Feel less weary with a little help from your friends

THE WEARY Warriors had a particularly successful gathering on Tuesday, March 8, at Jávea Golf Club, thanks to valuable contributions from Sylvia Tatnell, president of the Alzheimers' Association Teulada, and her psychologist colleague Carmen, plus the president of HELP Denia, Candida Wright. These three remarkable ladies answered many questions concerning the care of loved ones with vascular de- mentia and Alzheimers, pro- viding practical information which was helpful and reassuring.

We are sure there are many wives or husbands in this area who, if their partners are still able to be left for an hour every two weeks, would really benefit from sympathetic company and shared experiences. Please do not be shy, we are a really friendly group, the common language is English, and we do try to support one another as best we can, which gives us the strength to carry on.

The patience required to be a carer of a dementia sufferer is enormous, and sometimes overwhelming, and a heavy load to carry alone.

The Weary Warriors have had the same members since last August, so they must be enjoying the gatherings and now that we are no longer restricted by numbers, please do come and join us. Jávea Golf Club staff make us very welcome each time, with coffee, muffins, croissants, etc.

If you would like to know more, phone Lyn Baerfuss on 692 059 257 or email lynbaerfuss@gmail.com The next meetings will be on March 22 and April 12 and 26 at 10.0011.30, at Jávea Golf Club.

This poem was given to the group, which they feel is very appropriate and representative of the Weary Warriors. So thanks to a friend who wishes to remain anonymous.

Because of you

You can say at close of day Before you meet the night,

Of all the troubles in the world, You helped to put one right? That just one heart was happier Because your smile was true, One wrinkle in the folds of life Was smoothed ... Because of you.