Children in Distress - Real Independence, Special Children Helping Special Children

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Real Independence, Special Children Helping Special Children

Duckling managed two circuits

ELY's 4th July Sponsored Walk Shows The Way

Those enterprising fundraisers at Fund-a-Physio, Ely, held their most ambitious fund raising event to date, on the Bishop's Green on Saturday 4th July, to provide much needed funds for the new Physiotherapy Treatment Rooms at St Nicholas' in Bucharest.

Mike Tuplin, Fund-a-Physio's Treasurer, and his splendid support team were off bright and early. Gazebos were erected and stocked, refreshments baked and cut. The day dawned hot and dry and delivered all the fun and excitement promised with an opening speech from His Worship the Mayor of Ely, Richard Hobbs, announcements by Ely's Town Crier, Avril, bedecked in a new dress, and accompanied by the Ely Waits in their vivid buckskin jerkins.

Sadly, they had only a limited response from all of the town's local schools, colleges and societies, however, the children of Highfield School for Children with Special Needs rallied round to help and stepped out, closely followed by long-term friends and supporters of Children in Distress and a team of PHAB ballet dancers of the Lantern Dance School led by Helen Petit.

Walkers Came and Went

Throughout the day, walkers came and went and walked and talked. Remarkably well behaved dogs trotted with owners, children, toddlers, ballet dancers, adults, seniors and a new family of ducklings went around the track [2 laps] and then tucked into snacks in the Cathedral Centre.

The children all recieved Children in Distress badges and Fund-a-Physio balloons and thrilled to a "riot" of Morris dancers. Georgian Dancers with their wind music, and the Piper of Ely all played their part in a very busy, happy and tiring day. The "Silent Auction" did extremely well, making over £400.

Volunteers Stepped Forward

One of the most valuable parts of the day was having the time to spend talking to new people about the charity. The Rev June Hurn, with her husband and American guest came, walked and explained to anyone who would listen about the development of the charity. Two first-aiders, both experienced nurses, immediately offered their services teaching in Romania and a physiotherapist, currently studying neurology, committed to share his expertise with the staff in the hospices and St Nicholas' CDC.

Thanks All Round

As well as all the fun, upwards of £1500 flowed into Fund-a-Physio's coffers. Thanks to Juliette and Mike Tuplin who did much of the work, even though Juliette was waiting surgery. Alyth Hughes offers her personal thanks to all who sponsored her on 4th July.

For more info email Alyth Hughes hughesalyth@googlemail.com