District is actually hosting a very young 2 year old girl and her Mother for specialist eye surgery which takes place on Tuesday of this week. The little un , called Shania, arrived from the Solomon Islands last Monday evening, and since then has undergone various medical tests because beside optical problems, she also has a small hole in her heart. Cardiac tests have nowbeen completed and the Cardiac Consultant has given the go ahead for her eye operation, and there is the additional possibility that the hole may grow over the heart and no surgery to repair would be required.. Re her eyes, they have been examined by an Ophthalmic Consultant, Dr John Ruddle, and he will be operating on her on Tuesday morning – 1st Sept. – He will basically ‘laser’ away various pigmentation at the rear of her eyes and also the need for special glasses which she will have to use afterwards and when she and Mum return home. A classic case of the benefit of Vaccinations, as it is believed these problems have arisen in Shania, because during her pregnancy, her mother Jennifer. contracted Rubella. It’s not known how long Shania and mother will be over here, but it isn’t expected to be too long. Both Dr. Ruddle and the Consultant Cariologist plus some Optical Companies are supplying all the services and equipment on a Pro Bono basis.. Pete (L).
Guest Speaker Kathleen Howard.… As a qualified secondary Maths and Science teacher Kathleen is also an experienced mediator and has trained as an assistant teacher in ‘Vipassana’ tradition. She has been teaching meditation techniques since 2012. In 2014, with her husband, Ian, she started “Mediate, Laugh, Relax” as a local business helping people to overcome stress and enjoy lifelong peace and happiness. With a little encouragement Kathleen succeeded in involving us in a number of exercises producing some relaxing laughter to conclude the meeting.
