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I was born in February 1955 in Ormskirk, a market town in Lancashire, just north of Liverpool.  As a young man, I was always interested in diving after watching the TV series “Sea Hunt” where Lloyd Bridges played a diver. I always wanted to be a diver, but at the time didn’t know how to go about getting into that field. After studying for my A levels at school, I then attended Wigan Mining and Technical College to study construction.  My parents managed many pubs when I was growing up, and I enjoyed working in the pubs and mixing and bantering with people, which I still enjoy today. In 1979, I enrolled on a basic diving course in Plymouth, and then started my first offshore job in Holland, quickly followed by accepting a diving job on the Piper Alpha Platform in 1980, which I worked on for around 2 years.  Many will know of this infamous rig, as in 1988, 167 out of 228 men were killed in the worst offshore explosion ever.  In 1981, I completed my Advanced Deep Sea Diving Qualification in Fort William, and then worked on diving ships and construction barges and vessels working in Norway and Scotland.  My job involved diving to a depth of hundreds of feet to measure pipelines and connect to the well heads, working in teams of 3 underwater for 6-8 hours at a time. The jobs were often rotated. The job involved ideally working for a month, and then having a month’s leave. However, sudden call-ups and long trips were commonplace. There was the opportunity to travel with my skills, and I had a pipe laying job in the Ivory Coast, which was contracted for around 6 months. My father sadly had a heart attack and decided on a change of career and took over the running of a Post Office in a village south of Bath. In 1982, I moved to Bath and was able to put a deposit on a flat with the money I had made working off the Ivory Coast. I have lived in Bath for around 43 years. I became a Hyperbaric Welding Supervisor for overseeing the Health and Safety aspects of this operation, overseeing divers and hyperbaric chamber occupants . The divers worked in an airspace called a habitat underwater, working at a depth of around 180 metres. I was very fortunate to work in many different countries during my working career, and some of these included Canada, Brazil, Ghana, Nigeria, Angola, South Africa, Egypt, Italy, France, Southern Ireland, Denmark, Holland, India and Malaysia. When I first started working in the oilfields, it was a potentially hazardous occupation and environment, but there was always plenty of craic and banter wherever in the world we worked. I built great friendships with my fellow divers, many of whom came from all different locations from across the World. When I first started working on the Oil Rigs and in various locations, it was 100% men, but over the years, more women joined the profession. I enjoyed the camaraderie that working offshore gave me when I was working so far from home. I met lots of different people, of a mix of nationalities, including both men and women. I’m still in contact with many of them to this day. I retired at the end of December in 2019, after being with the same company for 39 years.  In February 2020, I started volunteering at The Brightwell as an oxygen operator and then became a Regional Training Advisor in 2021. I work closely with Keith Taylor, who was my Mentor in the early days. As my experience developed, I became a Regional Advisor for what is now the Neuro Therapy Network. I truly enjoy being part of The Brightwell Community. Helping people to keep well and active through receiving Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is obviously very rewarding. However, meeting people, chatting and being part of this Charity is equally important. I enjoy hill and fell walking in my spare time, and in September, I climbed Kilimanjaro with another 4 ex-divers. It was really tough, and I struggled towards the top, at 19,340 feet, due to altitude sickness, but an incredible experience!  I am a keen Everton football supporter, attending all of their home games and also enjoy Rugby and was fortunate enough to follow the British Lions on their recent tour around Australia this year. My passion is that I collect a number of classic cars, such as a 1968 Cadillac De Ville, a 1965 Ford F100, a 2005 Chrysler, a 2003 Bonneville and a 1990 Land Rover. I occasionally attend Classic Car Shows, but mostly these are for my own enjoyment. In 2023, I drove the length of Route  66 in the United States, as this was something that I had always wanted to do, and I can now cross that off my bucket list! My philosophy in life is based on a quote attributed to John Holmes, which says “There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up” I hope you have found my introduction interesting. I’m always happy to have a chat next time you are in the Centre. My volunteering day is a Tuesday. Best Wishes Howard

My dad always used to say that “if you want something done, give it to someone who is busy.” I didn’t really appreciate what he meant when I was young, but I thoroughly understand now, after having the pleasure of working with our incredible trustees! This week we are joining organisations across the UK to celebrate Trustees’ Week, a time to recognise the huge contribution that trustees make to charities and communities everywhere. In charities, the trustees have a unique role, similar to the board of a large corporation. However, in charities the board is unpaid! They use their expertise to help us: • Set our direction: Helping us define priorities and make key decisions that shape our future. • Ensure accountability: Making sure we use our resources responsibly and deliver real impact. • Provide expertise and support: Bringing a range of perspectives, professional experience, and community insight. • Uphold our values: Keeping us true to our purpose and ensuring our work benefits those we serve. The Brightwell is more fortunate than most charities, as we have ten dedicated people who give their time, skills, and energy completely voluntarily. They work closely with Doro, the CEO, to guide our charity’s strategy, ensure strong governance, and keep us focused on our mission. In many charities, the trustees are distant from the day-to-day running of the organisation, but at The Brightwell we are so lucky that ours are actively involved. Some are also members and will be well known to all of you. Thank you to:Geoff, Steve, Caz, Mark, Roger, Paul, Charles, David B, David G, and Tina for choosing to bring your expertise and hard work to The Brightwell. Your dedication, insight, and leadership help ensure that The Brightwell continues to grow, innovate, and make a difference. Most charities are desperate for people to become trustees. If you have a specific skill or interest that you think might be useful, you can find more information at trusteesweek.org or look for opportunities on Flexible Volunteering Opportunities with Charities | GoVo , Jobs & Volunteering – Voscur  other charity-specific recruitment sites.

The  Brightwell holds a bi-monthly Quiz Night. The excellent evenings are not only a great social event but also raise funds for our Charity. We have two brilliant quiz-setters, Gus and Mary-Jo McVeigh. The questions are topical and varied with the opportunity for teams to play their Joker and score those all important extra points. There is always lots of fun and banter. Teams can bring their own food and drink. Doors open at 6.30 pm, ready for a 7 pm start. Below are some great shots of teams taking part in our October Quiz. Our next Quiz will be our Christmas Quiz on Wednesday, 10 December. Tickets are £6 per person with a maximum of 6 in a team. Get your tickets soon, as they always sell out! For the months that we don’t have a Quiz, we have a Bingo night instead. Our next Bingo Night is on Wednesday, 26 November. Click here to visit our events page to buy tickets for both events. See you soon!

On Sunday 2nd November, a group of our wonderful volunteers attended Bradley Stoke Town Council’s Annual Fireworks Display to proudly represent The Brightwell. Bradley Stoke’s Mayor, Natalie Field, has chosen three charities to support this year - and we’re honoured to be one of them! Each year, the Town Council hosts fantastic fundraising events like the fireworks display to raise money for the Mayor’s chosen charities. Our volunteers joined the celebration to collect donations for the Mayor’s charities and raise awareness about The Brightwell. The evening was brilliantly organised, featuring a heartwarming performance from Bowsland Green Primary School’s Choir, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. With delicious food vendors, glow sticks, and a buzzing community atmosphere, it was a night to remember. A huge thank you to: Natalie Field, Mayor of Bradley Stoke, for selecting The Brightwell as one of her chosen charities. Bradley Stoke Town Council, for their ongoing dedication, organisation, and support. And of course, our incredible volunteers who gave their time, energy, and enthusiasm to represent The Brightwell so proudly. We’re so grateful to be part of such a supportive and vibrant community.

image courtesy of Somerset Council Earlier this year, Keith Taylor, one of our founders and Senior Oxygen Operator, received a letter from King Charles to advise Keith that he had been nominated to receive a British Empire Medal, as part of the King’s Birthday Honours List. Keith received his award for services to those living with Multiple Sclerosis and Other Neurological Conditions. The ceremony took place in the beautiful surroundings of The Newt in Somerset. The King’s representative was the Lord Lieutenant Mohammed Saddiq, who has been Lord Lieutenant for Somerset since October 2022. Keith was one of 6 people to receive the British Empire Medal in Somerset. Further information can be found at: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/news/six-british-empire-medals-awarded-in-somerset/ Everyone at The Brightwell was thrilled to be able to see the medal and certificate when Keith came to the Centre for his weekly duty as our Senior Oxygen Operator. We are all so proud of Keith and incredibly grateful for his 40 years of dedication to our charity. To see our earlier blog about when Keith learned about his award, please visit. www.thebrightwell.org.uk/post/keith-taylor-recognised-in-the-king-s-birthday-honours-list

CALLING ALL CARERS! Thursday 13 November 2 - 4 pm at The Brightwell. Physical and Emotional Well-being Talk for Carers Click her e or on the image above to book your FREE place Getting Involved and Feedback We are keen to hear your views and suggestions about how the Centre can best support Carers, so whether or not you can come along to these sessions, we would love to hear from you. You can contact Wendy by leaving a message at Reception, or look out for the short survey form we are planning to make available in the next few months. Carers' Information Point Don’t forget to take a look at the leaflets and information now available on the poster and in the information racks at the Carers Information Point. This can be found in the corridor past the Café.

As the leaves start to turn and the days become cooler, The Brightwell Café will be offering plenty of seasonal treats. This month, we see the return of Paula’s lovely homemade soups, served with a large crusty roll and butter – a hearty bowl of goodness perfect for warming up on chilly days! As well as our range of freshly made sandwiches, filled jacket potatoes and daily specials, we will also be serving some delicious Halloween-themed treats, supplied by Eliza’s Bakes and Cakes. So, whether you fancy a sweet treat or a tasty lunch, pop into The Brightwell Café for a warm welcome this Autumn! For further information, please visit www.thebrightwell.org.uk/the-brightwell-cafe See you soon!

We are very pleased to publish our new Accessibility Statement. Our facilities are purpose-built and fully accessible. However, it is reassuring for those visiting us for the first time to know where to park, how to navigate the premises and to be aware of all our excellent facilities. Please view or download the Accessibility Statement below, or there is a link from the footer on our website. We are also delighted to announce the installation of our new baby changing facility. This is located in the accessible WC next to the entrance to the physiotherapy department. The Brightwell is always delighted to welcome young families to the Centre, whether they are coming for a therapy session, visiting the Café or accompanying a family member or friend.  The Centre is for everyone !f you have any queries, please call Reception on 014554 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk We look forward to seeing you soon!

We are thrilled that The Brightwell has a full-page feature in this month’s edition of MS-UK’s magazine called New Pathways. We can be found on page 15. This is a great publication published on a bi-monthly basis. This article is the first in a series of features on Therapy Centres across the UK, which are part of the Neuro Therapy Network. We have a number of copies of this edition at the Centre for you to read. You can also download or view the article below. If you wanted to find out more or subscribe to the magazine, please visit. https://ms-uk.org/new-pathways-magazine/

Come and join Lauren for a fantastic Mind  &  Body Workout every Friday between 10.30 – 11.30 am In this group, exercises will be offered at various levels, allowing you to choose what suits you best. Please note that anyone joining this class should be able to get on and up from the floor without assistance.. This session includes meaningful and individually tailored Yoga poses and movements to suit the needs of attendees.  Followed by relaxation using neurophysiological principles incorporating visualising and yogic breathing, to support recovery and calm.  £9 per session or £60 for a block of 10. To book this or any other class, please call  Reception on 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk To find out more about all the Physiotherapy classes and sessions that we offer, please visit. www.thebrightwell.org.uk/physio

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