SCOTT Howie has been a member of Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland (SBH Scotland) for more than three decades.
Now 46, he has lived with both conditions since birth. Spina Bifida causes him mobility problems and his hydrocephalus causes short-term memory problems which were not helped by him suffering a brain haemorrhage at the age of 23.
His earliest memories he says are of the support his parents received from the charity, particularly the sports and swimming groups he attended.
However the services it provides are lifelong, and as well as sitting on the charity’s board of directors, he continues to benefit from SBH Scotland’s health check clinics, fitness programmes and adult social groups.
He lives with his wife, Gillian, in Condorrat, Cumbernauld and feels that apart from the brain haemorrhage 23 years ago, he has been quite lucky with his conditions.
“It’s only now as I get older and heavier that mobility is really starting to be a big issue. I’ve always worn splints to aid my walking but now I have to use my wheelchair a lot more,” he says.
As SBH Scotland’s purpose-built family support centre is practically on Scott’s doorstep in Cumbernauld.
Scott has benefited from a variety of support services and projects such as workshops, health-check clinics and has received personalised fitness training on specially adapted equipment. He and Gillian, who is also a member of the charity, have built up a close network of friends through the SBH Scotland adult social group.
“I really look forward to the group every month as it’s a chance to catch up with the good friends we’ve made.
“It’s nice to feel comfortable enough to talk about personal or medical issues which may be affecting us and support each other through it.”
SBH Scotland – the beneficiary of this year’s Herald Scotland Christmas appeal – prides itself on providing meaningful support for all members. In September Scott was elected on to the charity’s board of directors and says he is keen to be a voice for members.
“ Whenever I have needed SBH Scotland, they have always been there for me at the end of the phone, email or just when I pop in to see them,” he says. “I look forward to representing the individuals of SBH Scotland to ensure the lifetime of support I have received continues for each person.”
To support the work of SBH Scotland, please contribute to our Christmas appeal. See panel for details.
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