Respite Weekend in Lisnaskea

From the June, 2001 Newsletter

Friday 8 June saw the start of a long weekend of cross border get together for the Nf association. It was a weekend away for 45 people at the Share Activity Centre in Co. Fermanagh. (See pictures) The concept came with a respite donation from one Health Board hence we could not open applications to everyone - but there is always another time. Perhaps we can encourage other Health Boards or cross border grants to fund a future Respite Project.

Thirty-two people from our association and twelve from the North of Ireland came together at the Share Activity Centre. Hilda Crawford the Family Support Co-ordinator from Belfast and myself had paid a previous visit to the Centre and we were very happy with the facilities it offered. I think it lived up to and went beyond expectations. Water Sports, Archery, and Fuzz Ball were a few of the activities some people enjoyed.

The cruise on the lake proved most popular and extremely enjoyable, as did the indoor swimming. Everybody joined in and there was a terrific atmosphere.

Staff at the centre could not do more for us. They were generous with both their time and attention. On our return to Dublin the mini bus had a puncture mishap, which delayed our arrival, but the delay did not dampen spirits.

Judging by all reports the weekend was a resounding success, an example of cross border cooperation. A special word of thanks to Hilda for all her hard work. As with every venture, it is only as successful as people's participation and without you the members who attended nothing would have happened. It was a pleasure to be part of such an event. Many thanks to each and every one of the "Gang" and Gang loader Brenda!! What can I say about the flowers - they were exquisite - everyone in the Carmichael Centre was jealous.

On behalf the Nf Association and everyone who attended the Respite Weekend we would like to pass on our sincere gratitude to Mary McClelland, Hilda Crawford and Maura Mannion, their friends & helpers for the huge effort they made to ensure the weekend was a success. The association is privileged to have such willing volunteers.