Regions - Scotland

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Hello all,

Here we go again, another Tag Weekend gone by and Christmas is looming . . . Like you need reminding regarding the latter

First of all, I would like to comment that this year’s TAG weekend went well. It was good to see most of the other Regional Contacts there too. I’m sure you will all agree that Kevin, Sharon and trustees all did yet another excellent job in organising and making it another informative weekend.

From a regional perspective, both Donna and I were delighted to see that two families from Scotland made the trek down South. Jim, Margaret & family & Graeme, Debbie & family all felt that they learnt much from the weekend and advised that they had a great time. In all, the TAG weekend really does give people reassurance that there are supports in place and that you are not alone. It really was great to meet you all for the first time (Jim / Margaret) and (Graeme / Debbie) whom we also met last year.

Anyway, last quarter I wrote about the fact that Rhiannon had finally got to the same school as her sister. At the TAG Weekend we also had some informal chats with various other families in relation to this topic, and in general, our plights to make sure our daughter got there. Keep fighting was the message. It really is unfortunate that the people who need it most have to fight for everything. In all I think this picture tells a story and this is what it was all about – keeping our daughters happy.

Rhiannon at school Rhiannon is very settled at school and things are working out well for her. In the morning the minibus collects her at the house, where she is transported to school whilst in her mobile chair. At school she goes for assembly before heading off to Class (With the aid of her assistant), whilst in class she is transferred to her powered chair or her desk seat. She loves it.

Some local fundraising news: Maggie’s Bakery in Greenock have donated another £230 from the TAG collection tins, the sale of Ginger Wine & home made jam. Many thanks again to the bakery, their staff and general public for their continued support.

Yorkhill Arthrogryposis Clinic: Rod Duncan is still working the Clinic to try and get the ‘perfect’ model. To date we have been impressed with the set up and changes made already as Mr Duncan tries to get the right format. It will take time, but I’m sure we will get there with help from families who attend. These Clinics are excellent in that other TAG families get the chance to meet in person to have a chat in relation to the children and how they are doing. Most importantly, the Clinics offer a good balance of professional support to determine how best to deal with your child’s needs, with your help and opinions of course. Again, I would urge you to try and get a referral to the Scottish AMC Clinic if this is in your region; from there you can decide whether this is what is best for your child.

Last but certainly not least, I just want to wish Peter and his family well. I really do hope you have a full and speedy recovery – Peter. Our thoughts are with you.

Best Regards, John & Donna
Regional Contacts

Scotland