Committee Members of The Dorset Lupus Group

Debbie Steel Chairperson	Hello, I’m Debbie and I have been on the Committee, in a number of roles, since 2005. I was diagnosed with SLE in 1991, whilst backpacking in Australia. I was 30 years old and had already had Rheumatoid Arthritis since 1985. Lupus is more common there and I can only guess that the increased exposure to the sun triggered the flare. It is now under control but as you are all aware it can change on a day to day basis. I work part time for New Earth Solutions as a finance assistant. I am married to Dave, and we live in Ferndown. I especially enjoy gardening and travelling, both at home and abroad.

Chris McKenna Vice Chairperson	Hello I'm Chris Mckenna & I live with my partner in the lovely village of Puddletown. I am a Sheltered Housing Officer for a Housing Association & have been doing this for the past twelve years. I'm studying at the moment for a National Diploma in Supported & Sheltered Housing. I was diagnosed with Lupus about 4 years ago after becoming very poorly & spending more weeks than I care to think about in Southampton Hospital. My diagnosis took a long time but I'm happy to say that my health has been pretty stable due largely to a cocktail of medication. The Lupus group offered & continue to support me, for which I'm very grateful. It's great to get together with fellow sufferers & to feel you're not alone with this condition & I urge anyone who's thinking of joining a support group, to go ahead, you've got nothing to lose & lot's to gain. My interests outside the group are painting & card crafts; I also enjoy long walks with my partner.

Janet Bourne Secretary	My name is Janet; I do not have Lupus myself but have other health related problems. I first became a member in 2006 as Margaret, one of the founding members of the group was a life-long friend and like a sister to me. I volunteered my help when the group was in its early stages and am now the Group’s Secretary. I am retired and live in Ferndown with Charles my husband of 41 years. We have one son called James who is a neuro-scientist and lives in Australia.

Tamsin Campbelton Newsletter Editor	Hi, I am the youngest member of the committee and was diagnosed with SLE in 1995 just after I finished my GCSEs. My lupus is very much under control at the moment although I still have the odd bad day and I have learnt over the years to know my limitations and say no when I cant do something. I live in Christchurch with my partner Chris, who is very supportive. I lead a very active life, and have recently set up two businesses in Architectural Design and Aloe Vera products. I am also a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award trainer and enjoy Wing Chun, horse riding and skiing. I joined the group when I moved to Dorset and have made some great friends; it would be nice to see some younger members at more of our events in the future.

Gerrish Grey	I don't have lupus myself but my partner of 25 years Margaret; our former chair and one of the group's founders, who recently passed away, suffered from lupus. Margaret was diagnosed in the early seventies and developed many side effects and complications however Margaret had many strategies for living a full and happy life alongside her condition. I remain a member of the group and to help and support where I can, to preserve some of Margaret's endearing spirit and kindness. I am in my early sixties, recently retired from business life, but still keeping busy working in sports administration for another of the loves of my life – cycle racing.

Carol Berkhauer Raffles and Events	My name is Carol and I have had SLE for about 30 years but was only diagnosed 15 years ago, I also suffer from Sjorgrens syndrome. I was in my mid twenties when I suffered several miscarriages and a stillbirth, which completely mystified the doctors. At present I lead a relatively 'normal' life and my health seems generally better apart from the occasional hiccup. I try to keep on top of the Lupus and eat as healthily as I can and exercise to the best of my ability. I enjoy walking in moderation and have recently invested in a bicycle. I live in Queens Park, Bournemouth and have been married to Ron for nearly forty years. We have a daughter and two gorgeous grandsons. I've met some very friendly people at the coffee mornings so why don't you come along!

Yvonne and Guy Hosking Librarians	Yvonne and Guy Hosking – Yvonne has Lupus and works part time for a local insurance broker. Guy is now retired having been in the Property Management business for many years. Both enjoy lawn bowls, gardening, golf and spending time with their family.

Yvonne and Charlie Bartlett – Yvonne previously was a Secretary and retired on grounds of ill health due to her Lupus. She now enjoys life as a Brown Owl to local Brownie Group 21st Bournemouth; and likes card crafts. Charlie is a retired Electrician and enjoys watching all types of sports and taking his lovely wife out for meals. Other Members: Dawn Jeffs Jean Durrant