In May we awarded funding to Breathe Easy Darlington. They are a charity providing support to people living within the local area who suffer from chronic lung conditions such as COPD, Bronchiectasis, Asthma and other progressive conditions. .
The grant awarded to Breathe Easy Darlington was for transport, which enabled them to organize two day trips in July and September. These trips were thoroughly enjoyed by the 33 members who participated.
The venues were chosen by the members themselves as places they would like to visit, but could not reach on their own, as their driving capabilities are reduced by breathlessness and fatigue, and walking difficulties reduce their potential enjoyment of the venue.
Their first trip in July was to the Royal Horticultural Society garden at Harlow Carr, Harrogate in North Yorkshire. where the garden's amazing staff ensured that they could have access to mobility scooters for their visit.
The second trip was to Whitby on the Northeast coast for fish and chips and lemon top ice cream. Blessed by sunny weather and using the hired scooters, much touring was done around the shops and cafes . Strong memories and friendships were reinforced by these trips, which have enabled people living with respiratory ill health enjoy activities, have fun and feel connected.
The charity reported that being able to draw on such memories helps their members enjoy better mental health to remain positive about their future.