A SMALL group of people with multiple sclerosis got together back in 1984 to raise money to buy an oxygen chamber to provide treatment for themselves and others with the condition.
Fast forward 30 years and from those humble beginnings in Warwick via a small industrial unit in Binley, what is now known as the Mercia MS Therapy Centre in Aldermans Green is open six days a week and is used by around 80 people every week.
The popularity of the hyperbaric oxygen chamber among MS sufferers and children with cerebral palsy, and later children with autism and people recovering from strokes, and an lottery grant funded the move to the current home which is also open to the public, offering physiotherapy, acupuncture, yoga, reflexology, massage, osteomyology, foot healthcare, art classes and social events.
Deputy Lord Mayor Michael Hammond and Lord Digby Jones were guests of honour on Saturday as the centre marked its 30th anniversary. Also there were founding and current trustee Mike Reynolds and treasurer Bill Blundell, aged 92, who has also been with the charity for almost the full 30 years.
“Our vision it to one day move out of the industrial unit, which costs us £17,000 per year in rent, and move into our own building where we can really make a special and inviting place for all who come to us for treatment,” said manager Zoe Seville-Edden.
Fund-raising is also currently underway for provide free hyperbaric oxygen treatment for children with cerebral palsy and autism.
It costs the charity £45 for a one hour session and at the moment families donate half towards each treatment and the centre covers the rest.
– A DONATION of £1,500 from the Coventry Three Spires Round Table is to help the MS Therapy Centre buy a third Airnergy machine that boost energy levels, strengthens immune systems, and reduces stress and fatigue.
Zoe Seville-Eden manager of the MS Centre with deputy mayor Mike Hammon and his consort Melanie Wood cut the cake. Picture by Jon Mullis 25.014.013.cov.jm1 (www.buyphotos247.com)
