We launched in 2002 with about 5 – 10 members and have grown into a friendly, happy, fun, caring Group with approximately 30 active members.
Our meeting starts with tea and biscuits followed by a Speaker or Demonstration. Previous speakers include a very interesting talk about Bath Aqua Glass; a Police Officer and his two dogs; a lively talk on the War Years and a Fire Fighter who had a call-out half way through his talk!
There is the occasional ‘Bring and Buy’ Stall. Most importantly there is the chance to have a chat with people who have similar lung problems.
Two or three times a year we have Outings. Some members have just been to Highgrove and thoroughly enjoyed a walk round Prince Charles’ much talked about garden. We have also been to Bristol to see the SS Great Britain. Our last trip was on a very comfortable Narrow Boat from Bradford-on-Avon.
We have had a ‘Cream Tea’ in the Chippenham Hospital Garden and also Whitehall Garden Centre where afterwards we were able to walk around and see the garden ware and marvellous selection of plants.
We will be having our Christmas Lunch at Whitehall Garden Centre on Tuesday, 17th November, 2009 and of course the Christmas Party on Tuesday, 1st December, 2009.
We are very fortunate to be able to take part in a Research Group run by the Physiotherapists at Chippenham Hospital, to show that exercise is beneficial to patients with COPD. These classes help members gain confidence and gives them a greater understanding of the need to continue to exercise.
We welcome anyone who has an interest in lung problems. Please come with your family member, carer or friend and see what you think of our BREATHE EASY NORTH WILTSHIRE GROUP.