The Rotary Newton Aycliffe Annual Golf Competition organised by Rtn David Hogg and Honorary Rtn. Robert Manners was, as usual, well supported and raised a wonderful amount for local charities. The surplus of just under £3800 has been donated equally to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, in memory of the late Neville Hall, who allowed Rotary free use of Woodham Golf Course, and to the Motor Neurone Disease Association in remembrance of much-loved Rotarian, the late Syd Howarth of Newton Press.
Martin Sims from the Darlington and South Durham Group of the MS Society came along to meet with Sue Wetton and husband Alan at their home in School Aycliffe to share the great news that he had received a donation of almost £1900 from Rotary. They also invited Rotary President Gary Blenkinsopp and Rtn David Hogg. Sue was diagnosed with MS more than 35 years ago and she told us, “Donations such as this are essential for the services and research we need for this devastating condition. Our daughter was just a few months old when I received my diagnosis and the future looked bleak but, with the help of the MS Society and my family and carers, we manage the condition together so that I can live the best life possible.”
Gary asked Martin for examples of the support the society gave to people with MS and he replied, “We have recently begun weekly 2-hour therapy sessions at St. Theresa’s in Darlington which Sue attends. The Coffee Mornings and other groups were suspended during Covid, but we do hope to restart soon”. Sue commented that such groups were a lifeline for her and a great support network as being able to talk with others affected by MS was essential to improve well-being.
Martin has been invited to a Rotary meeting to tell us about the society’s work and Sue will also come along to give members her experiences of living with MS.
Photo from left: Martin Sims, Alan and Sue Wetton, Rotary Newton Aycliffe President Gary Blenkinsopp and Rotarian David Hogg.
Second: Syd Howarth.
