in the second van. I will put petrol in my van. They will be responsible in helping the other team member involved in my care that day; helping with the cooking, driving the second van, hence they only do a Friday night sleepover. Making sure that the site is clean before you leave. Guys’, laying the table is your job. Nothing changes does it…
Week 1 & 2 Gary is responsible for the Van 1, doing daily checks, making sure the van is loaded properly, and keeping the van clean. Driving my van and looking after Alex.
Week 2 & 3 John is taking on the above task.
Keith will be taking on the responsibility of the tents. Please everyone, take Keith’s’ lead on this one. Keith will see that they are taken down and packed properly. That all pegs are cleaned and put away. He will also take the lead in putting the tents up. Looking after van 2; loading it. (Team leader will be driving van no 2.) Generally in charge of setting up the camp, putting up tables, pumping up beds, ect. While you are doing all this, the girls help where you need them to, ie help in putting up the tents as it takes two, will be making your coffee/tea and cooking your meals.
Jenny x's 2 …. Your main responsibilities for all of my care, including the sleepovers, and along with the team leader, take on cooking for the team; helping with setting up the tents.
Philip. Your main job is been the cyclist getting us both safely from point a to point b. You will not be expected to do any more than that unless you wish to.
Me. I have the best job. I just drive the Alex 40 miles per day and watch you all working hard!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Local People Rally to My Support
Press Release
By Mary Laver 05 June 2009
Local People Rally to My Support
05 June 2009
Local people in Tyne & Wear are rallying to my support.
Local people, many whom I do not know, and friends, are rallying around me to support me in these hard times, to help make this once in a lifetime, End-to-End Challenge, in my ‘Alex’ power chair, happen.
They are doing this by giving cash – small and not so small - to my funds. They are doing this by holding events; giving food hampers – Due to my support for Faitrade, I have been given a very large Faitrade food hamper; their much needed prays; their love. All this, and much more, is to help me achieve my goal of raising money for the RBL Poppy Appeal.
Jenny Robinson, RBL, has pulled out all the stops, in her affords to help me. Jenny is doing this by asking local people to hold fund raising events. Jenny herself has organised a 60’s night, which happens to be on my 62nd Birthday, at our local Forest Hall RBL club.
I have applied to the ‘Guinness Book of Records’ to see if they will recognize this challenge as ‘1000 miles in a power chair.’ I await their verdict on this one.
The amount still needed, thanks for all the effort, is getting less by the minute. With all this help, I should raise enough money to do the E2E and at the same time prevent me going into a lot of personal debt, which I am very reluctant to do, or selling my Alber Adventure, which, thought I desperately do not want to do, I was prepared to do. Alex, as things stand, will have to be sold to help meet my expenses. I would, if possible, and if funds allow, I would like to give ‘Alex’, after a full service, and complete with is guarantee, to a disabled service person.
If all the plans for our fundraising come together, I may now, due to their generosity, besides paying all the bills and not getting into personal debt, I might just be able to pay for one more much needed carer. We had to drop a carer when one of the sponsors dropped out.
With all this love and support around me, when you live in such a community
who needs to watch neighbours?
To you all, a very sincere thank you.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Mary Laver’s Power Chair Challenge May Have to be Cancelled.
Mary Laver (62), who has crippling rheumatoid arthritis making her totally human and wheelchair dependent, has a driving ambition, to drive her ‘Alex’ power chair, in July / August 09, from Lands End to John O’Groats, for her chosen charity, ‘The Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal.’ Just one thing may be stopping her, finding the shortfall of £4000 in her £10000 budget to fund the challenge.
After months of planning, sending out press releases via Press Box, Mary has not managed to capture the imagination of the press or sponsors, even her local paper, the Newcastle Chronicle only squeezed in a small paragraph at the bottom of a page in their newspaper. The free paper ‘The Metro’ have not picked it up, and only one local radio station ‘Metro’ did a 4 second slot at intervuls during one day and put an earlier press release on their web site though Mary only got one response, though very disappointed, Mary says a very hearty thank you.
Mary says, “I have short fall of approx £4000 and have no private means of raising this money. I cannot afford to put all expenses on a credit card as I do not have the means to pay such a large amount off.” I may, if I cannot find some more funding have to call the challenge off”.
Mary, through Press Box, is putting an appeal out to every one to please help her do this challenge by providing some funding. I have applied to different charities but have been told they do not fund individual’s only charities. Mary has applied to the Guinness Book of Records to have her challenge recognised and recorded as ‘1000 miles in a power chair’ Mary awaits their verdict
If you wish to know more about Marys End 2 End then please visit her blog http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/ email her mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com or mobile 07975649162
3rd June 09
Monday, June 1, 2009
5000 Visitors Since October 07
Please do remember me in your prays. I need all the help i can get.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
SOS for Cash Help
Friday, May 29, 2009
Camping Sites
Thursday, May 28, 2009
28th May 09
Petal Back Clothing come on board.
On this challenge i shall have to use a variety of equipment and clothing from my 'Alex' power chair to my tee-shirts.
While i was at the NIDEX show in Birmingham I was on the look out for good quality, comfortable tee-shirts to wear and came across Petal Back. After looking at their product, including the ease of putting them on, i invited them to send me a sample to try. This i now waiting for and will report back to you all.
If you have any product that i maybe able to use and put to the test while on the E2E then please drop me an email at mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com. I would love to hear from you.
Now for Neighbours. Bye.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Raw Oats Cause Me Pain
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Monday, May 25, 2009
What a Wonderful Feeling Training Is
Speak again soon.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
10 k An Hour in My Alber Adventure
10 k an hour in my Alber Adventure
I am using my Alber Adventure for training while I wait for ‘Alex’ to be delivered with its few extras. We are looking at me wearing a camcorder to record the whole venture.
Today my training on my local roads has started in earnest. I did 15 k’s today in 1 ½ hrs. On the E2E, I have to do 65 k minium per day for 6 days with 10 min stop every 1 hr and 1 hr stop for lunch, meaning I will be out doing the challenge for 9 hrs per day. It is strange been on the roads in my power chair, but I will have to face traffic on some, not all of the E2E this is the reason I am doing training in local traffic. On the E2E, where possible I will be using cycle paths and footpaths. I have found that after so much driving on the footpaths I now found that I have to concentrate a lot more on what is around me, the condition of the road and read the traffic as well as obeying traffic signals and signs. Me been on the road in Alber has turned quite a few heads and caused a few laughs.
When I am on the roads safety is my prime importance. I have a cycle orange flag flying high above the chair at the rear. My friend followed me, told me I was very easy to see, and congratulated me. I wear a Florissant jacket and orange cycle hat and good cycling gloves. I must take a photograph for you.
While driving along I am reading the road, just like when I drove my car, I am looking out for potholes in the road, other vehicles coming from every side of me, and the pedestrian crossing lights we have here in Forest Hall.
One thing I did notice was the more I drove the less body discomfort I felt. It was if my body was having a good shake down and settling in to the seat. My arm relaxed and I enjoyed the ride the more miles I did.
We still have a lot to do concerning the E2E before the off on the 18th July, the van is already booked and paid for; two campsites are booked and paid for. I have arranged a new credit card solely for the E2E, and my team are now coming forward, but you keep more fully up to date by reading all about it here on my blog...
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Funding Costs
16th May 09
Funding costs.
To fund something like this challenge because of my care requirements takes a lot of people, i need minim 6 people in the team so this puts the overall costs of this challenge high than normal.
To give you an idea of the costs involved i am including the appendix in my blog. I hope you find it of some interest.
E2E Appendix (A) Accommodation
From 17th of July to the 15th of August
Based on 6 persons @ 30 nights
Option 1
Costing for staying in YHA for whole trip
YHA = £15 person per night x 6 = £90
£15 x 6 persons x 30 nights = £2700
Option 2
Campsite per night including 4 tents, 2 vehicles, 1 hook-up,
6 persons
£75 average High price
£50 average Low price
All nights in Campsites as above no YHA
Higher Price £75 x 30 = £2250
Lower Price £50 x 30 = £1500
Option 3
4 nights in YHA and 26 in campsite:
Higher Price (£90 x 4) + (£75 x 26) = £2310
Lower Price (£90 x 4) + (£50 x 26) = £1660
Option 4
8 nights in YHA and 22 in campsites:
Higher Price (£90 x 8) + (£75 + 22) = £2370
Lower Price (£90 x 8) + (£50 x 22) = £1820
E2E Appendix (C) Transport Costs
We are using 2 mini bus vans for the whole trip and hiring a car to change shifts this is a breakdown of costs
Cost of Mary’s van. Free
Cost of hire of van which we have been offered at a greatly reduced price because the challenge is for charity is – see attached quotation = £554
Average cost of hiring car at £80 for 2 days x 3 pickups = £240
Fuel for vans @ 25 miles per gallon @ 2500 miles approx = £1146
Fuel for cars @ 40 miles per gallon @ 1288 miles approx = £170
Food
We are looking at £7 per day per person, hopefully using mainly Organic and Fair Trade
Wages
I will have to pay, unless i can get volunters for at least for 4 people, so that will add £4000 onto the bill.
So there you have it. At an average estimate the cost to do the E2E will be in the region of £9500. Any offers of help will be gratefully received.
I hope that you found this information of interest
Speak again soon
Mary
Sunday, May 10, 2009
My New Press Release
Press Release
09 May 2009
British Record Attempt
Lands End to John O'Groats
1000 Mile Power Chair Challenge
18th July/12th August 2009
Start 2 pm
http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com
Mary Laver is 62 years old Is severely disabled due to Rheumatoid Arthritis, and has been totally wheelchair and human dependant for 22 years. has a dream, to drive a power chair from Lands End 2 John O’Groats, a distance of some 1000 miles, 1600 k. It has never been done before in one power chair.
In July 09 Mary Laver (Newcastle upon Tyne) hopes to fly the flag for all power chair users and make her bid at the E2E
Mary only eats organic food and always promotes Fairtrade products where and when possible, as she will during the 1000 mile challenge. http://www.soilassociation.org/ http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/
Mary advocates very strongly about controlling arthritis pain by diet. Mary along with Margaret Smith, is also the co-author of a best selling cookery book 'Diet for Life' Pan Books,
During the passed 2 years, Mary has already had one attempt and failed. Mary was planning this challenge for the second time, however Mary still has a shortfall in funds and her support team for the challenge so new sponsors and supports are urgently sought if she is to leave on the date 18th July. See her blog http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/
Mary is asking anyone to please come forward at this late date and back her in this once in a lifetime challenge either as a helper or to help cover the cost of any care she will need. If none comes forward her challenge and record attempt is off.
Local people are holding events and she say that she is selling one of her two power chairs to cover the costs of accommodation, food and petrol, some £7000
If Mary is to achieve her mission, she needs the most up to date technology. She is extremely grateful to Handicare Ltd, who have donated their new Alex power chair to the project. UK Marketing Manager Eddie Peacock describes Mary as “inspirational”. “She is a remarkable lady and we wish her every success with her 1000 mile challenge” Eddie Peacock (Handicare UK Marketing Manager) 07985-160675 mhtml:%7B2688B87A-4980-4B20-899E-3C3CAFB840DE%7Dmid://00000081/!x-usc:mailto:eddie.peacock@handicare.co.uk http://www.alexwheelchair.co.uk/
As Mary is an ex forces, the WRAF, she is keen to ensure the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal as her chosen charity for the challenge, receives lots of sponsorship money and is asking people to make a donation by going to https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge. Or contact Jenny Robson (The Royal British Legion) 0191-2682310 http://www.poppy.org.uk/index.php/give-money.html
Mary will be wearing a blue tooth earpiece while on the challenge so if you would like to speak to Mary while she is doing the challenge her mobile no is 07975649162. Mary is available for interviews with radio and press at any time before, during, and after the challenge, please just ring her mobile or land line
You can contact me in the first instance by mobile 07975649162 or 01912665197 or by email mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
Thank you.
Best Wishes
Mary Laver
Mobile 07975649162Tel No 0191 266 5197
E2E Challenge in a Power Wheelchairhttp://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/
Donation to our chosen charities please go to https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge Make a commenthttp://bmy.typepad.com/making_giving_better/2009/02/power-chair-challenge-1000-miles-in-a-wheelchair.html
Friday, May 8, 2009
Local Metro Radio Supports Me
The 61 year old has been totally wheelchair and human dependant for 22 years and is planning to embark on the 1,000 mile British record attempt on July 18 to August 18.
But the Forest Hall woman is now looking for a new sponsor to help towards the costs of the trip and a new support team, after her main sponsor backed out.
To complete the challenge Mary will need at least three carers to help with her personal care, a driver for the support vehicle and a cyclist.
She estimates it will cost about £7,000 to pay for food, accommodation and petrol for the challenge and she is willing to sell one of her two wheelchairs to help cover costs.
Mary, who used to be a driver in the WRAF, has chosen the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal as the charities to benefit from her record bid and hopes people will sponsor her attempt at the challenge.
Local people and community groups are also supporting Mary's efforts by holding fundraising events. Forest Hall British Legion will be holding a 60s night on June 12 to help cover costs.
Mary said: "I'm looking for sponsors to help me raise the £7,000 to cover the costs of the challenge. They can put their name on the side of our van.
"I also need carers, a driver or two and a cyclist to volunteer for the challenge. Although it would be great if they wanted to do some fundraising, it won't cost anything for people to to take part - we'll cover the costs of food and accommodation. It will look great on anybody's CV.
"There are two aims of the challenge, one is to help the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal. I used to be in the forces and I sell poppies every year so it seemed natural I should chose these charities.
"Secondly it is to fly the flag for powerchair users and disabled people and try inspire them. There's so many people out there who think there's nothing for them to rise to or try.
"When I get to John O'Groats I'll get the same feeling people get when they win a gold medal. There's been so much effort and planning go into this - it's going to be one hell of a journey! Hopefully I can get all the support I need to complete this challenge."
This will be Mary's second attempt at the challenge, in June last year Mary tried driving her powerchair from Lands End to John O'Groats, but had to stop after a day as she felt there were not enough people in the care team to cope with the demands.
If you would like to get involved with Mary's latest attempt as a sponsor or volunteer call her on 07975649162 or email mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
My New Press Release
07 May 2009
British Record Attempt
Lands End to John O'Groats
1000 Mile Power Chair Challenge
18th July/18th August 2009
Start 2 pm
http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/
New Sponsors Sort for E2E Challenge
Mary Laver is 62 years old Is severely disabled due to Rheumatoid Arthritis, and has been totally wheelchair and human dependant for 22 years. has a dream, to drive a power chair from Lands End 2 John O’Groats, a distance of some 1000 miles, 1600 k. It has never been done before in one power chair.
In July 09 Mary Laver (Newcastle upon Tyne) hopes to fly the flag for all power chair users and make her bid at the E2E
Mary only eats organic food and always promotes Fairtrade products where and when possible, as she will during the 1000 mile challenge. http://www.soilassociation.org/ http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/
Mary advocates very strongly about controlling arthritis pain by diet. Mary along with Margaret Smith, is also the co-author of a best selling cookery book 'Diet for Life' Pan Books,
During the passed 2 years, Mary has already had one attempt and failed. Mary was planning this challenge for the second time, however Mary still has a shortfall in funds for the challenge so new sponsors are urgently sought if she is to leave on the date 18th July. See her blog http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/
Mary is asking anyone to please come forward at this late date and back her in this once in a lifetime challenge either as a helper or to help cover the cost of any care she will need. If none comes forward her challenge and record attempt is off.
Local people are holding events and she say that she is selling one of her two power chairs to cover the costs of accommodation, food and petrol, some £7000
If Mary is to achieve her mission, she needs the most up to date technology. She is extremely grateful to Handicare Ltd, who have donated their new Alex power chair to the project. UK Marketing Manager Eddie Peacock describes Mary as “inspirational”. “She is a remarkable lady and we wish her every success with her 1000 mile challenge” Eddie Peacock (Handicare UK Marketing Manager) 07985-160675 eddie.peacock@handicare.co.uk http://www.alexwheelchair.co.uk/
As Mary is an ex forces, the WRAF, she is keen to ensure the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal as her chosen charity for the challenge, receives lots of sponsorship money and is asking people to make a donation by going to https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge. Or contact Jenny Robson (The Royal British Legion) 0191-2682310 http://www.poppy.org.uk/index.php/give-money.html
Mary will be wearing a blue tooth earpiece while on the challenge so if you would like to speak to Mary while she is doing the challenge her mobile no is 07975649162. Mary is available for interviews with radio and press at any time before, during, and after the challenge, please just ring her mobile or land line
You can contact me in the first instance by mobile 07975649162 or 01912665197 or by email mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
Thank you.
7th May 09
Please visit this sight
I have had a greart email from a supporter in America which reads.
hi mary, this is John J2 Mryczko from Extreme Chairing. i recieved the press release of your 1000 mile challenge and must say im impressed. i went on a 200 mile 6 day roll across my state last year and it was not easy. i wish you luck and wish you a safe journey. i have put your story and pres release on www.ExtremeChairing.com . if we at EC get some donations this month i would love to send you a EC shirt and other gear. keep me and EC informed on your progress. Letting the great times roll,John J2 MryczkoExtreme Chairing
On that web site is a link see below, please follow it, it makes a great read,
http://j2rollson.com/rollathon%202008%20completed.html
Monday, May 4, 2009
My Rheumatoid Arthritis
4th May 09
My Rheumatoid Arthritis
I have Rheumatoid Arthritis, RA. If you wish to know more about RA then please visit http://www.rheumatoid.org.uk/
What effect does this have on my life and my ability to compleat this challenge? Non
I have been totally power wheelchair dependent for 20 years and totally human dependent for 15 of those years.
So what does this mean? First and foremost I cannot not wash, clean my teeth, dress myself, feed, or generally use my hands and arms to any extent except drive my power chair and use my computer. I have a Possum to do things such as switch on the TV, Lights and answer the telephone. I cannot stand and have to be hoisted out of my chair.
On the challenge, all of my personal care will have to be given. I shall still have to be washed, got up, feed and watered. I shall still need care during the nights as I get now. All of this will happen on campsites and YHA’s. Not forgetting while out on the road I will need toileting, I can wee from my chair, i will also need feeding and watering, besides making sure that I am safe on the road. Now that takes a special team of people and I have such a team.
To keep my body in this excellent condition while on the challengemy power chair and cushion are play a vital part, step in 'Alex'.
So there you briefly have it, my condition. The best part is, I do not have any pressure sore due to good care over the years. Now that is amazing don’t you think?
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Visitor From Brighton
2 May 09
Visitor from Brighton
Hi, i am having someone from Brighton visiting my blog quite a few times and you seem very interested in my site meter. Can you please tell me who you are and why you are visiting my blog, not that i am complaining. Glad you find my blog worth visiting. You can email me on mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com or ring my mobile
Thanks
Mary Laver
NIDEX Show Birmingham April 09
02 May 2009
NIDEX Show
Good morning from a sunny Newcastle
On Wednesday, I attended, at the request of Handicare, the NIDEX show in Birmingham. The aim to be fitted out with Alex and to see what I would require in addition to the standard setting; different seat back, you have many to chose from with ‘Alex’, seating, I am even told I can have a cruse control on, great as I shall be driving about 40 miles per day. Eddie also explained about the information that is stored in the hand control computer system. I also asked especially that a mirror also be attached. I was then free to drive Alex around the show and start to get use to driving this chair with so many variables to suite my personal driving.
Meeting up with Alex was not the start of this extronary day, just a small part. My day started at 0300 with my wake up call. Why so early? My night staff had to have me ready for my next carer for that day who arrived at 0500 and I had to be ready for a taxi at 0530 to catch the train to Birmingham, this is when the day really started to unfold.
When travelling a long distance on a train in the commuter time people sometimes get to talk to each other. This was no exception in my case.
About two hrs into the journey I had the urge to talk to one of the passengers sitting nest to me, about the challenge and to give the information I had prepared. It turned out that this lady lived by me and was interested in the challenge and would see if she could help with some sponsors. Please remember I need to raise £7000 for the trip and as things stand, I will be selling my Alber Adventure and keeping Alex. This was starting to be a great start to the day. A gentleman, who had heard me talking, as he left the train also asked for my information.
On my tour of the show, I visited many stands and spoke to the BBC’s Ouch program. I was also interested in a stand that made clothing for people, who like me, have difficulty getting into clothing. The are going to look into donating to the challenge in exchange for me wearing their tee shirts with their logo on. As I liked the tee shirt very much, I asked them to contact me.
To readers of this blog, you will know that I am a great lover of ‘Drinkup’; I use their jug at home. They have designed hands free drinking device that will be attached wheelchairs and need to see ‘Alex’ to make sure their device will fit onto ‘Alex’ so I can drink hands free, while on the move. As ‘Alex’ and Chris from ‘Drinkup’ were at the show, Chris was able to visit Handicare stand, look at an ‘Alex’ and make sure that the Drinkup hands free will fit on ‘Alex’. No problem
I will now skip the show, get back into my DHSS power chair and take you to my trip home.
As with most comuter trains people get their computers out, plug into the trains system, and continue as if they are still in the office, typing away.
It was when a certain lady had stopped doing this, (typing on her computer,) that I started to speak to her about the challenge. Believe me when I say her husband has just done the E2E a couple of weeks ago. The lady in question will be back in touch, as she may know of a means I can get some funding. Along comes Jack. See entry Jack Elliot.
My day finished at 2000 hrs at home.
Since Wednesday I have been on the computer, got the press release off, booked our first campsite at Penzance and will be attending tonight a Girkers night at our local Legion.
So there you have it. An update.
Speak again soon
Thursday, April 30, 2009
My MP - Mr Stephen Bryers - Supports My Challenge
30th April
My MP supports my challenge
At this time when our MPs are getting a very bad press here is a good press for my MP. The pize folks is dinner for 4, which is broken down to 2 prize winners and me plus carer, at The House of Commonds and a tour aroung the House afterwards. Money cannot buy such a prize.
Thanks Mr Bryers
Now to see emails conferming this fantatic prize.
Dear Mary
Thank you for your email of 11.4.09.
I will be pleased to donate the same prize again and would be happy for funds raised to go to whatever would be most helpful to you – I am flexible.
Yours sincerely
Rt Hon Stephen Byers, MP
From: mary.laver [mailto:mary.laver@sky.com] Sent: 28 April 2009 18:26To: BYERS, StephenSubject: Re: Marine & Coastal Access Bill
Dear Stephen
Thank you very much for supporting this very important Bill.
Have you given any more thought to donating as a fundraiser, the lunch for two at the House of Commons. These tickets would be used as a joint prize to be held in 3 clubs in North Tynside.
Thank you.
Regards
Dear Mary
Thank you for your email of 18.4.09.
I will support this Bill and will also talk directly to DEFRA Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies about it.
Yours sincerely
Rt Hon Stephen Byers, MP
Information for you
Lands End to John O'Groats
1000 Mile Power Chair Challenge
18th July/18th August 2009
2 pm start
http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/
The Challenge
Lands End 2 John O’Groats is the furthest distance you can travel in one direction, from one end of Great Britain to the other: being a distance of approximately 10000 miles, 1600 km.
Approximately 2000 people take on this epic journey each year mainly in the name of charity. E2E records show that the E2E challenge has been undertaken by various means, including a jet fighter, a three-tone truck been pulled all the way. The none famous and the famous have done it. The able and disable; the young and the old. On bikes, manual wheelchairs, walking, running, horseback. Even a couple tried to do it naked but got arrested half way. Wonder why! The list of the different ways of doing this epic journey is endless.
In July 09 another record is, we hope, is going to be added to the list, E2E in an ‘Alex’ power chair. None has done this epic journey in one power chair before. Step in Mary Laver to fly the flag for all power chair users and make her bid at the E2E and at the same time make the attempt a British Record.
The Challenger ‘Mary Laver’
Mary Laver is 62 years old and has been wheelchair dependant for 22 years due to advanced rheumatoid arthritis, not that she has ever let that get in the way. Mary is quite a character and has completed the Great North Run by been pushed in her manual chair, on no fewer than 12 occasions, raising many hundreds of pounds for various charities and plans to complete the 13 mile course again in September.
Mary has no end to her talents and is keen to spread the word for healthy eating. Mary only eats organic food and always promotes Fairtrade products where and when possible, as she will during the 1000 mile challenge. Mary, who even thou is in a wheelchair and human and wheelchair dependent due to RA, advocates very strongly about controlling arthritis pain by diet. Mary along with Margaret Smith, is also the co-author of a best selling cookery book 'Diet for Life' Pan Books, on this very subject and which sold over a quarter of a million copies, making it into the best sellers list and overshadowing authors like Jeffrey Archer at the time.
The Power Chair
If Mary is to achieve her mission, she needs the most up to date technology. She is extremely grateful to Handicare Ltd, who have donated their new Alex power chair to the project. UK Marketing Manager Eddie Peacock describes Mary as “inspirational”. “She is a remarkable lady and we wish her every success with her 1000 mile challenge”
As Mary is an ex forces, the WRAF, she is keen to ensure the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal as her chosen charity for the challenge, receives lots of sponsorship money and is asking people to make a donation by going to https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge. and or sponsoring her along the route. She has been a proud fundraiser for many years raising hundreds of pounds for both the British Legion and the Poppy Appeal.
The Royal British Legion and Poppy Appeal say ‘We are proud that such a determined character as Mary has chosen our charity for this epic journey. We know she will give it 100% and no matter what obstacles are put in her way, she will complete this British Record attempt.’
Sponsors Required
Mary needs a large support team to do this challenge; she will have eight in the team with two minibus vehicles. It has been estimated, that to feed, accommodate the whole team and the cost of the petrol, will be in the region of £7000. Fundraising locally is now going on in earnest to meet this target, but more funds are desperately needed. If you would like to contribute by a donation or arranging an event, to Marys fundraising efforts, not matter how big or small, then please contact Mary at mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com If you would like to be one of her sponsors, and or have your product tried by Mary on the challenge again please contact Mary as above. ‘Drinkup,’ http://www.drinkup.uk.com/ has already asked her to try their new hands free drinking bottle to use from her ‘Alex’ power wheelchair, while she is on the challenge.
The Route
Mary is using the Cycle Touring Club YHA route, which is….Lands End to Penzance. Penzance to Par, Par to Princetown; Princetown to Honiton; Honiton to Wells; Wells to Chepstow; Chepstow to Burley Gate; Burley Gate to Bridges; Bridges to Holt; Holt to Leigh, Leigh to Slaidburn; Slaidburn to Orton; Orton to Gretna; Gretna to Elvanfoot; Elvanfoot to Airdrie; Airdrie to Ardchullarie More; Ardchullarie More to Archallade; Archallader to Spean Bridge; Spean Bridge to Drumnadrochit; Drumnadrochit to Bonar Bridge; Bonar Bridge to Tongue; Tongue to Isauld; Isauld to John O'Groats.
The team are looking for camping sites, barns, B&B, YHA ect, to stay at. If you are near this route and would like to offer the team a place for the night, and they do not mind the team being split up if needs arise, then please email Mary at mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
On a personal note, Mary would like to say and sincere and very deep thank you to Handicare for providing ‘Alex’ and the BNA for looking after staffing, for making this challenge of a lifetime happen.
Mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/
Eddie Peacock (Handicare UK Marketing Manager) 07985-160675
eddie.peacock@handicare.co.uk
http://www.alexwheelchair.co.uk/
Jenny Robson (The Royal British Legion) 0191-2682310
http://www.poppy.org.uk/index.php/give-money.html
Master Jack Elliot
Monday, April 27, 2009
The Challenge Moves Up A Peg
The challenge is moving up a peg
This week I have started training in earnest clocking up my first 15k despite some drizzle on my first real roadwork out. My aim is to get to 65k about 40 miles into one day.
For exercise I am pulling very strong rubber bands, not lifting weights, to exercise my left arm, I shall be driving Alex using my left hand. I have to be careful because I have no shoulder joint linings as you all have. I am also having arm and back masarges to get wrid of any nodules
Meeting up with my Faitrade rep. Tomorrow I am meeting up with Stella Carmichael at the Baltic Mill in Newcastle. Stella is the Fairtrade rep for Newcastle. I want to meet up with her to discuss how I can promote Fairtrade on the challenge
Wednesday is the big day. I am off to the Birmingham NIDEX show and the Handicare stand. This is when ‘Alex’ the actual Alex I am doing the E2E, meet up and he is altered to meet my needs perfectly. When the show is over, I hope that very soon, Alex and I will be getting to know each other much better and ‘burn some rubber together.’
From Next week I am going all out to find sponsors, I am just asking for small amounts, so if I coming knocking on your door please remember that I have to raise £7000 just to do the challenge; That is before we cover the cost of paying for my care. If you could donate just a few pounds then please email me and I will send you details on how to do this. mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com Thank you.
Please also remember to click on the link to donate to my chosen charity.
https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge
Now to catch up with Devils Kitchen. I am for the bloke to win.
Cheers
Saturday, April 25, 2009
The Route
First week
Starting line, sign in, do first 10 miles
Saturday 18th July
Lands End to Penzance
Day 1 Sunday 19th July
Penzance to Par
Day 2 Monday 20th July
Par to Princetown
Day 3 Tuesday 21st July
Princetown to Honiton
Day 4 Wednesday 22nd July
Honiton to Wells
Day 4 Wednesday 22nd July
Honiton to Wells
Day 5 Thursday 23rd July
Wells to Chepstow
Day 6 Friday 24th July
Chepstow to Burley Gate
Day 7 Saturday 25th July
Day Off
Second week
Day 1 Sunday 26th July
Burley Gate to Bridges
Day 2 Monday 27th July
Bridges to Holt
Day 3 Tuesday 28th July
Holt to Leigh
Day 4 Wednesday 29th July
Leigh to Slaidburn
Day 5 Thursday 30th July
Slaidburn to Orton
Day 6 Friday 31st July
Orton to Gretna
Day 7 Saturday 1st August
Day Off
Third week
Day 1 Sunday 2nd August
Gretna to Elvanfoot
Day 2 Monday 3rd August
Elvanfoot to Airdrie
Day 3 Tuesday 4th August
Airdrie to Ardchullarie More
Day 4 Wednesday 5th August
Ardchullarie More to Archallader
Day 5 Thursday 6th August
Archallader to Spean Bridge
Day 6 Friday 7th August
Spean Bridge to Drumnadrochit
Day 7 Saturday 8th August
Day Off
Fourth Week
Day 1 Sunday 9th August
Drumnadrochit to Bonar Bridge
Day 2 Monday 10th August
Bonar Bridge to Tongue
Day 3 Tuesday 11th August
Tongue to Isauld
Day 4 Wednesday 12th August
Isauld to John O'Groats
Finishing Line 1400 approx Yes!
Contact details
Mary Laver
Mobile 07975649162Tel No 0191 266 5197
Email mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
BNA 0191 284 2314
Email Alistair.Legg@bna.co.uk
Handicare 07985160675
Email eddie.peacock@handicare.co.uk
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Feeding the Team
16 April 2009
Feeding the team
One, if not the most important component of this challenge, is feeding of the team. We intend to do this by feeding them with a good quality, well-prepared, nourishing and tasty diet.
The best way we can do this, even if it does cost a few pounds more, is the feed, where possible, with good Organic and Fairtrade produce.
At one of our organising meeting, because I wanted to prove that Organic and Fairtrade tast superior over the rest, I took a sample of organic foods for the team to try. I took along a mixture of and organic and none organic fruit and vegetables, organic and none organic milk. I got them to try organic Fairtrade coffee made with organic milk and organic sugar, I even got them to tast the difference between organic and none organic cheese. They were all surprised at the difference in the tast between the samples and agreed 100% we are going to be a Fairtrade/Organic feed team. I think I have also converted some of them to the organic way of eating.
Because of these finding, I wrote to Fairtrade telling them of the challenge, the fact we are going to be an Fairtrade/Organic challenge. That I have eaten Fairtrade food as far as possible over the years due to Fairtrade polices and organic foods. I asked them if they would they give me the honour of allowing us to use their logo on our promotion materials, tee-shits, vehicles ect. They, as you can see from the panel on the left, have granted us that right. Thank you Fairtrade, I will wear your logo with pride. You can find out more about the work of Fairtrade by visiting their web site http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/ if you wish to learn more about organic foods then please visit http://www.riverfordhomefarm.co.uk/
We will, if possible, be staying at YHAs and campsites that promote organic and Fairtrade produce. If you would like us to stay with you over night, there will be about seven of us in the team; we would gladly take you up on the offer. The route is on this blog or I can email it to you,
If you have any comments on this article then please do use the comments at the bottom of this page, I would love to hear from you.
Now to prepare for this afternoons meeting
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Introducing 'Alex' My Chosen Power Chair
Monday, March 23, 2009
Should Wheelchair Users Be Free To Use Our Road Network
Should wheelchair users be free to use our road net work?
Entry on the CTC forum
Hi Guys
I feel that I can now revel my sponsors without causing any trouble and where you can find my blog.
This is part of the last entry on my blog.“The police have very strongly advised, thought cannot legally enforce this request, that my power chair sponsors do not go ahead with this E2E challenge; the effect been that 'Handicare' have now said they will provide me with their new power chair "Alex", you now have their name, they will provide me a full set of spar parts; an on call engineer, but they will not help finance the challenge beyond that point as they do not wish to be seen going against the advice of the police. This, though I do not agree with, I fully respect their decision and thank them for their offer, which I may or may not take up.
The CTC forum have been a great help with this matter, giving good sound advice, which we have taken, I say we because my local 'British Nursing Association' (BNA,) who are looking into providing my care on this challenge, have not, as yet, pulled out and as i speak are looking at how they can help me take this to the next level and do the E2E and by helping me find more sponsors. They cannot, especially in this climate, finance the whole trip, which i fully understand, so there is still hope.
My last E2E power chair - Alber Adventure - which i bought along with a van, by remorging my home, is now insured for £2m for third party.This insurance i can transfer to another power chair if i wish. We are ready to go on 17th July, but I need some more sponsors to help cover costs of about, not including care, £7000. Can you guys please help me on this one? Do you know anyone one, a company, that would say sponsor me for a £1000, all i would need is 7 sponsors and i am nearly there. I would get them as much free publicity as possible and lets face it, this is a good story.
People seem to think that because i am doing this challenge in a power chair there is not so much physical and mental energy been used, This i can assure them is wrong.
Sitting there with you hand pushing a control stick forward for 40 miles per day while been bumped around all the time, is both physical and mentally challenging, especially for someone who is a 62 yrs old, female, has serve rheumatoid arthritis, who is totally human and wheelchair dependent. This is the reason i want to do the E2E. To push myself to my physical and mental limits, and driving a power chair 1000 miles is just one of many ways i can do it. The E2E is see as the start, if i can get help, of my adventure and challenges, not the end. If you think you can help with sponsorship, know of a sponsor who may be interested or donating, fully returnable, to my expenses, then email me with a contact tel no, mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com. I will talk you thought where I am at so fare.
Thanks guys for all your help and support. It has been very uplifting.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Training Starts in Ernest
Training starts in Ernest
One of my biggest problems of getting out on the roads in my local area and doing some training in my power chair, in this case, my Alber Adventure, is time.
Being as severely disabled as i am with a limited care package, 9 hrs per day, I have to fit in any training with my every day life, ie, feeding and watering me and all my personal care along with trips to the bank, walking my two dogs and all the other things that makes lmy ife tick on. You all know the sort of things.
Now that the days are drawing out, i can spread all of the above out a bit, so now is the time to start training in ernest...This is now what i plan to do. Get out there on the open cycle paths and roads around my local area in Alber, and 'burn some rubber.' To those of you who have been reading this blog for some time, will know that i am a proud owner of a Alber Adventure, and tried to do the E2E challenge last year in my Alber. I failed after the first day, not because of Alber letting me down but because of the lack of support.
Today i went to Newcastle by Metro, one of the biggest advantages for anyone living in N/C and a wheelchair user of any description, is the Metro. Any way, i transgress.
By the time i got back from N/C my arm had adjusted to the treatment i was lashing out and no longer acke. I also bought, for 20p from Wilkinson's, store, a very large rubber band to hook onto my chair to pull on, thus helping with building up my arm mussel. Having Rheumatoid Arthritis and my shoulder joins are shot, but they give out no pain, so i have to make sure i am building up my arm mussels without too much strain on the shoulder joint.
Having driven the power chair i am using for the E2E challenge, if only over a short distance. i was very impressed with the amount of adjustments that can be made, so i am sure that even someone, like me, with RA, comfort and support will be achived without too much trouble. I am sure that the whole team will be able to achieve our goal without too much discomfort.
So that all for now. So keep reading.
On last small saying i came across on the many. many E2E web sites and blogs i read is this "Fail to plan, Plan to fail" I can assure you that Handicare and BNA are pulling out all the stops to make sure that the challenge is well planned right down to the lat pit stop, so will not fail...
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
The Proposed Route
Week 1
Saturday 18th July
Starting line, sign in, enjoy the moment; do first 10 miles
Lands End to Penzance
Day 1
Sunday 19th July
Penzance to Par
Day 2
Monday 20th July
Par to Princetown
Day 3
Tuesday 21st July
Princetown to Honiton
Day 4
Wednesday 22nd July
Honiton to Wells
Day 5
Thursday 23rd July
Wells to Chepstow
Day 6
Friday 24th July
Chepstow to Burley Gate
"Two different roads scenic or high road"
Day 7
Saturday 25th July
Day off
Second week
Day 1
Sunday 26th July
Burley Gate to Bridges
Day 2
Monday 27th July
Bridges to Holt
Day 3
Tuesday 28th July
Holt to Leigh
Day 4
Wednesday 29th July
Leigh to Slaidburn
Day 5
Thursday 30th July
Slaidburn to Orton
Day 6
Friday 31st July
Orton to Gretna
Day 7
Saturday 1st August
Day off
Third week
Day 1
Sunday 2nd August
Gretna to Elvanfoot
Day 2
Monday 3rd August
Elvanfoot to Airdrie
Day 3
Tuesday 4th August
Airdrie to Ardchullaire More
Day 4
Wednesday 5th August
Ardchullaire More to Archallader
Day 5
Thursday 6th August
Archallader to Spean Bridge
Day 6
Friday 7th August
Spean Bridge to Drumnadrochit
Day 7
Saturday 8th August
Day Off
Week 4
Day 1
Sunday 9th August
Drumnadrochit to Bonar Bridge
Day 2
Monday 10th August
Bonar Bridge to Tongue
Day 3
Tuesday 11th August
Tongue to Isauld
Day 4
Wednesday 12th August
Isauld to John O'Groats
Congratulations
we have achieved our goal.
E2E in one power chair.
‘A British Record.’
Friday, March 6, 2009
Up date
Tomorrow i am off to Tescos to start costing the foods. One of many visits i fear. There goes another very big sye.
I am now closing this entry but to the observant ones of you, you will notice that the route in map form, is appearing above the posts. Now for spell check. i would be lost without the spell checker.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
It is extremely important that the whole team are feed the best money can buy; this is why the Motto I have set myself to describe the planning of the menu for this challenge, "Put good fuel in (Their diet) get good fuel out (There energy to do the job).
If anyone can help with meal planning for both meat and none meet eaters could you please email. As this challenge has a military theme then I am particular interested in hearing from a military Chefs
Any advice input from any of my blog readers on this subject I can assure you will be most grateful received.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Calling All Ex-service Wheelchair Users
I have been thinking, always do my best thinking between 0600/1000 hrs.
We, that is myself, Handicare and the BNA members of the team, should be asking for the other team members we are seeking to be wheelchair users, both manual and power chair.
So if you want to join this epic challenge between 17th July /30 August 09, you are a wheelchair user, ex-services.
If you wish to drive a new, never to be seen until March, 10 mph power chair that rides just great, I have tried it, from Lands End 2 John O'Groats with a full support team in place, a distance of approx 1000 miles. We are staying in YHA's, Doormobiles and tents,
If you are willing to help raise moneys for the RBL and Poppy Appeal, then please contact me on mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Mary Laver (RAF)
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Please make a donation the my charity
Saturday, February 21, 2009
20th Feb
Fundraising
Hi and welcome to this blog
The reason this blog is been written is two fold. 1. For me to keep a record of the planning and executing of the Lands End to John O'Groats driving a power chair. To a lot of you this will not be your first visit nore will it be your last. The meter tells me when you visit , the words you use on the search engine to find me and where you are visiting from. It tells me no more. For what ever reason you are visiting this blog, hi and welcome. 2. To help fund raise for The Royal British Legion and The Poppy Appeal. You can you find out more detail about these charities, who, been in the Women's Royal Air Force myself, no the benefit they are to all ex service men and women. You can find out more about them and the work they do by visiting http://www.britishlegion.org.uk/
Fundraising is what i have called this page, because that is what this E2E challenge hopes to do, get some much needed cash in to help our forces guys and girls when they need it most.
The legion has helped me in many ways, advice, provide me with some much needed cash to go to Lourdes, helped to buy the computer i am writing to you on; and put some money in the money pot to buy a better power chair than my standard DHSS, not that i am knocking my DHSS power chair, it serves me well, but does not have the comfort of my Balder. I think you are getting the drift of what i am saying.
So, here comes the punch line, can you please go to my fundraising page www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge and make a donation. I have already done the first donation. Thank you.
I shall be back with you soon, as i am a great believer in Fair Trade, and we are looking at how we can support Fair Trade on this challenge by using, where possible, buying and using their produce. I am also a great believer of organic foods, eat them all the time, see logo. We are also looking at using organic foods to feed the team
That is the fundraisin pitch over with.
Just one last thing visit the Free Rice link on the left and spend some time testing your brains while feeding the hungry.
Speak again soon.
Friday, February 20, 2009
20th Feb 09
BNA Press Release
Lands End to John O'Groats Power Chair Challenge
The British Nursing Association, (BNA) are proud to be working in partnership with this British Record Attempt.
The BNA are the same age as Mary and have the equal determination to make sure we achieve this British Record attempt.
BNA have provided care to Mary for the last two years and we have built up a bond with her based on understanding her needs and providing a reliable, professional and friendly service.
When Mary approached us to assist in the challenge BNA were only too happy to be involved.
We have chosen specific staff who have the determination and resilience to ensure Mary is given the best possible opportunity to "live the dream".
I believe that the whole Team we have pulled together; Mary, Handicare (the suppliers of the power chair) and the BNA, along with Mary's chosen charities - The Royal British Legion and The Poppy Apeal, for whom we hope to raise funds on route. We believe we have the "Dream Team" to make the dream a reality.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Update
19th February 09
Update
I have been away from this blog now for sometime, that is because the new power chair i am making the next attempt on the E2E will not be launched until March
I will be at the Nidex Show, 28th, 29th 30th April in Birmingham on the manufacturers stand with power chair X.
I tried out the chair at Newcastle Airport prior to our meeting last Tuesday and i can assure you that my response was 'This is fabulous' The chair rides well, looks like a posh power chair, but with more speed, lovely suspension, and 100% comfort. There are so many adjustment you can make on it to suite ones personal requirements to enable anyone to feel comfortable. I did ask what it will retail at, i can assure you that the answer i got put this chair in at the bottom of the middle price range so should be available to every one. if you are looking to buy a power chair then my advice would be to hang fire until this power chair has been launched.
I shall be getting my power chair x in the very near future and i will be putting it through it paces in preparation for the E2E. including trying to do at least 30 miles in one day with a battery charge in between. I will report back to you via this blog my finding.
What i can tell you is that my support team is going to be provided by The British Nursing Assocation and at its team head is Alistair Legg from North Tyneside, thanks BNA, and i am getting a lot of support from my local British Legion and Poppy Appeal representatives. Thanks for that guys.
What i can tell you is that planning is well under way and we had our last meeting at Newcastle Airport on the 17th when we made a large step foreard in out planning and that our next meeting will be next month, again on the 17th March.
I can confirm that our chosen charity is going to be split between The Royal British Legion and The Poppy Appeal. We are looking for ex-service men and women to drive the other two power chairs. To qualify, you must be a power chair driver, physical fit enough to do part or the whole of the challenge, we are looking at having one of the chairs manned by a relay team. If you are intested in being part of the team in any capacity, power chair driver, cyclist, driver, general dogs body, then please email mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com telling me what you wish to do and i will pass your details on.
Lastly, at our last meeting, as i am very keen on supporting organic foods and Fair Trade, i got the team members to taste the difference between organic fruit, veg, cheese and they were all amazed that the orgainc food was much more tasty than the none orgainc food.
Well that is my update.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
New Tital, New Power Chair
5th February 09
British not World Record.
As readers to this blog, and there are, on average, 5 per day, will no that i have not been keeping you up to date on what is going on, there is a good reason.
I have been invited by a power chair company to be part of their team to drive 2 or 3 power chair on the E2E. The name of this company, will for the next two weeks, have to remain anonymous.
What i can tell you is that we shall be using one or more of the four Cycling Touring Clubs Routes. That the team will be about 12 to 15, and that this time, god willing and a good breeze, i will get to John O'Groats. So please keep watching this blog for updates.
We are also, because 'The Book' no longer recognises LETJOG as a world record, we are changing it to a British Record and i am going to look into registering it as so.
There we have it, an update. Speak again soon.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
I Eat, Sleep, Dream The LEJOG
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
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Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Another Year, Another Attempt
30th December 08
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Season Breetings
Monday, November 24, 2008
Facts about Alber Adventure
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
Press Release
Back
Download
By Emma Foster, Community Newswire
SPORT Powerchair Newcastle, 13 Nov 2008 - 13:40
A 61-year-old Newcastle woman is calling on power chair users from across the country to join her club and take part in sports, rallies, trips and other challenges.
Mary Lever, who is severely disabled due to rheumatoid arthritis, has set up the Power Chair Challenge Club and now wants disabled and able-bodied people to join her.
The club already has a constitution, a bank account and a blog and Mary says now it just needs members and volunteers to help run it.
The Forest Hall woman says she wants to go out and have fun in her Alber Adventure Power Chair, and wants other power chair users to join her in activities such as rallies, extreme sports and even a ride from Perth to Sydney in Australia.
She said: "The idea has been in my head for a long time, I've always wanted to find other people in power wheelchairs because there's nothing out there for us. There are no power chair clubs.
"There are lots of things for manual wheelchairs but nothing out there for people like me, even though there are thousands of power chairs in the North East.
"People in power chairs need the support of a club to get out and about. Power chairs can only go for as long as their batteries last so we need to have generator to charge up.
"I go out on a long ride on my own and my power chair breaks down how do I get back? It's a long way for a carer to push me so it can become very awkward to do something off track."
Sports, a display formation team, fundraising activities, social events, holidays and trips are just some of the plans Mary has for for the club once it gets going.
Mary continues: "The scope for what we can do is enormous - we could have social events such as power chair dancing and do sports.
"Why can't we play tennis from a power chair? And hockey, basketball and of course football.
"One good thing about being in a power chair is we do not have to do the running bit, so we can compete with people much younger than ourselves!"
The Power Chair Challenge Club is open to people of all ages and abilities with any kind of power chair, scooter or trike.
Mary adds: "I called it a challenge club because for some people who are stuck in a house, just to go out in their wheelchair and do a few yards can be a challenge.
"My challenge is Lands End to John O'Groates or Perth to Sydney, but the club is open all abilities and all ages. I thought we could divide routes into a, b and c for different types of chair and levels of ability."
Anyone who can help organise a ride, be a bike rider on a challenge, join the club's committee, help with publicity or transport is also invited to join the club.
Last year Mary tried driving her power chair from Lands End to John O'Groats but had to stop after a day after she felt there were not enough people in the care team to cope with the demands.
Mary is now planning a second attempt at the challenge in May/June next year to raise money for the British Legion, and is inviting four other power chair users to join her.
For more information or to join the club contact Mary on 0191 266 5197 or email mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com. To read Mary's blog visit www.powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Face Book
15th November 08
Face Book
I am not too keen on putting information about myself on the Internet so when you visit the link below do not be surprised at the lack of information.
This link is to Face Book. http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=1608553989&ref=name The only reason i have signed up to Face Book is that i have been told that it is a good way to get the word out as to what i am trying to do.
I would vale your comments and input as to if Face Book does work.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Welcome Back
Friday, October 31, 2008
When the Rain is Lashing Down
31 October 2008
Thinking about next years attempt.
When the rain is lashing down out side your window; you have a bad cold and all you want to do is go to bed and seek sympathy; it is hard to think, never mind write, in my blog about the next attempt in 2009 on the Lands End 2 John O’Groats in my Alber Adventure or come to that, any other chair; but such an adventure/challenge, call it what you will, will not happen without me putting aside such things as a bad cold and rain pouring down out side my window and get on with the job in hand.
As you read this blog, Alber is in my sitting room next to the fire with two teddy bears on it seat. This afternoon I am taking him for a short run to my local super market Asda to meet Margaret. Who is Margaret? I will tell you when I get back.
In the mean time, if any of you readers of my blog, are, if only thinking of joining me next year, then please email. Might just lift my spirits while I am feeling a bit under the weather. You do not have to live in the UK, as this challenge would make a great holiday.
Sniff, speak again soon.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Alber Adventure and I went training today.
Alber Adventure and I went training today.
26 August 2008
Today for the first time since failing my first attempt at the E2E, I and Alber went back on to the open road for about 5 miles and it was just fantastic.
The journey we took was from where I live in Newcastle upon Tyne to the Freeman hospital, a distance of approx 5 miles. I did have a PA with me, but as she knew the rote I was taking, so I decide to go on ahead and just pushed the Alber -with my orange flag flying at the rear, - joy stick forward, and enjoyed been back on the open road again
It is strange, but I enjoy being amongst the traffic, watching for traffic lights, bumps in the roads, people coming from between cars, all the things I did as a diver some 21 years ago. The memories of that first wonderful day and only day, when I left Lands End for Parenporth, I hope I got the spelling right, just started to flood back. I got that wonderful sense of freedom I had when out there on the open road, I just wanted to carry on driving, but alas, I had to stop and wait for my PA to catch up, back to reality.
If any of you now reading this blog have are experiencing that wonderful sense of freedom that a good reliable power chair gives you, please share it with my blog readers.
23 August 2008
I have been trying to find the right words to describe the feeling inside I would expect to have when I cross the finishing line at John O’Groats on 28th June 2009, today I think I found them
That feeling and that hunger I feel inside I can only compare with someone winning a gold medal at the Olympic Games.
Non of the athletes that were in the games could have achieved such great highs without the love and support of family and friends behind them; this I have in buckets full, what I do not have is my training and support team similar, but different, to our gold medallists, to win my personal gold medal
My first attempt did not fail because my Alber Adventure failed, no; it failed after the first day because I did not have in place enough people in my support team. None will know if Alber and me would have made it to John O’Groats with a full support team, I only no that we did not make it as things stood at that moment in time.
I am now going to start planning and training for my attempt number two, but without people like you, I will not make it to the starting line. Please help me
My cut off date for attempt number two is midnight Saturday 16th May 2009. If my team of, I hope of four other power chairs, and I do not have in place all the planning and support we needed to successfully complete the E2E we shall have to individually decide if to call off our E2E attempt.
Congratulations to all of the UK GB team, including the non-medal winners.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Time to Start the Plans for Attempt no 2
Time to start planning for attempt no 2
18th August 08
Time is now marching on and now the planning is starting for attempt no 2 on the Lands End 2 John O'Groats, this time for The Royal British Legion.
If you are in the British Legion and wish the route to go through your area, then please email me mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
We are also looking for 2 to 3 more power wheelchairs to join us.
Any offer of help, drivers, carers for me, cyclists, camp site put upers, ect, will be greatfuly recieved.
Please start watching this blog for up dates.
Mary
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Only 3 Places Left in My Team
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Come and Join Me
The date I am planning, and this can be change, is 30th May/29th June 09
The route will be decided by the team, with input from other who have gone before. You can choose your own charity; I have already approached one and await their reply.
I learned a lot from the last attempt, and the main lesson was it was not Alber that let me down, but me, I thought I had it all planned, but I had not. Such is life. All of you, who have an Alber Adventure, know the shear joy that driving Alber can be, add that joy to the open road and the E2E challenge, and then you have a trip of a life time. I would like to take Alber on bigger adventure, a Pilgrimage from London to Lourdes being on of them, but the E2E comes first.
If you would like to be one of the 4 please email me mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com then we can speak more. I look forward to hearing from you.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Review Alber Adventure
27th June 08
Review
Alber Adventure
By Mary Laver
Friday, 27 June 2008
If you want a power wheelchair that is a thrill and a joy to drive no matter what speed you are going at, the Alber will go up to 8 mph. If you want a power chair that is comfortable to ride in even over carpet or rough ground. If you want a power wheelchair that stands out in the crowd, then the Alber Adventure Power Wheelchair should be on your list to try.
I have a dream and that is to drive a power wheelchair from Lands End to John O’Groats UK in 29 days. After looking at many power wheelchairs I was told by wheelchair experts, that for such an adventure I needed a power wheelchair that you could change the batteries without getting out of the chair; that I needed a power wheelchair chair that had good suspension, up to date technology in fault finding. I needed speed and endurance as I would need to cover 40 miles per day for 29 days with the odd rest day, to complete the task I had set myself; then there was only one chair to fill all of these requirements and more, that was and is, the Alber Adventure.
Without going into a very long drawn out story, Alber and I did make it to the starting line at Lands End, we did the first 40 miles of the 1000 with no problem. The terrain we covered varied from open main A roads, to footpaths. We drove down country lanes and up and down steep hills, the biggest obstacle we encounter were, in places no dropped kerbs and over grown footpaths. We changed the batteries twice, I drank from Drinkup Wheelchair Adaptor as I was driving along; and can say with hand on heart that that day was in my top ten ever days, even the sun shone and Cornwall was just beautiful. I will add, that in front of me to make sure I was at all times safe on the busy roads. Wendy Creed. Wendy along with 10 others is greatly involved with training and promoting road safety for cyclist in Cornwall. You can find out more about their work by visiting http://www.rsct.org.uk/ . Thanks Wendy for your help
Alber and I did not make day two, but as I have said, that is a long story, but I can say that Alber and I are going back to Lands End on the 31st May 09 and at 1000 hrs, if I can get a support team, we are going to try once again, and I am sure we will make it next time and get to John O’Groats.
My Alber Adventure was supplied by Gerald Simonds. http://www.gerald-simonds.co.uk/
If you want to contact me about the Alber or are interested in my next attempt at the E2E, then please email me at mailto:mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.cam I would love to hear from you.
Please keep an eye on this blog for more updates on my attempt in 2009
Mary
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Dats of Next Attempt 31 May 09 to 28th June 09
17th June 08
Date of next E2E 31st May 09/28th June 09
The date of my next attempt in my Alber Adventure Power Wheelchair will be 31st May 09 /28th June 09. The route will be decided later.
Again the distance will be divided into 4 stages; each stage will have to be manned by a minimum of 5. 1 cyclist, 1 van driver, 3 personal assistances, 1 camp leader to see to and help pitch and strike camp.
I am looking at going with 4 chosen charities, so if you are interested in been one of the charities then please email me on mary.laver.e2e@googlemail.com
For more details please visit this blog to keep up to date.
The Alber Adventure deserves this challenge as it is a remarkable power wheelchair.
Now I hope to go to Lourdes with ACROSS in September and the Great North Rune in October and what ever comes in between. I am going to try and start a Power Wheelchair Club up here in the beautiful North East.
Best wishes.
--
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Down But Not Out
A 60-year-old wheelchair user said she is "gutted" after calling off her attempt to travel the length of Britain but said she is determined to take on more challenges.
Back at her Forest Hall home, Mary is clearly hugely disappointed by the setback but said it has made her more determined than ever to take on new adventures.
She said: "It came down to the amount of support needed. When people had to go back, there were just two carers left and they just couldn't do it.
"To be honest it has probably made me more determined to do it."
Mary said she is now looking at building up a team of carers and is appealing for anyone who is interested to get in touch. She said she probably needs a minimum of four and preferably five.
If she can find them, she said she will try again. In the meantime she is looking at the possibility of travelling from Edinburgh to John O'Groats in her wheelchair.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Mary had spent months planning for the challenge and was using it to raise money for the North East-founded Kenya Acorn Project.
Mary said she wants to try again
At the beginning of April 2008, Mary collected the powered wheelchair she was going to use.
The 60-year-old has used a wheelchair for about 19 years. She developed rheumatoid arthritis when she was 26 and her condition suddenly deteriorated in her early 40s.
She has replacement elbows and knees meaning she is wheelchair dependent and is also partially sighted.
"I have to have a light at the end of the tunnel."
And she is no stranger to challenges - she will be participating in her 12th Great North Run in 2008 by being pushed in her wheelchair by friends.
But she had said the Lands End to John O'Groats attempt would have been something completely different.
After she picked it up at the beginning of April, Mary trained in the chair to get used to spending hours in it and to things like the vibration and "getting her mind and body" ready for it.
She calls the chair 'the liberator' because of the feeling of freedom it has given her.
Speaking before they left, Claire spoke of Mary's zest for life and her motivation.
Rachel Kerr BBC Tyne Tel: 0191 2441241 www.bbc.co.uk/tyne
Plan B
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I've not failed but we've had to go to plan B
We got off to a great start however as the group thinned out, with one or two of those who started out with us needing to return to Newcastle for one reason or another, the amount of work involved was too much for just two carers with taking everything down each morning and setting it up again that same night at the new camp site. Whilst we had an independent cyclist with us, the pressure was off a little however that was still with 3 carers and two of them were in the van driving support and changing my batteries on strange roads.
Day 2 we took off and stayed put intending to leap frog that particular stretch and did an appeal on Radio Cornwall. Unfortunately it didn't bear fruit but it wasn't for a lack of trying., at least we gave it our best shot! We did however meet Hannah, who graciously helped us out by caring for me that night and Mandy and Dave who offered to help us pack away and set up again next day if we continued from Camelford to Bideford but the sea mists had been rolling in and Wendy wondered if what happened to her might happen to us in which case she felt it would be too dangerous with visibility down to 10 metres.
So we headed home. I didn't feel so clever so we stopped off momentarily to get me checked over and the end result is that I am now back in Newcastle. However on good advice I am now trying to pick up the pieces a little and plan on heading north again from here in a couple of weeks time hopefully but this time on the east side of the country instead of crossing back across to Carlisle. Nothing is set in concrete at the moment however this may just become a recce and then start afresh fully September a year, calling this a practice run so I know the pitfalls to avoid ........... if I can, I certainly will! Watch this space as it were .......
The Nigfht Before We Leave.
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It is 21.45
Well that is it, the van is packed, team members are in bed ready for an early start, and Megan is going on a 1000 mile walkies. All the planning, all the highs and lows to get us, the team, to this point, the night before we leave to attempt the E2E in an Alber Adventure Power Wheelchair.
I would like to say a very big and sincere thank you to all of my team for their support and without whom this challenge would not been taking place.
Being as disabled as I am with Rheumatoid Arthritis, I cannot use a manual wheelchair, which means that to take on any challenge I have to use an electric power wheelchair. This small point is something people cannot grasp. They think that I am cheating, by using power.
My chosen charity KAP is worthy of every mile I drive the Alber; I will do everything in my power to promote the work of this charity, and no that the money raised will be put to a very good project.
To you Elaine in SA, you sent me an email of the problems that your country is going through. Thank you for your support over the past few months, I will give you love to Cornwall. If you decide that it is okay to join us at any stage along the route, we have a place reserved for you.
My computer is now been switched off for, I hope, the next 31 days.
To you all good night and God Bless.
Mary
Last Entry Before We Go
The house is very quite
It is 0800 hrs, three days and two hours before the gun goes off, and the house is very quite, the pups are now with Moira’s. When Moira came to pick them up, they got very excited at seeing her, especially when they noticed their bedding and toys going into her car. They were at the gate barking as if to remind her that she was not to forget them. I know that they will be having a very good holiday, as trips to the beach, town more and other places I do not take them, is on their cards.
So how am I feeling right now? A mixture of excitement and anger. Let’s deal with the negative side the anger first. I am still very angry at the way Arthritis Care treated me and the way they pulled out at the last minute. When I asked AC if they would be my chosen charity, they said yes with both hands. I turned down smaller charities of the PDSA, Guide Dogs for the Blind and Hearing Dog, why, because I could talk about arthritis and the work of AC with conviction, but I had very little knowledge of the work of the others.
What AC were going to do for me, was what I would expect from the number one UK charity, well that is what they call themselves. I have just been going through their emails; I was going to put 2 on this blog, but chose not to. Maybe another day or if I write a book, I will put them in that, and it makes my so mad to have been treated like I have been by the No 1 charity, well they are not the No 1 charity in my eyes any more, infact, they are not even on the bottom runner. I would much rather they have said no when I approached them, than do what they did at the last minute, To AC I say the challenge is still going on despite you and not because of you.
Now that I have got the negative out of the way, the positive. Muriel Armstrong from Kenya Acorn Project, a charity I have been closely involved with for about 2 years now. as you know, stepped in as my chosen charity, at the last munuite, and have been a great support to me and the team. She has worked here with me to make sure I have as much information I can about the work of KAP. Spent an evening putting logos on the tee-shirts. Last night, she was quite as she was cutting out the thank you cards that will be given out along the route.
My packing is now done, all that now needs to be sorted is the general pack of the van, parts for Alber, and we have 6 more batteries, tyres, ect. Then there are the tents. As I cannot get into the one I bought, there is a lip at all the doors to stop wheelchairs and rain getting in, we have been to Argos and bought a 4 man wigwam tent. We went with this one as it has the height in the middle for the hoist... The plan is that we shall use the WW tent for me and general use. The one on night shift to look after me during the night will sleep in this one with me, and the others will sleep in the other 4 man tent. Megan will where ever Clair is.
Today all of my team will be here at some time doing something. The van will be packed by Clair, Margaret will seeing to any paperwork and clean any equipment that we are taking, i.e. the commode. Pauline will be looking after me and taking me to town for lat minute mobile phone top ups, the buy a birthday present for my best friend whom becomes a pensioner while I am away, the big 60. Happy Birthday Joan. This evening Emmanuelle will go through all the paperwork to see that we have everything in the folder, then it is bed and I shall start getting up at 0330 so we slip out mooring at 0500.
The next time I will write on the blog with be from my tent on Cornwall.
Bye for now.
.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Alber Gets Ready for the Road
Alber now ready for the road
Today Alber had his finishing touches to get him ready for the road. Footplates were readjusted, hand control aliened, flashing light put in place and Clair had a good grounding in how to keep Alber in good shape for the challenge ahead. We also have all the spare parts that we are ever going to need. Thanks Gerald-simonds for all of your support through the planning of this challenge. All he now needs is the hands free Drinkup Bottle on his back
Today it was decided to change to a different tent, wigwam type, as I cannot get in the other one, There is a ledge to get over and I cannot do that in the chair without damaging the tent itself. I only hope the supplier will let me return it and get my money back
I have also been in touch with touch with Sue from Heart of the South Care. Sue is joining me with one other for part of Stage 1. Thanks Sue.
So now all that remains is for the pups to go to Moira tomorrow, to make sure all the paperwork is in place, pack the van, and go. We leave here at 5 am on Friday.
I am feeling very tearful at the moment as things are getting on top of me, and my best friend is not at home to tell all to; that is what best friends do.
That sense of excitement is not there yet. When we arrive in Lands End, and get the tent up for the first night, I may just get excited. I just want to get on the road, get the first 3 days out of the way, then I shall start to relax, because all the planning is over with, it is just the doing. When we get to John O’Groats that will be for me, the best feeling ever…
So before I break into tears, I am going to close and wish you all a very good night…
..
Anything That Can Go Wrong Will Go Wrong
Anything that can go wrong will go wrong
The above saying is a very famous saying, and the last few days have proven that.
To start off the week, a new bike I bought last October from a top bike shop here in Newcastle, one of my team took into my local bike shop to have a wing mirror attached. I very quickly received a phone from said bike shop to tell me that who ever made up the bike had put the front forks on backwards; and had not put the brake leavers in the right place. As I did not have time to take the said bike back to the original bike shop I asked that this was put right, £20 it cost me. The most annoying thing was, the manager of said bike shop was informed by the bike shop and has not even apologized. If I have time, I am going to bend the ear of said bike shop.
Next my plans for Friday were shot in the foot; Clair was advised to have her wisdom tooth out this week and not next. This meant that she could not be at the tent putting up. We also discovered that the screen wash does not work. That now has to be seen to.
Last night it was logo putting on tee-shirts time. This task we failed miserably with, this means to day a trip to PC World for some more transfer paper. Wasted a very variable day
The list goes on.
On Sunday I addressed my church, thanking them for their prays and support over the past few months, and I found that I had to fight back the tears. Not what I expected. Not what I expected. I am now saying to people; see you when I get back. This time next week I shall be on day 2, I wonder what I shall be writing in the blog! I am now getting the butterflies in my tum. What we are going to attempt just does not seem real yet. I will believe it next Saturday when I am at LE and Sunday at 1000 when the gun goes off. They say that every great journey starts with one small step. I hope on 29th June 08 I can say that and that we did it.
…
Heart of the South Care Company
Heart of the South Care Company join our team
Four weeks ago I received and email from Sue at Heart of the South Care Company saying she had read my blog and could she help in any way. Sue is now on my Christmas card list. Why? Because true to her word, two of her care team are helping with the Cornwall leg. Thanks Sue.
We now can say, with I hope Elaine from South Africa; we have a full, yes I did say full of 4 all the way from Lands End to John O’Groats.
I am sure that some of you will not have a faith, but without my faith, my church of St. Andrews including me in their prayers, my friends and some strangers like Sue, Wendy and Elaine, people whom I have never meet, believing in me, the campsite owners and the Caravan Club; this combination of people who have kept their faith in me, this challenge may not have got as far in the planning as it has. Mix this all up together and the final result is that I shall be at the starting line at 10.00 on Sunday 1st June to start a journey that I, and a lot of people could only dream of.
Can you imagine what adventure lies ahead of me and the team? The places I shall visit, the people we shall meet, our nature in all its glory is shall experience. The ups and down of emotions we shall all experience. I can only surmise the feeling inside when we cross the finishing line at John O’Groats.
I shall be sharing this amazing journey with you on this blog. Please do leave your comments and emails, if you want to chat you have my mobile number. But please no phone calls after 2100 hrs as I shall switch off then but back on the air at 0800.
Before closing this page of the blog, I would like to add that the moment we cross the starting line at Lands End, the team will be fundraising and promoting the work of the Kenya Acorn Project, so please do start to visit the JustGiving web page and make a donation to the wonderful work they do for people or are not as lucky as we are. Sometimes we need to be reminded how lucky we are to love in this country and are free to do the E2E.
My House Is Like A Tip!
23 May 2008
My house is like a tip.
As you can imagine my hose looks like a tip. I have equipment, files, holdalls, ect, ect all over the place. You can tell we are on the final 9 days.
So what is there left to do?
During the next four days I have to...
Put all the logos on the tee-shirts, about 40 in all.
Put the tent up, this has not been done yet.
Get a hook up lead extension
Get and install one of the boxes you put on the roof of the van
Get all the mobiles and computer topped up
Contact care company to see if they have had any luck with finding help.
During next week there is...
Rehearsal of packing the van
Pack my bags
check out we have enough food for the first 4 days and pack it
The pups go out with Moria some more times. Thursday they go out for a walk with her and do not come back.
Recheck the paperwork.
Tuesday is final sitting and instruction for the Alber Adventure
Nearly forgot. I will try and get some training in Alber.
After all the work and money that has been put into this challenge I had better…….do it otherwise I shall be very mad with myself.
Now just one more campsite to make sure it is booked. Almost forgot that one.
Bye for now
Help Urgently Required
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23 May 2008
Urgent Help Required Stage 1
Yes readers, I urgently require help for stage 1. Not personal care.
Can you put up a tent, make meals? In exchange for all this hard work we shall feed you good food; after all you are cooking it and put a roof over your head in the form of a tent.
Interested then please email me or ring ASAP.
Thanks
Drinkup
Drinking from my chair hands free
Being as disabled as i am, i cannot use my hands or my legs, my big problem is having a drink, unaided, while in my chair. Here in my home that is not a problem as i use a Drinkup that is on an accessable table. While out on the challenge this will be a different story. If i wish to take a drink, while on the move or stopted without going through all the fuss of someone stopping getting a mug out of a rucksack with a straw in and then giving it to me, packing it away after my use. I think you get the picture.
Well at the 11th hour Drinkup seem to have solved this problem and i will be testing the device on the challenge.
So if you wish to know more then please contact Chris Adams at
Chris Adams
Managing Director
Adret Gibs Ltd
Tel: +44 (0)1992632347
Mobile + (0)7836317472
chris@adretgibs.com
http://www.drinkup.uk.com/
Adret Gibs Ltd
6 Dacre Estate
Fieldings Road
Cheshunt
Hertfordshire
EN8 9TJ
UK
Campsite Bookings
21 May 2008
Camping Sites.
As you can read, these camp sites have to confirm and be doubled checked. No room for mistakes at this late stage.
1. Land’s end
Treveda Farm
Tel: 01736 871835
Ref: 24747 6 adults £33
Deposit of £25
Sat 31st May
2. Perranporth
Tollgate farm caravan
Tollgate Farm
Budnick Hill
Perranporth,
Cornwall,
TR6 0AD Tel: 01872 572130
Sun 1st June
3. Headland Caravan Park
Tintagel
Tel 01840772039
Mon 2nd June
4. Bideford
Damage Barton
The Warden
Mortehoe
Woolacombe
EX34 7EJ
Tel: 01271870502
Tues 3rd June
5. Minehead
Burrowhayes Camping site
West Luccombe
Porlock
Minehead
Somerset
TA24 8HUTel: 01643862463
Wed 4th June
6. Cheddar
Caravan Club Site
Gas House Lane
Draycott Road
Cheddar
BS27 3RL
Tel 01934 740207
Thurs 5th June
7. Bristol
Oak Farm,
Weston Rd,
Congresbury,
Bristol,
Avon BS49, UK
Tel: 01934833246
Frid 6th June
8. Cheltenham
Tewkesbury Abbey,
Gander Lane,
Tewkesbury okay
Tel: 01684294035
Booking code: TEW
Sat 7th June
9. Kidderminster
Stanmore Hall touring Park
Stourbridge Road
Bridgnorth
Shropshire
WV15 6DT
Tel: 01743340868
Sun 8th June
10. Shrewbury
Stanmore Hall touring Park
Stourbridge Road
Bridgnorth
Shropshire
WV15 6DT
Tel: 01743340868
Mon 9th June
11. Chester
Chester Fairoaks
Rake Lane
Little Stanney
Chester CH2 4HS
Tel 01513551600
Booking code: CFO
Tue 10th June
12. Blackpool
Six Arches Caravan Park
Scorton
Garstang
Preston
Lancashire
PR3 1AL
Tel: 01524791683
Wed 11th/ Thurs 12th June day off
61st Birthday2 nights
13. Kendal
Kendal Camping and caravanning club site
Millcrest,
Kendal,
LA9 6NY
Tel: 01539741363
Frid 13th June
14. Carlisle
Dandy Dinmont Caravan and Camping Park
Blackford
Carlisle
Cumbria
CA6 4EA
Tel: 01228674611
Sat 14th June
15. Dumfries
Southerness Holidays Village
Southerness by Dumfries
Dumfries and Galloway
DG2 8AZ
Tel: 01387880256
Sun 15th June
16.17Cumnock/Ayr
Sundrum Castle Holiday Park
Coylton
Ayr
Ayrshire
KA6 6HXTel: 01292570057
Mon 16th June/Tue 17th June
18. Glasgow .2 nights
Craigendmuir
Camping & Touring Park
Craigendmuir
Park Stepps
Glasgow
G33 6AF
Tel: 01417794159
Wed 18th June/Thur 19th June
19. Trossachs Holiday Park
By Aberfoyle
Stirlingshire
FK8 3SA
Tel: 01877 382 614
Fax:01877 382 732
0800 197 1192
Frid 20 June
No disabled facilities
20. Glencoe
Glencoe Camping and caravanning site
Ballachulish
Argyll
PH49 4LA
Tel: 01855811397
Sat 21nd June
21. Gairlochy
Linnhe Lochside Holidays
Corpach
Fort William
(18 minutes from Gairlochy)
Ref T23/6 £24.50
Tel: 01397772376
Sun 22rd June
22. Borlum Farm
Drumnadrochit,
Inverness,
Highlands,
IV63 6XN
Tel: 01456450220
Mon 23th June
23. Dingwall
Black Rock
Evanton Dingwall
Invernessshire
Tel:01349830917
Tue 24th June
24. Brora
BroraHighlands KW9 6LP
Tel 01408 621479
Wed 25th June
25. Bettyhill
Craigdhu Caravan Site
CBettyhill
Thurso
KW14 7SP
Tel: 01641521273
Thur 26th June
26. Thurso
Thurso Caravan and camping Park
Scrabster Road
Thurso
Highlands
KW14 7JY
Tel: 01847895782
Frid 27th June
27. John O’Groats
John O’Groats caravan site
Caithness
KW1 4YR
Tel :01955611329
Sat 28th June
Alber& Me
Alber & Me
Alber and I have been together now for about 4 weeks, so how are we getting on as a team?
As with any new piece of equipment and I must remind myself sometimes, that all Alber is, is a piece of equipment, I have panicked when a sound I did not hear before I suddenly hear. When I notice something on the control panel that I did not notice before or when something just does not feel right, as my emails to Sigrid Beiter in Germany and Graham Jeffery at Gerald-Simonds bare out. Now that I know how Alber thinks, sounds and works, my emails have got a lot less, and I have grown more confident in Alber and I hope he in me.
I am going to be sitting in Alber for an average of 40 miles per day, at say an average of 5.5 to 6 mph, say between 6 to 7 hours of actual moving time, per day. To see that, you could say that as I am starting at 0900 each day, if I was not to stop, I would be travelling until 1500. But we are going to stop regularly. Jack Adams told me very early on in the planning to stop every hour for 10 mins if you need it or not, because by the end of the day, you will wish you have. This advice I am taking on board and will be doing, give or take a minute or two... There is 1 more hour to add, that brings us to 1600 hrs; and then there is lunch between 45 to 60 mins that takes us up to 1700. This is when the traffic is heavy, so we may stop for an hour, pop over to the camp site, put up the tent, then come back and finish the days run say at 1900.
Now we all know that I have done this on an average mileage and average speed, so these times are not spot on, but are only as guidance for me, my team, and you my readers. I dare say you are already working it out yourself. Must add, that the batteries will have to be change twice per day, but that can be done in a break quite easily.
Now you can see that Alber and I have to feel very comfortable with each other. So what am I doing to make sure Alber has the best chance of doing the trip?
Weight is of prim importance, so I have to keep an eye on my own personal body weight. When Alber was ordered, I was asked my weight so the knew which suspension to put on. I am about 9 st.
Next we are not carrying any thing on board Alber such as wet gear, extra water; the cyclist will have that in the saddle bag, I am hoping to have some form of water drinking device on board so I can drink as I go along. Gerald-Simonds are putting on the back of Alber an orange flashing warning light with sola energy to charge it. We shall also have as much light weight warning signs as possible; this will properly be an orange waist coat across the back of the seat. Other than my safety gear I am wearing , and no I am not going naked, but one couple did attempt the E2E naked, I tell the truth, details are on the web and the TV did some coverage, remember it now! that is all the weight, ups forgot two things, my mobile and radio, must have radio 4 with me, is all Alber will have to carry.
For my own personal comfort I have been looking at gloves, joystick control knobs cushions, and wet gear.
To prevent pressure sores, the worst enemy of any wheelchair user, and hand on my heart, I have only had one pressure sore, ever, and that was a very long time ago on my left elbow, but I will not go there, I have com to the conclusion that ‘change is as good as a rest’ I am taking 3 different cushions with me to change during the day. I have three control knobs and different combinations of gloves. I am at the moment trying the golf ball, which Jack my JR, thinks is for him to play with and barks at the Alber for someone to give it to him, he of course does not get it. I am also trying out Global Leather figureless mitts. These I find have padding all over and are best for the hand control. I do wear cotton gloves as well as my hands do not have much mussel on them.
For wet weather I have kept away from the traditional all over cap and opted for a leg bag and cycle cap with a scarf or small towel around my neck to stop the rain getting in.
The cycle cap may seem a strange choice, but it covers me and the hand control had a waist strap and two loops inside to enable me to hold down the cap in winds. Also for safety it is bright yellow. Why cant we have wheelchair covers that are florescent and bright beats me.
So there you have it, one very happy Alber and Alber rider. I hope you found this information of help and interest.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Team, Team Building
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Team. Team building.
This challenge would not be happing without a team of people behind me. None person is great than the whole team. The individual team members are the building blocks of this whole challenge.
They all have different reasons as to why they want to take time away from their homes to be on the challenge. They all have different jobs and responsibilities within the team. These jobs and responsibilities were not given to them at the start of planning this challenge; they grew into them as they took their part within the planning of the challenge. I will give you, no I will not give you, an example of what I mean, because of all the team members, none team member stands out above the others, except of course Megan the dog! She has four legs and a wet nose.
Building us together as a team has happened in many ways, some I have already mentioned, people finding their notch within the team and taking on a task they feel comfortable with, and with full commitment. Some, I hope, I have played a part in. Only the team members can answer that truth of that statement
One way I feel that can help us to gel as a team is to look like each other. This we can achieve by wearing a team uniform. We are all wearing black tee-shirts with the E2E and KAP logos on. We shall also be wearing black or dark blue shorts or trousers, while we are on the road doing the challenge. This uniform will also be worn for any media interviews. You can see an illustration of the team kit in the photograph with this blog entry.
To also help to keep the team thinking about our goal, we shall have team meeting each evening while downing a beer in the local hostelry. (Pub). We shall discuss how the day went; listen to any recommendations about the next day’s route from any local people. None knows where we are going better than the people who live in the area.
We shall remind ourselves that we are there first and foremost to achieve a goal, that goal is taking the Alber Adventure, with me at its helm, from one end of the UK to the other in 29 days. This has to be, at all times, our main focus.
We are secondly there to have an experience that will properly change our lives, and possible the lives of people we shall come in contact with along the route, and those we shall never meet, because of what we are doing. If we make it to the end, I know it will change my life, and I will come home 1 year older as I am 61 while on the challenge. I hope it will change the lives of the team members. Only they can answer that.
To help us keep fit, rest is very important, and whether we wish to or not, it is lights out and we shall call it a day and go to bed at 2200 hrs as our day starts at 0600. Good food and the right amount of rest and in my case good, personal hygiene, is essential to the fitness of the team.
What each of us, as individuals, gets from the challenge is up to each of us. We shall have our own private thoughts as we think about things as we pass the miles away, some we shall share, some we will not. Megan, out dog mascot, I wonder what she will make of it all. Walkies will have a whole new meaning!
To close, I hope that everyone of my team take the opportunity they are about to be given, and I include myself in that: grasp it by both hands, and hang on to every moment, they will never relive that moment again. I will try, and with Gods help, to make it to John O’Groats and that bacon and tomato sandwich that will be waiting for me as I cross the finishing line. I have asked my good friend Joan, who is a staunch vegetarian, to be there at the other side of the line to give it to me. White bread of course!
Also at the finishing line, besides my team members for stage 4 will be, Pauline, who is doing stage 1&2, Muriel from KAP, Wendy, Hazel, and I hope Emmanuelle and a few faces that I may or may not know except by this blog. If you are one of my blog readers and there are quite a few of you, please make yourself known to me. If you are a past boyfriend called Ric or a Philip, you are especially welcome. I know one person who reads this blog regularly and would love to be with us as our cyclist, and that is Elaine from South Africa, to you Elian, I say you will be there with us, and I shall raise a glass to you. Thanks for all your support and emails over the past few months. Hers to you kid!
So there you have it, my thoughts on the team and team building.
Before I close, one question I get asked and I ask myself, what happens, for what ever reason, we cannot complete the challenge, do we stop or carry on to the end in the time scale I have set, staying every night where we have booked into.
The answer has to depend on how the team feels and would they prefer to stay or go home. What I am trying to say is, the answer will depend on health of the team and if the team, with sufficient team members, wish to carry on. We will all feel like a balloon that has just had all its air let out. Could we face seeing and been at out goal with that sense of failure that will be inside. Personally I, well lets leave that sentence unfinished.
Now let’s get to a pressing question, who will be Nancy? And I say, bring back the variety shows...
Sorting Out Camp Sites
Great day sorting out camp sites
When I made the booking through the Caravan Club I asked them, inadvertently, to book sites that did not take tents, a mistake on my side. This meant that 7 of the 14 camp sites booked I could not use as I can only use a tent. The doors of caravan are not wide enough for the wheelchair to go through.
When I was told of this mistake I was horrified, and I must admit, thought not yet an another hurdle in the way. I even wondered if some higher being was telling me not to do this challenge. I guess we all get like that.
To try and put things right, today, Emmanuelle and I spent the whole afternoon on the internet, can you imagine life without the internet? without it, I could not arrange this challenge’ tracking down suitable camping sites. I soon found out how many caravan sites do not take tents, even though some do.
We have now successfully booked all the camp sites from Lands End up to Glasgow, but I am cheating, my 61st birthday will now be spent at ‘Garstang’. This is a remarkable Free trade town 40 mins from Blackpool. I am treating the team to 2 nights in an apartment.
May I subject that you take the time out to visit their web site at http://www.garstang.net/BusinessPages/six_arches_caravan_park.
On my travels through the internet for camp sites I approached many, and 2 of them gave me my nights free because of the challenge I was embarking upon. I would now like to say ‘Thank You’ in the only way I can, by adding them to my blog. They are
Stanmore Hall Touring Park, Bridgnorth, Shropshire
http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/sites/redirect.asp?site_id=2304
Damage Barton Caravan Park Damage Barton MortehoeWoolacombe Devon, EX34 7EJ
http://www.damagebarton.co.uk/
