SPINALNEWS Ireland s National Spinal Injuries Magazine

Spring 2012 SPINALNEWS Ireland s National Spinal Injuries Magazine Back to Work p26 SII's New RIB p12 Liz in Tanzania p18 Diane's Story p6

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Editorial Welcome to the spring issue of 'Spinal News'. We would like to thank our members for their contribution of articles and news items. In this edition of 'Spinal News' Diane Wilson and Tony Mangan s stories will inspire you on what is possible following on from sustaining a spinal cord injury. We also bring you news on Spinal Injuries Ireland s new expanded Regional Community Service. This we hope will be the start of a more comprehensive service for you. Your Community Liaison Officer will be making contact with you in the coming weeks to arrange a visit. We acknowledge and thank all the staff in the NRH who are retiring. Between them all a total of 220 years experience. Their expertise and kindness will be greatly missed. On page 18 you will be reminded how challenging living with a spinal cord injury is without the appropriate medication, equipment and rehabilitation facilities. Liz Croxon, Clinical Facilitator in the NRH writes about her recent visit to Tanzania. If you have a story you think may be of interest please contact us. And don t worry, if you are not comfortable writing it, we have writers who will help you put your story together. Colm Whooley, CEO The News Crew Production: Editorial: Advertising: Contributors: Christine Bradshaw Noelle Daly Colm Whooley Philip Quinlan Fleur Muldowney Fiona McGoran Maeve Nolan Mark Quinn Liz Croxon Patrons: Chris de Burgh and Diane Davison The views expressed in Spinal News are not necessarily those of Spinal Injuries Ireland. Contact Details: Spinal Injuries Ireland, National Rehabilitation Hospital, Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Tel: 01 2355317 Email: info@spinalinjuries.ie Website: www.spinalinjuries.ie Contents 4 SII News 4 Regional Community Service 12 Wild Seals Venture Activities 28 Fundraising 6 My Story 6 Diane's Story 8 16 Disability News 8 Doctors told: Display or Pay. New Edition: Building for Everyone 9 Sligo Disabled Allocated 1,383,538 for Home Improvements 14 NRH News 14 NRH Bids Fond Farewell 18 Liz Visits Tanzania on Training Programme General 16 Accessible Fly Fishing 22 Home From Rehabilitation 26 Getting Back to Work 30 Calorie Counting 31 Could You be a Platelet Donor 34 Connections 35 The Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal 24 Travel 24 Lagos, Portugal 25 Apartments to rent in Majorca, Cyprus and Fuerteventura 32 Gardening 32 7 Tips For Spring Gardening Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 3

Regional Community Service "Spinal Injuries Ireland expands service" As part of Spinal Injuries Irelands drive to develop and improve, we are now introducing a more dedicated and comprehensive regional service. This new service will initially be focused on regions 2, 3 and 6 (outlined on the map). We plan to roll out this service in the other regions over the coming 18 months. Each region will have a designated Community Liaison Officer (CLO) who will be ensuring that they have a comprehensive understanding of the clients' needs in their region. The new regional service will include the following: Visit from the CLO to update themselves on your present situation and circumstances Facilitation and assistance towards achieving agreed personal goals Vocational support Information about counsellors with a knowledge of Spinal Cord Injury Information about accessible sport and social activities A regional group for you to get involved in Information talks / workshops in your region Organisation of accessible activities in your local region A mentoring programme for you to volunteer for or to avail of The CLO is also available to talk to a family member who may be looking for information or support. The CLO will also be holding information workshops for family members. If you live in region 2, 3 or 6, our CLO will be in touch with you in the coming months to arrange an appointment to discuss this new service with you. The CLO will also be hoping to get a better understanding of the service and needs in your region based on your experience. If you would like to be prioritised for a visit, please do not hesitate to call us on 01 2355317. Please also contact us if you are interested in participating in or finding out more about a regional group. It is important to say that while we will be striving to develop the new regional services in regions 2, 3 and 6 we will continue our policy to visit everyone from between 6 and 8 weeks post discharge. We will also ensure that we respond to any requests for assistance or visits in the other regions in the interim. Region 2 Region 3 Region 6 Siobhan O'Driscoll Clare McGarvey Deirdre Griffin 4 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Do you need information on... Family Support Medical Items Social Welfare Payments Personal Assistants Back to Work Housing Grants Education Retraining Legal Affairs Call Spinal Injuries Ireland on 01 2355317 or log on to our website www.spinalinjuries.ie Counselling Service Did you or a family member sustain a spinal cord injury? Are you finding it hard to cope? Are you fearful of the future? Do you need someone to talk to? Call Joan on 01 2355317 Joan Carthy, BSc Counselling & Psychotherapy Spinal Injuries Ireland Spinal Injuries Ireland Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Email: joan@spinalinjuries.ie Web: www.spinalinjuries.ie Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 5

My Story Diane's Story By Fleur Muldowney Diane pictured above on the morning of her sister Sharon's wedding on the 9th May 2009 On the 8th of September 2002, Diane serious injury. I was moved to the Spinal Wilson was a regular 21-year-old Unit in the Mater Hospital in Dublin on student, no different from any the Sunday afternoon, says Diane. I had other. The long summer holidays were the operation four days later to stabilize nearing their end and she was looking my vertebrae. Diane had suffered a T5 forward to returning to Birmingham for (complete) injury, which causes paralysis her third year at university. Life was a big, from chest level down. I spent 3 weeks open, blank canvas, filled with possibilities. in the Mater and then I moved to Our Then, on the way home from a night out Lady s ward at the National Rehabilitation with her brother and some friends, Diane Hospital and I was there until May 21, was a backseat passenger in a car that 2003. overturned and crashed. A single vehicle So, while her friends were returning to collision, late Saturday night-early Sunday college and enjoying themselves, Diane morning we often hear them reported started on the long road to a new life. At as we half-listen to the radio while eating the time of the accident I had just finished breakfast or making coffee or reading the the summer of second year from university papers, but rarely do we spare more than a in England, where I was studying primary passing thought for those involved. teaching in Newman College of Higher The accident was to have devastating Education in Birmingham. After the consequences for Diane. Although she accident, I felt like I had lost my whole had been wearing a seatbelt, it was clear independence, I just didn t think I d be when she arrived at Our Lady of Lourdes able to go back to England, I didn t think Hospital, Drogheda that she had suffered a it would ever be possible to ever go to any 6 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland course in a different country, I would be too dependent on other people. Thankfully, Sr. Casey in the Rehab encouraged me greatly to go back. She thought it would be possible to transfer my place in the UK to Northern Ireland. But at that stage I was like, What are you talking about? I am going to be walking out of here, I m going to be going back to England. There was no way I thought I would be going to college in the chair, that was not going to happen to me. Initially when she arrived in the Rehab, Diane thought that with an intense course of physio and an occupational therapy program, she would be walking again in no time. When she realized that was not going to happen, she thought it would never be possible for her return to college: at that stage, so soon after the accident, she was still very dependent on other people for the simplest of things. But Sr. Casey persisted and eventually Diane applied for

the course. Over the long, busy months in the Rehab she kept up with her application, sending previous results from Newman College and her Leaving Cert, waiting to hear what might happen. On May 16, July 2003 Diane was discharged from the Rehab, not really knowing what might lie ahead. It was a daunting time, but luckily Diane didn t have to wait long in July she was called for an interview for a place at Stranmillis University College at Queen s University in Belfast. After a successful interview, Diane was offered a place in third year for September 2003, just 12 months after her accident. After everything she had been through, she had only missed out one year of university. I always feel like everything just fell into place, she says. I was at a crossroads, after being discharged from the NRH, and this just worked out for me. I started that September, which was just a year after the accident, it was incredibly quick now that I think about it. Looking back now, I can t believe I went really - I was very brave! So 12 months after suffering a lifechanging T5 injury, Diane was back at college, meeting new friends and really doing most things for herself. I stayed in Halls of Residence, which had a disabled access room with en-suite facilities. It was difficult at first alright, especially because Stranmillis is a very hilly campus, but I soon made friends who were more than willing to help push me to and from lectures The college helped as much as they could, installing disabled toilets, stair lifts and disabled parking bays. And suddenly the nervous girl who had been convinced she was too dependent on others to ever go back to college was gone. For the first year, I had a carer that came in every morning to help me transfer and that kind of thing, but by the second year that I was there I didn t need her anymore. In November 2003, Diane continued her determined rehabilitation by passing her driving test, a massive ticket to independence. Now she could drive herself to her lectures at Stranmillis. It was a massive challenge, arriving in Belfast, not knowing a sinner really, making new friends and negotiating a brave new world, but Diane coped with aplomb, enjoying her new-found independence and balancing it by going home every Friday for a good dollop of family support. A teaching degree requires lots of teaching practice in schools, and in this Diane was lucky she was in Belfast where she found the transport facilities to be wonderful. There were plenty of wheelchair accessible taxis, and the public transport was generally very accessible. Diane graduated in July 2005, and moved home to Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan where her family had moved house to a bungalow, which they had adapted for wheelchair use. Keeping an eye on the papers, she soon saw a teacher required for learning support/resource teaching. I thought I would never have a chance getting a teaching job being a wheelchair user and with so many able-bodied people applying at the same time, says Diane, who by now really should have learned not to underestimate herself. She got the job, of course. Diane was shared between four schools when she started employment but is now based part time in one school teaching children with special education needs such as Autism, Asperger s and Dyspraxia, among others. I enjoy the oneto-one nature of the work but I have done some subbing days in the classroom and I would sometimes miss the spontaneity of that, being able to teach all the subjects and having that variety. But then with class teaching you have different stresses, for example teaching in a classroom with 30 children. In addition to her busy working life, Diane is Secretary of the Castleblayney Access Group, which has been in existence for 20 years now. The group is a watchdog for access issues in the town and was set up in 1994 by a group of wheelchair users and their families. Brendan McEneaney is chairman of the committee. When Diane returned to Castleblayney after her accident, Brendan sought her out. We do a lot of fundraising - we hold a quiz bi-annually, for example says Diane. In conjunction with the HSE we purchased a bus that takes people to the local Crannog Centre which has a physio and an OT department, and people can take computer courses and that there. Recently a new Post Office was being built and they hadn t planned on putting in a low counter so we got them to do that. Imagine building a new Post Office and not putting in a low counter! We also wrote letters to all the pubs, for example one of them had a cigarette machine blocking the disabled toilet, and we got him to move it. In May of this year, Diane turned 30. She decided to celebrate, it was time for a big party. But there were to be no presents - instead, her guests were encouraged to make a donation to Spinal Injuries Ireland. On the 14 May, Diane presented SII with a cheque for 3,350, a huge donation which will help many other spinal injury sufferers. Nearly ten years after her accident, Diane continues to be a real example to other young people of the possibilities of a full and rewarding life, no matter what fate might fling at you. Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 7

Disability News Doctors told: Display or pay Health News Ireland conducts a straw poll on the latest move to get GPs to put up a price list. And here s the news: we ve got a bunch of angry medics on our hands Doctors Have Been Asked To Display Their Charges prominently in their surgeries; and to do so without delay. The demand, by the National Consumer Agency (NCA), is being hailed as part of the drive towards a more open and transparent society. The NCA says the initiative will empower patients when it comes to choosing a General Practitioner. The NCA goes a step further in this process: they say that if your doctor is not displaying his or her prices at this point, then you should challenge them directly on this and demand to know when they intend to display their prices! Ann Fitzgerald is the Chief Executive of the NCA. She said: We hope that GPs and their regulator, the Medical Council, recognise the benefits that transparency in pricing will bring for consumers and that the Council will include a requirement for price display for practitioners in their formal professional standards and guidelines. She says that having access to pricing information enables the consumer to consider all factors, such as quality of treatment, the doctor/patient relationship, convenience and also price when they choose a GP. We encourage all GPs, who have not done so already, to display prices prominently in their surgery and on their website, said Ms Fitzgerald. Enhanced support for people with disabilities announced The Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton, has announced two new initiatives aimed at enhancing support offered to people with disabilities who are planning to take up employment or development opportunities. The Partial Capacity Benefit Scheme will allow people with disabilities to avail of employment opportunities without restrictions on their employment income while continuing to receive their income support payment form the Department of Social Protection. The payment option will be open to people with disabilities who are in receipt of an Invalidity Pension or who are in receipt of Illness Benefit for more than six months. Those eligible to take part will receive an ongoing income support payment based on an assessment of their capacity to work, the Minister said in a statement today. People with a disability face particular challenges being accepted for and taking up work opportunities. Participation in the scheme, which aims to address a limitation of the current welfare system, is voluntary and applications are been taken now. It is hoped that it will address existing shortcomings by recognising and responding to the reality that some people with disabilities will have a capacity to engage in employment while continuing to need some income support from the State. New Edition: Building For Everyone The National Disability Authority (NDA) recently launched a series of booklets called Building for Everyone: A Universal Design approach. The booklets are a practical guide on how universal design can be used creatively in designing buildings, places and spaces that can be used by people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability. The booklets were launched by Phil Hogan, TD, Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government on 23 March, who said: Universal design places people at the heart of the design process and enables buildings and environments to be accessed, used safely and enjoyed by all members of our society". Building for Everyone: A Universal Design Approach is available free of charge from the 8 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland Centre for Excellence in Universal Design at the NDA. Visit www.nda.ie or www. universaldesign.ie/buildingforeveryone. Aavailable to download in PDF format:- External environment Entrances and Horizontal Circulation Vertical Circulation Internal Environment and Services Sanitary Facilities Facilities Building Types Building Management Planning Index and Terminology Entire Series; Boolkets 1-10 A second initiative, the EmployAbility Service, will offer a range of supports, including workplace adaptation grants, wage subsidies and on-site job coaches and mentors to both workers and to employers. The service aims to educate and reassure employers about misconceptions about the risk of employing a person with a disability. People with a disability face particular challenges being accepted for and taking up work opportunities, Minister Burton said when announcing the scheme. One of the benefits from the merger of FÁS with the Department of Social Protection is that we will now be able to integrate our activities to develop new and improve existing measures and initiatives and to help people build on their abilities to overcome the barriers to gaining and maintaining employment.

Sligo disabled allocated 1,383,538 for home improvement Minister for Housing and Planning, Ms. Jan O Sullivan T.D., announced a capital provision of 67.75m for grants to improve or adapt the private homes of older people and people with a disability in 2012. Announcing the allocations, the Minister said, "The Government is determined that our scarce resources are targeted at those most in need and I am delighted to be able to secure this level of funding for the Housing Adaptation Grant Schemes for Older People Did you know? and People with a Disability in spite of the severe constraints on the public finances in these challenging economic times for our country and for our people" Sligo/Nth Leitrim TD, Deputy Tony Mc Loughlin has welcomed the allocation of 997,684 for Sligo Co Council and a further 385,844 for Sligo Borough Council. "I am aware of outstanding grants that are due to be paid and I hope that this allocation will help clear the backlog in some way" commented the Sligo Deputy. Last year almost 12,000 grants were paid out under these schemes by the various local authorities around the country. While grants of up to 30,000 are available for improvement works and extensions to facilitate a person with a disability, the majority of claims were under the Grants for Older People which You can get VAT refunds on aids and appliances if you have a disability. provides for a grant of up to 10,500 to assist householders to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out to their homes. In addition, the Mobility Aids Grants scheme can provide up to 6,000 for works to address mobility problems through the provision of stairlifts and level-access showers etc., "These support grants have a major impact on the quality of life for the thousands of recipients, and is vitally important in assisting older people and people with a disability to continue living in their own homes, and, will benefit them for many years to come. They also generate local employment opportunities for builders and businesses and help reduce the dependency on our health services by supporting independent living for as long as possible. They are a win-win for all involved. I am confident this allocation will continue to build on the progress made since the introduction of this scheme in 2007 and it will demonstrate the Government s continued commitment to older people and people with a disability" the Minister concluded. If you live in Ireland and have a disability, you may get a refund of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on certain special aids and appliances you need. In some cases people who pay for aids and appliances that are for the exclusive use of a person with a disability can also claim the VAT refund. People with both physical and mental disabilities can avail of these VAT refunds. Rules You can claim a VAT refund on aids and appliances that help you carry out daily activities at home or work. To claim a VAT refund you must: Live in Ireland Have a disability Need the aid or appliance to help with daily activities The aid or appliance must be owned by and for the exclusive use of the person with the disability. If the VAT refund is being sought by a person other than the user of the aid or appliance, the Revenue Commissioners may ask for evidence that the aid is solely owned by and is for the sole use of the person with the disability. In this case, these goods must not be supplied in the course of a business run by the purchaser of the goods. Examples of eligible aids and appliances include: Domestic aids, for example, eating and drinking aids Walk-in baths Commode chairs Lifting seats and specified chairs Hoists and lifts, including stair lifts Communication aids You may need to produce medical evidence of your disability. VAT refunds are not allowed on: Services for people with disabilities Rented aids and appliances Where to apply For more information or to claim a refund on an aid or appliance contact: Central Repayments Office Office of the Revenue Commissioners M: TEK II Building Armagh Road Monaghan Ireland Tel:+353 (0)47 62100 Web: www.revenue.ie Email: cromon@revenue.ie Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 9

Hospital Appointments The Road to London Eimear Breathnach is one of the many Irish athletes currently in training for the London 2012 Paralympic games. Eimear's sport is table tennis, a sport she has been playing since 18 and she has been competing on the international stage for over a decade. Eimear's qualification for London was based on her 6 best results from competitions in 2011 which count towards her world ranking. Her qualification is just reward for all the hard work she puts in on a weekly basis. Her training consists of between 18-25 hours per week including strength and conditioning training. London will be Eimear's second paralympic games, having qualified 4 years ago in Beijing. She hopes to be joined in London by the golden girl of Irish sport Katie Taylor, an athlete she greatly admires. Eimear doesn t have strong medal hopes for London but freely admits that she thrives on the competition and rates her qualification for Beijing as her finest sporting achievement, so far. She combines working with her training regime and her husband and family give her great support. In an ideal world she could give up work and train fulltime but at the moment that is unlikely, unless she wins the lotto. On the day of competition she doesn t have any particular superstitions or rituals but does like to listen to music as a distraction from all else around her. One of her favourite songs at the moment is Edge of Glory which we hope is rather appropriate once she gets to London 2012. By Mark Quinn Favourite Movie: Pretty Women/Harry Potter Favourite Celeb: Pierce Brosnan Nickname: Eims/Emo Sporting Hero: Katie Taylor Favourite Holiday Destination: Florida/Miami/Everglades Favourite Song: Edge of Glory - Lady Gaga Favourite Meal: Red Thai Chicken Curry Bad Habits: None! Eimear Breathnach If you could be invisible for a day? I would sneak into the Irish rugby dressing room. 4 Dinner Guests: Sean Connery, Daniel Craig, Pierce Brosnan, and Billy Connolly Generally spinal cord injury patients receive an annual appointment to have their kidney/bladder function reviewed. It is necessary to attend in order to address any ongoing issues and prevent any potential problems. Indeed, some patients are attending for over 50 years. If the appointment you received is not suitable please ask us for an alternative month /day/ time and we will do our best to try and facilitate your request. Please do remember to cancel if unable to attend as another patient could benefit from the appointment. Reminder to all those living with injury for 20+ years! Please complete the survey recently sent out by SII and NRH. It is vital that we get as many replies as possible in order to have an accurate picture of the health and well being of Irish people living with spinal injury for many years. Thank you for your support. 10 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Beware of pressure Sores Six months, three weeks and four days, that's the hospital time I have just paid for getting a pressure sore. I was in an isolation room in the annex of St Michael's Hospital. Four operations, five litres of blood, 3 trips to St Vincent's for pic lines and once to the HDU ward. I had a Vac machine for months before I entered the hospital and again between the operations. Mr Carroll (God bless him), the plastic surgeon, tried a skin graph but it did not take so he did a muscle flap. The sore was on my hip so he opened the skin on my leg and rapped the muscle around the hip bone after cleaning out the dead tissue. I had to lie on one side and my back for the 6 months. The staff were wonderful but they were not used to a spinal cord patient so I had to teach them how to handle me. The hospital had no shower trolly (believe it or not) so they got one. So, all I can advise is that you look after your skin and remember, prevention is better than what I have just gone through. Martin Sinnott, C5/6 complete Reunion for Women with Spinal cord Injury 2012 Date: Friday 11th May, 10am-4pm This years women s reunion day format will be similar to last year, with introduction and small group discussions in the morning and pampering in the afternoon. If you would like to submit a question beforehand, we will endeavor to have professionals in that field answer it for you. COSYFEET SHOES, SLIPPERS & SANDLES NOW IN STOCK IDEAL FOR SWOLLEN OR BANDAGED FEET. ADVANCE ELECTRICAL MOBILITY 4 CRUMLIN VILLAGE CRUMLIN DUBLIN 12 WWW.AEMOBILITY.COM INFO@AEMOBILITY.COM 01 4553168 OUR CUSTOMER CARE PLEDGE We will PRICE MATCH on any products found cheaper from another supplier. We will Always give you our BEST PRICING regardless of quantity ordered. We give you our guarantee that we will SAVE YOU MONEY on any Quotation on any comparable items. We guarantee you a HIGH QUALITY PRODUCT at a BUDGET PRICE. FREE assessment and demonstration of all our products. Try before you buy. Full WARRANTY and AFTER SALES SERVICE direct from us. Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 11

Wild Seals Venture Activities Spinal Injuries Ireland is delighted to announce the arrival of our brand new Rigid Inflatable Boat, funded by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. The boat is moored in Dun Laoghaire Marina and is currently being prepared, ready for use by our members this Spring. The boat is specially adapted to ensure the comfort and safety of people with spinal injury, with high backed padded and comfortable seats. The boat will be used to support the venture activities of Spinal Injuries Ireland. As one SII member says everyone with a spinal injury should have the opportunity to experience the freedom and enjoyment of engaging in water based activities while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings that the coast of Ireland has to offer. Spinal Injuries Ireland are currently looking for people with spinal injuries who would be interested in being trained to drive the boat. We would require you to be available after receiving the training to volunteer your time to take clients and patients out from Dun Laoghaire harbour. All costs, support and supervision will be covered. If you are interested in putting yourself forward for a place on the training course, or would just like more information, please contact Jennifer Wright at SII on 01 2355317. Self Defence April 2012 An Introduction to Kayaking 15th April 2012 Airsoft Target Shooting The next self defence training weekend is scheduled for April 2012. The date has yet to be confirmed so keep an eye on our website www.spinalinjuries.ie for an update. If you are interested in attending the self defence weekend and would like an opportunity to train with Martin O Neill of JKD Ireland, please contact the SII office on 01 2355317 or email 'jennifer@ spinalinjuries.ie'. Spinal Injuries Ireland have teamed up with DIT Canoe Club and Sandycove Kayak Club to hold an introduction to kayaking day in Blessington on Sunday 15th April. All equipment will be supplied. If you are interested in coming along please contact Jennifer Wright on 01-2355317 or email jennifer@ spinalinjuries.ie Airsoft Target shooting continues to be a popular weekly event. This activity takes place every Tuesday in the NRH Sports Hall at 7pm. If you would like to come along and give it a try please contact Jennifer on 01 2355317 or email 'jennifer@ spinalinjuries.ie' 12 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Social and Venture Activities Gallery Rugby: Spinal Injuries Ireland were fortunate enough to get tickets for the Six Nations Rugby matches in the Aviva Stadium. Altogether we brought 15 patients from the NRH to watch the games, for some it was their first time to visit the Aviva. They were great days out with everyone enjoying the craic. Here are some quotes from patients who attended:- "I really needed that, I needed a good laugh." "It was the best day out I've had in a long time." Soccer: We brought 5 patients to the Aviva Stadium on 29 February, 2012 to see the International Soccer friendly between Ireland and the Czech Republic. Simon Cox s late equaliser earned the Republic a draw with the Czech Republic after Milan Baros had put the visitors ahead. An exciting match with everyone having a great time. Cinema: SII bring patients to the local cinema every second week. So far 10 patients have enjoyed evenings out watching films on the big screen. This is a popular social event which will continue throughout the year. Shopping: Always popular with the ladies, we had 6 parients who enjoyed trips to Dundrum Town Centre where shopping is always an enjoyable experience. Pier Push: 2 patients enjoyed a push along Dun Laoghaire pier to take in the fresh air and see some of the local wildlife. Self Defence: A Self Defence training weekend took place in February with 7 ex patients coming along to practice and develop their defence techniques. 1. Caroline, Leonard O'Haloran, Declan O'Shea & Kevin Bradshaw 2. Liz Smyth, Jennifer Wright, Aidan Kissane, Kevin Bradshaw, Caroline McCann, Emily Martin, Jonathan Ryan & Alan Kenny. 3. Gillian Bradshaw, Kevin Bradshaw & Mary Finan (our volunteers) 4. Andy Curtin, Jimmy Doran, Frank Hunt, Martin O'Halloran & Ger Byrne. 5. Back Row: Mary Finan, Stephen Murphy, Cillian, Gillian, Jennifer, Martin, Caroline, Leonard, Kathryn Gibbons 6. Front Row: Emily Martin, Anna Carroll, Michael Lidden, Alan Kenny, Declan O'Shea, Johnny Mulhall, Ger Byrne Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 13

NRH News NRH Bids Fond Farewell Ode to Marcella Marcella our colleague has decided to leave, after so many years it's hard to believe. It's time at last for her to put up her feet, relax and unwind, with no deadlines to meet. She spent many a year in the caring profession, from the celtic tiger, right through to recession. Nursing her patients with such expertise, each challenge and problem she handled with ease. In the wards and the gym she was always on call, by night or by day she gave patients her all. Caring and sincere, thoughtful and kind, a more generous person would be so hard to find. Name: Susan Flynn Occupation: Occupational Therapist Years of service: 28 Name: Mary O'Colmain Occupation: Occupational Therapist Years of service: 22 They say all things must come to an end, today we are here to say goodbye to a friend. To work with Marcella has been such a pleasure, the memories will remain always a treasure. Being a mother of six, she'll be kept on her toes, helping with all their troubles and woes. All her grand children too will keep her from lazing, even remembering their names is simply amazing. May your retirement be all that you wish for, relaxing and happy, joyful and more. A special big hug from the O.P.D. crew, keep us in mind as we struggle without you! Name: John Byrne Occupation: Health Care Assistant Years of service: 34 Name: Paddy Murray Occupation: Health Care Assistant Years of service: 25 By Susan Holmes Name: Marcella Whelan Occupation: Care Assistant Years of service: 13 Name: Noreen McGeehin Occupation: Receptionist Years of service: 29 Above: Susan presents Marcella with a bouquet of flowers. Below: Sr. Aileen says goodbye on behalf of the board. Name: Vivienne Moffitt Occupation: Physiotherapy Manager Years of service: 38 Name: Clare Conway Occupation: Health Care Assistant Years of service: 31 14 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Gallery Farewell Salt of the earth, caring and kind men with such integrity can be so hard to find. A lifetime of caring for the less fortunate than us deserves a farewell with plenty of fuss. John, Paddy and Kevin have given their all the three of them can, without doubt, stand tall. They have toiled on the wards for so many years taking care of people through trauma and tears. Never a problem, a gripe or a moan reliability, sincerity and respect they have shown. They treated their patients with kindness and love no situation a problem when push came to shove. The rehab has lost a treasure in these guys there is a sadness in having to say our goodbyes. Replacing these men will be so hard to do of a combined 3 pairs, not even one shoe! Seemingly John is a gardener supreme his fruit and his veg taste just like a dream. If ever John, you are stuck for a buyer for the NRH, you can be a supplier. Paddy, though quiet and very much shyer could be without doubt, a very high flier. His secret is paintings, of very high class once seen, beyond doubt, are too hard to pass. Kevin a golfer, a somewhat dark horse could demolish the best on any golf course. Winter or summer this sport is his game putting all other players to absolute shame. Noreen McGeehin is also leaving her post we can t let her go without raising a toast. After all of these years she is bound to be weary listening day after day to everyone's query. Always so patient, so helpful, so kind whatever the question, the answer she d find. No more the sound of the different bell tones, no more sympathising with everyone s moans. Each individual with plans of their own they won t have to worry about being left alone. They have made such friendships over the years, they have been so popular throughout their careers. With sadness now we watch them all go without a doubt we all feel quite low. The four of them have all given so much remember us all and please, stay in touch. By Susan Holmes 1. Noreen, John, Paddy & Marcella. 2. Sr. Aileen signing 'Good Luck' cards. 3. Robert Kenny presenting Susan with a bouquet of flowers. 4. NRH staff enjoy the spread put on by the OT Department. Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 15

Accessible fly fishing It's that time of year again when anglers start counting down to the opening day for fishing on their local river. For those of us who use a wheelchair to get around and enjoy fishing, good access to quality fishing can be difficult. Thankfully, this is improving. A great example of what is achievable can be seen on the Avonmore River on the outskirts of Rathdrum Town in County Wicklow. Rathdrum Angling Club have done a superb job on making one of the best sections of the Avonmore River accessible. They have placed 3 fishing points along the stretch of river that will now give access to a section of the river that holds good numbers of wild brown trout. The only down-side is that as you access the fishing points from the gateway between the old mill and Rathdrum bridge, the incline of the pathway is quite steep, certainly not too steep to go down safely but it could be a bit of a challenge to get back up. To be fair to the Angling Club there is nothing they could have done. The season on the Avonmore starts on the 17th of March. For more details check out Rathdrum Angling Clubs website on www.fishwicklow.ie/rathdrum.home. If you know of any new accessible fishing points on any waterways near you we would love to hear about them. Seán Connick Your Satisfaction My Competence" Sole distributor for Guidosimplex products in Ireland 16 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland Unit 1 Block A, Waterford Road Business Park, New Ross, Co.Wexford. Tel; 051 447076 Mob; 087 2564576 Email: guidosimplex_irl@eircom.net Because you deserve to drive

Now, I can decide to go out with family and friends Peristeen For predictable bowel management Now there s a way to get the predictability you want from your bowels. With Peristeen you no longer have to let constipation or faecal incontinence decide whether or not you can go out, or be with the people you care about. Peristeen is an anal irrigation system. It only requires water and is an effective alternative to other bowel management methods. It and can be administered either on your own or with assistance. Used routinely, daily or every other day, Peristeen offers you the confi dence to do more in your everyday life. For more information about Peristeen please contact your health care provider or fi ll out and return the coupon below for a free information leafl et and DVD. www.coloplast.co.uk To order, call Freephone 0800 220 622 (PERSII0412) The Coloplast logo is a registered trademark of Coloplast A/S. 2011-08. All rights reserved Coloplast A/S, 3050 Humlebæk, Denmark. Coloplast Limited First Floor, Nene Hall Peterborough Business Park Peterborough PE2 6FX Tel: 01733 392000 www.coloplast.co.uk Please complete and return to: Charter Healthcare, First Floor, Nene Hall, Peterborough Business Park, Peterborough PE2 6FX Title: First name: I am interested to learn more about Peristeen Surname: Address: Town/City: Email: PERSII0412 Postcode: Telephone: The information you provide to us will be used to process your orders and for general administrative and record-keeping purposes. We will only disclose your personal information (including details of the products you have purchased from us) to carefully selected third parties who provide services to us and/or if required by law. By submitting your information to us, you consent to Coloplast using your information in the manner described above and to us contacting you by email and/or telephone and/or post in order to keep you informed of Coloplast products and services that we think may be of interest to you. If you would prefer that we do not contact you in these ways, please let us know by ticking the appropriate box(es) below and returning the information to us. please do not contact me by telephone please do not contact me by post please do not contact me by email Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 17

Liz visits Tanzania on Training Programme Today 75% of people in developing countries who experience a Spinal Cord Injury will die within 18 months from preventable secondary complications like pressure sores. Spinal Cord Injury Patients Total: 16 Tetraplegic: 7 (2 complete) Paraplegics: 9 (1 incomplete) Last August Motivation, an international development charity supporting people with mobility disabilities was organising a visit to Tanzania as part of an educational programme. They rang the National Rehabilitation Hospital here in Ireland, and asked if a member of staff would like to take part. I volunteered. Before I knew it I had filled out the application form and was on a plane to Tanzania. Located on the foothills of Kilimanjaro, the hospital is a referral hospital for over 1.1 million people in Northern Tanzania, employing just 1,000 staff. On arriving in Moshi I met up with one of Motivation s partners, the Kilimanjaro Association of Spinal Injured (KASI) in Tanzania. Prior to travelling I had been in contact through emails to Faustina Urassa, a volunteer worker with KASI. Even before I met her I knew I was going to like her, I could feel a warmth in her just from her emails. My instincts were right, from the moment we met I knew we were going to get on. The Tanzanian sense of humour is very similar to the Irish humour and Faustina and I had such a laugh over things. At the age of just 24, and pregnant with her first child, a car accident left Faustina paralysed. Faustina was unable to move independently and became a virtual prisoner in her own home. Through the Motivation charity she received a Conservative Treatment: Tetraplegics patients receive skull traction for 6-8 weeks. Thoracic patients receive 12 weeks bed rest. Mortality Rate: In 2011 out of 51 SCI patients 15 died from complications. Many from pressure sores. Motivation's rough terrain wheelchair 18 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Liz in action wheelchair and something fundamental changed. She discovered her old energy, determination and spirit and now enjoys life with her beautiful daughter. Faustina works with other wheelchair users teaching skills that enable them to lead happy and productive lives. She is a wonderful role model to people with a spinal cord injury and with her get up and go attitude she proves that there is life after spinal injury. I also had the opportunity to meet KASI s director Zacharia. Supported by Motivation over a number of years, KASI acts as a role model for other fledgling self-help groups in Tanzania. Their scope is wide and includes visiting newly injured people in hospital and later at home, educating them and their families about living with a disability, as well as providing peer group training in week-long camps. During my time in Tanzania I worked on the orthopaedic ward in Moshi hospital. There were 93 patients but only 57 beds. The remainder of patients slept mostly on Abdullah, Liz and Faustina in the new 'Motivation' office, Tanzania canvas stretchers and the odd trolley, which were put along corridors or wherever there was a space. When I introduced myself to the nurses, I explained that I wasn t there to criticize them at all, that I wouldn t just be observing, that I d be working as part of a team. That seemed to go down very well. One of the biggest challenges was that the 16 people with spinal injuries were in among the rest of the patients in the ward. I explained that it would be better if they were all in one ward as they required specialised care. The nurses hadn t received specific training in caring for patients with a spinal cord injury, so the idea was that I d run three workshops. But often with as few as four nurses caring for 93 patients at a time, and some working up to 80 hours a week, the nurses just didn t have the time or the energy for formal workshops. Instead I supported them on the job, getting across the basics of skin, bladder and bowel care regimes. Felix mastering the art of transferring While the nurses did have knowledge of pressure sores they didn t realise how quickly they can happen with spinal cord patients. Although the nurses were turning the patients, due to their workload they weren t turning them regularly enough. I gave them advice on turning patients to prevent damage to the skin, how to position the arms and legs, and how to make sure the neck was adequately supported. Dressings and general supplies were very basic and quite limited. It was quite frustrating when we ran out of things like gloves and wipes for cleaning as I d have to go off and look for them and it could take ages to find things. I was amazed at how the patient s relatives wanted to help. No matter what you said, they d take it on board and make sure they did it. We had trainee nurses too and they were great students. They were very keen to learn and they all took notes. That was great to see, the next generation of nurses having a real interest in spinal cord injuries. I sometimes went with Faustina to visit people in the community. One day we visited Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 19

Elidaima pictured above with his wife and son. As a parting gift I was presented with a papaya from their own tree. Elidaima, a young man who had fallen from a tree while picking avocados. Elidaima lives with his wife and son on the outskirts of Moshi. He was very dejected when we called to see him and didn t have much hope for his future. However he began to pick up and smile when we told him how well he was actually doing and how lucky he was to receive the level of care his wife gave him. His initial wheelchair enables him to get up and sit outside in the sun for an hour or so each day but to be independent Elidaima needs a wheelchair which is suitable for the rough terrain he lives in. Through funds raised in Ireland before I travelled I was able to order a new rough terrain wheelchair and contoured pressure relieving cushion from Motivation which I m delighted to report should arrive for him shortly. Another memorable trip was when we visited a young man called Felix, who was totally dependent on his brother. He was able to push himself in his wheelchair but his brother was doing everything else for him; lifting him into the wheelchair, washing him and dressing him. Faustina said. Now look here, you re a young guy, of course you re able to do transfers. Within one week the guy was transferring perfectly. I was amazed at how one visit can make such a huge difference and what an impact Faustina can make. She s a very special lady. Motivation, together with their innovative training programmes and range of low-cost wheelchairs are transforming lives and giving disabled people independence, confidence Mary was involved in an RTA as a teenager which resulted in a spinal injury. She is one of the many people who has benefitted from peer support training from KASI and is now leading an independent life thanks to their support and guidance. and hope for the future. Their wheelchairs cost only 200, this includes a technician calling out to measure the person for the chair and a pressure relieving cushion. 'Motivation Charity' gave me this wonderful opportunity to visit Tanzania and hopefully I have had some impact regarding education in spinal cord injuries. I am sure the new SCI unit in the hospital will be a welcome addition both for the patients and the nurses. A follow up on my training programme is in progress. By Liz Croxon, Clinical Facilitator, NRH New Nationwide Carers Directory Launched A1 Carers is an independent directory of non medical independent private carers offering clients home help and personal assistance to help with independent living. Based in Dublin, A1Carers was set up by Fran Moran who has been working in the Irish health service since 1988. The purpose of the site is to make it easier for clients and carers to get in touch with each other. A1 Carers was designed for clients who prefer to stay living in their own home after losing partial or full independence. This site aims to help clients who are looking for a carer. Carers can put their details on the website. Clients looking for a carer can view their details and contact them. Carers must have Gardaí / Police clearance and we advise that you check any references provided by carers. A1Carers do not hire carers, we are just a directory. Individual clients requiring carers do the hiring. Carers can buy uniforms on the site. Clients can buy books, beds, wheelchairs etc on the site. We are looking for new carers to join up all over Ireland. For more information: Email: A1carers@gmail.com Web: www.a1carers.com 20 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Classified... For Sale... 2008 Nissan Primastar (2 litre Diesel) Kilkenny Tel: 056 77 02759 Cork Tel: 021 453 3762 Mob: 087 298 2291 Web: www.dpms.ie 77,000 km Full service history Fully adapted for wheelchair with remote controlled tail-lift 5 seats plus driver, electric windows, drivers airbag, CD player and radio. Price: 17,000 O.N.O. Contact No: 086 3307574. Products Beds & Trolleys Pressure Ulcer Management Hoists Comfort Seating Wheelchairs Furniture Mobile Aids MRSA Containment Sales and Rental Conform Medical Air Cushion Systems Tel: +353(0)1 8227065 (Dublin) Tel: +353(0) 29 21799 (Cork) Web: www.oflynnmedical.com Mobility Care Centre For All Your Mobility Needs... Mobility Scooters Stairlifts Rise/Recline Chairs Beds Bathroom Aids Daily Living Aids Ramps Walking Aids Unit A3, www.mobilityonline.ie Airside Motor Park, Swords, Co. Dublin t: 01 8900 890 info@mobilityonline.ie Easy-Stand 5000 (second hand) Height Range 5' - 6'.5" Weight Limit 280lbs In good condition and free Contact No: 086-3176273 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 21

Home from rehabilitation: Men s experiences of spinal injury in the early months after rehabilitation What is it like to leave home one day as an able-bodied person and return months later following rehabilitation, in a wheelchair and with significant bodily impairments? This was the question which motivated me to complete my doctorate in recent years. I had often felt the (usually) unspoken accusation but you don t know what it s really like as I spoke to people during rehabilitation and felt that, as this was true, I should at least try to find out what it might be like for people who did know. Finally, as leaving rehabilitation has often been described as a particularly difficult time for people with phrases like falling off a cliff, walking into darkness and entering a new foreign territory being used to describe the experience, I was interested to find out if this were true of an Irish sample of men who completed rehabilitation at the National Rehabilitation Hospital. My specific focus was on the actual experiences of men as they make the transition from rehabilitation and begin to come to terms with the effect of injury in their own homes and communities. My study aimed to get as close as possible to the experience of a small group of five men with spinal cord injury by interviewing them in the early months (2-6 ) following discharge. They ranged in age from 32 to 46, had levels of injury from C5 Complete to L1 Incomplete and injuries resulting from car, motorbike and workplace accidents. I wanted to talk to ordinary men going through the extraordinary challenge of adapting to an altered body and I deeply appreciate the time given to me by the people involved. We gather peoples experiences to help us become more experienced and thoughtful ourselves. Carrying out the interviews for this study was a hugely valuable experience for me thanks to their willingness to talk about their experiences so honestly and convey a rich sense of the effect of spinal injury on their daily lives. Individual and group themes were identified by repeatedly listening to and 22 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland re-reading the interviews. Individual themes indicated that while each man was resilient and displayed huge determination in getting on with their lives despite injury, strength emerged in different ways for each of them. 'Battling to return to normality' was a priority for one person while 'being a good quad' or 'doing things in my own way and at my own pace' became the focus for two others. One man considered he was 'getting a second chance at life' and another, with the highest level of injury, felt he was 'living a life governed by everybody else'. Their stories vividly emphasise the importance of individual differences in the response to spinal injury. Three main, common themes emerged 1) I m the same but different': continuity and change of self, which captured the impact of SCI on identity; I can t do anything. That kills me because I loved work, I never sat around, I never watched TV, never, I was always doing something, always, you have to get someone to change a light bulb and it kinda sinks home then, Hanging curtains when we moved into the house it broke my heart seeing anyone else doing that I m used to being the one doing everything. I m the one that carries all the bags, I m the one that brings everybody out..to all of a sudden relying on somebody else doing it for me and that s... that s hard. There were many references to the loss of ability to do small, routine, everyday tasks which might be considered to be typically male ones eg mowing the lawn, bringing in fuel, putting out bins, doing D.I.Y. Despite the acknowledgement of many changes, there was also a common thread indicating a continuity of self which partly served to anchor change. I don t think I ve changed who I am, I mean I ll still tell somebody to...where to go when I want, when I ve had enough that is

It s just that now it takes me a little bit longer but if I m gonna do it, I ll do it when I get something into my head I want to do it..and thats the way I ve always been I m absolutely the same guy I was. The only difference is I can t give you a good kick in the ass. It seems the familiar, constant self, expressed in character traits like determination, resolve and a refusal to be beaten by challenge acts as a powerful stabiliser as identities are reconfigured following injury. Emphasising continuity of self at a time of massive personal change may be very helpful (note Christopher Reeve entitled his book Still Me ). While it may seem in the beginning that all has changed, changed utterly it is crucial to know that much of what is important about self and identity persists. 2) It s definitely different: learning to manage an altered body, reflected the task of dealing with altered body function and appearance. my life revolves around bowel and bladder management someone asked me if I could have something back.. I d lose my legs, let me be in control of my bowels and bladder, let me know when I need to go to the toilet well everything is ten times harder You have to learn to know your body...i m getting used to my body now swimming..is probably one of the things I do besides sleeping that is normal you have to find your own small little quirky ways of doing things For each person learning to manage body functions and restrictions was dependent on learning the skill of asking for help and assistance without embarrassment and of becoming independently dependent. 3) Seeing things differently: from catastrophe to challenge described how resilient coping skills and practical problem solving helped people to begin to appraise their situation more positively over time. This theme captured the path taken by each man as they moved from accident victim to person living in the community with SCI. Positive appraisals eg appreciation of life, others and abilities helped to balance initial feelings of chaos, disruption and distress. the first few weeks...terrible. I was so depressed, frustrated, angry, I just hated everything, I wanted to die Its a wake up call...a whole life change I appreciate everything I get, every day I wake up...there are a lot of things I can do its brought us closer so it s a blessing in a way...its not all bad. I hope I have been able to give some sense of the richness and the main themes of this study. The impact on the sense of self was the strongest theme to emerge from all the interviews. The subjective experience of SCI in the early months post-discharge for the men in this study involved a reorganisation of identity firmly based on continuity as well as disruption, a familiarisation with altered bodies and the development of new appreciations, as both cause and consequence, of approaching SCI as a complex challenge. Even in the very early months after rehabilitation these men were able to tap into a strong sense of pre-existing individuality which assisted them come to terms with the consequences of injury. What was impressive about each man in this small study was the strong sense of determination and the variety of ways in which this determination was expressed, ranging from the let me at it approach of one man, to the hang on a minute, let me go at my own pace in my own way of another, from the great gift of not fussing too much about what was not there of one to the determination of another to recover maximum physical function or to make the most of another bite of the cherry. It is often suggested that the best way to deal with spinal injury is to see it as a challenge and this study makes clear that rising to that challenge takes many forms. Once again I sincerely thank those who took part and agreed to tolerate my questioning and I would like to use some of their own words to conclude My challenge is to make the best of what I ve got...that s my goal in life Lifes not over...you still have your mind and that s the most important thing...focus on things you have always wanted to do and try to do them I m not disabled...i can do things Dr Maeve Nolan Clinical Psychologist Spinal team, NRH Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 23

Travel Accessible self catering holiday in Lagos, Portugal Funchal Ridge Funchal Ridge is only 10 minutes by car to Lagos. At the bottom of the hill is Boa Vista golf course which also has a regular bus service as well. Lagos is a unique little jewel in the Algarve. It has chosen to develop its tourism with taste and class. It offers a balance of the charm and history of the Portuguese culture with a blend of creature comforts and facilities to please the desires of the most discerning tourist. The warmth of Lagos and her people make it difficult to resist falling in love with this seaside town. Funchal Ridge, Portugal Apartment 1 - sleeps 6 (+ 1 cot). The property has a good size lounge with access via patio doors to the swimming pool and sun bathing terrace, a games room offering pool, darts, junior darts. The apartment is very spacious and well equiped for a wheelchair user. There is a well equipped kitchen / diner / lounge, 1 double bedroom, 1 twin / ziplock double and a double / twin bedroom / wet room (with basin shower and toilet) and an additional separate family bathroom with shower over the bath. All rooms have been furnished and equipped to a high standard. A colour television, DVD player, digital TV, video recorder, washing machine, tumble drier, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, microwave and kettle. (No smoking please) We are able to offer a double rise and recline bed, hospital bed / hoist / commode chair / hand rail supports for the toilet / roll in wetroom. Apartment 2 - sleeps 4 (+1 cot). The property offers a good size lounge with ramp pathway access via patio doors to the swimming pool and sun bathing terrace, a games room offering pool, darts, junior darts, carpet chess and table football. Various board games and videos are also provided. There is also a well equipped kitchen, 1 double bedroom / 1 twin bedroom / wet room (with basin, shower and toilet). All bedrooms are equipped with airconditioning. All gas and electricity is included in the rent. Bed linen and towels are also provided (beach towels are available upon request). Colour television with freview satelite, DVD player, video recorder, washing machine, tumble drier, dishwasher, fridge freezer, microwave and kettle. (No smoking please) Both apartments offer an adapted vehicle which could either be the Ricon lift adapted Volkswagon or the adapted Fiat Scudo with lowered floor and ramp. For more information on the above apartments log onto www.tregooselet.co.uk/ 24 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Puerto Pollensa, Majorca Polis, Cyprus Caleta de Fuste, Fuerteventura Vista Boquer Apartments Originally a fishing village Puerto Pollensa retains the time old tradition of the evening paseo or stroll. On warm, balmy evenings everyone wanders up and down between the marina where the yachts are moored, past the pavement cafes and along the famous Pine Walk. The resort of Puerto Pollensa is flat making it easy for wheelchair users to get out and about. Access One of the biggest selling points of these apartments is that they are located in the middle of the town so everything is close to hand. The apartments have level access from the pavement and have extra wide doors. The apartments have walk/ wheel in showers with the appropriate grab rails. Shower chairs and hoists are available free of charge. Accommodation There are two and three bedroom apartments available with two single beds in each room. The three bedroom Apts have two bathrooms and all of them are accessible to wheelchair users. Bed linen and towels are provided and there is a weekly cleaning service. Facilities Fully fitted kitchens - Hob, oven, fridge/ freezer, dish washer, toaster etc. There is a separate utility room with washing machine and drying area. Also provided are satellite T.V., Air-Conditioning/ heating. Swimming pool with hoist! Eve Apartments, This quiet residential property ia a first class holiday centre for those with a disability. The apartments are located five minutes walk from the popular resort of Polis, Pafos and twenty minutes from the nearest beach. Access Disabled access in and around the complex is excellent. There is a paved ramp which allows access into all the rooms. Bed rails and bed raisers are available. The bathrooms have a wheelin shower, grab rails and wall-mounted shower seats. There are drop down rails on either side of the toilet. The pool has railings as well as a hoist. There are also raised sunbeds. The light switches are all placed at a convenient level throughout the apartments. Accommodation There are 10 studios, 6 one-bedroom apartments, 2 two-bedroom apartments and 1 three bedroom apartment. In the kitchenette there's a dining table and chairs and as well a kettle, toaster, fridge, hob and microwave. Central heating in all rooms and air conditionning(payable locally) in each bedroom. Facilities A pool hoist and adapted vehicle are on site. The local town nearby has a selection of accessible restaurants. There is a wheelchair access ramp at the C.T.O Polis Camping Beach and a beach wheelchair is available for use. The Barceló, This modern hotel, with a wide variety of facilities and services, is one of the top hotels in the area. It also boasts the most modern Thalassotherapy Centre on the island of Fuerteventura. The hotel has been awarded with the "Q" award for quality by the Spanish Institute for Quality Tourism. Access Disabled facilities include bathrooms with wheel-in showers. There is good access throughout the hotel and the surrounding area. Accommodation The 462 air-conditioned guestrooms at Barcelo Fuerteventura include minibars and safes. Guests can channel-surf the satellite television. Wireless and wired high-speed Internet access (surcharge) is provided. Bathrooms offer bathtubs with jetted bathtubs and handheld showerheads, and bidets. In addition, amenities available on request include irons/ironing boards and wake-up calls. Housekeeping is offered daily. Facilities Outdoor swimming pool heated in the winter, childrens pool heated in the winter, swimming pool with Jacuzzi, sun loungers and parasols, sun terrace, solarium, multipurpose court, 2 tennis courts, paddle and football courts, archery shooting range, French bowls, shuffleboard, beach volleyball, mini golf, childrens playground, and a Mini Club. For more information on the above holidays log onto www.disabledaccessholidays.com Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 25

Getting back to work When Tony Mangan was diagnosed with a benign spinal tumour he never dreamt that it would leave him permanently paralysed from the waist down. The 45 year old was informed by doctors that the tumour was operable and he could expect a three month recovery period, after which he would be up and about once again. My operation was scheduled for August 2007. When I woke up after the surgery I could wriggle my toes and everybody was in a positive frame of mind. I was told the operation was a success and within a few weeks I would regain full feeling in my legs. I just had to wait for the bruising and swelling to go down, said Tony. Unfortunately, months went by and there was no sign of any improvement. It slowly became clear to Tony that he would never walk again. He was transferred to the National Rehabilitation Centre in October 2007. While I was at the NRH my colleagues and bosses at Trulife visited me and they made it very clear that they would find a position for me that would facilitate my disability. It was also made clear that I could return to work on a part time basis. Tony had worked as production engineer at the international manufacturing company for six years and was keen to stay at Trulife but he knew that it would be impossible to maintain that position in a wheelchair. Every Christmas the company hosts a draw with prizes for its staff and it s a very relaxed affair. I decided that would be a good opportunity to meet my colleagues and bosses on site. I had a spasm attack which was a bit embarrassing but apart from that it was a good day and the ice was broken. While I was there, however, I noticed access points that just wouldn t work for someone in a wheelchair. Also, my office was on the first floor and there was no way that I could get to it. Thankfully, that was one hurdle that I could cross quickly and easily as my boss very kindle offered me his office on the ground floor. With Tony was keen to get back to work as quickly as possible, the NRH Vocational Team met with him and made an assessment of his requirements. According to Brian Miller, a member of the team, it By Fiona McGoran is imperative that patients with jobs move swiftly to re-enter the workforce as when there are delays those jobs are sometimes lost. It is also important to begin on a part time basis where possible as it takes time to build up stamina. We carried out a Valtar assessment and visited Tony s workplace. After that we met with his employers and recommended changes to increase accessibility throughout the building. We also contacted Fás and set up a process whereby Trulife could apply for the Workplace Equipment Adaptation Scheme which pays up to 17,000 to employers. Trulife received the grant. Catherine Logan was another member on the Vocational Team. We explored Tony s strengths and weaknesses in relation to returning to work. She added that following the work site visits one of the recommendations made was to adapt the bathroom facilities and once this was done it was possible to initiate the workplace grant application. The work site visits were important to the process as the team also got an opportunity to see the environmental challenges. It also 26 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

allowed them to see the on-site support that was available to Tony and the willingness to facilitate his return and make the necessary adaptations. According to Catherine, the most important factor in the success of Tony s return to work was his own ambition and determination. His strengths were evident but he was still in the process of coming to terms with the impact of his injury, trying to make the most of his physical and functional gains and he had issues with his living accommodation as well as concerns around his prospective working environment. Driving again was another important adjunct to his independence and confidence. The benefits gained from the support of a vocational team are multifold: a team of people from different disciplines and agencies work to understand the impact of the injury; identify strengths and weaknesses; explore the demands of the job; consider the person s finances; support them in sourcing grants and other entitlements; devise solutions to facilitate a return to work. Catherine and Brian are keen to emphasise not only the social benefits but other advantages that come when a person returns to work. The person and their family benefit from a change of environment, social integration and inclusion, greater access to social and leisure pursuits, increased confidence, sense of independence and achievement, empowerment and contribution. The vocational team organises workshop days where a panel of people with spinal cord injuries talk about their experiences returning to work. This helps others who are in the process of that journey. According to Tony, one of the most significant benefits of working with the Vocational Team was their support when applying for his application for exemption for part time return to work. This meant that he could work 20 hours per week without losing his illness benefit. People who receive this grant pay income tax on both their illness benefit and part time income. Brian says there is a lot of red tape While I was at the NRH my colleagues and bosses at Trulife visited me and they made it very clear that they would find a position for me that would facilitate my disability." involved in applying for grants and gaining exemptions. Apart from the quagmire of red tape, many people are, understandably, unaware of their entitlements. Returning to work is such a vital part of a person s recovery in terms of confidence, independence and social outlet. Without the support of the Vocational Team patients run the risk of being unable to cross that initial hurdle, said Miller. Tony returned to work in March 2008 after completing six months at the NRH. Around this time he also moved into the Royal Hospital in Donnybrook. There was a period of time between my accident and returning to work where I began to wonder if I would ever find a place to live. I had been told by numerous people that my home in Tallaght could not be modified for wheelchair use. I couldn t sell it because it had negative equity and getting a mortgage as a part time employee to buy another house was impossible. Finally, Tony s social worker found him a place on the Phoenix Ward at the Royal Hospital where he remained for a further six months. From there he travelled to Tallaght two days a week where he worked at Trulife. A manager at the Royal Hospital took a keen interest in Tony s plight. After much research, he discovered a stair lift which would fit in his house. Once that was in place, the house was easily adapted and Tony could return home. He also helped Tony source a battery assisted hand bike so that he could pursue his love of the outdoors and increase his fitness levels. I joined a cycling club in Dublin called No Sweat and we go for long cycles on Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. I have finally got to a point where life is looking really good. My job provides me with financial security and a social outlet, while the cycling helps my mind and body stay healthy. Although Tony says he has found his niche in Trulife and is enjoying making a valuable contribution to the company. It was not always this way. When he initially returned he moved away from production and engineering as he couldn t get close enough to the machines because of his wheelchair. I struggled to find a meaningful role for the first two years. Finally, I took on the role of health and safety officer and I also work in quality. Now I ve found a niche position that I know is meaningful. That was really important to me. Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 27

Fundraising How you can help If you would like to set up a regular donation to Spinal Injuries Ireland please fill in the standing order form below and send it to Philip Quinlan, Spinal Injuries Ireland, National Rehabilitation Hospital, Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Standing Order Form In favour of: Spinal Injuries Ireland Bank: Bank of Ireland Account No: 21069816 Sort Code: 90 06 23 Name:... Abseil down the Clarion Hotel, Limerick Looking for something a bit different? What about abseiling down the Clarion Hotel in Limerick? Spinal Injuries Ireland are looking for 200 people to take part in this fundraising event. Date: 28th April 2012 Time: 10.00-16.00 Venue: Clarion Hotel Fee: 65 (and then raise just 250 in sponsorship) To register contact Philip Quinlan on 01-2355317 or email philip@spinalinjuries.ie Address:............ Email:... Phone No:... I would like to make a regular monthly gift of: 10 15 21* 30 50 This Standing Order Form is an instruction to your bank. Bank Name:... Bank Address:... Flora Womens' Mini Marathon Run, walk, jog or push the Flora Womens' Mini Marathon for Spinal Injuries Ireland. Date: Bank Holiday Monday, 4th June 2012 Time: 3.00pm. All participants must enter either on the official Entry Form which will appear in the Evening Herald every Wednesday and Saturday or online at www.florawomensminimarathon.ie Contact Philip Quinlan on 01 2355317 or email philip@spinalinjuries for your sponsor pack....... Account Holder Name:... "No Sweat" Cycle Club... Account No:... Sort Code:... Start Date:... Signed:... (Please note: Do not send your Standing Order to the bank. SII will forward it when we complete the administration of your gift). * If you donate a minimum of 250 during the year and you pay income tax exclusively through the PAYE system, the value of your donation to Spinal Injuries Ireland can be increased dramatically. Well done to all the members of the "No Sweat" cycle club who donated 1000 to Spinal Injuries Ireland by doing a sponsored 100km and 40km cycle in November. 28 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Legato Singers Concert 19th April 2012 Oslo to Dusseldorf Cycle Legato Singers will be performing a concert in aid of Spinal Injuries Ireland on 19th April at 8pm in Suite 54 (above Tonic bar/restaurant), Main Street, Blackrock. Admission 10 - tickets available at the door. Legato is a new concept in musical entertainment an all-female vocal harmony group providing a combination of gospel, popular, jazz, blues, swing, folk and traditional music. L to R: Cian O'Byrne, Brian McDonnell, Pier Targa, Paul Fagan, Gareth Bastow, Alan Conlon, Pamela McCabe, Sinead Hosey, Colm O'Loughlin, Ed Joyce, Natalie Hodgess (Head of the Vodafone Ireland Foundation) and Joe Joyce. In aid of Spinal Injuries Ireland a group of 30 Vodafone Ireland employees will embark on an 850km cycle from Oslo to Dusseldorf in June 2012. The Vodafone staff will be part of a group of 400 cyclists from 23 countries taking part in this tour organised by the GBI (Global Biking Initiative), a German charity that organises annual charity cycles in Europe. Calendar of Events 19.04.12 - Legato Singers Concert 28.04.2012 - The Big Challenge Abseiling down the Clarion Hotel 06.05.12 Great Limerick Run 9th June 2012 - Summer Lunch in the Four Seasons 04.06.2012 Flora Women s Mini Marathon 10.06.2012 - Oslo to Dusseldorf Cycle 29.10.2012 - Dublin City Marathon TBC The Q Ball New Year's Day Sponsored Swim Summer Lunch 9th June 2012 Welcome to Ellie A big thanks to the very brave Gerry McDonald, Jim McMullen and Brendan McMullen who took part in the New Year s Day Sponsored Swim' in Bray, Co Wicklow, raising over 500 for Spinal Injuries Ireland. As you can see from the photos they really got into the spirit of the day. Thanks also to O Rourkes pub, Harrigans Bar & Restaurant, Robbies Butchers and the local Spar for allowing collection tins to be put in their premises. The Four Seasons Hotel, Dublin, is the venue for Spinal Injuries Irelands' annual 'Summer Lunch'. For more information contact Philip Quinlan or Ellie O'Donnell on 01 2355317 or email 'philip@ spinalinjuries.ie' We are pleased to welcome Ellie O'Donnell on board as our new Fundraising & Communications Manager. Ellie and Philip will be working on a number of new fundraising initiatives this year and as always, would be delighted to hear from you if you would like to help. Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 29

Counting Calories Your weight is a balancing act, and calories play a big role. Despite all the diet strategies out there, weight management still comes down to the calories you take in versus those you burn off. Fuel for your body Calories are the energy in food. Your body has a constant demand for energy and uses the calories from food to keep functioning. Energy from calories fuels your every action. Carbohydrates, fats and proteins are the types of nutrients that contain calories and are the main energy sources for your body. The amount of energy in each varies. Proteins and carbohydrates have about 4 calories a gram, and fats have about 9 calories a gram. Alcohol also is a source of calories, providing about 7 calories a gram. Regardless of where they come from, the calories you eat are either converted to physical energy or stored within your body as fat. These stored calories will remain in your body as fat unless you use them up, either by reducing calorie intake so that your body must draw on reserves for energy, or by increasing physical activity so that you burn more calories. Cutting calories Your weight is a balancing act, but the equation is simple: If you eat more calories than you burn, you gain weight. Because 3,500 calories equals about 1 pound (0.45 kilogram) of fat, you need to burn 3,500 calories more than you take in to lose 1 pound. So if you cut 500 calories from your typical diet each day, you'd lose about 1 pound a week (500 calories x 7 days = 3,500 calories). Cutting calories doesn't have to be difficult. In fact, it can be as simple as: Skipping one extra high-calorie indulgence a day Swapping high-calorie foods for lower calorie options Reducing portion sizes Calories in Easter Eggs Serving Size Calorie Count Grams of Fat Dairy Milk Easter Egg, Cadbury 1 Egg / 1818 102.9 343 g Twirl Easter Egg, Cadbury 1 Egg / 325g 1723 97.5 Roses Easter Egg, Cadbury 1 Egg / 307g 1627 92.1 Aero Bubbles Easter Egg, Nestle 1 Egg / 235g 1264 72.4 Kit Kat Chunky Easter Egg, Nestle 1 Egg / 235g 1250 67.7 Dark Chocolate (70%) Easter Egg, 1 Egg / 180g 992 74 Green & Black's Buttons Easter Egg, Cadbury 1 Med. Egg 859 48.6 / 162 Crunchie Easter Egg, Cadbury 1 Egg / 167g 885 50.1 Flake Easter Egg, Cadbury 1 Egg / 153g 811 45.9 Smarties Easter Egg, Nestle 1 Egg / 138g 731 39.6 Calories in Drinks Serving Size Calorie Count Grams of Fat Larger - Stella Artois 1 can / 550ml 221 0 Beer 1 pint 182 0 Baileys 37ml 129 5.8 Wine 1 glass / 87 0 120ml Gin / Vodka 40% 25ml 55 0 Coke 330ml 139 0 Coffee 1 cup / 220ml 15.4 0.9 Orange Juice 1 glass / 88 0 200ml Tea 1 mug / 270ml 29 0.5 Calories in Sweats Serving Size Calorie Count Grams of Fat Popcorn 100g 405 7.7 Snickers 1 bar / 64½g 323 18.1 Twix twin bar / 62g 306 14.9 Mars Bar 65g 294 11.4 Minstrels 1 pack / 42g 209 9.4 Maltesers 1 pack / 37g 183 8.5 Cadburys Creme Egg 39g 174 6.2 Milky Way 1 bar / 26g 117 4.3 Kit Kat 2 finger bar / 106 5.5 21g Celebrations 1 sweet / 8g 36 1.6 Calories in Bread Serving Size Calorie Count Grams of Fat French Baguette 150g 360 1.8 Danish Pastry 67g 287 17.4 Bagel 85g 216 1.4 Scone 70g 225 7.6 Hot Cross Bun 70g 205 3.9 Cadbury's Flake Cake 1 bar / 34g 180 10.4 Pitta Bread 1 pitta / 25g 147 1.1 Doughnut 49g 140 2.0 White Crusty Roll 50g 140 1.2 White Bread 1 slice / 37g 84 0.6 30 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Could You Be a Platelet Donor? What are Platelets? Platelets are small cells present in the blood of all healthy people. They are essential to enable blood to clot properly. Patients who do not have enough platelets in their blood are at risk of spontaneous bleeding. Platelets have a shelf-life of just 5-7 days after donation, so it is important to maintain a constant supply. Why Give Platelets? Over 20,000 platelet transfusions are needed every year in Ireland, and this number is continuing to rise. Most of these platelets go to patients with serious medical conditions such as cancer or leukaemia, especially those receiving chemotherapy or after a bone marrow transplant. Who needs platelets? Platelets are needed every day for the treatment of sick patients. So there is an ever-increasing need for people who are willing to become platelet donors. Platelets may also be needed by: 1. patients undergoing major surgery 2. burns patients 3. accident victims who have had extensive injury 4. new born babies who are born with low platelet counts Can I Give Platelets? You may be suitable to become a platelet donor if You are blood group O, A or B You are between 18 and 59 years old You weigh over 9 st 7lbs (60kgs) You cannot become a platelet donor if: You have ever received a blood transfusion You are a female who has ever been pregnant You require to take aspirin or antiinflammatories regularly Note: You do not need to give blood first to become a platelet donor. However, if you have not given blood in Ireland in the last 5 years you may not give platelets on your first visit to the platelet clinic. In this case you will first give samples for testing and for assessing your suitability to become a platelet donor. Next Step In order to become a platelet donor you must first attend for an assessment interview. This simple process includes a blood sample to ensure your own platelet count is suitable for this type of donation. If you find that you are not eligible to become a platelet donor, please consider giving blood or joining the Irish Unrelated Bone Marrow Registry. Donation Process Platelets are collected using a different process to regular blood donation. What happens at the clinic? As giving platelets takes a little bit longer than giving blood the platelet clinic runs on an appointment basis. Once the donor arrives in the clinic for their platelet donation appointment they go through the following: Registration Filling in of Health and Lifestyle Questionnaire Short screening Donation Rest & refreshments How do we collect the platelets? Your blood is passed through a special machine that removes the platelets. The remaining blood is returned to you. How long does it take? The process takes an average of 50-70 minutes, but this varies from donor to donor. During the donation you can read, watch television or just relax. Once the donation is complete you are fit to resume normal activities. How often can I give platelets? As you keep your red cells during the donation process, it is possible to donate every 28 days. How do I become a platelet donor? In order to become a platelet donor you must first attend for an assessment interview. This simple process includes a blood sample to ensure your own platelet count is suitable for this type of donation. If you would like to schedule an assessment appointment log onto intb.ie and fill in our Online Application Form or call 01 432 2833 (Dublin) or 021 480 7429 (Cork) for more information. Where can I donate platelets? Platelet donations take place at the National Blood Centre, James s Street, Dublin 8 and the Munster Regional Transfusion Centre, St. Finbarr s Hospital, Cork. Text: 53377 Web: www.giveblood.ie/platelets www.facebook.com/giveblood Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 31

Gardening 7 Tips for Spring Gardening 1 Composting is a great way to give fallen leaves, grass clippings, kitchen veggie scraps and garden trimmings a productive http://www. bentonroofinginc.com/images/commercial/ wallgreens.jpg use. Compost is excellent when mixed in with soil before planting, and makes great mulch when your garden has already been started. Make sure your compost gets to at least 160 F, essential for destroying weed seeds, which is important when using the compost as mulch. 2 Mulch is a layer of material spread over the surface of your garden s soil that helps it to retain moisture, keep temperatures cool, and inhibit weeds. Organic mulch also breaks down over time, making the soil more fertile. Compost, straw, bark, newspaper, grass clippings, and shredded leaves are all great organics to use for a blanket of mulch. 3 Want to attract some lovely butterflies to enhance your garden s aesthetic? There are many different flowers that produce the nectar they love. Lilacs, marigolds, and sunflowers are just some of the options you can plant to color your garden with elegant butterflies. Place them in areas with abundant sunlight for the best result. 4Rabbits love vegetables gardens, especially your leafy greens. The best defense is to build a chicken wire fence around your garden, at least 2 feet high. Make sure to bury it as well, at least a foot if you can though less will work, as rabbits are more likely to go under the fence than over. Interestingly enough, human hair scattered around the garden is an effective rabbit repellent, and eventually becomes a nice fertilizer. This can easily be obtained from local salons. 7 If birds and herbs aren t enough to solve your insect problem, there are many organic pesticides available. One of the safest options is insecticidal soap, which must be used directly on the insects. It is non-toxic to animals and can be used until you harvest your veggies. Just be cautious of using it in direct sunlight when hot out, as it may burn your plants. 5 Herbs make great companions planted alongside your vegetables. In general, the strong scent of most herbs will deter many different insects. Specifically, basil will help control flies and mosquitoes, spearmint keeps away ants and aphids, and rosemary will repel certain beetles and moths. In addition, these herbs will be a tasty addition to your edible garden! 6 Birds should be welcomed into your garden. They love to eat plenty of pests like aphids, caterpillars, slugs and even mice, all of which can be detrimental to your garden. Invite birds to stay with bird feeders, houses and baths. Too many birds can become an issue if you are growing a lot of fruits and berries, so you may have to experiment to find the right balance. 32 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

Home from Home Self-Catering Apartment Muscular Dystrophy Ireland Muscular Dystrophy Ireland (MDI) Home from Home Apartment is a self-catering, wheelchair accessible three bed roomed apartment adapted to the highest specification to empower and promote independent living for people with physical & sensory disabilities. This apartment provides breaks for people with disabilities and their families. It is about ensuring that the disabled person is part of the community. It also provides the family with the opportunity to book the apartment as a whole family. As the project is based on the social model of disability it is not in a residential setting and is based in the community with access to local services. Whether you are going to a hospital appointment, concert or social event, finding reasonably priced fully accessible accommodation in Dublin can be a challenge. With this in mind, Muscular Dystrophy Ireland (MDI) recently opened its new, purpose-built Home from Home Apartment in Chapelizod, Dublin 20. This self-contained wheelchair accessible apartment is available for short-term breaks ranging from one to seven nights. MDI s Barry Buckley explains, The purpose of the apartment is to provide stress-free accommodation for people with physical disabilities and their families visiting Dublin. We hope this might make it easier to attend an appointment, visit a friend in hospital, or simply enjoy a short break. Patrick Doocey, who is a member of MDI has used the apartment on several occasions in recent months and is keen to encourage others to try the facility. The philosophy of the accommodation is to promote independence for those who normally find themselves dependant on others. The apartment is modern and has all the resources you could need, including inter-room ceiling hoists, manual hoists, profile beds, air mattresses and accessible en suite bathrooms. When you arrive, the staff are friendly and welcoming, and there is also the option of availing of a self-drive accessible Volkswagen Transporter. The apartment includes three accessible twin and double rooms and one PA room. It can accommodate groups of one to six, and guests are asked to make a voluntary contribution of 25 per room, per night. To find out more, or make a booking, visit www.mdi.ie or call 01 623 6414. New Product Uriwell - Portable, Unisex Urinal Uriwell is a unisex, portable, flexible urinal with an antispill, anti-odour lid. As it bends easily in any direction, it can be used in any position and therefore means that occupants can stay in their car, chair or bed when nature calls. In addition to being easy for male/ female use the Uriwell is also available for children. The unique design uses an accordion like construction made from a flexible polypropylene which means Uriwell can be collapsed to about the size of a soft drink can fitting neatly into a glove compartment, handbag or rucksack. When expanded it has a capacity of 750 ml. New range available for children Available from: www.rubiconhealthcare. com/uriwell Price: 14.99 Sterling Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 33

Man Died in Long Haul Operation Autonomic Dysreflexia By James Pepper, Croydon Guardian A young paraplegic man desperate to find a cure died following a controversial stem cell operation in Ecuador, an inquest heard. Ricky Chick, 27, of Silverwood Close, Croydon, was left paralysed from the waist down after a serious motorbike accident in 2004 and became "frustrated" at the options available to him in England. He decided to travel to Hospital San Francisco in Guayaquil, Ecuador for private treatment using stem cell technology, which is being trialled in some countries for treatment of spinal injuries among other conditions. During the operation in August 2009 in the South American hospital, stem cells were placed into his spine, but when Mr Chick came round, he could not stand any noise and wanted to remain in darkness, Croydon Coroners Court heard. He fell into a coma in his hopital bed after complaining of headaches following the operation after saying "I think this headache Connections Are you tired of being isolated in your community, without knowing anyone that has the same disability and is in the exact same situation as yourself? Well stress no further, a socialising club has been set up, called Connections. It is specifically aimed at people under 40 as there is nothing out there that allows young people with disabilities to meet with other like-minded individuals. Its founder, Krystal Mc Donagh, has a high spinal cord injury, and co-founder, Shauna Brereton, has cerebral palsy. They aim to bring young people together from all over Ireland to enjoy events such as social is going to kill me Mum." The former body builder died the following day, the inquest heard. Coroner Doctor Roy Palmer said: "Intrachranial hypertension had caused Mr Chick to cardiac arrest. His death was a result of treatment that didn't work out." Pathologist Dr Olaf Biedrzycki told the court the operation had caused brain swelling. Dr Angela Gall, from the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital said Mr Chick had a "potentially life threatening complication." She said in written evidence: "Ricky had not discussed the stem cell treatment with me. We advise against it (being treated abroad) as there is no regulation." Speaking after the inquest, Mr Chick's mother Christine Chick said she wanted to warn people about the dangers of her son's spine condition. She said: "I want people to recognise autonomic dysreflexia. Nobody seems to recognise it, only spinal injury experts seem to. The condition can be life threatening so more people need to be made aware of it." nights, parties, cinema club, bowling, days out, live events and concerts, festivals and online forums. For the moment, all activities and events will be held in Dublin city but as the club grows, events will be happening in your own home town. The club is currently taking registrations so if you're interested e-mail connectionsireland@gmail.com and you can also find us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/pages/connections-social- Club. Alternatively, if you are not online you can ring Krystal on (087) 2980548 and she will post you a registration pack. (Most likely to affect people above the level of T6) Common warning signs * Blurred vision, seeing spots * A fast major increase in blood Pressure 20-40 mm Hg Systolic higher than usual * A stuffy nose * Anxiety or jitters * Tightness in your chest, flutters in your heart or chest, or trouble breathing * Goose bumps * Flushed or reddened skin * A pounding headache * Heavy sweating If any of these signs appear, follow the treatment below:- Sit up or raise your head to 90 degrees. NB: You need to sit upright until your blood pressure is normal. Loosen or take off anything tight * First check bladder for drainage. If blocked, change catheter immediately or insert catheter if in retention. If no relief * Next check bowel for constipation/ impaction using Liqnocaine Gel * If warning signs return, repeat treatment, call your GP or go to A&E. NB: Medical emergency, if left untreated may lead to cerebral haemorrhage / stroke / death. At the A & E tell staff you need immediate care:- * May have dysreflexia * Need to remain sitting up * Need blood pressure checked * Need cause of problem sought * If blood pressure continues to rise it needs to be treated. Since all physicians are not familiar with autonomic dysreflexia (hyperreflexia) and its treatment, you should carry a card in your wallet that describes the condition and the treatment required. Contact Spinal Injuries Ireland to request a card on 01 2355317. 34 Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal By Cathal Mooney McMahon Goldrick Solicitors If you have been the victim of a crime, you may be entitled to compensation under the Scheme of Compensation for Personal Injuries Criminally Inflicted. This is funded through the Department of Social Protection. It is administered through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal. This Tribunal was set up in 1974 and provides compensation to people who have suffered loss from personal injuries received from a crime of violence. You may be eligible to apply if:- 1. You are a direct victim of a violent crime. 2. You assisted or attempted to assist the prevention of a crime. 3. You assisted or attempted to save a human life. Usually it is the victim of the crime who will be making the claim however the scheme allows others to make claims such as:- 1. If the person has died, the immediate family of the victim. 2. A person responsible for looking after the victim and who has suffered loss or expense. To make a claim, the person making the claim should report the crime to An Garda Síochána as soon as possible. The person or his solicitor should then write to the Tribunal with the name and address of the victim or the person making the claim, notifying them of the date and location of the incident. The Tribunal will send an application form to the person making the claim. When it is completed and returned to the Tribunal, the application is processed and sent to a member of the Tribunal to make a decision. Often the Tribunal will look for additional information from the person making the claim such as a Garda Report, witness statements and vouchers for expenses suffered. The person making the claim must do so within a period of three months from the date of the injury. This can be extended where a reasonable explanation can be given for the delay in making the application. Where the victim has died from the injury inflicted, there is no time limit in making the application. Decisions are made initially by one member of the Tribunal sitting alone. If the person making the claim is not happy with the decision, then it can be appealed. In this instance, there will be an oral hearing before three members of the Tribunal. If the case is worth less than 317.43, then the Secretary of the Tribunal can deal with the matter. Most of the time, the Tribunal will seek to deal with the matter based on the application form submitted. However, the Tribunal can decide to have an oral hearing before three members. It is wise to be legally represented at these hearings as there is often substantial preparatory work to be done. Legal costs, however, cannot be recovered under the Scheme. The Tribunal can only make awards for out of pocket expenses, a loss of income which includes any future losses and damages (and for mental distress where the injury has been fatal which is currently 25,394.76). An individual with a spinal injury can also look at submitting a claim for nursing expenses, aids and appliances and physiotherapy costs. The Tribunal is not as generous as the courts however in its awards but the applicant should ensure that all his/ her expenses are submitted and claimed for in full, including expenses into the future. There is no compensation payable for any pain and suffering for cases arising after 1 April 1986. If an award is made then it is usually done so by way of a single payment. However there are times when the Tribunal may make an initial payment and wait to see what long term effects there are as a result of the injury. Alternatively, when the Tribunal is dealing with a minor i.e. a person under the age of eighteen, or a person who is unable to manage their own affairs, it can decide to invest the money or have the money placed in trust for the person's benefit. Generally when the Tribunal makes its decision, it will consider any prior compensation paid by the assailant and also any social welfare, salary or wage payments made to the person making the claim. In the event that the person making the claim wants to appeal a decision, the following are the options available: 1. If the decision was made by the Secretary of the Tribunal, it can be appealed to a single member of the Tribunal. 2. If the decision was made by a single member of the Tribunal, it can be appealed to an informal hearing by three members of the Tribunal. The decision of the three member Tribunal is final. It is essential to note that the Tribunal retains the discretion not to make an award at all or to reduce compensation due to the character, behaviour or criminal record of the person making the claim. Spinal News - Spring 2012. Spinal Injuries Ireland 35

Legal Advice Clinics If you or someone close to you has sustained a spinal injury it is important to take sound legal advice. As part of the services that we provide at Spinal Injuries Ireland, we can arrange for our members to be given legal advice, either in their homes (if members cannot travel) or in the offices of Spinal Injuries Ireland. At Spinal Injuries Ireland, there are legal advice clinics weekly on Wednesdays between 2.30 and 4.30. Please contact Spinal Injuries Ireland on 01 2355317 and we can arrange for you to get the legal advice that you may need.