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We are really excited to announce the launch of our very popular Hotel Chocolat Advent Calendar Draw Only £2 per entry. This is  the  prize draw everyone’s been waiting for! Thanks to the generous sponsorship of  Blackfriars Auto Services , we’re thrilled to bring back this festive favourite: A chance to win the  incredible Grand Advent Calendar from Hotel Chocolat , worth  £80 . Behind each of the 24 large doors, you’ll discover a luxury surprise, from decadent slabs of thick chocolate to 50ml bottles of Velvetised Cream™ (vodka-infused for that warming festive glow), to chocolate cracker decorations and brand new treats for 2025. This is the ultimate Advent calendar, bursting with indulgent surprises and specially designed for grown-ups (Entrants must be 18+, due to the alcohol content in some of the goodies. The draw will take place on Wednesday, 26 November  – just in time to open the first door on 1 December! The winner must be able to collect the calendar from The Brightwell.   How to Enter: Entries are just  £2 each . Purchase your tickets online here or from Reception.  Want more details? To see the full list of contents and ingredients, simply search:  Hotel Chocolat Grand Advent Calendar 2025. Good luck – and may your festive season start with a win! Thank you so much for your support.

Looking for your next big challenge? Why not make it meaningful too? We’re thrilled to offer charity places for the London Landmarks Half Marathon and the Bath Half Marathon 2026 – and we’d love for you to join us! By running for The Brightwell, you’ll help us continue providing life-changing therapies to people living with neurological conditions. Every mile you run supports our mission and makes a real difference. What you get as part of Team Brightwell: ✔️ Race entry for just £30 ✔️ A FREE Brightwell running vest ✔️ Personalised fundraising support ✔️ Motivation and encouragement every step of the way ✔️ Help the charity personally by raising funds in the lead-up to the event   We’re also hoping to secure places for the Great North Run 2026. If you're interested in taking part and supporting The Brightwell, get in touch now to register your interest! Whether you're a seasoned runner or tackling your first half-marathon, this is your chance to run with purpose and make every step count.  Sign up today at www.thebrightwell.org.uk/events or email us at community@thebrightwell.org.uk to find out more.

Over the past year, the Oxygen Suite has been completely transformed, thanks to the incredible generosity of two of our dedicated supporters: Woodstock Homes  and MS People’s Help . The makeover began with the installation of a brand-new sanitising area, including a new sink, drainer and smart storage units. Next came the lighting upgrade: sleek LED panels that not only give the suite a brighter, cleaner and more modern feel, but also deliver an impressive 89% saving on electricity. To make therapy more comfortable, we added three high-backed chairs for those receiving Isobaric Oxygen Therapy outside the chamber. The finishing touch was completed just two weeks ago, when the entire area was redecorated. The new colour gives a clean, welcoming atmosphere. What once looked a little tired only eighteen months ago is now revitalised, welcoming, and ready to support therapy users, volunteers and staff alike. Take a look at all that has been done… We are deeply grateful to our supporters who made this transformation possible. Your generosity has created a space that feels brighter, fresher and better than ever. Thank you. If you’d like to learn more about the Hyperbaric and Isobaric Oxygen Therapy we provide, please visit: www.thebrightwell.org.uk/oxygen-therapy

New Total: £38,554.77 That’s just £1,445.23 away from our £40,000 target! Wow… what can we say except a huge and heartfelt THANK YOU! We are now so close to reaching this incredible milestone, and it’s all thanks to you. This total has only been possible because of the generosity and commitment of so many: Our amazing Members Corporate Supporters Incredibly kind anonymous donors Brave abseilers, runners and challenge participants Our wonderful community contacts Alongside donations to our main Crowdfunder page, we’ve also received countless offline contributions, which together make this extraordinary total possible. The Brightwell is an incredibly special community, filled with inspirational, compassionate people, both within the centre and beyond. During the course of this campaign, this caring and generous spirit has been proven time and time again. From people willing to share their often very personal stories to help raise awareness of why we are raising the money, to the financial sacrifices taken and the immense courage shown. You have all done the Brightwell proud. The fundraising team is humbled and amazed by you all. But we’re not quite finished… Please, could we lean on your generosity just one more time? Imagine ending our very special anniversary year not just reaching, but smashing through the £40,000 target. With your help, we can do it! Here’s how you can make a difference: Donate online: The Brightwell | Donate Give in person at Reception Call us to donate over the phone Or email our Fundraising Team: community@thebrightwell.org.uk Keep an eye out for our upcoming social media campaign. Please like, share, and spread the word to help push us over that finish line!

When and where 22 Oct 2025, 19:00 – 22:00 Bradley Stoke, Bradbury House, Wheatfield Dr, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 9DB, UK About 🎉 The Brightwell Quiz Night is Back! 🧠🎶 Join us for a fun-filled evening at The Brightwell Quiz Night ! 🕡 Doors open:  6:30 PM🕖 Quiz starts:  7:00 PM Expect a lively atmosphere with a variety of quiz rounds – including picture and music rounds  – designed to challenge your knowledge and keep you entertained throughout the night. Whether you're flying solo, coming as a couple, or bringing a full team of friends or family, everyone is welcome! It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy a fantastic night out. 🎟️ Don’t forget to grab your raffle tickets  for our Quiz Night Exclusive Raffle  – available for purchase on the night. 🥂 You're welcome to bring your own drinks (alcoholic or soft)  and nibbles  to enjoy during the event. Come along, test your trivia skills, and support a great cause – we can’t wait to see you there!

If you've ever struggled to find a specific entrance to a building, a campsite in a sprawling field, or a friend at a busy festival, you know how frustrating it can be to describe a precise location using a street address or landmarks. This is where what3words comes in. It's a simple, clever system that can pinpoint any 3-meter square on Earth with just three words. What is what3words? Think of the entire world as a giant grid, with each 3-meter by 3-meter square given a unique, unchanging address made up of three random words. For example, the front door of Buckingham Palace is /// stores.chase.tunes . It's much easier to remember and communicate than a long string of latitude and longitude coordinates. How to Use It Using what3words is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a quick guide to getting started. 1. Finding a Location Download the app: The easiest way to use what3words is by downloading the free app on your phone. It works just like a map app. Search by address: You can type in a street address, and the app will show you the three-word address for that location. You can then zoom in and move the pin to a more precise spot, like a specific parking space or a side entrance. Search by three words: If someone gives you a three-word address, just type it into the search bar (make sure to include the /// at the beginning), and the app will instantly show you that exact 3-meter square on the map. 2. Sharing a Location Once you’ve found the three-word address for a specific spot, sharing it is simple. Tap the share icon: Just like in many other apps, there's a share button that lets you send the three-word address via text, email, or any other messaging app. Say it out loud: Because the addresses are just three simple words, you can easily say them over the phone or to someone in person. This is especially useful in situations where you might not have a strong data connection. How People Are Using what3words The versatility of what3words has led to its adoption in many different fields. Emergency services: Many emergency services around the world, including the police and ambulance services, use what3words. If you call for help and don't know your exact location—say you're in a field or on a hiking trail—you can simply tell the operator your three-word address. This can save critical time and potentially lives. Deliveries and logistics: Delivery drivers can use a three-word address to find a specific loading bay or side door, ensuring packages arrive exactly where they need to be. Travel and tourism: Travellers can use what3words to find hidden viewpoints, specific trailheads, or a particular spot on a beach. Meeting friends: Planning to meet up at a busy park, a large concert venue, or a festival? Sharing a three-word address is far more effective than saying, "I'm by the big tree." Recommendation We recommend that you find the What3Words for your address and write it down in case of an emergency. What 3 Words for The Brightwell The chosen 3 Words for The Brightwell are: ///power.safe.apron This can be used for giving directions, for a taxi or a lift or in an emergency. We will have this information in each department. If you enter the full address in your browser, it will go to maps for full directions https://w3w.co/power.safe.apron This information is also available on the Contact page of our website www.thebrightwell.org.uk/contact

This is the fourth and final week of our September Pop-Up Shops Event. So far, the sales have been focused on Clothes, then Jewellery & Accessories, and then Books, Media items & Games This final week's focus is on Homeware and Gifts. There are some great items at bargain prices, including a great selection of items for all around the home, plus some great gift ideas too. Here are a  few photos to tempt you. These pop-up events have been a great success, with lots of bargains being sold, and our shop takings are definitely higher than normal.  All proceeds are going straight to our fundraising target. Just because these Pop-Up events finish next week,  it does not mean that you will miss out. There is always a fantastic selection of goods, clothes, books, games and gifts for sale. Any unsold items will be donated to MS People’s Help in Thornbury, so everything goes to a good cause. If you have any clothes that are only suitable to be sold for recycling or by weight, we have a container to put items in at the end of the car park. Nothing goes to waste! Don’t forget to keep an eye on our Shop page, where you can buy other items and tickets for raffles. You can also keep up to date with news from our Shop. Raffles, events and lots more in our newsletters Thank you to everyone who has supported us.

Image from Freepix A week dedicated to celebrating a wonderful, non-invasive practice that can bring so much relief and well-being. Yes, it's World Reflexology Week, and we're excited to shine a spotlight on this ancient healing art. What Exactly Is Reflexology? For those new to the concept, reflexology is a complementary therapy based on the principle that specific points on the feet, hands, and ears, known as "reflex points," correspond to different organs, glands, and systems in the body. By applying gentle pressure and massage to these points, a reflexologist can help to stimulate the body's own natural healing processes and restore balance. Think of it like a map of your body, but on a smaller scale. When we work on a specific area of the foot, for instance, we're not just massaging that spot; we're sending a signal to the corresponding part of your body. The goal is to encourage a free flow of energy, reduce tension, and promote a sense of deep relaxation. More Than Just a Foot Massage While a reflexology session can feel incredibly relaxing, it's important to know that it's much more than just a foot massage. A skilled reflexologist is trained to identify imbalances and areas of tension in the reflex points. They use a specific set of techniques to work these areas, helping to release blockages and support the body's natural functions. Many people find reflexology to be beneficial for a wide range of issues, including: Stress and anxiety: The deep relaxation induced by reflexology can help to calm the nervous system and reduce the effects of stress. Pain management: By working on the corresponding reflex points, reflexology may help to ease various types of pain, such as headaches, back pain, and joint discomfort. Improved sleep: A more relaxed body and mind often lead to better quality sleep. Enhanced circulation: Gentle pressure can help to stimulate blood flow throughout the body. Support for digestive issues: Working on the reflexes for the digestive system can help to promote regularity and ease discomfort. Taking a Moment for Yourself In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to forget to take time for ourselves. World Reflexology Week is the perfect opportunity to do just that. Whether you've been curious about reflexology for a while or you're a seasoned enthusiast, consider booking a session this week. Take an hour out of your schedule to lie back, close your eyes, and allow a trained professional to guide your body back to a state of equilibrium. You might be surprised at the profound sense of peace and well-being you experience Reflexology and Other Complementary Therapies at The Brightwell As well as Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and a wide range of neurophysiotherapy sessions, we also offer a range of complementary therapies, including; Reflexology, Acupuncture, Massage, Counselling, Foot Care, as well as support and guidance sessions from the Citizens’ Advice Bureau. To find out more, please visit www..thebrightwell.org.uk/therapies/specialist-clinics    Or call 01454 201686 We look forward to seeing you soon.

On Friday, 19 September, the Brook Way Activity Centre was once again filled with warm conversation, laughter, and the comforting aroma of tea and cake, as Bradley Stoke Town Council hosted their Older Persons Tea Party. This wonderful free event brings together older residents of Bradley Stoke to enjoy refreshments, socialise, and connect with local councillors in a relaxed, friendly setting. As one of Mayor Natalie Field’s chosen charities this year, The Brightwell was honoured to be invited to take part. Representing us on the day were our CEO, Doro, and long-standing volunteer, Janet, who both thoroughly enjoyed meeting attendees, spreading awareness of the work we do, and answering questions from curious and engaged citizens. It was also a lovely opportunity for Doro and Janet to catch up with Mayor Natalie Field, whose continued support means so much to our team and the community we serve. Bradley Stoke Town Council’s ongoing support truly means a great deal to us, and we’re grateful to be part of such a caring community.

On 28 September, Ciaran Hemmings will take on the Loch Ness Marathon - a scenic but demanding challenge, in support of The Brightwell. This run is more than just a test of endurance; it’s a heartfelt tribute to his late uncle, Nick Porter   Nick was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2008. Despite the challenges MS brought, he faced life with remarkable stoicism and humour. Never one to complain, he remained upbeat, always ready with a joke, and continued to inspire those around him. Throughout his illness, Nick received support from The Brightwell. The therapies, care, and sense of community provided made a genuine difference in his quality of life. The care provided helped Nick maintain strength and positivity over the years, and Ciaran’s goal is to give back to the charity that gave so much to his family. Before his illness, Nick was an incredibly active person with a passion for adventure sports, including snowboarding, wakeboarding, and mountain biking. In that spirit, Ciaran felt it was only fitting to take on a physical challenge of his own - and running a marathon felt like the right way to honour his uncle’s memory. This challenge was first planned during a time when Nick was still with us, and it was intended to celebrate his strength and spirit. Following his passing in August, the run now carries even deeper meaning. Ciaran is running to honour his uncle, his resilience, and his love of adventure, while raising funds to help others receive the same level of care and support from The Brightwell. Donations can be made via Ciaran’s fundraising page https://www.justgiving.com/page/ciaran-hemming-1757362702904  All proceeds are going directly to The Brightwell. Thank you so much from everyone at The Brightwell.

I was born in 1961 in Rathcoole, Belfast, in what was considered the largest housing estate in Europe at that time. I lived with my sister Mary-Jo, brother and stepbrother. At age 20, I joined the British Army and began my training in Woolwich and then was stationed in Germany for 4 years. I didn’t enjoy my time in Germany, so I applied for a post in the Outer Hebrides and started my commission there in 1984 as a Radar Operator. At a similar time to moving to the Shetland Isles,  I started to notice a tingling sensation in my hands and legs. The Army medics brushed these symptoms off as being a virus. However, as the symptoms continued, the Army flew me to Glasgow and I travelled to a hospital in Edinburgh for investigations.  I  spent the next 3 months in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, having numerous tests carried out to try and establish what the problem was. Whilst I was there, I met a chap who had similar symptoms to me, but he had been diagnosed with... Multiple Sclerosis! After more tests, I was diagnosed with Relapsing  Remitting MS, but continued in the Army, I was stationed both back in the Outer Hebrides and again in Germany. My MS symptoms worsened, and I was sent to The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich, and the Army wanted to medically discharge me which I didn’t want. I contacted my barracks in The Outer Hebrides and went back there again from 1987. However, due to the condition progressing, work became more challenging and in 1991, I chose to medically retire and didn’t return to work again. By now, my MS had developed into Secondary Progressive. In 1988, I met my now ex-wife, who was also in the Army, and after my medical discharge, we moved to Doncaster.  My wife was then stationed at Larkhill, near Salisbury, coming back to Doncaster at the weekends. We were married for 15 years, and then after we went our separate ways, I moved in with my sister, who lives in Yatton, near Bristol, for about a year.  While all this was going on, I also had serious issues with a detached retina, leading to several operations and ultimately losing the vision in my left eye. I continued to drive as I had full vision in my right eye. I moved back to Northern Ireland for a while with my parents, but Mary-Jo wanted me to come back to England and live with her. I was fortunate to be offered an assisted living flat in Yatton and never looked back. In approximately 2004, I started having Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at the old Nailsea Centre, The West of England MS Therapy Centre, latterly called The Brightwell, and this community has been an important part of my life. I still attend the Centre every week for Oxygen, both inside and outside the Chamber. I find this therapy very beneficial. I also enjoy the fact that I meet with others and am able to be social. am an active Fundraising Volunteer,  and my good friend Mike Huggett and I attend a lot of collection events, especially the supermarkets and garden centres.  Over the past few years, my amazing sister Mary-Jo produces all the questions for the Quiz Night Events at The Brightwell, and we both host these evenings every other month. I  have also raised money doing a Skydive, but I won’t do that again in a hurry! I have been a wheelchair user for over 20 years, and had to stop driving about 3 years ago due to vision problems in my eye. Mike now takes me to the Centre and to fundraising events. Despite being diagnosed 40 years ago, I try to have a positive attitude towards living with MS. I don’t like to take medication, and I live independently with the help of a cleaner. I hope others will realise that life with MS, is, of course, a challenge, but the fact that I am still active and overall well after 40 years has to be a positive example for others, especially anyone who is newly diagnosed. I hope you find my journey of interest. Please come and say “hello” if you see me at the Centre or at any events. Best Wishes Gus