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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

This is the third week of our September Pop-Up Shops Event. So far, the sales have been focused on Clothes and then Jewellery and accessories. This week's focus is on books, media and games. These pop-up events have been great, with lots of bargains being sold, and our shop takings are definitely higher than normal. It was a great success, with lots of people bagging a bargain.. All proceeds are going straight to our fundraising Next week’s theme will be Homeware and Gifts. There are still some gorgeous clothes for sale. All the items can be found in the reception area of the Centre. Take your time to have a browse, buy a coffee in our Café or even better, stay for lunch! Here are a  few photos to tempt you. Some of these will make great  presents and stocking fillers Thank you for your support .

Looking for the perfect autumn treat?  For just £2, you could win a Midweek Vineyard Tour & Tasting Experience for Two at the beautiful Woodchester Valley, complete with a bottle of Prosecco and a box of chocolates to take home. Yes, really! Woodchester Valley Vineyard is a family-run winery in the South Cotswolds, known for its award-winning still and sparkling wines. Spread across 58 acres, it grows a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Bacchus. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings. Whether you're treating yourself or gifting a loved one, this prize promises a relaxing, indulgent escape surrounded by the golden hues of the season. Even better? Every entry helps fund our life-changing therapy for people living with chronic neurological conditions.   Prize Includes: Midweek Vineyard Tour & Tasting for Two at Woodchester Valley A bottle of Prosecco A box of delicious seashell chocolates    The winner will be drawn on Monday 6 October. Entries are only £2, and all funds raised go to The Brightwell. Enter today at www.thebrightwell.org.uk/product-page/autumn-prize-draw  You might just toast to victory this autumn! Good luck!

On 3 September, a determined group of cyclists from The Kendleshire Golf Club traded in their golf clubs for bicycles and took on a remarkable 100-mile challenge - all in support of The Brightwell, your local charity dedicated to helping people living with neurological conditions. The team set off on their ambitious journey from Kendleshire and powered their way to the scenic finish line at Machynys Golf and Monk Island Resort in Llanelli. Along the way, they endured just one crash and two punctures - a small price to pay for such an incredible feat. This impressive effort is part of a broader fundraising campaign led by The Kendleshire Men’s Captain, Martyn Olds, who has chosen The Brightwell as one of the club’s Charities of the Year. The 100-mile ride stands as one of the biggest fundraising activities so far - and it’s already made a huge impact.By the end of their journey, the team had raised an incredible £6,728 for The Brightwell. “We’d like to say the biggest thank you to Martyn and the team at The Kendleshire Golf Club for their determination, passion, and dedicated support,” said Doro Pasantes, CEO of The Brightwell. “Funds like this make a real difference to the lives of the people we support every single day.” The Brightwell, based in Bradley Stoke, provides vital therapies and support for people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions. Fundraising efforts like this one are key to helping the centre continue its invaluable work. Feeling inspired? Whether you're a cyclist, runner, baker, or simply looking to give back, there are countless ways to support The Brightwell. Learn more about how you can get involved by visiting: www.thebrightwell.org.uk/fundraising

What types of sessions do we offer? One-to-One Sessions One-to-one physiotherapy sessions last 30 minutes and are available for people who have a specific issue that cannot be addressed in a group class, or who do not have the ability to join a group class. Group Exercise Classes Group exercise classes (maximum 7 people) last an hour, with some classes ending with 10-15 minutes of relaxation. These classes are led by our therapists and encourage people to exercise in a way that will be effective for them, as well as providing a fun, sociable environment. Group Therapy Sessions Group therapy (maximum 5 people) also lasts an hour, with smaller groups allowing for more focused attention on specific issues. Both types of exercise classes are tailored to varying ability and mobility levels, so that there is something for everyone. Online Classes These classes last half an hour and are ideal for those who cannot attend the Centre, work from home, have limited time or other commitments. These take place via Zoom.   All types of exercise classes are tailored to varying ability and mobility levels, so that there is something for everyone. Below is a list of our weekly sessions... Monday Physio Group 12 pm -1 pm   with the Physio Team Focus on balance and stability - Improves mobility and upper and lower limb strength. First half of the session - upper limb strengthening. Second half of the session - standing balance and lower limb strengthening Helps to reduce fatigue and improve flexibility and cardiovascular fitness. Dance Group 3 pm – 4 pm with Audrey Fitness for all levels of mobility Movement to music Is fun and active Tuesday Medium Intensity Interval Training via Zoom 8.45 am to 9.15 am with Millie This class is aimed at those members with higher mobility and relatively good balance. Upper Limb,  Lower Limb and Core  exercises (standing) Mixed exercises to allow for muscle groups to rest Use of weights/dumbbells Interval training - 30 seconds on, 30 seconds rest Wednesday   Group Physio 9:30 am-10:30 am with the Physio Team Cardiovascular training - muscle endurance and fatigue focused. Moderate intensity aerobic exercises to help reduce fatigue and improve cardiovascular fitness and flexibility. Finishes class with relaxation. Seated Zoom Class  12 pm-12.30 pm with Audrey Suitable for  upper limb strengthening ·Strength & power training with the use of dumbbells to increase blood circulation, release endorphins and develop muscle tone and strength. Helps to improve balance so as to avoid injuries. Thursday Group Physio 10:15 am-11:15 am with the Physio Team Flexibility training and seated leg and trunk stretches to increase range of motion and reduce spasms and fatigue. ·Use of rehab equipment to help with fitness and balance. Friday Neuro Yoga/Pilates 10:30 am-11:30 am with Lauren Low impact stretches to help increase strength, endurance and flexibility, done in seating, lying and standing. Relaxation to finish   Suggested Contributions Zoom sessions £60 for 10 sessions, with the contribution to be made in advance, or as part of your regular Standing Order. Dance and Yoga Classes are £9 per session or £60 for a block of 10 sessions if a contribution is made in advance. Group Physio Classes £15 per session In-person classes will take place in the Gym. Zoom Classes will be via a link provided. For further information, please visit www.thebrightwell.org.uk/physio

On 6 October, three determined runners will take on one of the UK’s most iconic races - the Oysho Cardiff Half Marathon, all in support of The Brightwell. The Cardiff Half is more than just a race. With over 29,000 participants, it winds through the heart of the Welsh capital, showcasing historic landmarks and the vibrant spirit of the city. We’re proud to support our very own Physiotherapist, Millie, who will be hitting the course alongside Stu and Alan, as they lace up their trainers and run 13.1 miles to raise vital funds for The Brightwell. Their dedication goes beyond physical endurance - it’s a show of support and strength for the work we do. Every step they take brings us closer to making a difference in the lives of those who rely on The Brightwell. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines or following along online, join us in supporting Millie, Stu, and Alan on this amazing journey. Want to support the team? Donate or find out more: Millie’s Fundraising Page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/millie-rutherford-3 Alan’s Fundraising Page: https://cardiffhalf25.enthuse.com/pf/alan-wilcox Stu’s Fundraising Page: https://cardiffhalf25.enthuse.com/pf/stu-rutherford Let’s cheer them on all the way to the finish line!

We launched the first of our September Pop-Up Shops last week. The focus was on clothes. It was a great success, with lots of people bagging a bargain.. All proceeds are going straight to our fundraising Yesterday, 10 September, the stock was changed around and we now have lots of lovely jewellery and accessories on display. There are still some gorgeous clothes for sale. All the items can be found in the reception area of the Centre. Take your time to have a browse, buy a coffee in our Café or even better, stay for lunch! Here are a  few photos to tempt you. Some of these will make great Christmas presents! Still to come over the next few weeks… Books, Media, Homeware and Gifts Thank you for your support.

We are delighted to welcome Tina to the board and our Brightwell Community. Tina has kindly written a short bio to introduce herself.   My name is Tina Ashley. I first became aware of The Brightwell Centre as I was keen to build and form a relationship with a local charity within my role as a solicitor. I wanted to work with The Brightwell Centre because it is a small charity trying to achieve big things, and it is a charity supporting people with neurological conditions. When I met Caz and Doro earlier this year, it was great to see that the Brightwell Centre is bringing together a community and in doing so, makes things less isolating for those who live with neurological conditions. I wanted to know more and become part of it. I am a Senior Associate Solicitor at Davies and Partners Solicitors, specialising in medical negligence. I primarily represent clients who have experienced neurological injuries, which aligns closely with the mission of The Brightwell. I was born in Bristol, and for a short while moved to Northampton to study my degree, and then lived in Leeds for 2 years whilst I completed my training contract to become a solicitor. I moved back to Bristol on qualifying – and now work in Bradley Stoke, just a stone’s throw from the Brightwell Centre.   I am mum to a young child, a beloved dog and a cat. In my spare time, I love spending time with my husband, daughter and dog, which will usually involve a beach and a dog walk. I also love travelling whenever possible and trying out new restaurants. Recently, I have taken up golf, and I am enjoying the challenge of learning a new skill. Tina was co-opted as a Trustee at our July meeting, and we will be officially appointed at the next AGM. Welcome Tina!

Image courtesy of freepix Making a Will is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your wishes are carried out after you are gone and to provide peace of mind for your loved ones. Here is a breakdown of the key reasons why it is so important: You Control the Distribution of Your Assets A Will is a legal document that allows you to decide who inherits your money, property, and possessions (your "estate"). Without a valid Will, you are said to have died "intestate," and the law decides who gets what. This means your assets may not go to the people or causes you would have wanted to support. For example; Unmarried Partners:  If you are not married or in a civil partnership, your partner has no automatic right to inherit from you, regardless of how long you have been together. Friends and Charities:  The rules of intestacy do not provide for friends, stepchildren, or charities. If you want to leave a gift to a specific person or cause, you must include it in your Will. You Can Appoint a Guardian for Your Children If you have children under the age of 18, a Will allows you to name a guardian to care for them in the event of your death. Without a Will, this decision could be left to the courts, and the person chosen may not be who you would have wanted. It Helps Reduce Family Disputes A clear and legally binding Will can prevent arguments and misunderstandings among family members. It lays out your wishes clearly, leaving less room for disputes over who should receive what. This can save your loved ones a significant amount of stress and legal costs during an already difficult time.   It Can Minimise Inheritance Tax Careful Will planning, often with the help of a legal professional, can help you reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax that might be payable on your estate. This ensures that more of your assets go to your beneficiaries rather than to the government. You Appoint an Executor An executor is the person or people responsible for carrying out the instructions in your Will, including paying off debts and distributing your assets. By making a Will, you can choose someone you trust to handle this important and often complex task. If you do not appoint an executor, the court will appoint an administrator, which may be a person you would not have chosen. You Can Specify Funeral Wishes While funeral arrangements are often made before a Will is read, a Will provides a good opportunity to record your wishes regarding burial, cremation, and any other specific preferences you have for your final farewell. In summary, making a Will is the only way to ensure that your money, property, and possessions go to the people and causes you care about. It provides control, protects your loved ones, and can significantly simplify a difficult process for those you leave behind. Will Writing Service  from Wards Solicitors At The Brightwell, we are very fortunate that Wards,  a firm of local Solicitors, offer beneficial rates to The Brightwell Community to draw up a simple Will.  Please see the details below To find out more about booking to see Wards, please call Reception on 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk   Make a Difference That Lives On Give the gift of therapy, support and friendship by remembering The Brightwell in your Will. Leaving a financial gift to The Brightwell will have a direct and positive impact on those living with chronic neurological conditions. Your gift will enable individuals to be supported by our wonderful Centre. For further information, please visit our Gifts In Will page www.thebrightwell.org.uk/gift-in-will If you have any questions, please call  Victoria Hocquard  on 01454 201686 or email  victoria.hocquard@thebrightwell.org.uk

The MS Society will be holding a Community Connection event at Worlebury Golf Club, Monks Hill, Weston-super-Mare, BS22 9SX on 9 October between 11 am and 2 pm. This event is for people with MS, family members and unpaid carers. Join them for a day of support and connection for the local MS community The Brightwell will be represented at this event, plus representatives from ·       The MS Society  Community Connections Team ·       North Somerset MS nurse team ·       Citizens Advice ·       NHS Talking Therapies ·       Job Centre’s Disability Employment Service ·       Pier Health Group Social Prescribing Service ·       Curo Group Community Connect Service ·       WHAM (Warmer homes, advice and money)   Lunch will be provided at this event.. This will include a selection of sandwiches, biscuits and hot drinks. Please advise about dietary requirements when you register. Please register if you would like to attend this event by scanning the QR Code on the poster below or emailing msconnections@mssociety.org.uk We would like to encourage all  members  in Weston or North Somerset to attend Please see the poster below for more information.

Image by wayhomestudio via Freepix Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) may enhance recovery from sports injuries by delivering increased oxygen to damaged tissues, which promotes healing, reduces inflammation, and accelerates the repair of soft tissues, ligaments, and fractures. How HBOT works for sports injuries: Increased Oxygen Delivery In a hyperbaric chamber, pure oxygen is breathed at higher-than-normal atmospheric pressure, allowing the blood to carry significantly more oxygen to injured areas. Tissue Oxygenation This increased oxygen saturates damaged tissues, preventing hypoxia (oxygen starvation) and supporting cellular repair and function. Reduced Inflammation and Swelling HBOT can help decrease inflammation and swelling by improving blood flow and reducing harmful oxygen radicals that contribute to tissue damage. Enhanced Healing High oxygen levels stimulate the production of new blood vessels (neovascularization), collagen, and other factors essential for healing connective tissues like tendons and ligaments. Immune Response Support HBOT can enhance the body's immune response, increasing the ability of white blood cells to fight bacteria and prevent infection at the injury site. Benefits for Athletes: Faster Return to Play By promoting quicker and more efficient healing, HBOT may reduce the overall recovery time for athletes. Reduced Pain The anti-inflammatory effects of HBOT can help alleviate pain associated with injuries. Improved Tissue Health HBOT supports the repair of microscopic tears in muscles and encourages the formation of healthy tissue. HBOT at The Brightwell Although the sessions we offer for Sports Injuries are not subsidised by the charity, they offer excellent value for money. Registration fee is £50. Each session lasts 1 hour, is only £30 per session. The number of sessions required will depend on the individual's level of fitness and the severity of the injury. As a guideline most users with a general sports injury will see benefits after just 5 sessions. To find out more, please visit www.thebrightwell.org.uk/oxygen-therapy If you have any queries, please call 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk