New lease of life for Joan

Joan Dowds, from Lurgan, recently received internet training through Action MS and volunteers from BT.

The charity said a special thank you to BT and its volunteers following the success of the Digital Inclusion Programme in the Southern Board area.

The Action MS Digital Inclusion Programme ran over six weeks to provide internet access and training to people with MS in their own homes.

BT volunteers provided one-to-one training to ten people living with MS.

Volunteer Marc Muldoon found the experience a great success, he said: “In my experience the programme is a great project that really benefits those who use it as well as achieving a great sense of satisfaction on the part of the volunteer.”

Action MS member Joan, received training from Marc. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 30 years ago, Joan recently completed phase three of the programme.

Joan said: “Marc was so helpful and we had a great laugh. This is a fantastic programme for people with MS.

"I am now able to use the internet for research and to keep myself informed. I am really enjoying the independence that this has given me and it has been a great achievement to learn new computer skills.

"I am delighted that I was selected to participate in the Action MS Digital Inclusion Programme. It has been a fantastic experience and I can now use the computer with my grandchildren. I also e-mail my son and grandchildren in England.”

Action MS Executive Director Jayne Smyth is responsible for the charity’s Social Care Programme.

She said: "The Action MS Digital Inclusion Programme is a life-changing service.

"I first met Joan on the Action MS Medicare Break last year, a short time later Joan learned that she had lost her place at a local day centre and was feeling socially isolated. The Action MS Digital Inclusion Programme came along at the right time for Joan.

"I know that both Joan and Marc really benefited from the experience and theirs is one of the Programme’s biggest success stories.

"The BT Volunteers have each done a tremendous job and their input has been invaluable, Action MS is very grateful for their support and dedication to the Digital Inclusion Programme.”

Phase four of the programme will roll out in the mid-Ulster area in September 2010.

Support services are offered free of charge to anybody with MS and also to their families and carers. You do not need to be a member to benefit from Action MS support services.

If you are living with multiple sclerosis or would like more information on how you can help contact Jayne Smyth at Action MS Headquarters, Knockbracken Healthcare Park, Saintfield Road, Belfast BT8 8BH or call 9079 0707.

Alternatively email [email protected] or visit our website www.actionms.co.uk.