My First AC Meeting

14 March 2008

My first Arthritis Care meeting

Last night I attuned my first AC meeting to give a talk on my E2E challenge. The getting there was the hardest part of the whole evening as I found the whole group very warm and welcoming. As a user of Bioflow, I also asked Alison Pride from Bioflow, after asking Brian Risbridger, if she would like to come, which Alison readily accepted

Due to the fact I could only get a return taxi at 2015 and that my carer had to be back home for 2130, I was given my turn before the their fish and chip supper, which I will add, both Pauline and myself, were asked to join.

I knew before I went that I could not use my power point presentation, but never mind, I took my notes. Just one small problem, after my arrival, we discovered that the mike did not work something to do with a connection. Not a problem said I, I can speak with a loud voice, and I dually drove my DHSS wheelchair onto the floor and without my notes, gave my talk, not completely to the script.

I talked about when I decide to look into doing the E2E. Contacting Jack Adams at the LE2JOG Association for a few facts and then contacting Vincent Moran at AC and how AC became my chosen charity.

Then I went on to talk about the Alber Adventure and why I had chosen this particular power wheelchair above others; this I quickly followed with details of the chosen route, accommodation, help I required and some idea of the expenses that I will have to stage the challenge, i.e. feeding and watering my team, petrol, that sort of stuff.

I then finished off with an appeal for funds to do the challenge and for people to come on the challenge at any stage. A few questions were asked and answered.

Before I left, the group had donated their raffle money to the challenge and also had a whip round. I will know how much this all comes to when I put it in the bank. Thanks to the South Shield Arthritis Care Group for the invitation, the fish and chips, their support and that all important, donation. Without such donations the fact is, I could not afford to do the challenge

One decision I have made, is I will not make public the amounts I have received from branches until after the event. Names of the branches will not be printed unless they have given me permission. I will of course keep a full and open record of all donations and how it is used, if anyone wants to see them. I hope that you all agree with this policy.

I have joist checked the blog and there is only 79 days to go, or if I am right, in 10 weeks today, I will be putting Jack and Molly into kennels, and leaving home for Lands End and my challenge of a life time…….

Have a great day…