We have three key activities planned this year to raise awareness and funds for ME North East. Although we have secured funding from Children in Need for Sheila’s post and our Young People’s work, this is only 25% of the total required. We still need to raise much-much more for Sue, Jennifer and the office running costs. We know we can rely on you to try your best to help and the following events may be one of the ways you can do this:

Tyne Bridge Abseil
Sunday 6th May 2007

A great success last year, we raised over £7,000 and everyone who came along had a fantastic day. We got lots of media coverage and crowds of family and friends turned out to make it really special. We want to exceed that this year – of course – and to do this we are looking to rope in 100 people asking each one to find sponsors. You can help by taking the plunge yourself, persuading others to do it, offer to sponsor someone (Sheila and Jennifer will be first down again this year), or just come along to support us and enjoy the day, and maybe put a coin in the collection tin.

Dr Nigel Speight’s Bike Ride
Lands End to John ‘o’ Groats May 2007

Late mid-life crisis – or in denial of ageing, Nigel is riding 1007 miles to raise funds and awareness for ME, supporting both ME North East and the national children’s charity AYME. He’s looking for your sponsorship and has his own website for contributions at:www.justgiving.com/nigelspeight
Alternatively you can send it in to us at the office. He wants to raise £5000. His training is coming along and he’s in good shape. We plan to meet up with him on Friday 18th May at the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick from 6 pm to 8 pm – why not make a week-end of it and travel across to our get together – put it in your diary now and call the office for further details.

Great North Run Sunday
30th September 2007

An early reminder of this now regular event for ME North East. We have around 45 registered runners so far. Each of them is hoping to raise around £200 - £250. We are giving Dr Speight this year off he may still be “saddle sore”, but Sheila and Jennifer will both be participating. I hope you will be able to sponsor either us or someone you know who is taking part. Sponsor forms will be in the next edition of Focus, please help if you can. If you know someone who has a place to run but hasn’t chosen a charity to run for – please ask them to support ME North East and get in touch with the office.

Call: 0191 389 2222