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We are delighted to announce the return of Helen Baddon, as one of our Specialist Therapists.   Helen is a  Therapist, Healer & Yoga instructor, with a  BSc (Hons) in Complementary Health, and will be running clinics on Wednesday from 10 am to 2 pm once a month from  5 November.   Some of you may remember Helen as she ran the clinics before departing to grow her family.    Helen will be working alongside Claire Day, who will continue to offer Advanced Clinical Massage treatments every Monday.   Each session is 40 minutes Cost per session will be £45.   To find out more about the Specialist Clinics we offer, please visit www.thebrightwell.org.uk/therapies/specialist-clinics   To book a session with Helen  or any of our clinics, please call 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk

We are delighted to welcome Aaron to the Physiotherapy Team here at The Brightwell. Aaron joined us last month and is already busy seeing lots of members, fitting in with the team and finding out more about what we do here at the Centre. Aaron was born in Chichester, West Sussex. He became interested in learning more about physiotherapy after benefiting from the treatment himself after a tennis injury. Aaron studied Sports Science at College and then applied to the University of the West of England to study Physiotherapy and recently graduated in June 2025. Whilst at Uni, Aaron came to The Brightwell on a placement. We were very impressed with his obvious interest in all aspects of neurophysiotherapy at that time. We were delighted that when we recently advertised a vacancy for a Physiotherapist, Aaron applied and is now part of the team! Aaron has a lot of interests involving sports and plays tennis competitively, and enjoys playing golf and football. Please say hello to Aaron, next time you see him at The Centre. Welcome to the team!

Last week, Doro met Libby Littlehales at an Overcoming MS event held at The Brightwell. Libby lives with MS and is currently undertaking a PhD researching  “ Could a Citrus Extract Improve Cognition and Fatigue in MS?” Libby is looking for participants for her research approved by Swansea University. The requirements for participants are that they have Relapsing-Remitting MS and have no food allergies. Please see the poster below for more information and scan the QR Code to register. We all look forward to hearing about the outcomes of this research.

We’re proud to share that Ciaran has completed the Loch Ness Marathon – a fantastic achievement made even more meaningful by the reason behind it. As mentioned in a previous blog, Ciaran took on this challenge in memory of his uncle, Nick, a much-loved member of the Brightwell community. The marathon took place at the end of September and was a fantastic event. The route began just south of Fort Augustus and followed the scenic shores of Loch Ness, finishing in Inverness. With stunning views and plenty of hills, it was no easy task – but Ciaran pushed through and crossed the finish line with determination. So far, he has raised an incredible £1,731 in support of Brightwell. We’re so grateful for his dedication and for choosing to honour his uncle in such a meaningful way. Every pound raised helps us continue providing vital support to our community. Thank you, Ciaran – your effort, commitment, and generosity are truly appreciated.

Every year on  10 October, the UK, along with the rest of the world, marks World Mental Health Day. It's a crucial day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, reducing the stigma surrounding them, and mobilising efforts in support of mental well-being. This year, as we navigate ever-changing landscapes, the message feels more important than ever: mental health is a universal human right. In the UK, World Mental Health Day provides a powerful platform for individuals, communities, and organisations to come together. It's a chance to reflect on our own mental health, check in with loved ones, and advocate for better mental health services and support. Why is World Mental Health Day so important? Tackling Stigma:  Despite some progress, stigma around mental illness still exists. Many people feel unable to talk openly about their struggles, fearing judgment or discrimination. World Mental Health Day helps to normalise conversations about mental health, reminding us that it's okay not to be okay and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Raising Awareness:  The day shines a spotlight on the prevalence of mental health conditions. One in four adults in the UK experiences a mental health problem in any given year. Understanding this helps us to foster empathy and build a more supportive society. Promoting Support Services:  It's an opportunity to highlight the incredible work done by charities, healthcare professionals, and community groups across the UK who provide vital mental health support. From helplines to therapy services, these organisations are lifelines for many. Advocating for Change:  World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder to policymakers and government bodies that mental health must be prioritised. It fuels campaigns for increased funding, improved access to services, and a more equitable mental health system. This year's theme, "Mental health is a universal human right," resonates deeply in the UK. It emphasises that everyone, regardless of their background, circumstances, or location, deserves access to quality mental healthcare and the opportunity to live a mentally healthy life. It challenges us to look at the systemic barriers that prevent people from accessing the support they need and to work towards dismantling them. What can you do on World Mental Health Day and beyond? Start a Conversation:  Reach out to a friend, family member, or colleague. Ask how they're truly doing. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make a huge difference. Educate Yourself:  Learn more about different mental health conditions and how to support someone who might be struggling. Mental health charities in the UK offer a wealth of resources. Prioritise Your Own Well-being:  Take time for self-care. This could be anything from a walk in nature to practising mindfulness, reading a book, or spending time with loved ones. Advocate for Change:  Write to your local MP, participate in campaigns, or simply share information on social media to help keep mental health on the public agenda. World Mental Health Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a call to action. It's a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, and that together, we can create a more understanding, compassionate, and supportive society for everyone in the UK. Let's use this day to talk, to listen, and to act. Support at The Brightwell The Brightwell is a warm, friendly, inclusive space, as well as having a safe and supportive environment. As well as being able to talk to any member of staff or volunteer, we also provide one-to-one counselling through Sasha Leigh and a Carers Support Group, which holds regular meetings and has an information point next to the Café. Our members often find the social space we offer an opportunity to have an open chat with those who may be in the same or a similar situation and can empathise or appreciate any concerns or worries that you may have. If you would like to talk to someone in a private area, on a one-to-one basis, please discuss with a member of staff or a volunteer, and we would be pleased to help. You can call us on 01454 201686, email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk. To find out more about our Specialist Clinics, please visit www.thebrightwell.org.uk/therapies/specialist-clinics

Taking on the challenge alongside her dad, Millie crossed the finish line in an impressive 2 hours and 26 minutes, achieving her goal of running the entire distance without stopping. A sub-2.5-hour finish was the icing on the cake! The vibrant atmosphere of the Cardiff Half Marathon, with thousands of spectators lining the streets, made the experience even more special. Millie said the crowd’s energy helped push them through every mile - and they even had enough left in the tank to sprint across the finish line! Together, Millie and her dad have raised an incredible £1,300 for The Brightwell, thanks to the generosity of our amazing community, family, and friends.  You can still donate to Millie’s challenge here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/millie-rutherford-3?msockid=17cbdf630fa869311fe1ca330e1368f8 Well done, Millie - we’re all so proud of you!

We are really excited to announce the launch of our very popular Hotel Chocolat Advent Calendar Draw Only £2 per entry. This is  the  prize draw everyone’s been waiting for! Thanks to the generous sponsorship of  Blackfriars Auto Services , we’re thrilled to bring back this festive favourite: A chance to win the  incredible Grand Advent Calendar from Hotel Chocolat , worth  £80 . Behind each of the 24 large doors, you’ll discover a luxury surprise, from decadent slabs of thick chocolate to 50ml bottles of Velvetised Cream™ (vodka-infused for that warming festive glow), to chocolate cracker decorations and brand new treats for 2025. This is the ultimate Advent calendar, bursting with indulgent surprises and specially designed for grown-ups (Entrants must be 18+, due to the alcohol content in some of the goodies. The draw will take place on Wednesday, 26 November  – just in time to open the first door on 1 December! The winner must be able to collect the calendar from The Brightwell.   How to Enter: Entries are just  £2 each . Purchase your tickets online here or from Reception.  Want more details? To see the full list of contents and ingredients, simply search:  Hotel Chocolat Grand Advent Calendar 2025. Good luck – and may your festive season start with a win! Thank you so much for your support.

Looking for your next big challenge? Why not make it meaningful too? We’re thrilled to offer charity places for the London Landmarks Half Marathon and the Bath Half Marathon 2026 – and we’d love for you to join us! By running for The Brightwell, you’ll help us continue providing life-changing therapies to people living with neurological conditions. Every mile you run supports our mission and makes a real difference. What you get as part of Team Brightwell: ✔️ Race entry for just £30 ✔️ A FREE Brightwell running vest ✔️ Personalised fundraising support ✔️ Motivation and encouragement every step of the way ✔️ Help the charity personally by raising funds in the lead-up to the event   We’re also hoping to secure places for the Great North Run 2026. If you're interested in taking part and supporting The Brightwell, get in touch now to register your interest! Whether you're a seasoned runner or tackling your first half-marathon, this is your chance to run with purpose and make every step count.  Sign up today at www.thebrightwell.org.uk/events or email us at community@thebrightwell.org.uk to find out more.

Over the past year, the Oxygen Suite has been completely transformed, thanks to the incredible generosity of two of our dedicated supporters: Woodstock Homes  and MS People’s Help . The makeover began with the installation of a brand-new sanitising area, including a new sink, drainer and smart storage units. Next came the lighting upgrade: sleek LED panels that not only give the suite a brighter, cleaner and more modern feel, but also deliver an impressive 89% saving on electricity. To make therapy more comfortable, we added three high-backed chairs for those receiving Isobaric Oxygen Therapy outside the chamber. The finishing touch was completed just two weeks ago, when the entire area was redecorated. The new colour gives a clean, welcoming atmosphere. What once looked a little tired only eighteen months ago is now revitalised, welcoming, and ready to support therapy users, volunteers and staff alike. Take a look at all that has been done… We are deeply grateful to our supporters who made this transformation possible. Your generosity has created a space that feels brighter, fresher and better than ever. Thank you. If you’d like to learn more about the Hyperbaric and Isobaric Oxygen Therapy we provide, please visit: www.thebrightwell.org.uk/oxygen-therapy

New Total: £38,554.77 That’s just £1,445.23 away from our £40,000 target! Wow… what can we say except a huge and heartfelt THANK YOU! We are now so close to reaching this incredible milestone, and it’s all thanks to you. This total has only been possible because of the generosity and commitment of so many: Our amazing Members Corporate Supporters Incredibly kind anonymous donors Brave abseilers, runners and challenge participants Our wonderful community contacts Alongside donations to our main Crowdfunder page, we’ve also received countless offline contributions, which together make this extraordinary total possible. The Brightwell is an incredibly special community, filled with inspirational, compassionate people, both within the centre and beyond. During the course of this campaign, this caring and generous spirit has been proven time and time again. From people willing to share their often very personal stories to help raise awareness of why we are raising the money, to the financial sacrifices taken and the immense courage shown. You have all done the Brightwell proud. The fundraising team is humbled and amazed by you all. But we’re not quite finished… Please, could we lean on your generosity just one more time? Imagine ending our very special anniversary year not just reaching, but smashing through the £40,000 target. With your help, we can do it! Here’s how you can make a difference: Donate online: The Brightwell | Donate Give in person at Reception Call us to donate over the phone Or email our Fundraising Team: community@thebrightwell.org.uk Keep an eye out for our upcoming social media campaign. Please like, share, and spread the word to help push us over that finish line!

When and where 22 Oct 2025, 19:00 – 22:00 Bradley Stoke, Bradbury House, Wheatfield Dr, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 9DB, UK About 🎉 The Brightwell Quiz Night is Back! 🧠🎶 Join us for a fun-filled evening at The Brightwell Quiz Night ! 🕡 Doors open:  6:30 PM🕖 Quiz starts:  7:00 PM Expect a lively atmosphere with a variety of quiz rounds – including picture and music rounds  – designed to challenge your knowledge and keep you entertained throughout the night. Whether you're flying solo, coming as a couple, or bringing a full team of friends or family, everyone is welcome! It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy a fantastic night out. 🎟️ Don’t forget to grab your raffle tickets  for our Quiz Night Exclusive Raffle  – available for purchase on the night. 🥂 You're welcome to bring your own drinks (alcoholic or soft)  and nibbles  to enjoy during the event. Come along, test your trivia skills, and support a great cause – we can’t wait to see you there!