CRPS – Told by Sara Beach

Jamie McAnsh

CRPS – Told by Sara Beach

CRPS, a condition I have suffered for 5 years. A progressive condition that the NHS describes as a poorly understood condition.

I am on several types of strong medications to control my condition.

I have shared my story many times over the past years but why don’t we let Sara tell her story.

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Llanerchaeron, The John Nash Experience.

By Jamie and Charlott

John Nash

Llanerchaeron with its simplistic design leads you into many false impressions. The fact that at the approach to the main door you see two bay windows and then once inside you are confused by the fact that there is a fireplace where the window should be, rather interesting.

John Nash designed and placed the property to make the most of the views and picturesque landscapes. The main building is built around an amazing central staircase and the second floor is yet another space of surprise and intriguing design. Look out for the oval rooms and curved doors, an amazing feature that has survived all this time.

John Nash was A little known architect at the time and only returned to wales from London after going bankrupt in 1783. Returning to his mothers’ home in an attempt to rebuild his reputation.

He was later commissioned by King George IV to design the Brighton Pavilion, Regent street in London and Buckingham Palace, its safe to say he managed to rebuild his reputation and then became one of the renowned national architects of his time. Llanerchaeron had a strong foothold in the success of the John Nash portfolio.

Sarah Biffen

The visitors journey takes you through rooms full of stories and past. A painting by Sarah Biffen must be one of the most amazing paintings of the property. Sarah was unique as she was born with no arms and only vestigial legs, she measured at only 94 cm tall.

The painting below was remarkably completed by her using her mouth. A fascinating part of history based on the times and her condition. In later years Sarah went on to paint many pieces for royalty. As a young child of twelve years old, Sarah Biffens’ family apprenticed her to a man named Emmanuel Dukes, who exhibited her in fairs and sideshows throughout England possibly as part of a freak show or circus act.

According to some accounts, it was Dukes who taught her to paint, holding the paintbrush in her mouth, in order to increase her value as an attraction. Sarah clearly made the most of this time and exceled in her fame. Sarah Biffen held exhibitions, sold painting and even charged entrance fees so people could watch her paint and sew. A remarkable individual and I guess a disability ambassador of her time.

As much to see outside as there is on the inside.

Walking through this impressive property, is an incredible experience of history and time with plenty of wonderful things to see and a story in every room.
Once you step outside you are greeted with a wonderful working farm with many beautiful animals going about their lives. A magnificent wall garden crammed full of flowers, herbs and vegetables will leave you feeling your keen to try out green fingers. If going for a walk is your thing then don’t forget to visit the lake, full of ducks and wild insects. I even seen a few dragonfly’s playing on the water surface.
From start to finish the day was wonderful the staff are so friendly and clearly care about the property, we were even tested on a few items in the kitchen. I am glad to say I actually got a few right.

National Trust always seem to try and get young people involved by adding something to the property for them to get their minds working. This time it was 10 hidden mice. Well we decided to get involved and found all ten. Yes, we were very proud of ourselves. If you can’t have fun then what’s the point as I always say.

The property is relatively accessible but definitely has its restrictions, I used my SmartCrutches and Flexyfoot add-ons so for me it was a simple case of taking my time on the stairs inside and making sure I did not trip. Outside was relatively flat so wheelchair access was achievable and the lower levels of the property was also fairly accessible.

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Disability emojis added. Guide dog and wheelchair user is now available.

here are just two of the many new emojis introduced. The idea is to better represent disabled people in the world of emojis.

All sounds fair enough to me, and it is world emoji day so again very fitting story. recently covered by the BBC I did find the new releases rather cool and had to spread the word.

And here is a list.

A guide dog
A man and woman walking with a cane
A man and woman signing that they are deaf
An ear with a hearing aid
A man and woman in both mechanical and manual wheelchairs
A service dog (a trained dog that helps those with hidden disabilities)
A prosthetic arm
A prosthetic leg
Skin tone variations for ‘holding hands’ emoji
Yawning face
Animals: Sloth, skunk, flamingo
Food: Garlic, waffle, falafel, butter, ice cube
Objects: Parachute, yo-yo, kite
Clothing: Safety vest, swimsuit

What kind of emoji's would you like to see?

Westbury Court Garden, a little spot of beauty.

A small step back in time at this amazing National Trust site. A joy to visit, sit and recharge you mind, body and soul.

By Jamie and Charlott

Westbury Home Gardens

Westbury Home Gardens, a step back in to the time of Dutch style influenced water gardens and a refreshing calmness of being surrounded by unusual plants and amazing trees, some being as old as 300 years.

For Charlott and I this was a little bit of everything. History education, tranquillity and the great outdoors.

We love to spend time together, chatting and walking. Taking in our surroundings and looking for inspiration. The gardens here are beautiful. The sounds of running water from the many wild water channels and domesticated fountains. The vast show of the canals in the garden while greeted by the carp that live there was simply amazing.

Westbury Court gardens was in fact one of the first garden restoration projects undertaken by The National Trust, you can learn all about it at the Westbury Court Gardens website.

Such a beautiful place to go and a definite must see. Wheelchair friendly and the staff are simply lovely. The volunteers do a wonderful job maintaining this site and keeping it looking as stunning as they do.

Westbury Court Gardens has not been without its bad luck though. In 2014 it was badly flooded. You can read all about the story covered by the BBC news at the time.

Unique Gloucestershire garden 'at risk' from flooding

A unique water garden that has been repeatedly flooded could be “at risk” unless a solution is found. Read more..

During our time here the sun was shinning the flowers were in bloom and it could not have been any further from the sites shown in the above BBC new story. We walked around the grounds with Tesni our Labra-Doodle. Tesni loved it as much as we did and even had the pleasure of taste testing a few of the fruits on the trees in the orchard.

Westbury On Seven Parish Church

Well we couldn’t visit Westbury Court Gardens without going over to see the adjacent church. A strange church and rather unique. As we approached from the back of the church grounds it looked the same as many others. The building was showing real signs of age and the grounds looked in my opinion under cared for. After visiting the peaceful tranquillity of the Dutch Water Gardens, this place looked rather chaotic to say the least.

It was once we walked around the front that the reality of this rather unique church became apparent. The bell tower was not attached to the main church!

The distinctive steeple is not attached to the main building because of a fire which burned down the old wooden building soon after the new steeple was completed. Within the porch of the church are several markings of crosses and full crosses made during the English Civil War. The north porch and north aisle are the oldest parts of the church, having been built around 1290.

I found this site very interesting although when Charlott entered the building itself she felt a real sense of the chaos about the place.

We recommend a visit to Westbury Court Gardens and while you are there pop into the Westbury On Seven Parish Church. Its a unique little treasure that otherwise not found.

Talking of finds if you are into Geocaching like us you will be interested to know there is also a nice little Cach hidden in the area as well.

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Double amputee from Zambia who makes crutches for children gets to walk again.

By Jamie Mcansh

At the age 34, driver and carpenter David Miti’s life changed forever. David lost both of his legs to gangrene. I can relate to this journey as this was around about the same time of life that my life changed forever.

You have no choice and no chance to plan for what happens.

David Miti was faced with two choices, just like I was, choice 1) was to carry on. Choice 2) was to give up. And, just like myself David considered choice 2.

However, He found the strength and even continued his life in carpentry devoting time to making crutches, special chairs, and standing frames for children in his hometown in Zambia.

David is now in his 50s, his kindness and dedication to others is being rewarded: 500 Miles is a charity and they have funded a project to fit him with artificial limbs.

David says, “Life can change anytime, and you have to accept it the way it comes to you.”

Never a truer word spoken.

Credits:

This video was produced by National Geographic.

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My day at Myddelton College

Jamie McAnsh

My day at Myddelton College

Recently I experienced one of the highlights of my Speaker Career as a guest speaker. I was the guest at Myddelton College in Denbigh for the 2019 speech day. It could not have been a more worth while journey.

I met some amazing people who I truly believe will soon come to be considered as my friends, I helped present awards for academic and personal achievements to a future generation of Wales. And I was given the privilege of being offered the opportunity to tell my story to a school of amazing young people, Parents, and teachers.

Myddelton College became a part of my life story, a chapter in my book and a memory I will definitely hold dear. The welcome and hospitality I received was incredible and very appreciated.

Thank you so much for having me as a guest at your amazing school and I look forward to seeing you all again in the future. Please see some of the amazing comments I received via social media.

Stuart Ayres Senior Deputy Head at Myddelton College

Jamie we can’t thank you enough, the pleasure was all ours. Your talk was tremendously inspirational, you were generous with your time, staying way beyond the call of duty to talk to our children, parents and staff, and you were great fun to have around. You did indeed make some new friends today. Thank you so much. Highly recommended.

Chris Roberts-Jones Technical Services Manager at Tilney Bestinvest Group

Whilst attending my children’s speech day at Myddelton College yesterday I was fortunate enough to listen to your amazing and inspirational talk you gave. As a parent I would like to say thanks for the talk you gave. I thought it gave a very strong message which not just to the children but the adults can take heart and strength from your message that whatever life throws at you, you are going to have your highs and your lows in life. Appreciate the highs and “getbackup” from the lows it will make you’re a more driven, determined and better person with a more compassionate rounded view on life.

Kath Lightbown Had the privilege of attending speech day at Myddelton college yesterday. Your address to the pupils and their families was truly inspirational. Should you ever be in this area again I would welcome the opportunity, if possible, to come and listen to you. If you ever publish a book I would be the first in the queue to obtain a copy. Thank you for sharing your life experiences with us.

lauracj77

As a parent at Myddelton College’s speech day, I just wanted to say a huge thank you…Your story was inspirational, you have a fantastic attitude to life and certainly one I know my daughter and I will certainly take a lot from #alwaysgetbackup

eryn.whitee23

thank you so much for an amazing speech!! i cried near the end!! you have had such a hard go at life but you have got through it!! As my dad said to you ‘your friend and my dads friend died together such a small world🙂’ thank you for an amazing speech!! x

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Loneliness is the darkest corner

Jamie McAnsh

Loneliness is the darkest corner

When I stand in front of a school or organization I send a very important message when you fall getbackup

“The loneliest moment in someone’s life is when they are watching their whole world fall apart, and all they can do is stare blankly.” ― F. Scott Fitzgerald

What a true quote. I can remember when I sat and watched my world fall to pieces right in front of my eyes. Nothing I could do to stop or control it. No power to change the inevitable. I can remember the one feeling like no other. “I am on my own” even though I was surrounded by people I knew that not one of them could ever understand the feelings I was having. the thoughts that were going through my mind.

I stepped in the darkest place of my life and could not see any way out. I had fallen over and the loneliness had taken hold. My life changed when I spoke out and to someone how I felt. That was the first step on my journey to Getting back up. Now I am a fighter with the aim of helping others to gain the skills to fight back and get back up. .

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A Humbling Moment

Jamie McAnsh

A Humbling Moment

There is often a point in my life when I look at what I am doing and wonder how I ever got there. Standing in front of a room full of people, everyone in the room has lived their lives their way and yet, today they were completely focused on my story. The absolutely unbelievable feeling of pride is always a great feeling.

I love working with and alongside Beverley from Awaken Coaching. However, The absolute honour of sharing a stage with the amazing twice gold medallist Paralympian, Stephanie Millward Mbe today was a privilege. I literally can’t wait to work with you again soon. Good luck in the upcoming world championships.

Nick Ramsay was also amongst the honors list to open the show and in fairness Nick, you did it in style. But my final mention for the day has to go to Alice Manship because even though I know Beverley worked hard to get everything in place I know Alice played a massive part so well done both. And thank you for having me along and thank you to all the guests for allowing me to share my story, hopefully, I will have inspired at least one person in the room today, if so for me it was a great success.

So what do you do if you fall over?

motivationalspeaker speaker network seenobounds getbackup

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Empathy -The key skill.

Jamie McAnsh

Empathy -The key skill.

Empathy is a skill not everyone has but it can be something you can learn. Empathy is trying to understand what another person is feeling without portraying your own thoughts and feelings. It is seeing the world through another’ person eyes without prejudging. This profound skill helps people to get along better and to feel better around each other, it is a key skill to customer service and care industries, however, it is often forgotten as I am sure we can all relate to.

Having empathy is a key ingredient in becoming the best person you can be, if you open your mind to others you will learn more than you will ever teach, the reward is endless.

You can practice empathy by listening to someone rather than trying to talk to them. Ask someone how they are feeling if you think there is something wrong, sometimes that is all that is required. Once you have asked someone don’t forget to listen.

learning about people from different backgrounds and cultures is not only a great way to interact but also offers you a better understanding of how they are as people. something we unfortunately forget or feel uneasy about how to achieve. The answer is easy, Just ask.

Showing concern and care for others, paying attention to the needs of others, and getting to know someone better instead of judging them. this seems rather an easy thing to do, right? Wrong, in today’s society social communication seems at an all-time low. You can change that.

Empathy is easy to say, but hard to do. remember, if you change your direction others will follow if you make a difference to one person that person will appreciate you, and if you try to become empathetic in any small ways then the world will be a better place because of you!

June 11, 2019
, 10:38 am
, Quick posts

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#CarersWeek

By Jamie McAnsh

Happy Monday! I hope you are having a wonderful day. I just wanted to share some interesting facts with you today and hope you can take these in. We are entering one of the most important weeks of the national calendar this week and possibly rather understated. We are in q week dedicated to those who work harder than most. Dedicated to the care of a loved one, a sibling or a parent.

But did you know?

Young adult carers aged between 16 and 18 years are twice as likely not to be in education, employment, or training. Based on Census figures there are estimated to be at least 376,000 young adult carers in the UK aged 16–25.

The more shocking figure is this!

There are an estimated 700,000 children and young people across the UK, some as young as five-years-old, who are caring for family members.

Please take the time to share this post and keep in mind so many that put others first.

#CarersWeek #Mondaythoughts #care #carers #youngpeople #love #bekind #bemindful #others #seenobounds

#CarersWeek Today I want to thank Charlott for all that she does for me that many will never see nor fully understand.

We have not been together long but Charlott has accepted my illness and my condition, taken the time to learn and understand the complexity of CRPS, and offers me the empathy that at times I need. I never look for sympathy I just need someone to understand the fact that I am in pain. Charlott understands and never judges.

I am very grateful to Charlott for taking the time to learn about CRPS as it is not an easy illness to grasp. Charlott selflessly makes sure I am comfortable and will even massage my pain to offer me some relief even when I know she is exhausted herself.

Thank you for everything you do. xxx

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#Fridayfeeling

That #fridayfeeling

mindfulness should not be a chore it should be a major part of our lives.

By Jamie McAnsh

As the working day comes to a close we all focus on the fact that it is Friday, we are free to enjoy the weekend. That could mean meeting up with friends or spending time with family. This is a very important time for us all to interact with others and share a smile and let our hair down.

For many, the stress of the week may still be playing on your mind, that could be work or school related. This stress is considered negative stress. It’s the kind of stress that causes us to suffer from all kinds of anxiety and in some cases depression.

It may not be an easy thing to understand or to let go but during any type of downtime from our busy lives, we need to take a moment to switch off and relax. This could be in the form of going for a walk or even doing some simple light exercise.

Meditation is a great way to recharge your mind, simple breathing techniques are proven to improve mental wellbeing. As a society, there is a general knowledge about healthy eating and keeping fit and active but as a society, it is commonplace to forget the most important organ in the human body. The mind.

Have a great weekend and remember taking care of yourself is not a chore it is a necessity to a healthy state of mind and wellbeing.

#mentalhealth #fridayfeeling #mindfullness #seenobounds #live #love #bekind

“What day is it?” asked Pooh.

“It’s today,” squeaked Piglet.

“My favourite day,” said Pooh.

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My Life with CRPS and why Everest

My life with CRPS and why Everest

For some this challenge my seem like a holiday of a life time, for me it is the ultimate challenge of overcoming the impossible and showing that nothing is out of your reach.

By Jamie McAnsh

My Life with CRPS and why Everest By Jamie McAnsh

My life with CRPS and why Everest

For some, this challenge may seem like a holiday of a lifetime, for me it is the ultimate challenge of overcoming the impossible and showing that nothing is out of your reach.

Overview – What is CRPS?

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a form of chronic pain that usually affects an arm or a leg. CRPS typically develops after an injury, a surgery, a stroke or a heart attack. The pain is out of proportion to the severity of the initial injury. For me, the illness affects both legs and in fact everything from the L2 vertebra down.

Complex regional pain syndrome is uncommon, and its cause isn’t clearly understood. Treatment is most effective when started early. In such cases, improvement and even remission are possible. However, in my case, my diagnosis was delayed by 13 months. The reason behind this was due to doctors not understanding the condition.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome include:
Continuous burning or throbbing pain, usually in your arm, leg, hand or foot
Sensitivity to touch or cold
Swelling of the painful area
Changes in skin temperature — alternating between sweaty and cold
Changes in skin color, ranging from white and mottled to red or blue
Changes in skin texture, which may become tender, thin or shiny in the affected area
Changes in hair and nail growth
Joint stiffness, swelling, and damage
Muscle spasms, tremors, weakness and loss (atrophy)
Decreased ability to move the affected body part

Symptoms may change over time and vary from person to person. Pain, swelling, redness, noticeable changes in temperature and hypersensitivity (particularly to cold and touch) usually occur first. I honestly thought during this period that the symptoms were the after-effects of the shingles I had in November of 2013.

Over time, the affected limb can become cold and pale. It may undergo skin and nail changes as well as muscle spasms and tighten. Once these changes occur, the condition is often irreversible. Unfortunately, this is the situation for myself. Sometimes the spasms are so bad I have been known to burst blood vessels in my eyes. I have also in the past, unfortunately, urinated and even defecated during one of these spasms.

Complex regional pain syndrome occasionally may spread from its source to elsewhere in your body, such as the opposite limb. I started out just on my right leg but very quickly it spread to my left. The result was almost sudden and I was left with neurological paralysis.

In some people, signs, and symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome go away on their own. In others, signs and symptoms may persist for months to years. Treatment is likely to be most effective when started early in the course of the illness. My condition due to the time of delay in diagnoses and treatment will never go however with treatment and pain management I have learned several methods to control the pain.

One of those methods is massage and regular spots massage treatment at the point of most weakness. For me, this is my lower back, my legs, and my feet. My partner Charlott is a qualified massage therapist and her continual treatment every other day has played a massive part in my recent success of climbing Ben Nevis.

When to see a doctor

If you experience constant, severe pain that affects a limb and makes touching or moving that limb seem intolerable, see your doctor to determine the cause. It’s important to treat complex regional pain syndrome early.

Causes

The cause of complex regional pain syndrome isn’t completely understood. It’s thought to be caused by an injury to or an abnormality of the peripheral and central nervous systems. CRPS typically occurs as a result of a trauma or an injury.

Complex regional pain syndrome occurs in two types, with similar signs and symptoms, but different causes: I had shingles in November of 2013 and in January of 2014 my condition had deteriorated to the point of paralysis.

So what are the two types?

Type 1. Also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSD), this type occurs after an illness or injury that didn’t directly damage the nerves in your affected limb. About 90 percent of people with complex regional pain syndrome have type 1.

Type 2. Once referred to as causalgia, this type has similar symptoms to type 1. But type 2 complex regional pain syndrome follows a distinct nerve injury.

I am Type 1 suffered after shingles and if you have ever had this illness you will understand the pain that it causes.

In many cases of complex regional pain, the syndrome occurs after a forceful trauma to an arm or a leg. This can include a crushing injury, fracture or amputation.

Other major and minor traumas — such as surgery, heart attacks, infections, and even sprained ankles — can also lead to complex regional pain syndrome.

It’s not well-understood why these injuries can trigger complex regional pain syndrome. Not everyone who has such an injury will go on to develop complex regional pain syndrome. It might be due to a dysfunctional interaction between your central and peripheral nervous systems and inappropriate inflammatory responses.

Complications

If complex regional pain syndrome isn’t diagnosed and treated early, the disease may progress to more-disabling signs and symptoms. These may include:

Tissue wasting (atrophy). Your skin, bones, and muscles may begin to deteriorate and weaken if you avoid or have trouble moving an arm or a leg because of pain or stiffness.

Muscle tightening (contracture). You also may experience tightening of your muscles. This may lead to a condition in which your hand and fingers or your foot and toes contract into a fixed position.

I have already started to experience some of these symptoms and in order to try and keep them at bay I keep myself as active as possible to that I am not left unable to walk or move my limbs. This will be my final outcome, I have come to terms with this. If I can prolong the symptoms for as long as I can then I prolong my value of life.

Prevention

These steps might help you reduce the risk of developing complex regional pain syndrome:

Taking vitamin C after a wrist fracture. Studies have shown that people who took a daily minimum dose of 500 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C after a wrist fracture had a lower risk of complex regional pain syndrome compared with those who didn’t take vitamin C.

Early mobilization after a stroke. Some research suggests that people who get out of bed and walk around soon after a stroke (early mobilization) lower their risk of complex regional pain syndrome.

If I wake up and I am not in pain! My first question is, Have I died?

If I wake up and I am not in pain! My first queastion is, Have I died?

Everest – But why?

It was always my dream to climb Everest. As a young boy, I used to pretend that I was out in the wilds going for the summit. When I first fell ill this dream seemed impossible. I missed walking the most, not going to the shops but being outside and walking in the hills, the point where I felt most alive.

I climbed several mountains in a wheelchair just so I could gain back something of my past passion. I had by this point accepted my current condition and the situation of my life. This was no who I was. And I promise you unless you have ever suffered from a condition like CRPS, unfortunately, you may never understand why this was so important to me.

I completed the challenge after challenge raising more than £250,000 for charities based in around Wales. I wanted to show the world that if you put your mind to it then nothing is out of your reach.

My Physiotherapist asked me at the first ever session that I needed a goal, “what is it?” she asked.

My Reply was simple “Everest”

She smiled and said, “let’s get you walking across the room first.”

My Physiotherapist asked me at the first ever session that I needed a goal, “what is it?” she asked.

My Reply was simple “Everest”

She smiled and said, “lets get you walking across the room first.”

Crowd Funding my way to my greatest challenge yet.

If I am ever going to be realistic with myself, I fully understand that I will never be able to fund my climb to Everest Base Camp. And I also knew that with my condition I would need to take someone with me that understands my condition and can treat it as required. I would also need someone that could help relieve my muscles each day to get me through the pain. The answer was to ask Charlott if she would not only climb Everest with me but would she be willing to come as my masseuse and carer. She agreed and the idea of achieving my ultimate dream was once again a possibility. The next challenge was to find a guide willing to take me. Along came Andy from Evertrek who simply understood what I wanted to achieve and Dave, also part of Evertrek was completely game to why I was looking to do this. As someone who had suffered from Shingles, he had an idea of the level of pain I would have to deal with. As the challenge evolves day after day we both understood that my condition would be fighting me all the way. The idea of taking Charlott to assist in my muscular care was a massive positive and definitely a way of increasing my success rate.

The idea of crowdfunding the challenge came from a friend who once again understood fully my reasons behind the climb. I want to raise as much awareness for CRPS as possible and what the condition actually means to the sufferer. I know that in years to come and possibly not that far away I will be back in my wheelchair full time and once again Everest will be nothing more than a dream.

What will I achieve as well as the climb?

The aim is to show others that CRPS is a real condition, but you need to not give up and live for the moment. I will raise awareness for Burning Nights, the charity that works with CRPS sufferers like myself to help encourage them to set goals in their own lives.

My story will hopefully be shared so that others like myself can see that CRPS does not have to mean the end, even though as a sufferer all you think about is the pain. For many, they have not been able to deal with the pain. I was once in that dark place and searched endlessly for some kind of inspiration or drive to get me through the challenge of life that I was faced with.

For many, this may seem to be a holiday of a lifetime but for me, it will mean so much more! It’s about the ultimate challenge, making a memory I can hold onto later on in life and showing others that with help from those around you nothing is impossible. I would not expect everyone to understand this, or why I would want to put my body through this much torture, however, my life is basically a time bomb against the inevitable deterioration of my neurological system so, in reality, it is now or never.

If you would like to help you can do by simply Donating on our crowdfunding page.

Money raised will go towards Flights, insurances, the cost of licenses, the guides and Sherpas, food, and lodgings on the trek. Once all these areas are covered all remaining funds will be going to the charity Burning Nights.

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Lest We Forget

Lest we forget

The ironic concept that for peace we first have to fight.

By Jamie McAnsh

As a former veteran, I understand the concept of loss.

However, I can not even begin to imagine the moment the troop landed on the beaches of Normandy 75 years ago.

We take for granted so much these days, we almost find reasons to moan and complain. It is the easiest thing in the world to find a reason not to be happy with another person, we can get frustrated if we choose to and we can get angry at any time we wish for the smallest of reason.

So I ask you during this time as we remember those who lost their lives during an ironic fight for peace that we look at those around us and offer empathy that they may be having a bad day, smile because you may be the only person to smile at that person today. Say hello to someone because that person may be lonely and you may be the only friendly voice they hear today. Be kind and remember that all those lives were lost for peace.

“Treat everyone with politeness and kindness, not because they are nice, but because you are.”
― Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart

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Tuesday Thoughts

Here is an interesting #tuesdaythoughts ! 75% of mental illnesses start before a child reaches their 18th birthday, while 50% of mental health problems in adult life (excluding dementia) take root before the age of 15.

How can we help those around us?

Learn the ALAN method to help a friend struggling with their mental health

#Ask

Ask open questions, such as ‘how are you doing?’. Give the person time to open up if they need it.
It’s okay to say you’re worried, or that you’re not sure how to start the conversation but you wanted to see if they’re okay. Asking is the very first step in breaking down that wall and making a connection in someone’s time of need.

#Listen

Once you’ve asked a question, make sure you actually listen to the answer. Be patient and let them say what they need. Try to just listen, rather than attempting to solve any problem. Lots of people just need to vent – and even by chipping in with advice you could unintentionally cut them off or dismiss their feelings.

#Action

Create a plan of action to get them feeling better. It’s a good idea to set SMART (another acronym, handy) goals – tasks that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. So rather than a general ‘I want to feel happier’, break that goal down into more manageable chunks; say, calling and booking a doctor’s appointment by this time next week, or planning to meet up again this coming Friday. Let your friend know what support is out there and arrange a time for you to check back in.

#mentalhealth #youngpeople #health #live #friends #help #beafriend #seenobounds #getbackup

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MetroUK | Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetroUK/

Metro Mental Health Matters Wales [email protected] Tuesday thoughts

My Summit of Ben Nevis

My Summit of Ben Nevis.

One of the most dangerous mountain on earth! Not for any other reason but its simply unpredictability.

Today I achieved something that 5 years ago would have been impossible. I have attempted Ben Nevis 3 times the first 2 the mountain decided it was not my day to summit. 3rd time lucky and we reached the top. An incredible place to be and one of the hardest things I think I have ever accomplished. Feeling very proud.

Remember, turning back down a mountain is a sign of a wise person, returning another day to face it all again is a sign of respect for the mountain and determination for one self.

#lovelife #getbackup #seenobounds #everest2020 #travel #bennevis #scotlandhighlands #vanlife #van #vanlifediaries VisitScotland – Your Scotland VisitScotland Charlott Fagergardone

There is one thing I do know for sure, that is I could not have done it without my Smartcrutch’s.

The SmartCrutch can be purchshased in our online shop

Mount Everest

Support Jamie on his climb to Mount Everest

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The challenge of Mount Everest base camp is going to be a real test on Jamie’s mental and physical state. Completing the full walk on Crutches the challenge will be a test of upper body endurance. Once completed Jamie will join a very short list of disabled climbers to reach Base Camp and as far as we can tell he will be the first CRPS Sufferer ever to achieve this amazing feat.

The Story as you may know

In January 2014, Jamie McAnsh was diagnosed with a functional neurological condition called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). A condition that left my neurologically paralysed from the waist down. Jamie’s journey has been life-changing. However, instead of focusing on a restricted life in a wheelchair, Jamie focused on living life outside the box.

Jamie developed a new taste for adapted adventure and committed to showing that a disability does not rule your abilities. In the first year as a wheelchair user, Jamie found a new love for sport. By March 2014, he became a signed member for the Cardiff Celts Wheelchair Basketball team. By the August of 2014, Jamie was selected for the Welsh Wheelchair Rugby 7’s team, Representing Wales in the Home Nations Cup as team Kicker.

With the ultimate aim to not only prove his own abilities but to show and inspire others, Jamie decided to set himself 12 challenges– one new challenge every month, for the year of 2015.

As part of this, Jamie completed the 100-mile-long course of the Carten100 as part of the South Wales Hand-cycle team.

Barely giving himself time to recover, 4 weeks later, Jamie became the first wheelchair user to complete the gruelling WAAT4 challenge!

Jamie’s tireless determination earned him the WAAT4 Greatest Achievement Award.

Jamie has won several other awards for his profound work within disability sport, charity fundraising, reaching a staggering £250,000. Just part of his outstanding achievements. Jamie has been described as inspirational, motivational and a role model to young and old alike. Demonstrated by his determination and willpower.

In 2016, Jamie became the countries first ‘Brave Britain Award’ winner of the “against all the odds” category.

The reality behind the dream

For Jamie Everest is a dream, Base Camp is a childhood ambition and now with your help he has the chance to achieve something that 5 years ago was thought of as impossible.

Jamie was once asked by a physio during his journey to learn how to walk. “What is your ultimate goal? Jamie replied “Base Camp Mount Everest” Facing continual pain and spasms Jamie’s journey was not easy. At 33 years old and having to learn the basics of balance and movement he put in everything he had.

For hours he would stand next to a wall and move one side step at a time. Determination was his driving force and 5 years on he has travelled along way.

Far from better

Still very much a wheelchair user. Jamie can walk with the use of Smartcrutches. Jamie knows that he can complete this challenge, but he cant do it alone. He needs your help. Kit, travel, food and expenses Jamie needs to raise £6000. This will cover the costs for himself and his partner and carer Charlott to reach Base Camp and back home safe.

As well as personal sponsorship. Jamie and Charlott are looking for company funding to help not only fund the excursion, but also raise awareness for a condition that leaves the sufferer in continual pain with very little relief. Most people have never even heard of CRPS but for Jamie it is very real and Charlott supports him every step of the way.

So please help in any way you can! Visit Jamie’s website at www.seenobounds.co.uk or find him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We appreciate your support and any assistance you can offer.

Ysgyryd Fawr 1/5/2019 366 days till climb

First steps of Training last night with a trek up Ysgyryd Fawr an easterly outlier of the Black Mountains in Wales, and forms the easternmost part of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The mountain is often referred to locally as just The Skirrid. With a hight of only 486m it is only about 5000 meters lower that base camp Mount Everest.

The Squash Pod

The Squash Pod (The Story)

The Squash Pod is the fantastic idea of Bevan Duff & Jamie McAnsh. Both Jamie & Bevan relished the chance to have some fun whilst also having a serious message about supporting and growing squash and racquetball at grassroots level. This is where The Squash Pod came in.

So who are these cheeky presenters? Well both are from South Africa and have now made Wales their home.

Jamie McAnsh is a real inspiration. On 7/1/14 Jamie woke up without the use of his legs. He was diagnosed with a rare and incurable illness called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) CRPS UK. This is a rare condition that leaves the sufferer in constant pain due to the brain sending the wrong messages. Jamie shares his story through Jamie Seenobounds as well as promote a #getbackup attitude with The Squash Pod.

Jamie McAnsh’s bravery and attitude lead him to being recognised with the “against all odds” award at the Charles Holland awards which was presented to him by Falklands Hero Simon Weston OBE. Jamie McAnsh has a fantastic outlook on life. He hopes to inspire others and to help grow squash and racquetball through The Squash Pod. Jamie is a keen player himself and competes against able bodied players in tournaments recently Welsh Masters supported by Squash Wales – Sboncen Cymruand also very recently in Squashland Ljubljana during the Slovenian masters, playing with the use of calipers.

Bevan Duff is a level 2 Squash Coach and loves the game. Bevan has been a club player for a number of years and fell in love with the game at an early age.

Like most squash players Bevan loves nothing more than introducing people to the game.

Bevan Duff & Jamie McAnsh would love nothing more than to help grow the sport and to have a “right good laugh” along the way! We hope that the squash community, Workd Squash Federation and other groups such as SquashSkills will help us to raise awareness of this great sport, so that we can help the game to flourish and to bring new blood into the game.

Listen to “A Super Clubs Vision” on Spreaker. Listen to “iPad to iSquash – Technology in squash with markos aristides kern + Special interviews with the welsh wizards.” on Spreaker.

Listen to “The Squash Pod – The Benefits Of Squash” on Spreaker.

Listen to “The squash pod – lets get this show on the road.” on Spreaker.

100 Meters To Harmony

Think Harmony and gain power.

What do you see when you look at this picture? A man with a Smartcrutch perhaps!

Okay you would be right this is a man with a crutch and yes he is stood by a waterfall! And yes it is also me!

However, believe it or not I am stood less that 100 meters away from a busy town, main road and even a school.

With in meters of going off the beaten track I found peace and quiet. A little bit of harmony.

I could not hear the busy world on the other side of The wooded area I was in. I could not hear people or cars. All I had was birds and of course the water rushing behind me. For me this is my harmony but for others this can be found in different ways.

You see you don’t need to travel to the end of the earth to give yourself space you just need to travel a few 100 meters and you can have all the space you need.

Give yourself room to breath and think and you will create a healthier space in your mind to think and gain balance. With balance you gain your own harmony.

Don’t forget to live!

Today, I will not stress over things I can’t control. I will however live for the things that are in my reach.

#lovelife #getbackup #seenobounds #mylife #lifestyle #life #healthylifestyle #healthymind #befree #beyourself

A Tunnel of focus

Recently I enjoyed a fantastic and need I say inspiring day.

“I am a roll model for young people” I am their Tunnel of focus. Apart of the Big Ideas Wales Project

That was the outcomes of the recent course! That offers me a few fears. Am I the right person for the job?

My Business is based on me telling my story! My life journey! A path of ups and downs. I ask myself time after time am I doing the right thing with Seenobounds?

Can I make this work?

Then I realise that somehow I am making it work! I am doing it! And then the fear of success strikes me.

What if I actually get it right?

What then?

Truth is who knows. The picture in this post was taken after I had got out of the class room and going for a walk. I came across this bridge and I connected it to my day…

Its a tunnel with one way in and one way out, a path if you like that we have to follow. Guided only by the walls on either side. In the tunnel is a gate! Sometimes that gate will be open and other times closed.

For me this image represented a focus, with a light at the end of the tunnel! The gate symbolised an object or obstacle that could prevent me from getting from A to B…

This is basically my random example of focus and taking guidance. But also a symbolic statement of achievement because not only did I walk through the tunnel from one side to the other and the gate did not on this occasion cause me any issues,

I also remembered that the tunnel itself was an example of if you can’t go around and obstruction in your life maybe the best way to go is directly through the middle.

#getbackup #seenobounds #driven #guidence #divineguidance #motivation #business #findingaway #myjourney #miniblog #tunnel #life

A Picture of Calm Chaos

A Picture can say more than just that.

I love this it is a picture taken by my beautiful partner Charlott.

A Picture that shows an image of calmness. Blue skies and long views of fields and natural beauty. I am stood gazing into the country with what seems to be a clear mind.

Granted a lot of that is true except the wind was wild and strong enough to wipe you off your feet. Whistling across the landscape taking no prisoners. Chaos all around us.

We was protected in a little cove as we ate a lovely picnic making the most of the moment. Why am I writing all this?

Simple this image is one we all face and see every day. Calm faces pleasant smiles and what can only be assumed as blue skies!

However very often it is in fact a wind swept mind of chaotic emotions. Be kind to all and remember that sometimes it’s not what you see, it is what that person wants you to see.

#loveyourself #lovequotes #live #love #time #bekind #bekindalways #bekindtoyourself #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthadvocate #seenobounds #getbackup #keepgoing #bestrong