The April Open Meeting of the U3A had a very full agenda.
Chairperson Hilary Workman welcomed all those attending on such a warm and sunny afternoon and pointed out the many tables with garden plants for sale which had been set up by Marion and Vic Hall.
Mary Dobson informed those present who were going to the theatre to see ‘To Kill a Mocking Bird’ that the coach would be leaving the rugby club at 11am. The lists for future visits were now ready for signing.
Lucille Opie drew attention to the National Magazine which was offering a Creative Writing competition.
The Speaker for the afternoon, JUDY PRIDE, described with great clarity and compassion, the work of the ‘Childrens Hospice – South West’.
They have three Hospices for children at present Charlton Farm in Somerset, Little Bridge House at Barnstaple, and Little Harbour at Porthpean, Cornwall [which is due to open in the autumn].
The idea first originated when a couple who had two children with ‘life limiting’ conditions had to travel to Oxford for help and support, as this was the only hospice available. They decided to raise funds to set up a service in the South West. This flourished far beyond expectations due to the immense generosity of people in this part of the country.
The Homes are warm and welcoming and provide a place where these special children and their families can spend time together enjoying a rest and practical support from highly skilled and caring staff. There are many activities and a lot of enjoyable things to do, which creates a lively and happy atmosphere.
Their final days are eventually spent in the environment which they have come to regard as their second home and among supportive people they know well.
Kate Peardon thanked Judy on behalf of everyone present for the very moving talk.
This was followed by a short presentation from John Buckett, for those interested, on the sailing course for the over 60s at Upper Tamar Lakes. Several people signed up.
Val Adams
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