THE whole of 2017 was for me defined by my friend, Paralympian Anne Wafula-Strike, being forced to wet herself on a train and Christopher Stapleton having to endure the same experience less than six months later.
In July, our patron, Joe Fisher, was forced to leave Kew Gardens shop for using one of their own mobility scooters. How many of your readers have experienced similar treatment, but do not have the same confidence or experience as Anne or Joe?
It can feel like fighting a losing battle, particularly when we lost great champions like Sir Bert Massie this year, but it is not all bad news.
Our trading arm launched a lightweight scooter for those with neurological conditions like Post Polio Syndrome (PPS), allowing people to live independent lives longer, while a relationship with the Royal College of GPs is helping address PPS and end patients waiting eight years for a diagnosis.
There is much to be positive about and to hope for, for 2018.
As we look forward to our 80th anniversary in 2019, my hope is that we finally see the last case of polio, which will deliver the happiest of new years for all.
The British Polio Fellowship continues to raise awareness and offer support to those who are affected by PPS.
If you want more information, contact the British Polio Fellowship on 0800 043 1935 or visit protect-eu.mimecast.com
Ted Hill
CEO
The British Polio Fellowship
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