On Thursday last week (3 September), it was my last day at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign HQ (Southwark, London) before I went off to uni…
I just wanted one final chance to say goodbye to all my friends at HQ before I got too busy at uni and needed to finish up a few things at the office. However, for a change Sarah drove me to the office and Sufian (who was my assistant for the day) came w/ me too.
Upon arrival, I helped Bobby (Trailblazers Project Manger) upload my videos of The Walton Report Launch on to Trailblazers website, which took most of the day. Thankfully, we finally got them to work and are now available to view on the “Video Blogs” part of our website.
Furthermore, I chatted everyone in the office and had a good time, as always – working hard of course.
Also, I was asked by the charity if I’d like to be interviewed about Social Care in the UK by “Community Care” magazine. I jumped at the opportunity because this is where my advertising empire starts!
Overall, I am sad that it was my last day at the office, but it’s not like I can’t work for them again. There hopefully is nothing that will stop me from continuing to work w/ the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign / Trailblazers for many years to come…
Showing posts with label LONDON. Show all posts
Showing posts with label LONDON. Show all posts
Friday, 11 September 2009
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
The Walton Report Launch
Yesterday, I went to the launch of the Walton Report at the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) next to Regent’s Park in London. This is the final report from the inquiry of All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Muscular Dystrophy (chaired by Dave Anderson MP) that looks into specialist care for muscle disease and related neuromuscular diseases.
It was named after Lord John Walton of Detchant (Honourary Life President of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign) who was a part of the APPG evidence inquiry sessions from December 2008 to July 2009, and is one of the three people that founded the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign 50 years ago.
Upon arrival at around 10:40, once I got into the building at the RCP I was dying to go wee having gotten up quite early and being stuck in London traffic, but the bathroom was one floor down about 8 steps below. So, I had to use the glass lift to go down about just 3 metres, but the bloody door wouldn’t close making the lift unusable. 10 minutes later, after many members of staff attempted to solve the problem w/ no resolve, my dad tried to tell the lady that my wheelchair was too big for the lift by having me in and out of the lift and showing her the magnetic lever, which she finally half-hearted agreed with. At that point, my dad held down the lever w/ his foot to see if I could drive over the lever with my wheelchair and see if the door would close. However, when I went over the lever the damn lever broke, so I had to reverse out of the lift quite precariously that was interesting to do. Then, the half-hearted lady said she’d show me where another bathroom was and Lord Walton took the lead and was very helpful, trying to get someone to tell me where the bathrooms were. We ended up going onto using a different lift and we left Lord Walton in the reception area. The lady really had no idea where she was going and we ended up going on the wrong floor before we actually found a bathroom in some backdoor corridor and I said to Dad, sarcastically, “Welcome to the Royal College of Physicians…” once we got to the bathroom, as he laughed. When we left the bathroom, the lady had suddenly vanished, so we had to find our way back, which we did. Yet when we went to a different floor, she said she was looking for us and told us to go down to the basement level, but that was the wrong floor; and we found ourselves being told by a brisk fellow this was the wrong floor, who was guarding what looked like a giant storeroom for champagne. At this, my dad said, “My goodness, physicians do drink a lot…” to which the guy pretended he didn’t hear and continued filling out paperwork on his clipboard. Thankfully, we finally found our way back to the reception area, though this scenario took over half an hour (and is often the story of my life). All before the actual event had even started – fun times!
Anyway, after I chatted to all of my friends from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign in the reception area, we went for a photo call in the gardens of the RCP around 11:30. Once that was done, we all went to the first floor into a beautiful, domed conference room. Dave Anderson MP, Chair of the APPG for Muscular Dystrophy, then gave the Welcome Address and then passed it onto Lord Walton, who gave a very moving and interesting speech. It was followed by a speech from the Director of Policy and Operations of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, Robert Meadowcroft, about the key facts of the Walton Report and what needs to be done now, as well as comments from Sir Michael Rawlins, the Chairman of NICE. That concluded the first half of the event because it was time for the best part of the day, Lunchtime…
During lunch, I met the Chief Executive of the Snowdon Award Scheme and we had a very insightful conversation about Higher Education and Trailblazers; hopefully Trailblazers and his organisation can team up to do some good work together. Dad and I left the reception area once we finished the conversation and quickly made our way to the lifts to head back to the conference room before the rush started.
The second half of the event was more interactive part of the day with a panel discussion, which I really thought was quite fascinating and surprisingly I found Lord Walton to be quite a witty person (and I was laughing in tears from all the humourous things he was saying throughout the day). Concluding remarks and the next steps to be taken, presented by Mr. Anderson concluded the event.
Finally, Phil (Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign) gave a passionate speech and made the closing remarks. What an amazing event indeed!
Overall, I really enjoyed the day greatly and thought it was a brilliant experience; and it was a pleasure to represent Trailblazers at the launch too. I especially enjoyed meeting all my friends from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign and meeting with Lord Walton of Detchant, Baroness Thomas of Winchester and Dave Anderson MP. On a side note, sad yesterday at the launch Joe, our wonderful intern at HQ, told me that he’d be leaving soon because he is only on a short-term contract; very sad news indeed, although I wish him all the success and happiness in his future endeavours. Anyhow, we just need to now get some clout among politicians to bring the Walton Report high up on the political agenda, which can make a real, positive change for the better for people w/ Muscular Dystrophy and related diseases right away…
Find out more about the Walton Report.
It was named after Lord John Walton of Detchant (Honourary Life President of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign) who was a part of the APPG evidence inquiry sessions from December 2008 to July 2009, and is one of the three people that founded the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign 50 years ago.
Upon arrival at around 10:40, once I got into the building at the RCP I was dying to go wee having gotten up quite early and being stuck in London traffic, but the bathroom was one floor down about 8 steps below. So, I had to use the glass lift to go down about just 3 metres, but the bloody door wouldn’t close making the lift unusable. 10 minutes later, after many members of staff attempted to solve the problem w/ no resolve, my dad tried to tell the lady that my wheelchair was too big for the lift by having me in and out of the lift and showing her the magnetic lever, which she finally half-hearted agreed with. At that point, my dad held down the lever w/ his foot to see if I could drive over the lever with my wheelchair and see if the door would close. However, when I went over the lever the damn lever broke, so I had to reverse out of the lift quite precariously that was interesting to do. Then, the half-hearted lady said she’d show me where another bathroom was and Lord Walton took the lead and was very helpful, trying to get someone to tell me where the bathrooms were. We ended up going onto using a different lift and we left Lord Walton in the reception area. The lady really had no idea where she was going and we ended up going on the wrong floor before we actually found a bathroom in some backdoor corridor and I said to Dad, sarcastically, “Welcome to the Royal College of Physicians…” once we got to the bathroom, as he laughed. When we left the bathroom, the lady had suddenly vanished, so we had to find our way back, which we did. Yet when we went to a different floor, she said she was looking for us and told us to go down to the basement level, but that was the wrong floor; and we found ourselves being told by a brisk fellow this was the wrong floor, who was guarding what looked like a giant storeroom for champagne. At this, my dad said, “My goodness, physicians do drink a lot…” to which the guy pretended he didn’t hear and continued filling out paperwork on his clipboard. Thankfully, we finally found our way back to the reception area, though this scenario took over half an hour (and is often the story of my life). All before the actual event had even started – fun times!
Anyway, after I chatted to all of my friends from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign in the reception area, we went for a photo call in the gardens of the RCP around 11:30. Once that was done, we all went to the first floor into a beautiful, domed conference room. Dave Anderson MP, Chair of the APPG for Muscular Dystrophy, then gave the Welcome Address and then passed it onto Lord Walton, who gave a very moving and interesting speech. It was followed by a speech from the Director of Policy and Operations of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, Robert Meadowcroft, about the key facts of the Walton Report and what needs to be done now, as well as comments from Sir Michael Rawlins, the Chairman of NICE. That concluded the first half of the event because it was time for the best part of the day, Lunchtime…
During lunch, I met the Chief Executive of the Snowdon Award Scheme and we had a very insightful conversation about Higher Education and Trailblazers; hopefully Trailblazers and his organisation can team up to do some good work together. Dad and I left the reception area once we finished the conversation and quickly made our way to the lifts to head back to the conference room before the rush started.
The second half of the event was more interactive part of the day with a panel discussion, which I really thought was quite fascinating and surprisingly I found Lord Walton to be quite a witty person (and I was laughing in tears from all the humourous things he was saying throughout the day). Concluding remarks and the next steps to be taken, presented by Mr. Anderson concluded the event.
Finally, Phil (Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign) gave a passionate speech and made the closing remarks. What an amazing event indeed!
Overall, I really enjoyed the day greatly and thought it was a brilliant experience; and it was a pleasure to represent Trailblazers at the launch too. I especially enjoyed meeting all my friends from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign and meeting with Lord Walton of Detchant, Baroness Thomas of Winchester and Dave Anderson MP. On a side note, sad yesterday at the launch Joe, our wonderful intern at HQ, told me that he’d be leaving soon because he is only on a short-term contract; very sad news indeed, although I wish him all the success and happiness in his future endeavours. Anyhow, we just need to now get some clout among politicians to bring the Walton Report high up on the political agenda, which can make a real, positive change for the better for people w/ Muscular Dystrophy and related diseases right away…
Find out more about the Walton Report.
Thursday, 20 August 2009
Day w/ Trailblazers
Today, I went to the office after a much long break due to my flu to help Bobby with the Hotline for students, as is part of our Education Campaign for Trailblazers.
Upon arrival at about 11:00, I just went to the Education Report for about a hour, while waiting for the other Trailblazers. Then around 11:50, once the other Trailblazers arrived, we went into the Conference Room where phones were set up for us to answer anyone who called on the Hotline between 12 and 3; and Bobby told the three other Trailblazers (Zoë, Kim and Matilda) and I what to say to the students calling our Hotline. Sadly, no one called our Hotline, but we still had a good time regardless.
So, we just started discussing some ideas about our next campaign on Leisure Facilities while Bobby went to get sandwiches for lunch. When he came back, we shared his ideas with him and then had some lunch, having a lot of fun too.
During lunch, I also had a quick chat w/ Phil (Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign) and discuss some thoughts w/ him. Always an interesting conversaition w/ Phil...
After lunch, Bobby told us about a new grant that would be available for Trailblazers to do a project that is worth about £10,000 or so. We, Trailblazers, decided that we should create a film, which we all thought would be very interesting. However, I am keeping the details under wraps until all lights are go.
In addition, as nobody called the Hotline, Bobby suggested that the Trailblazers use the Conference Call phone to all answer a call from a mock caller and Zoë’s brother was pushed into it after Bobby’s voice sounded too old or something over the speaker on the phone. This was all so we could take a video of all the Trailblazers looking like we were doing lots of work and to add to the Trailblazers website. LOL!
Before I knew it, it was already 3 pm and almost time to go home. Though, Bobby asked me to take a quick video why I wanted to be a Trailblazer or something like that and we went off to find a good location to record it in the office that had a decent backdrop. In the end, we ended up in the kitchen and I shot my video; although I don’t think it was very good since I was just pulling it out of the air, but hopefully it was okay.
Also, subsequent to the Trailblazers leaving, Bobby gave the Trailblazers a Flip Video Mino to use for uploading interesting videos onto the Trailblazers website, and I cannot wait to start using it…
Once I finished my video in the kitchen I said my goodbyes to everyone at the office and headed home before London rush hour started.
All in all, it was a great day w/ lots of laughter, interesting discussions and a bit of hard work too! I’m definitely going to continue to work w/ Trailblazers and the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign for many years to come…
Upon arrival at about 11:00, I just went to the Education Report for about a hour, while waiting for the other Trailblazers. Then around 11:50, once the other Trailblazers arrived, we went into the Conference Room where phones were set up for us to answer anyone who called on the Hotline between 12 and 3; and Bobby told the three other Trailblazers (Zoë, Kim and Matilda) and I what to say to the students calling our Hotline. Sadly, no one called our Hotline, but we still had a good time regardless.
So, we just started discussing some ideas about our next campaign on Leisure Facilities while Bobby went to get sandwiches for lunch. When he came back, we shared his ideas with him and then had some lunch, having a lot of fun too.
During lunch, I also had a quick chat w/ Phil (Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign) and discuss some thoughts w/ him. Always an interesting conversaition w/ Phil...
After lunch, Bobby told us about a new grant that would be available for Trailblazers to do a project that is worth about £10,000 or so. We, Trailblazers, decided that we should create a film, which we all thought would be very interesting. However, I am keeping the details under wraps until all lights are go.
In addition, as nobody called the Hotline, Bobby suggested that the Trailblazers use the Conference Call phone to all answer a call from a mock caller and Zoë’s brother was pushed into it after Bobby’s voice sounded too old or something over the speaker on the phone. This was all so we could take a video of all the Trailblazers looking like we were doing lots of work and to add to the Trailblazers website. LOL!
Before I knew it, it was already 3 pm and almost time to go home. Though, Bobby asked me to take a quick video why I wanted to be a Trailblazer or something like that and we went off to find a good location to record it in the office that had a decent backdrop. In the end, we ended up in the kitchen and I shot my video; although I don’t think it was very good since I was just pulling it out of the air, but hopefully it was okay.
Also, subsequent to the Trailblazers leaving, Bobby gave the Trailblazers a Flip Video Mino to use for uploading interesting videos onto the Trailblazers website, and I cannot wait to start using it…
Once I finished my video in the kitchen I said my goodbyes to everyone at the office and headed home before London rush hour started.
All in all, it was a great day w/ lots of laughter, interesting discussions and a bit of hard work too! I’m definitely going to continue to work w/ Trailblazers and the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign for many years to come…
Sunday, 16 August 2009
Sectumsempra!
This afternoon, we went to see “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” (IMAX 3-D) at the BFI IMAX Cinema in London, which is directed by David Yates and stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Michael Gambon, Jim Broadbent, Alan Rickman, Tom Felton and Helena Bonham Carter.
It was a visually stunning, amazing film that I enjoyed! However, I just now think of the of the films as completely separate entity than the books and review these films as though they’re just film w/ nothing to do w/ the books, as there's no use comparing the fimls to the books…
Must see in IMAX 3-D! *** THREE 1/2 STARS ***
It was a visually stunning, amazing film that I enjoyed! However, I just now think of the of the films as completely separate entity than the books and review these films as though they’re just film w/ nothing to do w/ the books, as there's no use comparing the fimls to the books…
Must see in IMAX 3-D! *** THREE 1/2 STARS ***
Monday, 27 July 2009
Wembley Cup Weekend
On Friday and Sunday I attended the Wembley Cup w/ Sarah, an invitational football (soccer) tournament that took place between 24 and 26 July 2009 at Wembley Stadium, London. This was the inaugural year of the Wembley Cup, where each team played two matches, with three points awarded for a win and one point for a draw; and the four teams that played where Al-Ahly, Barcelona, Celtic, and Tottenham Hotspur.
In terms of accessibility it was very accessible w/ our seats on a platform w/ an excellent view of the field, and all the staff were so friendly and helpful. I was happy to see there was quite good services for disabled people at Wembley Stadium.
On Day 1 (24 July 2009) the first game was between Celtic and Al-Ahly (Celtic thrashed Al-Ahly by a final score of 5 – 0, but two of Celtic’s goals should have been offside) and the first game was between Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur (w/ a 1 – 1 draw). Day 2 (26 July 2009) was an interesting day w/ Barcelona beat Al-Ahly 4 – 1 and Celtic killed Tottenham Hotspur 2 – 0 (a great Anglo-Scot rivalry, indeed). Also, it was wicked to see Messi play for a bit on Day 2 during the 2nd Half of the first game, he’s amazing! Well, the final scores of the tournament where as follows:
Overall, I had a fab weekend at Wembley Stadium and hopefully I can attend next summer’s Wembley Cup too…
In terms of accessibility it was very accessible w/ our seats on a platform w/ an excellent view of the field, and all the staff were so friendly and helpful. I was happy to see there was quite good services for disabled people at Wembley Stadium.
On Day 1 (24 July 2009) the first game was between Celtic and Al-Ahly (Celtic thrashed Al-Ahly by a final score of 5 – 0, but two of Celtic’s goals should have been offside) and the first game was between Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur (w/ a 1 – 1 draw). Day 2 (26 July 2009) was an interesting day w/ Barcelona beat Al-Ahly 4 – 1 and Celtic killed Tottenham Hotspur 2 – 0 (a great Anglo-Scot rivalry, indeed). Also, it was wicked to see Messi play for a bit on Day 2 during the 2nd Half of the first game, he’s amazing! Well, the final scores of the tournament where as follows:
Overall, I had a fab weekend at Wembley Stadium and hopefully I can attend next summer’s Wembley Cup too…
Thursday, 23 July 2009
Work Experience
Today, I went to the office to continue my work experience at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign / Trailblazers HQ that I’m doing during the summer, as I was unable to go on Tuesday b/c I was unwell.
Anyway, it was a much more productive day than last week since Sana came w/ me to be my lovely personal secretary and I think I’ll get her to come w/ me on Tuesdays and Thursdays when I go to the office b/c she’s a big help. About 12:00PM or so, Bobby (Trailblazers Project Manager) kindly invited Sana and I to lunch with some of the people at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, so we both just walked up the road to a nice restaurant and had lunch w/ Bobby and the others, which was quite good and a fab time.
Once we got back to the office, we worked some more on next current Trailblazers campaign, access to and through education. Also, before I left the office me and two other Trailblazers recorded a video about our experiences w/ higher education that hopefully you’ll see on our website soon.
All in all, I had a brilliant day at the office (mainly thanks to Sana) and I cannot wait until next week!
Anyway, it was a much more productive day than last week since Sana came w/ me to be my lovely personal secretary and I think I’ll get her to come w/ me on Tuesdays and Thursdays when I go to the office b/c she’s a big help. About 12:00PM or so, Bobby (Trailblazers Project Manager) kindly invited Sana and I to lunch with some of the people at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, so we both just walked up the road to a nice restaurant and had lunch w/ Bobby and the others, which was quite good and a fab time.
Once we got back to the office, we worked some more on next current Trailblazers campaign, access to and through education. Also, before I left the office me and two other Trailblazers recorded a video about our experiences w/ higher education that hopefully you’ll see on our website soon.
All in all, I had a brilliant day at the office (mainly thanks to Sana) and I cannot wait until next week!
Thursday, 16 July 2009
First Day of Work Experience
Today, I went to the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign HQ where it was the first day of my work experience officially at office. I started my work experience since August 2008 w/ the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign / Trailblazers, but as I didn’t have a good wheelchair to go into the office I have had to do my work experience from home. Thankfully, now that I have a new wheelchair, I can hopefully start going into the office for my work experience one or two days a week during the summer before I start my University in September.
The day at the office today turned out okay, and when I got home I was feeling a bit down because I was unable to do any physical activity (type anything on their computer and administrative work) needed and Dad ended up helping me doing the majority of the work, which made me feel quite bad. Talking to the Trailblazers Project Manager before I left the office, he said that they might be able to find a volunteer willing to scribe for me at the office, so I will see what happens.
I have so many great ideas that I just need to find a way to express them to others without much or any physical activity on my part. It’s so inspiring and wonderful to go into the office that I just need to do it more often, becoming productive and efficient for myself. Stay tuned for more exciting news from the office…
The day at the office today turned out okay, and when I got home I was feeling a bit down because I was unable to do any physical activity (type anything on their computer and administrative work) needed and Dad ended up helping me doing the majority of the work, which made me feel quite bad. Talking to the Trailblazers Project Manager before I left the office, he said that they might be able to find a volunteer willing to scribe for me at the office, so I will see what happens.
I have so many great ideas that I just need to find a way to express them to others without much or any physical activity on my part. It’s so inspiring and wonderful to go into the office that I just need to do it more often, becoming productive and efficient for myself. Stay tuned for more exciting news from the office…
Friday, 10 July 2009
A Day at The Museum
Yesterday, I attended the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign’s 2009 Young Pavement Artists Competition (YPAC) Awards Ceremony at the Natural History Museum w/ Mum and Sarah.
Upon arrival, we went to a reception we mingled for a while and around 14:00 we into the theatre for actual awards ceremony to see the children who were the runner-ups and winners in each category received their prizes. It was so inspiring to see all the children’s amazing artwork!
Guess who was also awarding the children their prizes? Well, it was Chico of the “It’s Chico Time” fame! He is so funny and I met him afterwards as well when Mum was chatting him up…
About 40-45 minutes later, we went back to the reception area to have tea and cake and chat some more. Then at 16:30 the runner-ups and winners were given an exclusive tour of the museum, and I was offered to go on the tour too on behalf of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign; so Mum, Sarah and me followed the brilliant Matt (Learning Operations Manager at the Museum), who gave an excellent Museum Tour. The NHM was exclusively closed for us; he showed us all the cool parts of the Museum and he took us to a special room that not many know b/c it’s hidden where the had all kinds unique, interesting items that we could touch and explore – from fossils to bones and to butterflies to a taxidermy fox. The friendly Guido was our lovely museum guide; he showed me (and the me touch) all kinds cool items including a dried starfish, a head of a crocodile, a mold of a dinosaur’s teeth, Baleen from a Sperm Whale and so much more… It was just utterly amazing and I definitely plan to go back!
All in all, it was a wicked day that I really enjoyed. Plus, it was very nice to meet old and new friends from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign – Phil (Chief Executive), Adam (Designer), Abby (Director of Marketing and Communications), Sally (Marketing and Communications Manager), Eleanor (Web Manager), Laura (Volunteering Recruitment Manager) and twins Laura and Judith (Trailblazers National Ambassadors) – and others such as Jo (from the tictoc , the company that designed and manages our websites) and more interesting people at the ceremony. YPAC was a well dog’s bollocks of an experience that I’ll never forget…
Upon arrival, we went to a reception we mingled for a while and around 14:00 we into the theatre for actual awards ceremony to see the children who were the runner-ups and winners in each category received their prizes. It was so inspiring to see all the children’s amazing artwork!
Guess who was also awarding the children their prizes? Well, it was Chico of the “It’s Chico Time” fame! He is so funny and I met him afterwards as well when Mum was chatting him up…
About 40-45 minutes later, we went back to the reception area to have tea and cake and chat some more. Then at 16:30 the runner-ups and winners were given an exclusive tour of the museum, and I was offered to go on the tour too on behalf of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign; so Mum, Sarah and me followed the brilliant Matt (Learning Operations Manager at the Museum), who gave an excellent Museum Tour. The NHM was exclusively closed for us; he showed us all the cool parts of the Museum and he took us to a special room that not many know b/c it’s hidden where the had all kinds unique, interesting items that we could touch and explore – from fossils to bones and to butterflies to a taxidermy fox. The friendly Guido was our lovely museum guide; he showed me (and the me touch) all kinds cool items including a dried starfish, a head of a crocodile, a mold of a dinosaur’s teeth, Baleen from a Sperm Whale and so much more… It was just utterly amazing and I definitely plan to go back!
All in all, it was a wicked day that I really enjoyed. Plus, it was very nice to meet old and new friends from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign – Phil (Chief Executive), Adam (Designer), Abby (Director of Marketing and Communications), Sally (Marketing and Communications Manager), Eleanor (Web Manager), Laura (Volunteering Recruitment Manager) and twins Laura and Judith (Trailblazers National Ambassadors) – and others such as Jo (from the tictoc , the company that designed and manages our websites) and more interesting people at the ceremony. YPAC was a well dog’s bollocks of an experience that I’ll never forget…
Tuesday, 7 July 2009
Meeting at The Department for Transport
This afternoon I went to the Department for Transport with Bobby ( Trailblazers Project Manager) and two other Trailblazers to meet the Minister of State for Transport, Mr. Sadiq Khan MP (no relation) to discuss accessibility on public transportation.
It was a very productive meeting and he's such a wonderfully, nice man.
Find out more about the meeting .
It was a very productive meeting and he's such a wonderfully, nice man.
Find out more about the meeting .
Monday, 6 July 2009
Wonderful Weekend
I had the most amazing weekend, chronicled as followed:
FRIDAY – Watched British No. 1 Seed (World No. 3 Seed) Andy Murray lose to Andy Roddick at the Wimbledon Gentlemen's Singles Semifinals on telly. What a killer serve Roddick has! Interesting game; Murray played rubbish and just gave up winning…
Also, on Friday night my younger brother, Sufian (SOOF*YAAN), had to go the A&E (ER) via ambulance b/c he was feeling very ill w/ severe right eye/chest pain. Thankfully, I was nothing serious and he was home early Saturday morning. I just pray that he stays well since he’s a very lively 13-year-old and always running in to a wall or something.
SATURDAY – First off, Happy Independence Day to all my friends in the USA!
On Saturday, I attended Beyond Boundaries Live in Farnborough, Hampshire and I represented the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign / Trailblazers (where I do work experience). It was quite an interesting event for disabled people with wicked activities such as scuba diving, rock climbing and "Pimp My Wheelchair"; and Bobby (Trailblazers Project Manager) and I gave a presentation about Trailblazers, which went pretty well. Overall, it was a brilliant experience! Check out more here .
SUNDAY – Yesterday, was my 24th birthday: HURRAH! For my birthday I went to the cinema to see “Ice Age 3 Dawn Of The Dinosaurs” w/ my siblings (Sarah, Sana and Sufian) and Vaios (my Greek carer who kindly drove us). It was quite a funny film and the only film we could watch w/ my younger siblings. *** THREE 1/2 STARS ***
Afterwards, we watched the Wimbledon Gentlemen's Singles Final between Roger Federer and Andy Roddick. A very exciting final, indeed! When the game was over, we had cake that was so yummy. About an hour later, my one of Mum best friends, Razia (Aunty Roz), with her son (Irfan) and his new wife (who got married last July) came to visit to wish me a happy birthday. It’s always nice to see Aunty Roz and was especially nice to see Irfan as I’ve not seen him since September. We just sat and laughed, enjoying each other’s company. Once they’d left, we had dinner at about 22.30; Mum made Chicken Tikka Masala w/ rice and baked fish with spices, which was amazing… An excellent birthday, indeed!
Overall, my weekend was very enjoyable. A well good entire weekend!
FRIDAY – Watched British No. 1 Seed (World No. 3 Seed) Andy Murray lose to Andy Roddick at the Wimbledon Gentlemen's Singles Semifinals on telly. What a killer serve Roddick has! Interesting game; Murray played rubbish and just gave up winning…
Also, on Friday night my younger brother, Sufian (SOOF*YAAN), had to go the A&E (ER) via ambulance b/c he was feeling very ill w/ severe right eye/chest pain. Thankfully, I was nothing serious and he was home early Saturday morning. I just pray that he stays well since he’s a very lively 13-year-old and always running in to a wall or something.
SATURDAY – First off, Happy Independence Day to all my friends in the USA!
On Saturday, I attended Beyond Boundaries Live in Farnborough, Hampshire and I represented the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign / Trailblazers (where I do work experience). It was quite an interesting event for disabled people with wicked activities such as scuba diving, rock climbing and "Pimp My Wheelchair"; and Bobby (Trailblazers Project Manager) and I gave a presentation about Trailblazers, which went pretty well. Overall, it was a brilliant experience! Check out more here .
SUNDAY – Yesterday, was my 24th birthday: HURRAH! For my birthday I went to the cinema to see “Ice Age 3 Dawn Of The Dinosaurs” w/ my siblings (Sarah, Sana and Sufian) and Vaios (my Greek carer who kindly drove us). It was quite a funny film and the only film we could watch w/ my younger siblings. *** THREE 1/2 STARS ***
Afterwards, we watched the Wimbledon Gentlemen's Singles Final between Roger Federer and Andy Roddick. A very exciting final, indeed! When the game was over, we had cake that was so yummy. About an hour later, my one of Mum best friends, Razia (Aunty Roz), with her son (Irfan) and his new wife (who got married last July) came to visit to wish me a happy birthday. It’s always nice to see Aunty Roz and was especially nice to see Irfan as I’ve not seen him since September. We just sat and laughed, enjoying each other’s company. Once they’d left, we had dinner at about 22.30; Mum made Chicken Tikka Masala w/ rice and baked fish with spices, which was amazing… An excellent birthday, indeed!
Overall, my weekend was very enjoyable. A well good entire weekend!
Thursday, 25 June 2009
Day at The Office
This afternoon I went to the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign HQ (where I’m doing my work experience) in Southwark, London. I went there to meet w/ the Trailblazers Project Manager to get some guidance/support about troubles I’m having w/ my local authority (rather not go into it as it’s way too stressful and emotional to talk about right now) from the charity. Hopefully, we can get it sorted quickly as possible.
Anyway, it was just so nice to see everyone and chat to them all at the office today as well. I cannot tell how happy I was to meet them after quite a long time and hopefully I can start coming in to the office more to be helpful to the charity rather than stuck at home (and not being so useless to them) now I have my new wheelchair. They’re all such amazing people that every time I come into the office I'm so energised and inspired to keep fighting and campaigning for important issues relating to neuromuscular diseases / disability rights. So, keep up all the excellent work guys (and ladies)!
Stay tuned for more good times at the office…
Anyway, it was just so nice to see everyone and chat to them all at the office today as well. I cannot tell how happy I was to meet them after quite a long time and hopefully I can start coming in to the office more to be helpful to the charity rather than stuck at home (and not being so useless to them) now I have my new wheelchair. They’re all such amazing people that every time I come into the office I'm so energised and inspired to keep fighting and campaigning for important issues relating to neuromuscular diseases / disability rights. So, keep up all the excellent work guys (and ladies)!
Stay tuned for more good times at the office…
Sunday, 31 May 2009
Understanding My Condition
All day yesterday I attend the Living with MD Day London w/ Sarah, which was the pilot peer group program by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign to have adults dealing with muscle diseases to come together to discuss issues and find out where we can get the most appropriate needs.
All in all, there were 12 of us w/ Muscular Dystrophy in total who attended the peer group b/c the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has to have a small group of attendees otherwise the charity can’t offer a free event, but I think it is much relaxed and intimate that way. That being said, I learned so much and made some great friends too. I had had a fab time and everyone was so wonderful, and I definitely plan to stay in touch w/ them all!
All in all, there were 12 of us w/ Muscular Dystrophy in total who attended the peer group b/c the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has to have a small group of attendees otherwise the charity can’t offer a free event, but I think it is much relaxed and intimate that way. That being said, I learned so much and made some great friends too. I had had a fab time and everyone was so wonderful, and I definitely plan to stay in touch w/ them all!
Friday, 29 May 2009
Think Beyond Your Boundaries
Today, I also booked tickets for the whole family and me to attend Beyond Boundaries Live 2009 on 4 July 2009, which looks like an awe day out and a brilliant experience…
Check this video to learn a bit more (below):
Check this video to learn a bit more (below):
Football Days
Just booked tickets for the Wembley Cup taking place on 24 July 2009 and 26 July 2009 at Wembley Stadium. I’m going to be supporting Barcelona (and will be sitting in there side) and I cannot wait…
Wednesday, 6 May 2009
Transportation Report Launch
Yesterday, I attended the Trailblazers Transportation Report Launch at Parliament. I arrived in Westminster around 11:30 and walked over to Westminster Abbey where other Trailblazers were waiting. About 12:00, we had a press conference in front of Westminster Abbey where we took lots press photos and were interview by the media. I was interviewed by ITV and was on London Tonight later in the evening yesterday; it was very exciting since it was my first telly interview, but I forgot what I learned at the Media Training Days back in December at Muscular Dystrophy Campaign HQ by remembering that even before the camera starts rolling you ask the reporter what the first question and format will be, so you have a 20-30 second buffer period to brace yourself before the lights go on; although, I think I did pretty well considering I’ve never done this previously and hopefully I’ll be even better next time. Highly enjoyed indeed, but it was so windy in Westminster!
This all took over 1 1/2 hours to get done, and then around 14:00 we walked to House of Commons for a conference w/ Ministers and I got to the Committee Room I was the last one the b/c getting security always takes ages and I had go right through the back of Parliament to get to the Committee Room since there are stairs in the main entrance up to room. When I got to the room, everyone had already handed our report over to MPs and Peers, and were discussing the findings of the report and recommendations for “future courses of action to improve accessibility on public transport for disabled people.”
Sadly, during the discussions my rubbish current wheelchair started hurting really badly, so much so that I had severe breathing difficulties and had to get Dad to leave the room w/ me to lay me down in the hallway, reclining me flat in my wheelchair so I could breathe. After resting for a bit, I decided to go home early b/c I didn’t want to risk my health further. Despite this, everyone from Muscular Dystrophy Campaign were really understanding and lovely about it. Oh, how wonderful they all are at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign and how much I love working there…
Anyway, it was just a brilliant experience and it was very nice to meet Trailblazer friends and other wonderful Trailblazers from across the UK. Also, we got the attention of the country’s press and were covered by 12 national and regional telly and radio broadcasts…
This all took over 1 1/2 hours to get done, and then around 14:00 we walked to House of Commons for a conference w/ Ministers and I got to the Committee Room I was the last one the b/c getting security always takes ages and I had go right through the back of Parliament to get to the Committee Room since there are stairs in the main entrance up to room. When I got to the room, everyone had already handed our report over to MPs and Peers, and were discussing the findings of the report and recommendations for “future courses of action to improve accessibility on public transport for disabled people.”
Sadly, during the discussions my rubbish current wheelchair started hurting really badly, so much so that I had severe breathing difficulties and had to get Dad to leave the room w/ me to lay me down in the hallway, reclining me flat in my wheelchair so I could breathe. After resting for a bit, I decided to go home early b/c I didn’t want to risk my health further. Despite this, everyone from Muscular Dystrophy Campaign were really understanding and lovely about it. Oh, how wonderful they all are at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign and how much I love working there…
Anyway, it was just a brilliant experience and it was very nice to meet Trailblazer friends and other wonderful Trailblazers from across the UK. Also, we got the attention of the country’s press and were covered by 12 national and regional telly and radio broadcasts…
Saturday, 2 May 2009
Day at The Market
Earlier today I went to Walthamstow Market w/ Dad, as it was such a beautiful day for a change and I just needed to get out of the house. Once we arrived, we walked to the market from a side road where we had parked and I couldn’t believe how bustling it was; it was just how I remembered it when I was younger. Walthamstow has the longest outdoor market in London, possibly even the UK, and is wonderful because there are so many different types of people that go there.
We first went to the main entrance of the outdoor market, where they had a merry-go-round and fun fair type activities for families and a giant screen showing the scores from to Match of the Day . After walking through the market for a bit, we went into the mall that right next door and looked around for a bit in a bookshop and BHS , exiting out into the outdoor market when finished. Exploring the market some more, I was just taking in all the amazing sights and sounds – from Reggae to Bhangra and from Fish ‘n’ Chips to Chicken Tikka Masala. Also, the market is the best local market in the country because there are people here from every part of the world and all connecting with the East London language, raw Cockney English; for example you have all the animated Cockney market-sellers shouting out “Pound ya bananah” and “Lovely jubly darling, tah!” at their stalls. The diversity of the market is really quite surprising, though the BNP or UKIP would really hate there.
Overall, it was a great day well spent in great weather…
We first went to the main entrance of the outdoor market, where they had a merry-go-round and fun fair type activities for families and a giant screen showing the scores from to Match of the Day . After walking through the market for a bit, we went into the mall that right next door and looked around for a bit in a bookshop and BHS , exiting out into the outdoor market when finished. Exploring the market some more, I was just taking in all the amazing sights and sounds – from Reggae to Bhangra and from Fish ‘n’ Chips to Chicken Tikka Masala. Also, the market is the best local market in the country because there are people here from every part of the world and all connecting with the East London language, raw Cockney English; for example you have all the animated Cockney market-sellers shouting out “Pound ya bananah” and “Lovely jubly darling, tah!” at their stalls. The diversity of the market is really quite surprising, though the BNP or UKIP would really hate there.
Overall, it was a great day well spent in great weather…
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
Day at Parliament
This morning I went to Parliament to attend the next evidence session for the Inquiry of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Muscular Dystrophy (APPG). Today’s evidence session was about “Research, Treatment and International Perspective.” It was quite interesting and I cannot wait to attend the next one…
Monday, 20 April 2009
Eddie Arrives...
Guess what? Today, I just received my tickets to see Eddie Izzard on 3 December 09 at The O2 Arena. Hurrah! I was really wicked b/c it was the first time I booked tickets to an event by myself w/o Sarah’s help, though The O2 are generally quite good in helping people w/ disabilities. I cannot wait…
Tuesday, 3 March 2009
He’s Back!
Great news… I just booked tickets to see the brilliant Eddie Izzard on his new comedy tour on 3 December at The O2 Arena for Sarah and me… HURRAH!!! IT IS GOING TO BE SO FAB!
Find out more information about the Eddie Izzard – STRIPPED Tour . (scroll down to read)
Find out more information about the Eddie Izzard – STRIPPED Tour . (scroll down to read)
Saturday, 21 February 2009
NCVO Day
On Wednesday (18 February), I attended the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) Annual Conference all day in London.
Luckily, my friend James (who does work experience at the same place as me) came with me too, and we represented our organisation - Trailblazers / the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. After the keynote address by Vince Cable MP (a famous politician from the Liberal Democrats party), James and we decided to the day into spilt 2 workshops each since that I way we could attend a total of 4 workshops during the day, so we’d make the most of the conference.
The 2 workshops I attended were: “AM6: What is the future of campaigning in civil society?” in the morning, and “PM5: Exploring international collaboration” in the afternoon. Both these workshops were really good and highly informative, lots of ideas I can implement with my work experience and with my own organisation I plan to hopefully start one day!
Overall, it was a very unique and interesting experience that I’ll long remember…
Luckily, my friend James (who does work experience at the same place as me) came with me too, and we represented our organisation - Trailblazers / the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. After the keynote address by Vince Cable MP (a famous politician from the Liberal Democrats party), James and we decided to the day into spilt 2 workshops each since that I way we could attend a total of 4 workshops during the day, so we’d make the most of the conference.
The 2 workshops I attended were: “AM6: What is the future of campaigning in civil society?” in the morning, and “PM5: Exploring international collaboration” in the afternoon. Both these workshops were really good and highly informative, lots of ideas I can implement with my work experience and with my own organisation I plan to hopefully start one day!
Overall, it was a very unique and interesting experience that I’ll long remember…
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