Who needs a round number ? 27 years is worth celebrating!
- debbiethrower0
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
'I spent a wonderful afternoon in Alton, Hampshire, yesterday at the All Saints Hard of Hearing Club' writes Debbie Thrower. The Alton Anna Chaplain Emily Spencer gave a lovely talk about using visual aids and props she uses to stimulate all the senses in her ministry. She and her team of Anna Friends are now 16-strong.
I gave an update on the Anna Chaplaincy picture nationally as well as a bit of the local history of how it all began in the town back in 2010 (for the benefit of those who have joined the club in the last few years)… And most importantly, we celebrated the enormous contribution of retired teacher Kate Dando, who set up the club for those with hearing difficulties in 1999.
Kate has impaired hearing herself and has done so much to care for others facing similar challenges. She was also, for many years, an Anna Friend locally.
'She supported not only me when I became the first Anna Chaplain - I was a frequent visitor to club events and parties - but also all the subsequent Anna Chaplains in the area: Helen, Rachel, Kate and most recently Emily who have always been made so welcome there to chat among the members,' said Debbie.
The club is now very ably led by Annette Blackman and her team of volunteers. Welcoming everyone, Annette said it was 'time to celebrate', given 21 years under Kate's founding leadership and now that the club has continued for the past six years.
A cake was baked for the occasion by Anna Friend Sarah Neish, and Emily had made specially-wrapped sweet treats for the guests. There was music provided by a talented handbell ringing group... and lots of raffle prizes and convivial chat.
Many club members have either belonged or been volunteers at the club's regular sessions since its earliest days. Annette said:
'Kate has done so much and she is very much appreciated by all... It is wonderful to see such delight on people's faces - the years pass by - and to renew acquaintances is always a joy.'
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