Trying to ensure that people live life to the FULL!

I am not sure what I will contirbute to this blog and even whether I should if I am honest - I am no expert, in fact although having been disabled and using a wheelchair for a number of years, I am now not and don't any more!
Having skirted around the edges of disability, equality, human rights etc for a number of years I am a confirmed advocate for disabled people. so much so I work with and for disabled people every day. When I suddenly became disabled after a car accident it was a fairly rough ride, a huge steep learning curve which a mere mortal cannot hope to understand unless they have been there, done it and actually worn the T Shirt!
It was a turning point in my life, in fact in our lives as a family - one which looking back on I wouldn't change for the world, as it made me what I am, what I have and what I dream for today and for the future. It lost me friends, but it made me more, it lost me part of my life but enriched it 100 fold, it changed my goals which upset the applecart, but hey you rethink and get on with it!
We moved country, we started our own business, we work tirelessly, we have more stress, we learnt a new language, we have more debt that you can ever imagine but we also have amazing job satisfaction! Can't be all bad!
We are trying to change the preconceived ideas, we are trying to change an industry, we are trying to ensure people do live life to the full!
What are we doing - wheelchair accessible holiday accommodation - not so hard you all think - hey its not if you get it right, but how many hotels, rentals, hostels have you been to in your time that aren't right but think they are! Yep - thought so - 99% of disabled travellers have at some stage or another been on a holiday only to find they can't get to the loo, or have a shower, or worse still get in the front door..................complete nightmare...............yet the accommodation said they were accessible, in fact they had a wheelchair logo somewhere on their website, or brochure.
The fact of the matter is that 90% of these places have been designed/converted by a non disabled person, an architect who has read all the rules and regs for turning circles, hand rails, etc but not considered the fact at how bloody difficult it actually is to get in and out of a bath, or if you have a raised loo then one grab rail on one side isn't actually sufficient.
Right I am getting off my soap box now - this subject can go on forever - but we all know what I mean. So onto bigger and better things - we have done it and I truly mean that - we have a website that shows you everything about our apartments, it even has measurements, widths of doors, heights of loos, beds, etc. ALL of our accommodation is accessible, not just a small % I mean ALL of it, we have thought of other barriers, equipment or lack of it, support workers or lack of them, adapted transport or lack of it - all things that are incredibly important to disabled travellers, but so overlooked in the tourist industry. Some people want Tea and Coffee making facilities in their rooms, we talk about hoists and pressure mattresses. I don't sell our place on the wonderful beaches ten mins down the road, my sales patter is all about the bathroom and toilet facilities! You think I am joking - not in a million years!!!! LOL

This is what I mean......one of the tags for the photo of the bathroom is 'enough room to shower a horse' and we mean that, room for the wheelchair, a hoist plus the shower chair and then still room for support workers, etc, etc you get my drift?



I can't get it exactly right for YOU - you is too personal, and people are too individual, what works for one won't for another, etc, etc but generically speaking we have got it right, and we try to ensure that people can get about, are comfortable and have a great time whilst they're here - what more can you ask for?

Visitors Guide 'Let’s Go with the Children’

Take a break from the usual overseas holiday this summer and inspire your family with all that England has to offer!

Planning the family holidays this year could present us all with some exciting challenges. The economic downturn not only makes the working week a little more worrisome but when you do have the chance to take a break, you feel like you still need to save money.

A recent survey suggested that more than half of us will stay in the UK this year and whilst this may not initially seem like the most appealing prospect, for families with children there is a world of adventure and hidden gems to be found on English soil – and a great deal of them are free of charge!

You don’t have to opt for the traditional seaside holiday either. Stay in your local areas of Yorkshire, Durham or Cumbria for example and discover a wealth of beautiful countryside and little known attractions.

There are literally hundreds of ways to be thrifty without compromising on fun! Whether you stay for a week or just for a day you can find exciting activities, whatever the weather and whatever the budget.

The brand new ‘Let’s Go with the Children’ Guide books cover 14 regional areas of England and offer endless ideas on places to go and things to do with the family this summer. Your biggest problem will be deciding where to go first!

Here are a few suggestions on how to nurture your child’s hidden passions or talents, whilst ensuring the whole family has hours of fun for less this summer, whatever the weather and whatever the budget!

Yorkshire, North East & North West - Free Places to Visit...

Hexham Park 01434 652121.

Small but perfectly formed Green Flag award winning park beside stunning Hexham Abbey with play and picnic areas, boarding and BMX facilities.

Newcastle Discovery Museum 0191 232 6789 www.twmuseums.org.uk.

Discover all about life in Newcastle and Tyneside, from maritime history and world changing science and technology through to fashion through the eras and military history. The museum is bursting with interactive displats; the perfect place to learn and have fun.

National Glass Centre, Sunderland 0191 515 5555 www.nationalglasscentre.com.

Take a fascinating tour, see glass artists at work and walk across the glass roof. Children’s workshops during school holidays. The National Glass Centre promotes the art, history and science of glass in a context that is relevant to place, through a programme of exhibitions, new commissions and education that is international in its scope and vision, and fosters meaningful debate and participation between artists, audiences and educators.

Hamsterley Forest 01388 488312 www.forestry.gov.uk/hamsterleyforest.

2000 hectares of mixed woodland lying between the Wear and Tees valleys on the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.Hamsterley is a delightful oasis of broadleaved and coniferous woodland, sprawling along the sides of a sheltered valley. With way marked walks, cycle routes and horse riding trails, all levels of fitness and ability are catered for.

Consett to Sunderland Railway Path 0845 113 0065 www.sustrans.org.uk.

Part of the award winning C2C route, this popular traffic free cycle route is 21 miles long using former railway lines with lots of fascinating flora, fauna and public works of art along the way. There is plenty to visit along the route. Between Stanley and Beamish you pass the intriguingly named Hell Hole Wood, managed by the Woodland Trust and part of the Great North Community Forest.

Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, Middlesborough 01642 311211 www.captcook-ne.co.uk.

Experience life below the decks and find out about the world famous navigator through interactive displays. It is housed in a purpose-built building close to the granite urn marking the site of Cook’s birthplace cottage in Stewart Park, Marton, and Middlesbrough. The museum tells the story of one of the world’s greatest navigators and mariners through themed display galleries, temporary exhibitions, associated activities and events and a lively education programme.

Wynyard Woodland Park 01740 630011 www.wynyardwoodlandpark.org.uk.

Enjoying a beautiful woodland setting, this 180 acre park has many historical features. Facilities include a visitor centre, Planetarium, observatory, cycle ways, picnic spots, sculpture trail and play area. There is a railway carriage which acts as a classroom, a Virtual Visitor Centre Project and a new sculpture trail.

Robin Hood’s Bay, Whitby www.robin-hoods-bay.co.uk Take a net and a bucket to hunt for fossils on the rocky shores between Robin Hood’s Bay and Boggle Hole. Children must be supervised. Whether you are on a day trip or a weekly holiday to Robin Hood’s Bay, in a family group, finishing the coast to coast or simply getting away from it all, there is much to indulge in and certainly something for everyone. In addition to simply soaking up the scenery and relaxing in the surroundings, let your taste buds be tickled and your creative side tempted!

Lotherton Hall Estate, Leeds 01132 813259 www.leeds.gov.uk.

Explore the stone circle within the Boundary Trail, wander through one of Europe’s largest walk-through aviaries, admire the red deer or simply run off steam in the delightful grounds. Enjoy a great day out at Lotherton Hall and Estate and explore the fine country home within extensive grounds, including a red deer park, bird garden, nature trails, café and extensive family play area.

Manor Heath Park Jungle Experience and Walled Garden 01422 365631.

The Jungle Experience at Manor Heath Park, Halifax is a tropical oasis packed with fish, quail, terrapin and butterflies as well as a collection of plants from all over the world, where visitors can enjoy the all year round tropical atmosphere. The walled garden has many traditional and modern designs of planting, and the well kept park has a children's play area, picnic tables, mature trees and well kept gardens. A must for all the family!

Cusworth Hall Museum and Park, Doncaster 01302 782342 www.doncaster.gov.uk.

Discover lots of traditional toys in the childhood room and enjoy a picnic in the grounds. Cusworth Hall, Museum and Park re-opened to the public in May 2007, after several years of extensive restoration work.The Hall and its surrounding parkland have been transformed, stunning ceiling paintings in the Italianate Chapel have been revealed and restored, after being hidden under layers of paint for 50 years.The Great Kitchen, Bake House, Still Room and Laundry are also sometimes open to the public, giving a glimpse of what life was like 'below stairs'.

Graves Park Animal Farm, Sheffield 01142 582452 www.gravesparksheffield.info.

Get close to cuddly baby animals, domestic and rare breeds. In the park take the bird and sculpture trail and check out the play area. The farm has three distinct sections, just off the Hemsworth Road Car Park is a farmyard which houses the collections small animals such as Specialist Chickens, Guinea Pigs and Rabbits, the area is tarmac and accessible for disabled people. The farmyard is also home to the main barn where there are often baby animals, including piglets and lambs which is particularly popular with families.

Old Penny Memories Museum, Bridlington 01262 608400.

Old Penny Memories is one of the biggest collection of antique slot machines in England. Visitors to the museum can actually play the slot machines with the exchange of their money into old pennies. Admission is free, so you only pay if you play. Those visitors who are just wanting to look around are welcome to. The collection of machines and memorabilia dates from Edwardian 1920s up to the swinging 60s. You can feel the atmosphere of the era with the seaside organ music playing.

Spurn Lightship, Hull www.hullcc.gov.uk.

See how the crew lived aboard the ship which guided others into Hull’s port. Built in 1927, the 'Spurn' served for almost 50 years as a navigational aid in the treacherous River Humber. Now enjoying a leisurely mooring in Hull's attractive marina, she and her knowledgeable 'crew' are prepared to receive and welcome boarders who wish to explore.

Low Barns Nature Reserve, Durham 01388 488728.

Discover acres of beautiful woods, lakes and meadows including a visitor centre and observatory. Low Barns Nature Reserve is a 50 hectare wetland site with areas of mixed woodland and grassland. The Reserve is situated on an ex-gravel extraction site, which has been managed by Durham Wildlife Trust since operations ended in 1964.Wetland features include three lakes, interconnecting streams, a number of mature ponds, and a wet pasture. The River Wear also flows through the reserve.

Bowlees Picnic Area, Teesdale 0191 383 3594 www.durham.gov.uk.

Charming spot on the River Tees from where you can explore Gibson’s Cave, Summerhill Force and Low Force. There is a Visitor Centre run by Durham Wildlife Trust over the Bowlees Beck. One of the most attractive sections of the Pennine Way is only a 15-minute walk away. This section follows the River Tees midway between Middleton and Cauldron Snout. It can be reached by crossing the Tees on the Wynch Bridge, near Low Force.

Bowes Castle, Durham 0191 269 1200 www.bowes.org.uk/castle.

Explore the vast ruins of this open-access, three-storey, 12th century keep overlooking the River Greta. The present ruins of the castle are fifty-three feet in height, the remains being of the keep, surrounded on two sides by the remains of an original inner moat. There are few remains of the original bailey wall but it is possible to climb up part of the inside of the keep itself.

Locomotion: The National Railway Museum at Shildon 01388 777999 www.locomotion.uk.com.

Open-air museum with vehicles and interactive displays to explain the life of Timothy Hackworth and the development of railways. There’s a fun packed programme of special events throughout the year. For a fabulous day out, try their exclusive package culminating in driving a steam engine. There is an Easter Fair for all the family and events through school holidays.

Brimham Rocks, Harrogate 01423 780688 www.brimhamrocks.co.uk.

Take sturdy shoes to explore these spectacular rock formations including the Dancing Bear and Druid’s Writing Desk. Tracker packs available for over 5s. The curious rock formations at Brimham in Nidderdale are scattered over some 50 acres on Brimham Moor and provide a great variety of weird and wonderful shapes. Many of the gritty monstrosities suggest all manner of things, including elephants, hippos, bears, mushrooms and some are said to have associations with druids, Mother Shipton and even the Devil himself.

Whinlatter Forest Park 017687 78469 www.forestry.gov.uk.

Explore the mountain forest on foot or two wheels, orienteering, playground and picnic area. From April to August annually watch the Bassenthwaite Ospreys through the live nest camera or visit the Lake District Osprey Project and see the ospreys from the outdoor viewpoint or visit the exhibition and live video camera at Whinlatter.

Talkin Tarn Country Park, Cumbria 01697 73129 www.visitcumbria.com.

Stroll around this delightful glacial tarn, hire a boat in summer or enjoy the Boathouse Tearoom all year round. The tarn is glacial in origin, being formed about 10000 years ago, and is fed by underground streams. You can sail, windsurf, canoe or hire one of the wooden rowing boats. Fishing is available at the Tarn. There is a small camping and caravan site, and a permanent orienteering course is laid out around the park. The shop hires mountain bikes and there are suggested routes taking you through beautiful countryside. There is a 1.3 mile path round the tarn which is suitable for wheelchairs. The Boathouse Tea Room has superb views of the tarn, and a blazing log fire.

Aira Force Waterfall, Cumbria 01768 482067 www.visitcumbria.com.

A magnificent beauty spot, Aira Force and the Ullswater Valley are home to a large variety of wildlife, including Wordsworth's famous daffodils. Probably the most famous of the Lake District waterfalls, the main force falls 70 feet from below a stone footbridge. Aira Force provides a glimpse of a landscaped Victorian park with dramatic waterfalls, arboretum and rocks scenery.

Low Sizergh Barn, Lake District 015395 60426 www.lowsizerghbarn.co.uk.

There is a farm shop, tea room, craft gallery and farm trail on this organic dairy farm near the Lake District national park. The farm shop is filled with one of the best selections of local and speciality foods in Cumbria, with farm products -- our own organic Kendal cheese, organic eggs and ice cream made from our milk -- taking pride of place. Watch the milking from the gallery between 1.15-3.15pm.

Lancaster Canal Trust 01524 735504 www.lctrust.co.uk.

Run by enthusiasts, experience their narrow boat "Waterwitch" for a trip along the pretty northern reaches of the Lancaster Canal.

Abbott Lodge Jersey Ice Cream, Penrith 01931 712720 www.abbottlodgejerseyicecream.co.uk.

Meet the Jersey cows at this working farm, try the ice cream and work up an appetite in the indoor and outdoor playgrounds. The farm offers a tea room, function room for educational visits and you can watch the calves at their computerised feeding station. Sampling the ice cream is a must!

Alderley Edge, Cheshire 01625 584412 www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Dramatic wooded hill rising out of the Cheshire plain. Legend says that kind Arthur lies sleeping underground. Explore mysterious trails and seek the wizards well. Alderley Edge is designated an SSSI for its geological interest. It has a long history of copper mining, going back to Bronze Age and Roman times. The mines are open twice a year, organised by the Derbyshire Caving Club. There are views across Cheshire and the Peak District and numerous paths through the oak and beech woodlands, including a link to Hare Hill.

Cheshire Workshops, Buwardsley 01829 770401 www.visitchester.com.

Discover candle making and watch working craftsmen. Lots of activities for children at weekends and school holidays including candle dipping, badge making, card making and pottery painting. Open 10-5pm Delamere Forest Park, Cheshire 01606 882167 Take a picnic and explore this extensive forest. Visitor centre and ranger-led activities throughout the year, with extra events during school holidays. Good network of cycle paths.

Delamere Forest Park is Cheshire's largest area of woodland and is a place for families to let off steam, escape the crowds and find peace in the heart of the forest.

Ainsdale on Sea Beach & Discovery Centre, Southport 0151 9342967.

Explore this extensive, clean beach and the maze-like sand dunes. Hire a free bicycle from the centre or take part in extreme kite activities.. Ainsdale-on-Sea is an ideal starting point for exploring Sefton's Natural Coast. A mile from the village of Ainsdale, it is Southport's main bathing beach with Lifeguards on duty during the summer season.The beach is one of the most popular on the coast and achieves the Seaside Award annually.

Wirral Country Park, Cheshire 0151 327 5145.

From the restored Hadlow Station, walk or cycle along 12 miles of footpaths, with shorter pathways into other areas. Fantastic bird watching, with great views over the Dee Estuary to North Wales. Visitor centre and guided walks. Wirral Country Park is a place of contrasts. Badgers and Foxes hunt the quieter parts, birds nest in the dense hedges or feed on the berries in winter, and you may see up to 10 kinds of butterfly in summer. Head for the 60 feet high, boulder-clay cliffs and look out over the Dee Estuary and you'll smell the tang of mud and salt, feel the sea breeze and get a sense of space quite unlike the enclosed, inland Wirral Way.

Greater Manchester Police Museum 0161 856 3287 www.gmp.police.uk.

Step back into unruly Victorian Manchester, see the wooden pillows in the Victorian cells, plus uniforms and equipment. Learn about forgery and forensic science.

Three Owls Bird Sanctuary & Reserve 01706 642162 www.threeowls.co.uk.

Relying heavily on donations, this sanctuary takes wild distressed birds, rehabilitates them and returns them to the wild. Between 300 and 1600 birds can be seen depending on the season.

Stockport Hat Works 0845 833 0975 www.hatworks.org.uk If you have ever wondered how hats were made, then this is the place for you. View the history of hat making from its origins through to mechanisation in the mills with working machines in action.

National Football Museum, Preston 01772 908442.

Investigate all aspects of the beautiful game including displays and Hall of Fame, Match of the Day Interactive and the Goalstriker Experience. Discover the best football museum in the world. Exciting moments, unforgettable memories, world famous objects, legendary players, 'hands-on' fun for all the family ... best of all it's FREE Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site 01434 332002 www.hadrians-wall.org.

This famous frontier was built by the order of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Along its length are many museums, forts and temples. Follow the national trail, an 84 mile trail from coast to coast with links to 40 short walks. Steeped in history there are 14 major Roman sites, forts and museums and countless milecastles and turrets to explore, as well as many great non-Roman places on offer. Explore the stunning landscape of the World Heritage Site on foot, or cycle, at your own ease ‘Let’s Go with the Children’ Guide Books are published by Boomerang Family Ltd.

On Sale Date 23rd March 2009 Price: £3.75 Exclusive Offers from: Boden, Billy Elliott, Wicked, Grease, Fitness First, Fit for Sport, Sea Life Centres, Babyworld, Chiquito Restaurants.

Available from; Morrisons, Waitrose, Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Co-op, Martin McColl, WH Smith and Waterstones.

Family travel: 'Can we take our disabled son to Florida?'

Q. We have three young children, one of whom is six and severely disabled. We want to go to Florida next year, but have no idea of the mechanics of taking our disabled son on a flight. He won't be able to sit still in an aeroplane seat for more than a few minutes, and is too unmanageable to sit on our knees. Normally, he travels in a slightly larger than normal car seat (which we will need to take with us anyway for use in the hire car), but what will we do with it and his wheelchair on the plane? Are some airlines better than others at dealing with this kind of thing? And there is one further complication: our son has a cochlear implant. Can we avoid taking him through any electronic- scanning devices? J Thatcher, Nottinghamshire

A. Even though travelling with a disability has become easier, it still requires a lot of forward planning, and is not without its hurdles.
Tackling the flights first: you need to establish a dialogue with the airline early on. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) and Virgin Atlantic (08705 747 747; virgin-atlantic.com) both fly from London to Miami and Orlando, and have comprehensive disability guidelines; Virgin even has a dedicated number: 0870 990 8350.
An experienced and understanding travel agent could also be a useful ally, since he or she will know the procedures (and aviation jargon) for looking after disabled travellers.
The airline needs to know the details of your son's condition, and that you will be taking a wheelchair, so that the appropriate preparation can be made on board the aircraft, and cabin crew are aware of your family's needs.
If you are taking a battery-operated wheelchair, you must inform the airline 48 hours in advance of the weight, dimensions and battery type. If you can take the wheelchair on board, it won't count towards your carry-on limit. Under the Dangerous Goods Act, battery-operated wheelchairs must be stored in the hold. If the battery is spillable, it must be removed, unless the chair is to be stored upright during the flight.
In relation to the car seat, BA rules say that if parents wish to bring their own on board, it must be securable by the normal aircraft single lap strap. The seat must also face the same way as the passenger seat, and not exceed the width of the plane seat. The dimensions vary with each airline, but an economy seat typically measures 17in-20in. Check with the airline when you are booking to ensure that the car seat fits the plane seat.
Wheelchairs set off metal detectors at airport security, so both your son and the chair will have to be hand searched; you have the right to request that he is searched in private.
The metal-detector archways used for security checks produce magnetic fields that can cause speech processors to become corrupted. To prevent damage to your son's cochlear implant, it is advisable to remove the processor and turn it off before passing through any such apparatus. The processor must be X-rayed, which can be done safely as long as it is turned off. It is also advisable to carry your son's ID card and the equipent's user manual, to show to security staff on request.
For much more information and advice, see the excellent website flying-with -disability.org. You may well conclude, though, that it will be considerably less stressful to enlist help in organising your first trip, so consider a specialist operator such as Disability Travel (020-8731 2111; disabilitytravel.co. uk). It organises tailor-made trips, including to the All-Star Music Resort in Disney World, Florida (pictured left). These take into consideration everything from flights to accommodation. Prices depend on specific needs. Access Travel (01942 888 844; access-travel. co.uk) also offers tailor-made holidays to Florida.
Send family travel queries toThe Independent Parent, Travel Desk, 'The Independent', 191 Marsh Wall, London E14 9RS; or email crusoe@independent. co.uk

The Lighting of the Candles

For the last couple of weeks, I have thought much of what I wanted to write for this holiday season. I thought of what I wanted to say and nothing really came to me till right now. Since I celebrate both holidays, and am Jewish, I began reflecting. I reflected on the here and now, and also the past. Additionally, I reflected on when I was a little girl, and how I use to love celebrating Chanukah. For some reason, lighting the candles brought me much peace.
Not only because there was something about the candles being lit that memorized me. But because of the prayers being said during the lighting, and my grandma teaching me in Hebrew what the prayers meant. It gave me a sense of my heritage and who I was. It made me have a sense of pride and dignity. It made me feel good about myself. It also made me wonder of all those many, thousands of years ago, and what all my people before me went through.
I thought about the story of the candles. I thought about how my people thought they would only have enough oil to last for one night. The miracle of the story was that the oil burned for eight days and eight nights. I guess you could say wow, huh! Its a beautiful story. It’s a story I will always cherish.
Although, I also remember as a little girl wanting to have a Christmas tree too. I remember during the holiday season, my elementary school would bring in the Booster Club, and the Shriners; as they would put on a huge Christmas gala for the children.
Although, my Mama Katie would sweetly remind me of my up-bringing, tradition, and customs. She and my grandma both would teach me about my legacy, my roots, and my background. They would speak in both Jewish and English to my sister and me. While we don’t speak it ourselves, my sister and I still understand the language and speak somewhat at time.. I guess you could say I have been blessed. Now I have the best of both worlds. 21 years ago, I married into a catholic family, of German decent. They not only speak their German dialect, but I understand a lot of what they are saying because of my mother and grandmother speaking it fluently in our house-hold. I also get to celebrate both holidays, now. I put up not only my dreidal an menorah, but I put up the most beautiful Christmas tree and decorations you could think of. I am not only reminded of the days long ago as the lyrics ring out in the Chanukah song. But I am reminded of who I am, how I want to share my gift of light, the light that shins forth from my being, and, I am reminded daily, that the gift of giving is not just one day out of the year. It is every day of the year. It is the hope and belief to carry on.

Know pains, know games

Get up, sit down, take a step, reach across your body.
Sounds simple enough, but not when you’re hurting.

Now imagine the mental drudgery of having to repeat grunt-and-groan exercises multiple times using those same physical tasks in order to stop the pain. It demands work that can be flat-out boring.

But in the past couple of years, physical therapists across the country have begun using Nintendo Wii (pronounced “we”) video games to make getting up off the couch a lot easier—physically and mentally. Some in the profession have nicknamed it “Wii-habilitation.”

Dr. Lori Anderson, physical therapist in the rehabilitation department at Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital, came across the idea at the Minnesota State Fair last summer when she stopped by the American Physical Therapy Association booth. She gave the games a try and liked them so much she bought one for herself.

In October, as part of National Physical Therapy Month and their slogan “it’s all about movement,” Anderson took her personal Wii game to work. She wanted to give it a test run with physical therapy patients and nursing home residents.

The game was an instant hit. She said a couple of the nursing home residents tried it and talked about it for days.

“The patients really love it. They find it fun and don’t feel like they’re exercising,” she explained.

The video technology allows participants to play virtual sports games and simulate other physical activities on a television monitor by using a wireless hand-held controller. Players move their arms and legs, and shift their weight in motions that replicate their use for the sport or activity.

Anderson said the games benefit people who have neurological problems like traumatic brain injuries or strokes. But the games are also good for reconditioning general strength and endurance, post-surgical recovery and spinal cord injuries. The activities are well-suited for geriatrics at risk of falling or who have sustained a fall, and those in need of basic eye-hand coordination. The physical movement required increases and strengthens heart rate.

Beyond the physical benefits, the games are a particularly refreshing alternative to traditional forms of therapy that can be viewed as monotonous and dull.

According to Anderson, motivating patients is one of a therapist’s biggest challenges. But the Wii games have a magic touch.

“Just getting patients to stand up can be mundane,” she said. “But if you have them bowling [with Wii] they don’t want to sit down until that game is done.”

Along with bowling, games include sports like tennis, baseball, golf and boxing.

Other versions of Wii focus on balance for activities such as skiing, snowboarding, soccer and hula-hooping. Players actually stand on a balance board and practice shifting their weight.

“Many people don’t realize how poor their balance is. They also don’t realize that balance is a skill and it gets better with practice,” Anderson said.

What’s more, she said patients derive inspiration because the game keeps score and they can assess their progress.

The Cook Hospital has been using Wii games in their nursing home and for adult day services for about two years.

According to Director of Rehabilitation Brian McCarthy, the activities for the adult day services keep patients from “just sitting around at home.”

“The key as we age is to keep moving and Wii games have been a great help,” he said.

Additionally, residents who are wheelchair-bound in the nursing home have discovered a variety of activities to do from their chairs, like bowling. McCarthy said interest in the games has really improved resident participation overall.

“When patients participate with Wii, they’re much more alert and it’s much more fun than standard therapy like reaching up to put a ring on a cone.”

He added that he knows of some nursing homes that have established bowling leagues for wheelchair residents.

Though often thought of as kids’ entertainment, Wii systems are cross-generational and suitable for therapy in all age groups.

Ely resident Phyllis Kurre-Post is one of Anderson’s therapy patients at EBCH. Kurre-Post suffered a broken vertebra and ribs from a fall, and her balance and leg strength have weakened over time. But she’s becoming somewhat of an aficionado at the Wii bowling game.

During their therapy sessions, Anderson helps her shift weight from side to side when sending “the ball” down the alley. Getting a feel for when to release the controller button also helps improve Kurre-Post’s eye-hand coordination. She said she thinks it’s beneficial.

“It’s been quite interesting,” Kurre-Post said, then added, “I don’t do much at home other than walk, so I better keep coming here.”

Her husband, Gus Post, said he hopes she regains her ability to walk independently with less fear of falling, especially in winter.

“Icy weather is a concern. It gets tough here in Ely,” he said.

For children, the games can help enhance overall motor skills and coordination, and reduce clumsiness sometimes associated with childhood development. Kids who might have avoided conventional sports can find the games exciting, too.

Both Anderson and McCarthy see definite therapeutic potential.

Anderson said the hospital hasn’t purchased any Wii games yet for the EBCH therapy department, so until then she’ll continue to bring hers in periodically.

However, she said the price for Wii games is often affordable and patients can continue their rehabilitation at home. She estimated a start-up system, which includes the sports games, runs about $250. Add-on games and associated equipment for specific sports usually range from $40-$80.

“When you consider the cost of traditional therapy equipment, Wii games are a decent price that can be used for a wide variety of patient therapy and diagnosing,” she said.

With the holidays around the corner, the games could be a stocking stuffer to bond family members of all ages for entertainment and a healthier New Year.

Providing Holidays for People with Disabilities

We enable YOU to have the holiday YOU want by supporting YOU with what YOU need.

Hi,

Supported Holidays was formed in 2002 by Sue Osman. The company provides holidays for people with disabilities on the Costa Del Sol, Spain.
The Mission Statement of the company is;
“To provide the very highest level of care and support to enable guests to experience the best holiday that they can have”.
Sue has worked in the field of care since leaving school 17 years ago, initially as a care assistant and for many years and as both a Registered Care Home Manager and Supported Living Housing Manager within the following registered categories:

o Learning Disabilities
o Physical Disabilities
o Mental Health
o Hearing & Visually Impaired
o Older People
o Challenging Behaviour


The desire to offer something new for holidays was born out of the frustration to book quality holidays for her Service Users. The usual week of a cottage in the Cotswolds or a caravan at Great Yarmouth came with the problems of quality and staffing costs. She has always sought to encourage her service users to achieve and experience the very best they can and the opportunity for foreign travel should be amongst those experiences.

Guests are now flying to Spain from all over the UK. Each holiday booked in the culmination of many hours of discussion. Every guest is different, the emotional and physical requirements of the guest is the primary concern. Activities and trips are discussed and can be as simple as lying by the pool to boat trips to see the dolphins.

The holiday that is provided is one that guests have chosen; there are no restrictions, no must haves, no dos or don’ts, other than health and safety issues.
Care is provided as required, from 1 – 2 hours personal care to 24 hour full support. Individual guests, couples and small groups usually stay in the purpose built accommodation within the family villa. Larger groups can be accommodation in another 5 bed roomed villa less than 100 meters away. Our holidays are usually based upon 3 guests to 1 staff ratio.

We also have a new project under the ‘Supported Holidays.co.uk’ umbrella based in Antequera run by a couple that worked for us in 2007.
Supported Holidays is a unique service, individually tailoring two different types of holiday packages to meet the needs of our guests. The '24-Hour Fully Inclusive Supported Holiday (FISH) and the (FLEXI) Holiday Package'.

The Fully Inclusive Supported Holiday (FISH);

Our accessible user-friendly database allows guests to make decisions about their day, from going on a day trip to where and what they want to eat.

Prices include:

• Return flights from UK airports
• Support at the Airports ~ This is arranged with the airline & the Passenger Handling Dept at time the of booking flights to ensure all your support needs will be met
• Return private air-conditioned transfers ~ A member of our team will greet you at Malaga Airport and to drive you to your accommodation, and again for your return journey.
• Accommodation ~ The private fully wheelchair accessible apartment is in the grounds of our family villa which means you have support at hand when needed. The apartment consists of two twin bedrooms, large wet room, specialised equipment, internal alarm systems, TV video & DVD player , stereo, play-station and drinks making facilities. Outside there are terraces, gardens, fruit trees, laundry room, bar area, swimming pool & BBQ.
We also have many luxury villas and apartments nearby for larger groups.
• Towels, Linen & Bathrobes ~ Bath & Beach towels provided and changed daily.
• On Site Toiletries – A selection of toiletries are available, this includes: shampoo, shower gel, soap, toothpaste, sun lotions, aftersun, etc
• Medication Administration ~ All staff are trained to administer M.A.R.R / Dosset Box medication. We require information regarding medication contraindications and side effects.
• Money Management ~ We support guests with all aspects of money management i.e. budgeting spending money, safe keeping and advice on value for money.
• Welcome Packs ~ Includes typical Spanish & English snacks & a bottle of bubbly!
• Professional Support ~ At hand 24 hours a day
• All Meals ~ including, served breakfast, packed lunches & meals out. We can also provide a packed snack for guests return journey.
• Full Day trips ~ Everyday. Visiting attractions of your choice from our ‘Activities Folder’ i.e. boat trips, horse riding, animal & adventure parks etc. All attractions are audited for suitability. All entrance fee’s are included.
• Evenings Out ~ Every night. Restaurants, bars & shows
• Personalised Photo Album ~ Photos are taken throughout the holiday and an album is presented to you at the end of your holiday so you can take your memories home with you. We may need to post the last day’s photo’s to you.
• Laundry Service ~ Most clothes will be washed ready for you to take home clean with you.
• Cleaning Service ~ The bedrooms and en suite wet room will be freshly prepared daily.
• Shopping Service ~ We go to the shops most days so if you need anything just let us know, or if you want and you’ve got time you can always come with us.
• 24 hour on-call service ~ A pre-programmed mobile phone is provided.
• Communication ~ All guests can be contacted on either the villa’s landline or on the On-Call Managers mobile.
• Daily Reports ~ For those guests that require a written daily report
• Snacks & Drinks ~ Freely available at the villa
• FREE Bar ~ at the villa
• Phone Calls ~ Guests are welcome to use the villa telephone to call their families and carers (within reason of course!)
• Supported Holidays Souvenir
• Destination Souvenir
• Public Liability Insurance
• Returned Forgotten Items (within reason)
• Christmas Card & Gift
• Birthday Card

What’s NOT Included:

• Travel & Medical Insurance
• Extra drinks when out
• Transport to and from UK departure airport
• Any invasive treatment that is needed, however we do provide escort, advice and translations of medical services
• Any spending money for gifts, postcards & other personal items

2009 Prices;

Our 2009 prices are based upon guests confirming their holidays dates during 2008.The total cost for the above package is £999 per person per week; any additional weeks are at a discounted rate of £899.

Holidays booked in 2009 are £999 plus flight costs to Malaga. If booked in advance flights can cost as little as £50 return, short notice flights may cost up to £200 return plus.

During 2009 we are also offering the following packages (please contact us for further details):

• Winter Sun Packages: Jan, Feb & March 2009 (Includes skiing)
• Portugal: 7 – 14 April 2009
• 4 day mini-cruise to Amsterdam: 15 – 18 May 2009
• 5 day Mediterranean cruise: Dates to be confirmed
• Christmas 2009 in Tenerife

Our other project are specialising in holiday for families with children with disabilities. Further information available upon request.
If you, a family member, a friend or service user would like to experience Spain and all that it offers review the website, read the testimonials but most importantly call or email to let Sue know.
Please advise us on your preferred holiday dates ASAP to avoid disappointment as we are getting booked up already for 2009 with repeat bookings from our regular guests.
FREE no obligation booking forms are available upon request.
We look forward to hearing from you,



Sue Osman
Supported Holidays ©

2008 GOWRIE NEWSLETTER ISSUE 02

Page 4: HOLIDAY IN SPAIN

Last year I went on holiday to Spain in October with a company called Supported Holidays run by Sue Osman. I liked it so much that I went again in December and have booked to go again this year and would like to tell you all about it.

I heard about Supported Holidays from my Support Workers, who knew other service users who had enjoyed their holidays in Spain. I wanted to go abroad but didn’t want to go on my own so I thought a supported holiday would be just right for me. I caught a flight from Edinburgh to Malaga airport where I was met by staff from Sue’s project. It is quiet a long drive from the airport to the house in Nerja. This is a quit secluded area of Malaga and you can see the mountains in the distance. We drove up there one day and I saw a huge Dam which was very educational.

Now we come to the most important part of the project – the house itself! When you arrive you see 2 long green gates to the south of the property and a ramp down the side of the house which leads to bedrooms suitable for people in wheelchairs. The house is guarded by 2 big dogs called Cass & Monty, I was a bit scared of them at first but once they know you they are very friendly. There is a large enclosed garden with a swimming pool that the residents can use. I had my own bedroom and shared a bathroom with 2 to 3 other guests. The staff make lovely meals and even got my favourite cooked for me – a big Sunday roast with ice-cream for dessert!

There are lots of things you can do during your holiday; Sue organises trips for her visitors and the staff drive us in the project mini-bus. I went on a trip on a cable car with one staff called Sean. I was a bit nervous before I went on but once I was up it was just like sitting on a bus! The view was beautiful, it felt like you could see all over Spain and right across the sea. Other days I chose to go around the shops with Sue. There are a lot of cafes and bars in Malaga too where we went out with the staff in the evening. One night I saw a wonderful fireworks display with pinks, reds, blues and yellow lighting up the sky.

I cant wait to go again this October.

FRANK WYNEE

Supported Holidays - Winter 2009

Winter Sun 2009


Due to popular demand we are offering for the first time the opportunity of some winter sun. Our winter sun ‘Supported Holidays’ are based on a 3 guests to 1 staff ratio. We are offering this package in addition to our all year round holidays in Nerja & Antequera.

This holiday suits the more active guest who are up for a laugh and a fun packed week. All activities are fully supervised. The weather on the coast for January, February & March is usually very mild (23 degrees). Access to the ski resorts is less than 1.5hrs drive it is therefore possible to lie on the beach and ski within the same week. Should a guest not wish to ski or toboggan it is possible to spend those days sight-seeing.

Itinerary as follows:


Wednesday Arrive at Malaga then in the evening have a meal and go to a show

Thursday Arrive at Sierra Nevada’s Ski Resort. Tobogganing & Skiing, then in the Evening there is a meal out and staying at Hotel in Granada


Friday Tobogganing & Skiing - back to the villa late evening.

Saturday - Natural Hot Springs at Alhama De Granada - Meal Out & Show

Sunday Day at the beach / pool for the Rest day - BBQ at the Villa and a live music show

Monday Gibraltar – St Maichael’s Caves - Cable Car Battlements

Tuesday Local Sight-seeing show and the a show in the evening

Wednesday Depart

* The timetable is subject to availability and weather conditions.

Weeks available:

Jan 14 – 3 places remaining
Jan 28 – 3 places remaining
Feb 11 – 3 places remaining
Feb 25 – 3 places remaining
March 4 – 3 places remaining
March 11 – 3 places remaining

£999 per person fully inclusive + flight costs to Malaga (complete breakdown of the fully inclusive package available upon request in a separate email)

Please contact us for further details on the numbers or email address below.

Sue Osman

Supported Holidays

Camino De la Exotica No22
La Exotica
Nerja
Malaga
Spain
29780

www.SupportedHolidays.co.uk
info@supportedholidays.co.uk

0034 952521475

Holidays for People with Physical and / or Learning Disabilities.

We enable YOU to have the holidays YOU want by supporting YOU with YOUR needs!!

Fan gets apology from Setanta

TELEVISION channel Setanta has apologised to a football fan with cerebral palsy after a call centre worker laughed at his speech problems.

Lee Kingsberry was trying to take out a new subscription to the pay-per-view sports channel after moving to a new flat.

The 23-year old says the person taking his call started laughing at him - and then hung up.

Lee said: "I wanted to watch the Man City versus Chelsea game. I know that the person who was on the line could understand what I was saying but he kept saying `What?' and `Sorry?'. We had been speaking for a few minutes and he started to laugh at me and put the phone down.

"I thought it was very inconsiderate and very unprofessional. If he had been trained professionally, he would have had a better understanding of how to speak to people. If you find it difficult to understand people you should say `I'm sorry, can you repeat that'."

The M.E.N contacted the sports station to point out Lee's appalling treatment. Managers listened to the recorded call and have now taken disciplinary action against the call handler. Station bosses have also offered Lee free subscription to the channel for a year.

A Setanta spokeswoman said: "We have dealt with the customer service agent who took Mr. Kingsberry's call and also spoken to him to apologise and offer him a 12 month free subscription.

"This is a matter that we have taken very seriously and we would not want this to happen again."

Lee uses a wheelchair and has speech difficulties because of his cerebral palsy - but he lives independently and enjoys clubbing and holidays to Ibiza.

The former pupil of Abraham Moss School in Crumpsall, Manchester, does voluntary work and has starred in a video about living with a disability. He is currently working on a TV documentary about nightlife in Manchester.

Cerebral palsy is a disorder which affects the parts of the brain that control movement - sufferers often find speaking difficult, but are not usually mentally impaired by the condition.

Lee says he is used to prejudice and offensive comments - but that his treatment on the phone was the last straw.

He said: "I'm used to people thinking that because my speech is slow that I'm not all there.

"People make judgments about me all the time but you expect a better level of service from a big company."

Special sports day held for disabled pupils

LAUGHTER and fun filled the air at this special sports day for disabled pupils at the Percy Hedley Foundation in Forest Hall.
The pupils would not be able to enjoy the activities without extra support – and extra funding to pay for it.
But thanks to a cash boost of more than £5,000, around 100 youngsters were able to enjoy a fun-filled day like any able-bodied pupils.
The sports day was held as part of the summer school activities taking place during the holidays at Percy Hedley School.
Children had the chance to try out powerchair football, which uses electric wheelchairs to play a ball game now recognised by the Football Association.
They also played wheelchair basketball and relay races with water as well as egg-and-spoon races and raft races. Fundraiser Des Bustard, from the school, said: “Events like our sports day gives so much joy to our students and their families.
“We do not receive statutory funding during the school holidays and therefore without donations we would be unable to organise a summer school for our students.
“It was fun and games with the emphasis on making it an enjoyable day with activities for everyone.”
The Percy Hedley Foundation supports children with disabilities ranging from cerebral palsy to communication and learning difficulties.
Its summer school was granted an award of £5,517 from the Postcode Lottery, which has just given out more than £53,000 worth of cheques to charities in the North East.
Other groups to benefit include Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Mencap North East and Help the Aged.

New and exciting opportunity for Disabled Travellers, their families and Carers

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce our new project in France that is offering accessible and supported holidays for disabled people.

We are English, but have been living in France for 5 years and have spent that time renovating/converting an old cotton mill on the banks of the River Jaudy in La Roche Derrien.
The specific aim was to be able to offer a fully accessible environment where disabled people could come and stay, as individuals, groups or as a family and everybody could enjoy themselves and relax.

We not only offer the accommodation, but also equipment hire, adapted transport, support workers and much more. We are on hand at all times to ensure that peoples needs are met as far as possible.

The Cotton Mill has been transformed into six light and airy apartments, all with level access showers, raised toilets, grab rails, wheel under sinks, etc the garden itself is also accessible with large seating areas, bbq's, children's play area, etc too. With off road parking it is an ideal setting for anyone who wishes to visit the area.

There is a lot of information on our website - www.ineedaholidaytoo.com which has great photos of each apartment, the area, the equipment, has measurements of apartments, doors, heights of beds, etc. All the important things that invariably any disabled traveller would want to know in advance!

Best Wishes and thank you for your time.

Jacqui Alban

www.ineedaholidaytoo.com

Bamborough Castle

Bamburgh Castle is an imposing castle located on the coast at Bamburgh in Northumberland, England (grid reference NU184350). It is a Grade I listed building


Built on a basalt outcrop, the castle was known to the native Britons as Din Guardi and had been the capital of the British Kingdom of Bryneich from the realm's foundation in c.420 until 547, the year of the first written reference to the castle. In that year the citadel was captured by the Anglo-Saxon ruler Ida of Bernicia and became Ida's seat. It was briefly retaken by the Britons from his son Hussa during the war of 590 before being relieved later that same year.

His grandson Æðelfriþ passed it on to his wife Bebba, from which the early name Bebbanburgh was derived. The Vikings destroyed the original fortification in 993.

The Normans built a new castle on the site, which forms the core of the present castle. William II unsuccessfully besieged it in 1095 during a revolt supported by its owner, Robert de Mowbray, Earl of Northumberland. After Robert was captured, his wife continued the defence until coerced to surrender by the king's threat to blind her husband.

Bamburgh then became the property of the reigning English monarch. Henry II probably built the keep. As an important English outpost, the castle was the target of occasional raids from Scotland. In 1464 during the Wars of the Roses, it became the first castle in England to be defeated by artillery, at the end of a nine-month long siege by Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick.

The Forster family of Northumberland provided the Crown with twelve successive governors of the castle for some 400 years until the Crown granted ownership to Sir John Forster. The Forster family retained ownership until Sir William Forster (d. 1700) was posthumously declared bankrupt and his estates, including the castle, were sold to Lord Crew, Bishop of Durham ( husband of his sister Dorothy) under an Act of Parliament to settle the debts.

The castle deteriorated but was restored by various owners during the 18th and 19th centuries. It was finally bought by the Victorian industrialist William Armstrong, who completed the restoration.

During the Second World War, the Royal Navy corvette HMS Bamborough Castle was named after it.

I loved it here, I remember Dad asking me in the summer holidays where I wanted to go for a day out, and I said to a castle, and this is where we came, I loved it, it was very hard going in my chair but Mum and Dad where determined to let me see as much as we could, even if this meant carrying me up the stairs.

16 upwards.........

As I was approaching 16 years of age, there was discussion of what I would do when I left school. It was advised that I should attend a residential college, for youngsters with disabilities, in Nottingham. From the start I was dead set against the idea, as I wasn't happy at the thought of being away home and my friends. In the end I agreed to visit the college in Nottingham for an initial 5 day assessment. I travelled up to Nottingham by train. The journey took a few hours, and I was very anxious. We arrived late afternoon, and once formalities were over, it was time for an evening meal. I hated the place from the start and couldn't wait to get home. Each day I attended lessons, but didn't enjoy one minute of my stay. Of course I was offered a place to become a student, but I flatly refused to accept. The whole experience made me feel a great deal of resentment towards my disability. Why did I only have the option of going away from home to further my education. Was it because I was disabled!! I developed a hatred towards any kind of residential institution to do with disability. My view was, we should integrate not segregate.

It was my wish to go to a local college of Further Education. My wish was granted, and I enrolled at a college not to far away from home. I was to travel there each day by Mini Cab. Once I started my year long course, it wasn't all plain sailing. My fellow students were all able bodied. Most were very nice towards me, but a minor few made unkind remarks. After a few weeks I was transferred to a different course. I gained experience in office duties, such as typing, filing and letter writing layouts. I began thinking how I would love to apply for office jobs and work for a big company. Unfortunately, because I was a wheelchair user, at a mainstream college, there were no adapted facilities. I missed out on a lot of the course subjects, because half of my lessons were upstairs, and there was no lift available. I did try using the stairs, but this proved not be practical from a health and safety point of view. During the periods of not being able to participate in lessons, I had to sit in the college library. As I had covered only certain parts of course, I was unable to take the end of year of exam, so left without any formal qualification.

In my quest to go to work, and be a part of society, I set out typing a letter to employers. I gathered names and addresses out of telephone directories. It transpired that over the period of a couple of years, I sent nearly a thousand letters to prospective employers. I can still remember some of the big names I approached. IBM, British Telecoms, British Gas, Christian Aid, Ministry of Defence, Local hospitals, Metropolitan Police and so many more............... I got interviews, but reasons for not employing me ranged from, slow typing speed, inability to write by hand, inadequate speech for telephonist work and Fire risk, as well as unsuitable offices up a few stairs. By this time I was eighteen, and enjoying a good social life going out to pubs every weekend with friends. I was also enjoying holidays in Spain. But my failure to find employment resulted in me becoming very depressed. I became bitter that my disability placed restrictions on me, not allowing me to have a job.

Where it all began

My Parents separated when I was 4 years old, and I was an only child. However, the first four years of my life, we lived in an upstairs flat, reached by climbing two or three flights of stairs. It was in the same street as other relatives. My Grandparents lived just across the road from us, plus aunts and their families. Our road was a bit like Coronation Street. Everyone knew each other, from one end of the street to the other. We then had to move to a ground floor flat, when I was nearly five, because I was becoming to heavy for my mother to carry me up and down stairs. But, we made frequent visits to where we first lived. My weekends would be spent at my Grandparents home. I remember many Birthday parties taking place in neighbours back gardens. I also spent a lot time playing with my cousins. We had firework parties in my Grandparent back yard, and Christmas parties at one of my aunt's and uncle's house. As a child holidays always included the whole family. One of my uncles owned a Chalet near the seaside, we also stayed at holidays camps. The whole family treated me the same as any other child. My disability was not an issue then, it may have been because I was an active child in my own way.

More Holidays with Di and Daniel

August 2007 I had a great holiday with Di and everyone, rather than they come up and visit me, I decided that I would go and stay with them, although this time I made my own travel arrangements, rather than them coming up for me, bit more independence, if you see what I mean. Anyway Di booked the hotel room again for me and I was all set to go down, and I couldn't wait. The day finally arrived and away I went, luckly my friend had a GPS system in there car so it told us exactly where we had to go and we arrived bang on time and straight to the door, no problems. Lauren came out to help me then Di, I made my way on my frame inside the house while Lauren sorted my chair and bag out. I had only just got through the door and I could hear Dan getting excited, Di was cutting his hair in the bathroom, so I popped my head around the door and that was it Daniel was laughing so much he was no more good, it was great to see, then Di carried him into the room and sat him in his comfy armchair and that was him sorted and laughing!!!. His excitement lasted about half an hour and eventually he calmed down, but then I give Di a CD for him of his favourite group STEPS, he loves them.

We all spent the next few days together and we went out and to different places, let me tell you my arms were aching as not used to pushing wheelchair so much, but I really enjoyed our time together and we had good weather. One of the days we went to the park or at least I think it was a park, it was massive mind you Lauren had to help push me some of the way then we went for an ice cream, now this was the best bit as far has Daniel was thinking, not only had he polished off a triffe on the moring while we are the shopping centre but now he was enjoying an ice cream. It truely was and is happy days when I am with them all

Memories of my stays with Di and Daniel

Well this was going to be great, in 2004 I had to undergo another operation, which you will or can read about earlier on, anyway when I came home Di said would you like to come and stay with us for a few days ? in the summer I of course jumped at the chance, although I said I might have a problem in the holidays because I knew I wasn't going to be mobile enough to be able to manage on my own, but would be great if I could come in the October holidays, and also I was worried about getting down there. I remember Di saying don't worry too much about that maybe we could come down and collect you and bring you back etc, I said great if you are sure, so it was agreed and I had time to work on getting mobile. I couldn't wait

The October holidays finally came and it was only a matter of hours before they arrived, this time Mum met them and brought them to our house, and Mum had done a load of sandwiches and cakes and things for dinner, when they were getting out of the van I noticed that Lauren was waiting for the lift, then I remember she had broke her leg and was sporting a pair of crutches and a bright red plaster. Everyone was in and getting some dinner before we all got in the van, I could see Daniel was pleased to see Mum again vocal as always.

As it was getting closer to us leaving I could see Mum was getting nervous as it was only the second time I had been away on my own, but Di re-assured her and we were off, Daniel laughing as I was clamped behind him in the van. we had been travelling a while but we got to Di's house about tea time, we off loaded and Di helped me in and then sorted Daniel out and let him on the sofa. We had a cup of tea and Di sorted some tea out for Daniel and then we all decided to have fish and chips. It was quite funny because as Di was feeding Daniel he wasn't that interested, after a bit I said do you want some fish and chips Daniel and he looked at me and smiled then stuck his tongue out which means yes!! So fish and chips we had including Daniel and he ate the lot.

Then we relaxed for a while and watched the TV and chatted then before it got too late Di took me to the hotel so that I could check in and sort myself out. I was interested to see what the access and room was like, and I have to say the room was really good, plenty of space and the bathroom was accessible with grab rails, Di helped me in the room and arranged to collect me in the morning to go back to there house.

I stayed with them for 4 days and it was great, although things took a turn for the worse and on the day I was coming home, I found out that Mum had took ill and was in hospital, Di came on the morning early so we could drive back, and she said don't we will drive you straight to the hospital rather than taking you home, I was so grateful for that you wouldn't believe

We finally got to the hospital and Mum was pleased too see me and suprised a little to see Di but realised that we had come straight there instead. After a while we said our goodbyes, not as we planed and I was a bit sad to say goodbye from there, as we had planned to go for something to eat before they went home.

No matter what I have been though Di and her family have been there and supporting me all the way and I will be forever grateful for that, like I say friends are for life

UK holidays

Holidays in this country yes I have had a few, following the death of my father in 94, it was a while before I went away again but Mum and I managed various coach holidays. At first I had to have a few weeks Physio to help me so that I could get up the steps of the coach because my Mum couldn't lift me and I didn't want her too, not only would it of been too much for her but I also wanted to be able to do it on my own and I did. Our first coach holiday was with National Holidays to Newquey and I was looking forward too it, Mum was a bit nervous as to whether we would manage on our own but we did.

My family took us down to the High St so that we could pick up the coach at midnight of all times and I managed the steps no problem. I then decided that as the back seats weren't going to be taken I walked to the back and sat on the seats and then because we were travelling for 9 hours yes 9 hours I could lay down. Surprisingly I did manage to sleep quiet a bit and when I woke we were there and yes it was raining. I couldn't wait to get off so waited for everyone to leave the coach and the driver went to ask which one was our room so that he could help us. It turned out that the hotel we were staying at didn't have a lift and they had put us on the first floor and they hadn't got any ground floor rooms, even though it had all been sorted out when we booked. A great start to the holiday and I remember Mum saying to the driver right take us back home we have just done 9 hours so another 9 wont make any difference.

Anyway after soon time and ringing around we were moved to another hotel down the road and it was a really nice hotel also. I had never been to Newquey but we really enjoyed it the weather was good the whole time and we walked a lot in that week and also watch the surfers and then we went to the Sea life centre which I enjoyed.

Malta

Malta, now that was an amazing place and we were getting more adventurous as the years went by, we all went as a family and I really liked this country, we were also getting used to the organising routine and could do it with our eyes closed. I was a lot older when we went to Malta so was able to tolerate the heat better and cope with the day excursions we did. The only problem we had was when we got to the apartment it was late at night when we arrived so it wasn't till the next morning that we really saw what it was like, it was like one of those holidays from hell that you see on the TV thinking that will never happen to you.

Believe me it did the apartment was that small I couldn’t even sit in my wheelchair and when Granddad pulled his bed out in the room he head was virtually in the gas oven. When you went into the bedroom and looked out of the window it was like you were in a tunnel and all you could see was drainpipes for miles. We didn't unpack the cases even just slept where we where, but the next morning we went down to reception and complained and thankfully they moved us and boy did they move us to something bigger and better, it was like a palace compared to where we were. I could whizz up and down the corridors to all the rooms in my chair it was like doing the 100M every day and the rooms where big, so we thought mmmm think we can unpack now.

Holidays

My first experience of going abroad what when I went to the Costa del Sol, can't remember exactly how old I was about 7ish. We flew with Britannia and that in itself was very daunting as I had never been on a plane before Anyway at the time I was in my pushchair Maclaren type, I was fine as we went across the tarmac but as we cot closer to the plane I didn’t like it too noisy. We boarded the plane and I was ok in amazement with all the lights and the comings and goings of the people. We finally arrived at our destination and it was great, we had a ground floor apartment and we were close to the swimming pool so I was happy as I loved swimming although wasn't keen on the cold water at first.

I must admit I preferred the sea was much warmer. I remember going in to the sea with my parents but I wouldn’t go in unless I had my shoes on, and that was because there were urchins with lots of black spikes and didn’t want to get them in my feet. We were there for 2 whole weeks and had a great time. As if things couldn’t get better on the way home I was allowed to go and sit in the cockpit and see the captain, I have never seen so many lights and switches lol and the views clouds and more clouds. When the stewards came round with the trolley I bought a model of the plane as a memory of my first time flying and I still have the model to this day

Following my first holiday success we decided to try a new holiday destination so off to the travel agents we went to see if we could find a suitable place that was reasonably flat because by now I was using a wheelchair rather than my buggy. After a bit of time the agent came up with Majorca in the resort of Calla Millor and Calla Bona and looking at the brochure it looked perfect.The travel agent organised for me to have assistance onto the plane when we got to the airport because I couldn't walk up the steps and when we got to the airport the people were there to help us. Once we had all checked in we were taken from the departure lounge and onto boarding the plane, although I can't remember if we went by mini bus to the plane or weather we just went across the tarmac, but either way we boarded the plane before all the other passengers. It was like I was royalty being allowed to board first and the staff welcomed us onboard, then everyone else started to board and it was all systems go.

This time through rather than being scared like the first time I was excited. When we got to our destination we had assistance also off the plane and to the coach to take us to our apartment. I can remember while we were travelling on the coach my Granddad was looking out of the window and said I didn't know there was a Wimpey Bar out here. When I looked I laughed and said no it's Whimpey the Builders it’s a building site not the burger restaurant! We had a great time for 2 weeks I went swimming both in the pool that we were allowed to use in the hotel next to us and in the sea. I still preferred the sea because it was much warmer and My Dad bought me a Lilo so that I could lay on it when I got tired, although that was it now I didn't want to come out of the sea, it was like I was surfing the waves. Mind you I didn't like it when I swallowed some water.