Harrogate Speakability Self-Help Group
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Peter Garside welcomed John Buglass who talked about “Moving part of a churchyard at Fewston”. His illustrated talk was fascinating - we saw 17th Century graves and skeletons found at Fewston Chuch.
John Knox gave a vote of thanks and invited questions. The tea and coffee were served during question time.
Meanwhile Andrew Jones MP. arrived and spoke to several members before our planned presentations.
The first talk was by Charles Spencer who gave a moving and pertinent talk about ‘Aphasia’ and its effect on stroke ‘survivors’. Charles gave a
similar talk in 2008 at a Speakability Harrogate concert and brought it up to date.
Simon and Lesley Benneworth from the Leeds Speakability Group then gave their presentation about Simon’s life pre- and post-stroke, and how, by working on the aphasia “Step-by-Step” software every day for the past two years, he had regained his speech and independence.
Andrew Jones then spoke to the group to explain that he is Vice-Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Stroke. It is early days (he has only been doing the job since May) but he stressed the need for GPs to refer stroke patients to dedicated stroke units as quickly as possible. After his talk he answered members’ questions and also asked if he could invite himself again in the future! John Knox assured him he could!
AGM - 7th June 2011
The Annual General Meeting was held at St Marks Church Hall on the 7th June for Harrogate Speakabilty Group. There were thirty five members and carers at the meeting which celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Group. Peter Garside, as Chairman, opened the meeting and welcomed everyone. He said that he and Pip, his wife, had decided to step down from their roles as Chairman and Secretary. Mr John Knox was elected Chairman and gave a short speech thanking Peter and Pip for all their hard work and dedication to the Group. Liz Knox presented them with a terracotta garden pot and some flowers. Jenny Jones has formed a new committee which will meet to share the management of the Group. The new committee comprises of, John Knox - Chairman, John Mullins -Vice Chairman, Marian Farrar, Liz Knox, Ken Fenton, Tony Moss, Jenny Jones, Facilitator and Shelagh Moss and Sandra Worth as volunteers.
