Cumnock Ladies Head for the Bonnie Banks

18 April 2008

Cumnock Osteoporosis Support Group has been awarded £400 by the Changing Lives Campaign. Run in conjunction with McIntosh Foods and The Daily Record, the campaign seeks out ventures, community projects and charities that make a difference to the every day lives of Scottish people.

The substantial windfall will allow members of the Cumnock group, which has an average age of 70, to head off on a summer bus trip around the Trossachs.
The group was set up 10 years ago by chairperson Janette Leitch, shortly after she was diagnosed with osteoporosis (reduction in bone density). At the time there were only two support groups in Scotland – one in Glasgow and the other in Edinburgh – but Janette recognised the need for a support group in her local community and took the lead.
Now the thriving 62-strong group meets monthly to enjoy a packed programme of guest speakers, exercise and social activities.
Janette said: “I have told the ladies about the bursary and they’re all delighted – the campaign has definitely made our big day a reality. The cash will pay for a bus trip from Cumnock to Luss in July for 49 of our more able members, while we also hope to take some of our less mobile members on a shorter trip up the coast.
“When you have osteoporosis you cannot sit down for long periods or, equally, walk around for long either. This trip will be ideal as we can stop at regular intervals on the way to and from Loch Lomond, which means we will be able to enjoy some of the most beautiful spots in Scotland.”
As well as social outings, Janette and her fellow members take part in local chair-aerobics and aquarobics sessions and enjoy walks in the local beauty spots. Guest speakers are also invited to attend monthly meetings, including physicians, physiotherapists, paramedics, pain management experts, dieticians, police and fire officers.
Sales Director of McIntosh Ian Clarke commented: "As makers of traditional Scottish food and as a thriving Scottish business we know all about the warm-hearted nature of the Scots. That’s why we do everything we can to harness the support of local Scottish communities to make lives a little better for a lot of people.
“The Cumnock Osteoporosis Support Group is an inspiration and, just months after the group marked its 10th anniversary, we are delighted to be able to help the ladies enjoy what promises to be a memorable day out.”