A local group of volunteers who formed a charity two years ago to support thousands of people in the North East with life-changing chronic illnesses is picking up steam thanks to their hard work and the generosity of strangers.
They are led by Mavis Smith, a retired postal worker and her colleagues Pam Hildreth and Margaret Wright. These sisters are doing it for themselves and others.
They aim to increase support, raise awareness and funds for much needed research to find the causes and cures as well as friendlier medication for PMR (Polymyalgia Rheumatica) and GCA (Giant Cell Arteritis).
I know that these debilitating illnesses are little known and whilst not life-threatening they drastically alter the quality of life for thousands of over 50s, mainly women.
The three local women who run the support group themselves suffer from PMR or GCA and can therefore empathise with fellow sufferers. They have decided to do something for themselves and others using their vast professional experience.
As a patron of the group, I helped secure them a grant from the National Lottery, which enabled them to set up support groups in the North East, create a website, and produce a DVD for newly diagnosed patients.
Then out of the blue came an offer from a Durham music teacher to run a fund-raising concert. The offer came from Gordon Dike, a 55 year old music teacher for Durham County Music Service. Gordon was himself diagnosed with PMR last year and now has to work part-time.
The result is a special concert by the Supersonic Strings orchestra of more than 70 string musicians between 8-19 years of age. This is at Elvet Methodist Church, on Tuesday, March 23rd, at 7.15pm. Tickets are £3 (£2 concessions) and are available at the door.
The group's website is www.pmr-gca-northeast.org.uk
And there's a great deal going on for science buffs and mere mortals like me at the Newcastle ScienceFest which is running a 10-day bumper programme of 100 unique experiences from 12-21 March 2010 at several local venues.
These include learning how to speak Chimpanzee, racing power tools, meeting a robot world-record holder and stepping inside a bubble.
This weekend sees Maker Faire which the organisers say is the world's premier event for DIY technology and craft. It's is for people of all ages who like to tinker and love to make things with robots, clever gadgets, garden shed inventions, knitted wonders, the occasional fireball, and much more.
For more information, full listings and bookings visit www.NewcastleScienceFest.com
Newcastle Chronicle and Journal
| Promoted by Paul Foy on behalf of Dave Anderson, both of St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT |