M.G. (Raggy Doll Disease)
What is this? It’s a disease called Myasthenia Gravis. It’s an acute immune disease which is characterised by fluctuating and sometimes fatal muscle weakness. The body immune system in the form of antibodies, attack and damage the nerve signal reception areas on the muscles causing a breakdown in communication between nerve and muscles. The results are a loss of effectiveness of the muscles.

To anybody who has this they must be careful not to get stressed out or be careful they do not get too many infections, as they will take longer to clear up. Most GPs find it extremely hard to diagnosis. Any person who suffers with M.G. needs a great deal of understanding from family and friends, as one moment they are perfectly normal but within minutes or sometimes hours, their whole world is turned upside down as they become droopy and listless. Things we take for granted become impossible for M.G. sufferers.

The Children in Need Appeal has agreed to an approach by the M.G. Association for a joint fund raising event in the UK and Ireland coinciding with the BBC’s popular annual event. This will be a low-impact workout suitable all ages and abilities. The M.G. Society is sponsored by Valeant Pharmscouricute International. They have a web site: www.mgauk.org.uk or there is a free phone number: 0800 293 641.

Wheelchair Travel Bag
These are manufactured from heavy duty 7oz nylon with 6mm foam padding. A new bag, which is light and easy to use and protects folding wheelchairs, has been developed by Mayday Products, based in Oxfordshire. The covers are designed to protect wheelchairs from any abuse while in transit. Phone 01491 680 103 or visit the web site at www.maydayproducts.com.

Mobility Toll Exemption Pass for M6
I don’t know if any of you visit other friends and family up North but the M6 toll road is Britain’s first privately operated toll motorway which opened north of Birmingham. Disabled drivers and drivers providing transport for disabled persons can apply for an exemption pass which allows FREE travel for the nominated vehicles. For full details of who is eligible and how to apply for a pass contact: Midland Expressway Ltd, Freepost NAT 9069, Lichfield, WS14 OBR or telephone: 0870 850 6262.

Written by Margaret MacDonald.