When the lockdown happened, members of the Retford and District MS Family Support Group were quick to respond to the need to keep in touch with each other and continue where possible with physical activities where they could.
They soon discovered Zoom, which has been a lifeline to many members facing loneliness during the lockdown. Members without internet have been receiving regular phone calls and condensed versions of the group’s monthly newsletter to keep everyone involved, with the added section of MS family news where members have contributed sharing how the lockdown and other restrictions has affected their home life, how they are filling their time and, in many cases, limited members’ access to the family PC that has been taken over by home schooling.
The group Zoom calendar is fully booked for five days of the week and well supported by members taking part in social and movement therapy events consisting of seated Yoga, Tai Chi, dance and neuro Pilates as well as two quizzes a week devised by members, coffee and chat mornings and a men-only session.
The downside of the lockdown has been the cancellation of fundraising events the group always look forward to holding each year, and the planned Team Retford MS Pentathlon, when local people with MS and supporters raise money for Bassetlaw NHS neuro service, also had to be cancelled. Members were also looking forward to taking part, just for fun, in an indoor sky dive in September and it is very doubtful that will now be able to go ahead.
Anyone who is affected by Multiple Sclerosis is welcome to become part of the group and further details can be obtained from retford@mssociety.org.uk and Bassetlaw Neuro Physio Services on 01777 274422 or 01777 860674.
