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August 2006
Polio News
August 2006
Newsletter of the Post Polio Support Society NZ (Inc).
11 Wyn Street, Christchurch 8002, New Zealand.
In this issue
Annual General Meeting
Branch reports
Correspondence
Medical matters
1 Don't be an Atlas: A Cautionary Tale
2 "Once Stricken, Twice Afflicted"
3 A cough could save your life
4 Food for thought
Personal Stories
Please take notice
Directory
Annual Accounts
Editorial
In his message the President mentions my present indifferent health. I am undergoing an extended course of chemotherapy and experiencing the inevitable side-effects which include extreme tiredness. JB (address list and labels), Richard Liddicoat (layout and production), and the Christchurch team (despatch), have stepped up to keep newsletter production on schedule. To all of them I express my thanks.
I hope to be able to continue - only time will tell. Meantime any offers of assistance with editorial work would be most welcome. It is not essential for the Editor to be in Christchurch, or to be a PPSS member - but it helps. Any offers? I won't be at the AGM.
This will be an important meeting as the Society is approaching a crossroads. I do hope there will be a large, representative attendance to enable a positive and fruitful discussion on our future. Reports and comments on the AGM and conference would be particularly welcome.
I extend my best wishes to other Society members who are facing health problems. As we march inexorably into our 80s these are many. We do not want another polio epidemic to provide new members, of course, but we do need our younger, fitter members to step up to the plate.
Best wishes to all. Denis Hogan
From the president
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE TO MEMBERS, A LA 2006 ANNUAL REPORT: Well now, here we are past the shortest day and look toward an improvement in the weather. However I seem to remember that the worst weather sometimes come after the shortest day. Yuck!
CONDOLENCES / GET WELL:
Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones or have been unwell since the last edition of ‘Polio News’. Our Newsletter Editor; & a Board Member are especially in my thoughts at this time, but please treat this as a personal message if you fit either of these categories. I know that it is a generalised greeting, when we are not aware of the passing of friends or relatives.
To prove my point, I tried to make contact with Syd Hawken, of Whangamata when sending out some mail last month and was only then advised that he passed away last November, and Syd was our contact in the Coromandel area.
CONGRATULATIONS:
Excitement must have been rife in the Kaponga area with a ‘Queens Service Medal’ being awarded to Shirley Hazlewood in the Queens Birthday Honours list. Our Congratulations are extended to Shirley on this important recognition of your untiring effort in the Taranaki Area.
FUNDING APPLICATIONS:
We acknowledge with thanks the support received from Lottery Community & the J.R.McKenzie Trust for the continued support to our Society and its Membership. When applying for funding it is always with the knowledge that we may have our grant declined. If that were to happen then we would really need to reassess the way the Society operates and how we can best cope with the change. Meantime until that happens we continue to proceed with our usual activities.
SEPTEMBER A.G.M. / SEMINAR:
The most important on our calendar is the September 8 & 9th Annual General Meeting and One Day of information sharing. The fine details will feature in this issue, and it would be great to have a large number attending. Dr. Liz. & Claudia have worked together to see all goes to plan.
POSITION OF PRESIDENT:
I guess that it is time that I began plans to step down from this role. Failure for a replacement being found for the coming year, I should advise that this would be my last year in that role. I have enjoyed the challenge of leading the Society, but am disappointed that a resolution has not been found to the indifference that is shown toward our members by the Ministry of Health / Health Authorities at all levels.
VACCINE’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY:
There is a need to acknowledge that 50 years have elapsed since the arrival of the Salk & Sabin Vaccines to New Zealand, and to this end we will be holding an Anniversary Dinner on the Friday Evening of the Conference, that will be open to all A.G.M. attendees. We are seeking an appropriate Guest Speaker for that part of the evening.
I am also aware that the ‘Wilson Home Trust’ in Takapuna, Auckland, is planning a function in November and a notice of this event will be included elsewhere in this issue of Polio News.. It was to have been in the last issue but somehow was omitted. Edith Morris from Hamilton is a contact if you need further information.
If your group is involved in any sort of function based around the introduction of the vaccines then please send details to our Secretary, JB Munro.
MINISTRY OF HEALTH – AND US.
As President I have been unable to progress our cause toward being recognised by the M.O.H. at any level, a campaign that I had personally fought for with the officials we had canvassed that maybe a breakthrough could have been achieved. Such a breakthrough has not been achieved.
ROTARY’S POLIO PLUS CAMPAIGN
Even this morning (4th July I heard Rotary’s International President of Auckland speaking on the Breakfast Show) about the push to complete the eradication programme that has been their target since “Polio Plus” was launched in I985. To not complete the eradication campaign now would be unthinkable. The millions of dollars and I guess countless man hours that have been exhausted up to this time, would all have been wasted.
We as the survivors of the past epidemics remain testament to what could happen all over again unless ‘The Eradication Plan' is completed.
FREE DVD TO GROUPS:
By now group leaders will have received a copy of the DVD ‘The Australian Experience” and I would be interested in your comments about the content. I viewed it whilst in Tasmania last April and the Board accepted my recommendation to purchase sufficient copies to have on permanent issue. It was envisaged that members could view it in groups or as individuals. It could also be passed on to GP’s or Physios / O.Ts or anyone else you could see as being interested.
SUBSCRIPTIONS 2006/07:
We are now at the start of the new Financial Year, and your early payment will lighten the load carried by the Treasurer, and the need to send out reminders in subsequent newsletters. It is always my concern when making applications for grant funding that we can show the true picture relative to our membership. These numbers have to be declared and also how we have benefited from the past grants received.
We also acknowledge those who include a ‘Voluntary Donation’ no matter how small with their renewal. These too are acknowledged when we submit our Annual Accounts with each Grant application, and is termed ‘supporting ourselves’. It goes without saying that they also receive a copy of each annual report.
MY THANKS TO YOU.
To the Board Members, I extend my warm thanks for being part of the management team. If you would like to be part of the Management Team please find someone to complete the Nomination Form and send it in a.s.a.p.
I understand, it takes time to be available / to be my eyes and ears in the regions where you live, and also take part in the Tele-conference calls and hope it is not too taxing on you all. I hope that you will continue to support the society in whatever capacity you can in future years. May I remind you that you are entitled to be reimbursed for out of pocket Society Expenses you have personally paid for. Send your return to Treasurer JB for a refund.
Raymond L. Wilson.
QSM, President.
STOP PRESS:
I have been speaking with Patsy Bell from the West Coast S.I. and she has been given the title by Hokitika Rotary of “Rotary Hokitika Polio Plus Ambassador” Good For You Patsy, We all know how hard you push the Polio Identity in that remote area.
Ray W.
Annual General Meeting
Brentwood Hotel Kilbirnie Wellington
Friday, September 8th 2006 from 6.00 pm.
AGENDA
Welcome by President Ray L Wilson QSM
Apologies
In Memory – we remember departed members over the past year
Roll Call
Any Proxies
Minutes for Confirmation of the 2005 AGM:
Please note that these Minutes having been reviewed earlier by the Board of Management and may be taken as read and confirmed. Copies available at meeting. MSC (Moved, Second, Carried)
Any matters arising
President’s Annual Report as contained in August Polio News . Any discussion: MSC that the report be received.
Financial Report (Draft enclosed within August Polio News)
Please note that MSC that the audited Income and Expenditure accounts and Balance Sheet for the year ended 30th June 2006 be adopted.
Any discussion: MSC
Auditor – That Mr John Rosevear be reappointed as our Auditor
Discussion: MSC
Membership Subscription – That the membership fee for 2007/08 remain at the current level of $I0 per person. Discussion: MSC
Newsletter - That this meeting record its sincere appreciation for the work of our Editor of Polio News – Life Member Denis Hogan.
Discussion: MSC
Election of Office Bearers: Patron, President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer.
Nominations are currently being called and close 5 minutes prior to the start of the AGM (Earlier preferred)
Election of Board of Management Minimum 2 Maximum 6. Nominations are now open and close 5 minutes before the start of the AGM Earlier preferred.
Resolutions/Remits:
General Business – Items to be advised to the Secretary up to 5 minutes before the AGM is convened.
Dinner will follow.
Branch reports
Bay of Plenty
We recently went on an outing to a new cafe that we fell in love with. We had the biggest number attending that we have had for a long time including a new member and one of her friends. Special thanks to Des and Ethne who checked the cafe out at least 6 times before we all went to make sure the facilities were OK. Now that is what you call dedication!!
We had two members who were able to attend QE. As always this fabulous service was appreciated and while they were there they met a lovely lady who has since become a member of our group. It is great to meet new people and hear their stories. Cheers from the Bay.
Gill Raine, Field Officer, Western BoP, PPSS
Eastern Bay of Plenty
Hi from the Eastern Bay of Plenty Post Polio Support Group
We are enjoying lovely winter weather with cold nights and crisp clear days. I hope everyone can keep that winter flu away and is keeping warm.
On 3rd May the Support group held their social meeting with I3 attendees at the RSA, followed by a visit of the Whakatane museum and gallery. On 7th June, I2 members attended the AGM at the Disabilities Resource Centre Trust. The election of offices resulted in no change to last years positions. Guest speaker Jane Waiden spoke about the service the Budget Advisory offers.
Liaising with the physiotherapy department resulted in Post Polio clients under 80 years of age being considered for the ACC Fall Prevention Programme, though the normal eligibility age is 80 and over.
A press release: "Post Polio Support Group celebrates 50 years of Polio Vaccination" has been written and sent to 4 newspaper agencies and Radio I XX. This resulted in two inquiries regarding Post Polio from local people who had Polio and who hadn't contacted the support group before.
A window display at the Credit Union from 22 - 3I May gave information on Polio, Polio vaccination and Post Polio. Considerable effort went into the release of a caliper from the museum to use as an exhibit for the display. If I would have asked for the Crown Jewels, it couldn't have been more complicated and I guess the caliper has never been treated that carefully all its live. But it certainly ended up to be a exhibit, which made an impact.
Gisela, Post Polio Field Officer
Gisborne
The Gisborne Group has enjoyed a range of speakers over the last year. In August, our Treasurer, Alison Haisman reported on a fascinating bus trip to the Country Women’s Institute National Conference in Dunedin that included excursions to see Kaikoura seals, the Antarctic Information Centre in Christchurch, Oamaru little blue penguins, and the albatross colony near Dunedin. 800 women participated in the conference and the Gisborne group visited Queenstown, Hokitika and Westport as they returned home via the scenic route, enjoying wonderful hospitality from CWI groups throughout the journey.
In October, lapidologist Lee Wilson spoke about gemstones she has collected and worked on over the years. Heather Cochrane was our February speaker, giving a fascinating talk about a tramping and running trip to South America.
Later in February we were saddened to hear that Bill Sefton had passed away in Invercargill after a long illness. While Bill's wife Monica was the polio survivor who founded our Gisborne group, a great debt was owed to Bill who worked quietly and efficiently in the background, helping to translate Monica's plans into reality. Our thoughts are with Monica.
Katie Hart from the Hearing Association was guest speaker at our April meeting. She spoke of services available from the Association, gave advice on the care of hearing aids and tips on communicating with people who have hearing difficulties.
After many years of providing secretarial services to our group, Marion Gibson has announced her retirement from the role. Marion's energy, good humour, wide range of interests and ability to find fascinating guest speakers have contributed hugely to the success of our group. Even though it was Marion's late husband Norman who survived the virus that brought us all together, after her many years of service and friendship, there was unanimous agreement at the AGM that Marion should be made a life member of the Gisborne Group.
The Gisborne Group meets six times a year at the Arohaina Resource Centre, phone (06) 868 5056 for further information.
Jill Hudson.
Christchurch
On a decidedly rainy day a full busload of members headed off to Cheviot for a day's outing and soon forgot the weather. The warm hospitality of the farming family that guided us around the district and provided a nice lunch in the farmhouse made the day a great success. The host's daughter, seen in the photo with a number of our members, saw to our entertainment while lunch was being prepared.
We had planned another trip, to Ashburton aviation museum, a few weeks later, but the weather was the winner on that occasion with a big dump of snow causing a cancellation. Among the interesting speakers at our monthly meetings we recently had a policeman from the drug section, who brought along his labrador assistant for a demonstration of their work. Keep warm till Summer, everyone. George.
Nelson-Top of the South.
Hello Everybody. First of all my sincere apologies for lack of Nelson news in the last two newsletters. My husband has been recovering from a bout with cancer which has not been pleasant and for myself I've been introduced to an oxygen pump which I don't particularly like learning to live with. However if it means propping each other up for a while longer we'll go with it.
There is not much to report from Nelson area, I think like the rest of the country we've been hunkering down and trying to keep warm. We had our mid-winter luncheon yesterday, July I, a lovely sunny day for us all to go down to the Beach Cafe. There were only II this time owing to previous committments but nice to welcome 2 new faces plus I spouse. Hopefully end-of-year luncheon may entice a few more to join us.
In view of my personal situation I am looking at stepping down from being group leader at the end of this year. Next year it will be 20 years since I took up this cause after the initial call to a national meeting in Palmerton North and now feel I've run my course and am running out of steam. I must pay tribute to Rex Wastney and his wife Anne who have been a huge support to me also.
But I just feel I am not giving it "my best" as things are. So if anyone wants to take it on please speak up or I will approach C.C.S.and ask them to keep our records in their central rooms. I am still available by phone to talk to at any time. Meanwhile members keep warm out there and remember whatever life deals you don't let it get you down, you just fight right back. All the best.
Jenny Kissane.
North Otago
The June bi-monthly meeting was held on the I7th at the usual venue, Waitaki CCS rooms, Thames Highway, Oamaru. We had a good attendance for a cold winters day which was very pleasing. Don't know about other groups but we (Jill as Group Leader and Trish as Secretary) struggle to find topics to interest our members and draw them out but we always find "a show and tell" is very popular. Again this proved to be so, this time it was to be "a treasured item and it's story". Well you had to be there to see and hear all the interesting items and stories. One in particular was the invitation to King George V's coronation. That certainly was a treasure.
Our next meeting in August will be our AGM which we usually also get a good attendance at by going out for a meal afterwards. It also used to be the annual Trish's Tiki Tour but now that the wheelchair bus is no longer available, and the cost of petrol has sky rocketed as has our members age, people don't want to be traveling so far afield anymore therefore the Tiki Tours have died a natural death. In the future we will stay close to home and visit one of the many enticing eating establishments within Oamaru's confines. The August venue still to be decided upon.
This year our representatives to the National AGM and mini conference in September will be Ray and Iris and we will look forward to hearing their reports in October.
Our group is also looking at doing something to mark the 50th anniversary of the Salk vaccine later in the year. Thinking caps are still on for that. We perhaps may have a picture party but that will all depend on whether the Oamaru Movie World3 can make the theatre wheelchair friendly by then. At present it is a matter of sitting in front of the front row and of course no one is happy to do that.
Our main aim is to chug through the winter as best we can, try to keep warm and not run up a huge power bill! At least those of us in North Otago have power, not like some, who, as I write this tonight, have just got power on again after I8 days without. Just imagine not being able to charge up the electric wheelchair or power scooter for that long - let alone all the other inconveniences like a cold bed, no hot bath. Things we polios don't like to have to do without.
Holiday tip: If traveling up in the Golden Bay region there is a delightful wheelchair friendly villa available for hire at Ligar Bay, it is only about two years old. The bathroom is very accessible although the little seat provided on the wall might be difficult so just take inside one of the wooden outside deck chairs which is perfect for a shower, it had sides on it as well for balance. The kitchen was as most kitchens in motel type places go. okay, but not like home, however if traveling with someone who is able bodied, or able to stand, no problem. If on your own then the moteliers would lift down what was needed. It was so lovely there, we would definitely go back one day.
Check it out under www.villasofligarbay.co.nz and NO I am not being paid to advertise. In fact I was the first person in a chair to have stayed there in the two years, so they were very pleased to know that someone in a wheelchair found it okay. Especially when the local council made them make one of the two units accessible. So this brings the North Otago report to an end. Roll on summer I say.
Correspondence
Wilson Home
The Wilson Home will honour the 50th Anniversary of the Salk Polio Vaccine.
The Wilson Home in Takapuna Auckland, where many polio patients were treated during the I940's into the I960's will hold a celebration to honour the 50th anniversary of the Salk Polio Vaccine in NZ.
DATE: Thurs 2 November 2006
TIME: I0:00 Chapel Service at the Wilson Home, then morning tea.
A wander around the gardens.
A time to tell stories and reminisce will be facilitated by an MC and some media attention will be given to this event. It is important that polio patients who had connections there, lived at the Wilson Home, had treatment, even staff nurses and therapist.
Contact me so we have an idea of how many people are interested in this function. Invitations will be sent out from The Wilson Home Trust according to the response to putting together this data list. If you have memorabilia (photos, newspaper cuttings etc) or stories to tell about your time in the Wilson Home, be thinking about bringing them with you on 2 November. I am thankful to the Wilson Home personal who are willing to arrange this celebration.
Let's get behind this effort and make it the highlight of the year of honouring the historic discovery of the Salk Polio Vaccine being released in NZ 50 years ago.
CONTACT: Edith Morris, PO Box I2-357 Hamilton. Telephone: 07-853-8285 email: edith@globe.net.nz
Shirley Hazlewood, QSM
By RICHARD WOODD
SHIRLEY ANNE HAZLEWOOD, of Kaponga, who received a Queen's Service Medal for her support for disabled people, and other community work, said. "I'm honoured to receive this award. It makes me feel that all the work I do from a wheelchair has been worthwhile.
"I've been in a wheelchair for I6 years since I got polio for the second time, but I've had the disability since I947.
"I don't get paid for anything and I don't ask for rewards. I do it because of my love for people, and in particular those who have disabilities. But I'll do anythmg for anyone. (if I did anything else I’d) probably be a nurse, or a vet. I've loved animals."
The award citation says Mrs Hazlewood started a polio support group for long-term sufferers in I993 and has been the group's field officer for I5 years. She has been an advocate to change attitudes towards people with disabilities through helping to write a book on polio, letters to the editor, speaking at meetings and activities.
She is a member of the Disabled Persons' Assembly and the Kaponga Progressive Society. She has a horse ornament shop at her Kaponga house and she also runs an opportunity shop to raise money for polio sufferers.
Asked what other goals she would like to achieve, she said: "Just once in my life I'd like to stand on the top of Mt Taranaki, but I could never walk up there with one leg and my arms can’t even support crutches now, so I couldn't do a Mark Inglis.”
"My other wish is to go to London and see the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace."
Letter from Namibia, from Astrid
The bad news here is the polio in Namibia which we consider part of South Africa - It is the Wild Type Polio I - reported to be the Indian type which was isolated in Angola last year. At first it was reported that 7 people had died but I think this mornings news says there are 9I cases so they are vaccinating madly with the monovalent Oral vaccine. It looks as if they give large doses.
People travelling to Namibia, which is a popular destination in winter, have to have the vaccine at a travel clinic and pay R78. They are vaccinating 2 million Namibian people in 3 days. The bright sparks in Jo'burg say they will step up the immunisation next year. They report the coverage as being 83%.
I hope they change their minds soon.
A post polio has written to the paper saying that all polio survivors should have their blood checked for antibody titres. If you do not have antibody titres I,2 and 3 in your blood you should have the booster. I wonder how you feel about that.
Medical matters
1 Don't be an Atlas: A Cautionary Tale
by Karen Butterworth
In Greek mythology, Atlas was a Titan who rebelled against the gods, and as a punishment was made to carry the heavens on his shoulders.
At the last Post Polio Support Society mini-conference I attended, I heard members talking about torn or inflamed rotator cuffs in their shoulders. I thought, 'Thank goodness I don't have that problem! ‘Well I do now, and it's a stubborn, painful, and disabling injury. I've talked with another member who took seven years to get (mostly) over it, and still has trouble sleeping on that side. I was so used to limb pains (aren't we all?) that I waited over a month to go to the doctor, and probably delayed healing by doing so.
Lesson 1
Take any shoulder pain lasting more than two to three weeks seriously (or a shorter time if the pain is severe or the result of an accident)and go to your medical adviser.
The rotator cuff, I've found out, comprises the fused tendons of three muscles that enable the shoulder to rotate in a lot more directions than our hip can do. It lets us reach above, below and behind us, as well as back and forwards. We use it to pull clothing over our heads, lift things down from shelves and hangers, fasten bras and zips, hang out washing, brush our hair, and push ourselves up from chairs. Medical advice is, you can't just put the arm in a sling to avoid the most painful movements. No, you have to keep moving it in all directions (ow!) if you don't want it to heal with restricted movement.
Rotator cuff trouble lurks in waiting for all polio survivors who use their arms to substitute for weak trunk and leg muscles. i.e. users of walking sticks, crutches and wheelchairs, plus those of us who need to use our arms to get up from low places or turn over in bed. It's more likely to happen if our arms were initially paralysed, but over-use can bring it on in anyone.
Until this year I hadn't given a thought to my uncomplaining shoulder during sixty-odd years of abusing it. My only prior warning was years of fibromyalgia in both shoulders, upper arms and sides. None of these pains were directly brought on by movement or fatigue, so I didn't think of over-use, and neither did my GP, who treated me for inflammation.
The worm suddenly turned when I embarked on a long walk leaning on my walking stick. I was attending the Wellington Festival of Arts Writers' and Readers' Week, had left my car in the suburbs to avoid parking problems, and taken a bus. I needed to get from the Embassy Theatre to Te Papa. I found out too late there was no bus that would take me there, and jibbed at the cost of a taxi. Stupid decision! Treatment since then has cost me four times that taxi fare, with more to come.
I was monitoring my legs and back, which warned me as usual with pain and fatigue. I found two places to sit down, but that didn't save my shoulder, which began to ache with every step I took. By that stage there were no phone boxes or shops on the route, and no more seats, so I had to carry on. There was no sudden tear, therefore no treatment on ACC.
Lesson 2
Don't take your shoulders for granted, especially your dominant one - right if you're right-handed, and left if you're left-handed. Analyse how much you over-use them before they give you trouble. Then use all available means to lighten their load.
A doctor told me in my youth, when he heard I was going to marry a farmer, 'Get him to buy you every possible piece of household machinery.'I could tell he was concerned for me, but he didn't say why. I suspect now he knew about polio and rotator cuffs. But the reality was, my husband and I could only afford the most basic appliances. I carried buckets of pig and hen food half a mile daily, and beat my eggs and washed my clothes and floors by hand.
It's a different story today. Appliances are much cheaper in relation to incomes, including superannuation. I now have a washing machine, food processor, electric can opener, and clothes dryer. We've swapped our heavy vacuum cleaner for a light one.
Your nearest disability resource centre provides information on helpful devices designed to save shoulders, like swivel seats for getting in and out of cars. They can advise you on where to get them, and what subsidies are obtainable.
When I needed a walking stick, I just went and bought one. Now I've had a more suitable one prescribed by my physio. I should have done that at the beginning.
I'm a writer, and my shoulder resents too much keyboard and mouse work. I shopped around on the internet and bought a voice operated computer package, which I'm now training to recognize my voice. When I gardened, I used to lean on a bucket to get down and up. My raised garden is now being built just as quickly as my husband's bad back allows!
It's the usual fine line between 'use it or lose it' and 'conserve it to preserve it' that we polio survivors know well. You can avoid heavy loads and repetitive movements wherever possible, and still keep your shoulders going through the full range of movements. You can use your shoulders in moderation for fitness activities like swimming, provided you work up to each activity gradually.
2 Once stricken, twice afflicted
This article from "Awake" Magazine was sent to us by a member. We don't know how to get permission to reprint it but it has appeared in other polio newsletters so we have taken the liberty of publishing. It is a very well written and readable description of PPS, good for giving to family, friends and doctors. (Ed).
"Once Stricken, Twice Afflicted"
AS TOLD BY JACK MEINTSMA
As a result of effective vaccines and diligent immunization programs, science has made great progress in its effort to eradicate polio, a debilitating childhood disease. However, even decades after recovering from polio, some survivors find themselves afflicted again, facing what is called post-polio syndrome (PPS).
YOU may never have heard of PPS. Neither had I until it became very much a part of my life. But in order to understand the syndrome's effects on me, let me go back to a day in I94I, when I was about a year old.
My mother noticed that I was slumped over in my high chair. She rushed me to the doctor. After examining me, the doctor told my mother, "Your son has infantile paralysis." (Also called poliomyelitis, or polio.)
I was soon paralyzed from the waist down.
After six months on a waiting list, I was admitted to the hospital. Years of recurring illness followed. Through intense physical therapy, I gradually re~ gained the use of my legs. At the age of I4, I was walking again. But other problems, such as incontinence, remained. Over the years, I went through several cycles of surgery, confinement to a wheelchair, and physical rehabilitation. Still, my left foot is three shoe sizes smaller than my right foot, and my left leg is about three centimeters shorter than my right leg. It was not until I was in my early 20's that I got the embarrassing problem of incontinence under control. Finally, I was completely over polio-or so I thought!
Then, at age 45, I began to experience pain in my legs, followed by fatigue. Also, my leg muscles moved involuntarily at night, making it very difficult for me to sleep. The symptoms did not let up; they only worsened. You can imagine my surprise when I was diagnosed with PPS-44 years after my mother recognized my initial illness.
What Is Polio?
Polio is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus that enters the body through the mouth and multiplies in the intestines. After invading the nervous system, the virus can quickly cause total paralysis. As the virus passes along to the brain and then to the spinal cord, initial symptoms are fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. Many of the nerves stop functioning, resulting in paralysis of some of the muscles in the arms, legs, and chest.
But the body's recuperative powers are amazing. Nerves that were not affected by the virus send out new "sprouts," as if running extra telephone lines, to reconnect the muscle cells that were orphaned when their previous nerves died. A single motor neuron in the spinal cord may also grow terminal axon sprouts, which may connect to many more muscle cells than it did originally, thus greatly increasing the neuron's capacity. A motor neuron that previously stimulated I,000 muscle cells might eventually reconnect to between 5,000 and I0,000 cells. This is evidently what happened in my case, so that I am able to walk again.
However, it is presently thought that over a period of 15 to 40 years, these neural-muscle units may begin to show signs of fatigue because of being overworked. PPS is a condition that causes symptoms to reappear in individuals who had recovered from polio decades earlier. Many victims experience muscle weakness, fatigue, joint and muscle pain, cold intolerance, and breathing problems. Though accurate figures are hard to obtain, the World Health Organization estimates that there are 20 million polio survivors worldwide. Current evidence indicates that 25 to 50 percent of them are affected by PPS.
'Might I Have Post-Polio Syndrome?'
Most experts require some combination of the following criteria to make a diagnosis of post-polio syndrome:
- A confirmed diagnosis of paralytic poliomyelitis in the past
- A period of partial or complete functional recovery followed by an interval (at least I5 years) of stable neurological function
- Gradual or sudden onset of muscle weakness, fatigability, muscle atrophy, or muscle and joint pain
- Possible problems breathing or swallowing
- Persistent symptoms for at least a year
- Exclusion of other neurological, medical, and orthopedic problems
Not all polio survivors develop PPS, though as they age, they may naturally develop premature tiring and aging of overextended neural muscle units. Furthermore, over half of polio survivors who go to their doctor with new symptoms do not have PPS. Notes one expert: "Sixty percent of polio survivors with new symptoms have a medical or neurological problem that is unrelated to polio, and that problem may be treatable. Half the remaining patients have increasing orthopedic issues related to their polio residua."
What Can Be Done to Help?
Researchers suggest that the old, overworked motor neuron becomes so exhausted that some of its nerve endings die, leaving many muscle fibers orphaned once again. To slow this process, a polio survivor needs to reduce the demand on the affected muscles. Some therapists recommend assistive devices, such as canes, braces, crutches, wheelchairs, and scooters. In my case ' it became necessary for me to wear braces on both of my legs and feet. I also have specially made shoes that support my ankles and help to keep me from falling.
Moderate exercise and muscle stretching may also be required, depending on one's condition. Swimming or warm-water pool therapies are excellent means of improving cardiovascular function without straining the muscles. It is important for the patient to cooperate with the doctor or the therapist in any exercise program.
In polio survivors, repeated demands on the neurons ultimately result in the failure of some muscle fibers to work properly. Survivors may thus experience a decrease in stamina or even suffer debilitating fatigue. Loss of stamina may also result from the stress of constant pain or of dealing with a returning disability. I have found that periods of rest during the day help me recover from fatigue. Many doctors caution their patients to pace their day-to-day activities rather than push themselves to the point of exhaustion.
In my case, constant joint and muscle pain has been one of the hardest things to deal with. Some may experience muscle pain particularly in those muscles that they have strained during their usual daily activities. Others experience a flu like aching in all their muscles, along with exhaustion.
Pain may lessen with anti-inflammatory or other types of medication. But despite medications, many polio survivors suffer from disabling chronic pain. Physical therapy along with heat and stretching may help. A sufferer who gave up her practice as an anesthesiologist told me, "I could get out of this wheelchair and struggle across the room, but the pain is so great, it isn't worth it." Now, even with medication that helps, I must frequently resort to my wheelchair.
Just as there is no confirmed etiology, or cause - and thus no definitive laboratory test-there is really no cure at the present time for post-polio syndrome (PPS). There is, however, treatment revolving around a three-pronged rehabilitation approach. Says one expert: "More than 80% of patients with PPS will demonstrate benefit with rehabilitation techniques."
The three approaches are:
- Life-style modifications
- energy conservation
- assistive devices
- non-fatiguing exercise
- staying warm
2. Medications and supplements
Though many medications, prescription as well as natural supplements, have been tried, none has been proved to help. There are many anecdotal reports of improvement, but further study is needed. Keep in mind that herbs can interact with prescription medicine, so always let your physician know what you are thinking of taking.
3. Quality of life
"The strongest medicine that a practitioner can provide to a patient with PPS is education and encouragement.... Patients who were better able to make lifestyle modifications (those with better problem-solving skills, more accessible environments, more access to information and support, and a readiness to compensate with assistive devices) adapted better in their daily occupations."- Dr. Susan Periman.
Some polio survivors have lost the ability to shunt blood away from the skin, which the body normally does to conserve heat in the muscle tissues. Without this ability, an affected limb will radiate more heat and cool down. When the muscles are cold, poor communication from the motor neuron to the muscles results, and muscles do not work properly. Thus, it is important to keep the affected muscles warm by wearing extra clothing. Some use an electric blanket or a hot-water bottle during cold nights. Avoiding exposure to cold weather helps. I found it necessary to move to a warmer climate.
Breathing problems are common, especially among those with a history of bulbar polio, a form of polio that affects the spinal cord in the upper neck and thereby weakens the breathing muscles. In times past, this type of polio landed many people in an iron lung. Today, a ventilator may be used to assist weakened lung muscles. In my case, it is very hard for me to breathe when I exert myself. Therefore, every day I use a small device to exercise my lung muscles.
Survivors need to be aware of another potential difficulty. It is not advisable for them to have surgery and then return home the same day. Dr. Richard L. Bruno, of the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, states: "NO POLIO SURVIVOR SHOULD HAVE SAME-DAY SURGERY FOR ANY REASON except for the most simple procedures that require only a local anesthetic." He adds that polio survivors require twice as long to recover from the effects of any anesthetic and may need additional pain medication. Their stay in the hospital will usually be longer than that of other patients. If I had known that, I might have been spared a bout of pneumonia following a recent minor surgery. It is wise to discuss these concerns with the surgeon and the anesthesiologist before surgery.
My Life Today
When I was able to walk at the age of 14, I thought my problems were, for the most part, behind me. However, after many years I find myself experiencing the same problems all over again. For polio survivors like me who develop PPS, the situation is, as one writer put it, "once stricken, twice afflicted." Of course, it is only normal to get discouraged at times. Nevertheless, I can still get around and take care of myself. I have found that the best medicine for me is to have a positive attitude, to adjust to changing circumstances as they develop, and to appreciate what I can still do.
For example, when I started in the full-time Christian ministry about ten years ago, it was easier for me to get around than it is now. I was able to walk for a considerable distance before tiring or experiencing much pain. Now, however, I can only walk a very short distance. To conserve energy, I try to avoid climbing stairs and walking up hills. I use my wheelchair whenever possible. By adapting my ministry in various ways, I find it very enjoyable and even therapeutic.
Yes, PPS does affect my life. It is possible that my health will worsen. But I find great comfort in the Bible's promise of a new world in which all will be young again, with full health and mightiness. Over the years, I have often thought about the inspiring words of Isaiah 41:10: "Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not gaze about, for I am your God. I will fortify you. I will really help you." With God's help, I am determined to keep going until PPS is a thing of the past.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Though every case is different, the following factors may increase the risk of a polio survivor developing post-polio syndrome:
- Severity of initial polio infection. Generally speaking, the more severe the initial polio, the higher the risk of PPS
- Age at initial onset. Those who got polio at a younger age are actually less I likely to face PPS
- Recovery. Surprisingly, the greater and more complete the initial recovery, the greater the chance of eventually developing PPS
- Physical activity. If a polio survivor has been in the habit of exercising to exhaustion over the years, this may increase the risk of PPS
What About Exercise?
Early on, recovering polio survivors were encouraged to exercise "until it hurts." Then in the 1980's, they were warned about the dangers of exercise, essentially about "using up" their viable muscle tissue.
Today experts recommend a path midway between those two extremes. Their message now is, 'Don't overdo it, but beware of inactivity.’ The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability says: "New knowledge tells us that no matter what our level of disability is, we should be encouraged to value exercise, enterprising enough to come up with a highly customized plan and enduring enough to reap the rewards."
In summary, an individualized exercise plan should
- Be developed in conjunction with a knowledgeable physician or physical therapist
- Start at a slow or moderate pace and progress gradually
- Include warming up before and cooling down after
- Focus on stretching and general aerobic exercises
- Include warm-water pool exercise, if available
Says one expert in The Johns Hopkins Medical Letter.. "Tiredness and pain persisting beyond an hour indicate that muscles have been overused." So listen to your body and avoid pain, fatigue, and weakness.
3 A cough could save your life
Article Published in No 240 of Journal of General Hospital Rochester, reprinted from the April edition of TASLINK, the newsletter of Tasmanians With Disabilities.)
Let's say it is 6.15 pm and you're driving home (alone of course) after an unusually hard day on the job. You're really tired, and frustrated. You are really stressed and upset... Suddenly you start experiencing severe pain in your chest that starts to radiate out into your arm and into your jaw. You are only five kilometres from the hospital nearest your home. Unfortunately you don't know if you'll be able to make it that far.
WHAT TO DO??????
You have been trained in CPR, but the guy that conducted the course did not tell you how to perform it on yourself'
HOW TO SURVIVE A HEART ATTACK WHEN ALONE?
Since many people are alone when they suffer a heart attack, without help, the person whose heart is beating improperly and who beings to feel faint, has only about 10 seconds left before losing consciousness.
WHAT TO DO? ANSWER:
Don't panic, but start coughing repeatedly and vigorously. A deep breath should be taken before each cough. The cough must be deep and prolonged, as when producing sputum from deep inside the chest. A breath and a cough must be repeated about every two seconds without let-up until help arrives, or until the heart is felt to be beating normally again.
Deep breathing gets OXYGEN into the lungs and coughing movements squeeze the heart and keep the blood Circulating, the squeezing pressure on the heart also helps it regain normal rhythm, in this way, heart attack victims can get to a hospital.
EDITORIAL
Be a friend and tell as many people as possible about this article. It could just save their lives!!! Don't ever think that you are not prone to heart attack as age means very little due to the changes in our life styles, heart attack is found among people of all age groups.
4 Food for thought
Reprinted from "Headlines", the National Newsletter of the Neurological Foundation of N.Z. Volume 72, Winter 2006.
Want to be smarter? It was once thought that our intelligence was set in stone and that as we aged our brain cells died and weren't replace But the latest research shows that our brains continue to develop throughout our lives. By avoiding harmful food and increasing our intake of some especially helpful types of food we can help maintain a healthy brain.
You are what you eat
The day should always start with a healthy breakfast. The brain needs a steady supply of glucose and many studies have shown that skipping breakfast reduces mental performance. But the emphasis is equally on 'healthy and 'breakfast'. Junk food should be avoided or at least kept to a minimum: fizzy drinks and sugary snacks have been shown to reduce mental performance.
A breakfast such as high protein beans or Marmite/Vegemite on wholemeal toast - these yeast extracts have a high level of valuable B vitamins is recommended. Cereal is a good choice although highly processed versions with added sugar should be avoided; adults should drink low-fat milk unless their doctor recommends to the contrary.
An omelette and salad is a good choice for lunch. Eggs are rich in choline (although those watching cholesterol levels may have to limit them), which your body uses to produce the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Low levels of acetylcholine are associated with Alzheimer's disease, and some studies suggest that boosting dietary intake may slow age-related memory loss. A salad packed full of antioxidants, including betacarotene and vitamins C and E, helps to mop up damaging free radicals. In the brain, antioxidant molecules wage war on free radicals which can harm brain cells and affect brain function. Many scientists believe that ageing and some diseases can cause the body's antioxidant defences to become damaged by the free radicals. Antioxidantrich foods are thought to offer protection by providing an extra defence, keeping the free radicals in check.
The US Government Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently presented a Top 20 list, which provides a helpful guide to healthy food in a report entitled: Lipophili and hydrophilic antioxidant capacities of common foods in the United States. Perhaps a more descriptive title would be The Top 20 Antioxidant-rich Foods. The USDA nutritionists examined more than 100 different kinds of fruits, vegetables, nuts, spices, cereals and other foods. Using an analysis method called oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), they were able to determine the lipid soluble (lipophilic) and water soluble (hydrophilic) antioxidant capacitie of the food samples. They also tested the effect of two different processing methods: cooking and peeling.
Starting at the bottom
The results weren't altogether surprising: fruits, vegetables and beans claimed nearly all the spots in the Top 20.
Top 20 Antioxidant-rich Foods
20. Gala apples
19. Plums
18. Black beans (dried)
17. Russet potatoes (cooked)
16. Black plums
15. Sweet cherries
14. Pecans
13. Granny Smith apples
12. Red delicious apples
11. Strawberries
10. Raspberries
9. Prunes
8. Blackberries
7. Artichokes (cooked)
6. Cranberries
5. Blueberries (cultivated)
4. Pinto beans
3. Red kidney beans
2. Blueberries (wild)
1. Small red beans (dried)
The small red bean looks like a kidney bean - same colour and shape - except that it is slightly smaller. It is also known as the Mexican red bean, but is grown in many parts of North America, along the US/Canada border.
Although some of these foods are not available in New Zealand eg wild blueberries and the Mexican red bean, most of them are readily available in our supermarkets.
To cook, or not to cook...
The USDA list is very useful, but it is important to remember that the best way to get an adequate intake of antioxidants is not by eating bowls of dried small red beans each day, but rather to eat a wide variety of antioxidant-rich foods which will ensure an adequate intake of other useful nutrients, such as ellagitannin, a substance that has been shown to help prevent the growth of cancerous cells and is found in raspberries and strawberries. Pecans will add copper and potassium to the diet while pinto and kidney beans are good sources of folate (sometimes called vitamin B-9), which may help lower homocystelne levels. And blueberries deliver a chemical called anthocyanis that has been shown to help protect brain cells.
As you might imagine, most antioxidant foods lose some of their antioxidant capacities in processing. (The most notable exception is the tomato; the antioxidant lycopene is enhanced by cooking.) The study authors stated that 'fresh' is the unsurprising best choice over frozen, cooked or otherwise processed.
So while blueberry pie may seem like a somewhat healthy treat, it does not begin to compare with a bowl of blueberries, picked fresh from the meadow if you can (or bought from your local greengrocer if wild ones are not available - the difference is marginal).
However, don't ignore other fresh fruit and vegetables which did not quite make the Top 20: carrots, peppers and the cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower etc) are all essential parts of a balanced diet and many are believed to protect against specific diseases.
Nuts are also recommended: walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and also provide vitamin B-6 and folate. Almonds are a good source of calcium and provide magnesium, which helps in its absorption. The peanut contains good amounts of niacin, folate, vitamin E, and a rich combination of minerals and the high selenium content of Brazil nuts is especially valuable in selenium-deficient New Zealand.
Finish off with yoghurt. It contains the amino acid tyrosine, needed for the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenalin, among others. Studies indicate that tyrosine becomes depleted when we are under stress and that supplementing our intake can improve alertness and memory.
Have a mid-afternoon snack to maintain glucose levels. But no highly processed foods such as cakes, pastries and biscuits, which contain trans-fatty acids. A study on rats and mice raised on the rodent equivalent of junk food found that they had reduced cognitive function, experiencing difficulty in finding their way around a maze, and showing impaired memory.
One of the best brain foods is fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, in particular docosahexaenoic acid or DHA, which also appears to protect against dementia. Recent studies found that older mice from a strain genetically altered to develop Alzheimer's had 70% less of the amyloid plaques associated with the disease when fed on a high-DHA diet.
Antioxidant-packed strawberries and blueberries are recommended for dessert, preferably without the addition of dairy treats like cream or Ice cream. Rats fed on these fruits showed improved coordination, concentration and short-term memory.
Personal Stories
Graham Rawstron
It was 1954 and I was employed in the Grocery Dept. of a large departmental store in Timaru. Christmas was looming and because of continual migraine headaches which were wearing me down my boss suggested I take a break so that I would be able to cope with the busy season. I was given two weeks holiday and immediately began planning a tramping/climbing trip with a friend. The great outdoors had been a passion of mine and an enjoyable form of recreation, having previously climbed the high peaks in the N.I. and numerous excursions in the high country between the Rakaia and Waitaki rivers.
Together we completed a transalpine crossing of the Southern Alps from the Rangitata headwaters to Whataroa on the West Coast which took us 9 days and no beastly headaches! Then it was back to the shop again, and with the busyness of Christmas over, drove with my fiancee to Tekapo to enquire about work on a sheep station as the love of the hills spurred me on. What a surprise when told to start straight away as shearing time was due to commence. However I needed to give reasonable notice to the shop and so it was two weeks before I commenced work in the high country.
It was during the summer of 1955 I contracted Poliomyelitis and was admitted to the Public Hospital in Timaru. There were 3 Iron Lungs all in use at this time and I was placed in a by-ward and told to lie still. Within a couple of days one of these Lungs became available into which I was placed. Sadly, the previous occupant had died. I was mostly unaware of what was happening around me but do remember regular injections to relieve the pain. The disease had paralysed the lung muscles.
During my time in hospital a Gospel Musical group were touring N.Z. and, as I found out later, that as they travelled and met other Christians they informed them of my circumstances and requested prayers be made on my behalf. I was soon out of the Iron Lung and after the "isolation period" was discharged from hospital much to the amazement riot only of the family but of the doctors and nursing staff as well at such a miraculous recovery. I had lost a lot of weight and was very thin and because of being so tanned by many hours working in the sun was given the nickname of "Ghandi" by the nurses.
On returning to my work in the Mackenzie country was given light duties while I regained strength. In 1957 I married and with my wife, Noeline, lived in the cottage on the property for a giffle, but then returned to the city and to the grocery trade. As well as managing stores we owned a business in Ashburton where we raised three sons. For 26 years we have lived in Geraldine and retired 10 years ago.
As I read of other Polio victims battling with debilitating problems for years one admires the courage and determination displayed. We also must pay tribute to our partners who have shared our lives and our burdens. For me, I am truly thankful to my Heavenly Father who declares in the Bible. "As your days so shall your strength be."
Please take notice
The following can be found on page 268 of Dr. Richard Bruno's book "The Polio Paradox"".
"Most polio survivors who come to us are "under assisted" having thrown away canes, crutches, and braces decades ago. We typically recommend that polio survivors "trade up" to the next level of assistive device,, following this Post-Polio Precept:\
If you have foot drop and don't use a brace, you need one.
If you have one short leg brace, you also need a cane in the opposite hand.
If you have a long leg brace and are using a cane, you need two forearm crutches.
If you have two braces and already use forearm crutches, you need to roll instead of walk.
Yeah, I said roll. You knew we were going to have to come back to this.
I've discussed the emotional reasons why polio survivors don’t want to use a wheelchair.
Here are some of the physical reasons why you should roll instead of walk.
Even if you use two crutches plus a leg brace, you're still using those weakening hip muscles to move your legs forward.
What's more, the weaker your legs, the more strain you put on your hands, arms and shoulders.
Mary Klein found that the wrist, arm, and shoulder muscles you need to use a cane or crutch were losing about 15 percent of their strength per year just over twice the rate of strength loss in leg muscles.
You may need a brace plus a cane or crutches to take the load off your weakened leg muscles, but you also need some way to save your hip and arm muscles. How can you do that? By rolling instead of walking, especially outside the house and when you're going a distance. "
Literature Available
1. Handbook on the Late Effects of Polio"- Revised edition. Ed. Frederick Maynard and Joan Headley. Gazette International Networking institute (G1 NI) $25
2. "Managing Post Polio: A Guide To Living Well with Post Polio Syndrome" Ed. Lauro Halstead. National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington D.C. USA. $25.
3. "Mind Over Muscle. Surviving Polio In New Zealand. Ed. Karen Butterworth. Dunmore Press $25.
4. "A Practical Approach to the late Effects of Polio" Charlotte LeBoeuf. Post Polio Support Group of South Australia $3 (This is an early post polio handbook but is still very good value.)
5. "Helping Polio Survivors Live Successfully with The late Effects of Polio" Post Polio Network (NSW) Inc. $3 - A concise, helpful and very readable handbook.
6. "Polio" Ed. Thomas M. Daniel and Frederick C. Robins. University of Rochester Press. $35 A collection of scholarly essays. One copy left.
7. "Late Effects of Polio - A Resource Guide for Survivors" by Philip G. Ruiz has been revised and reprinted under the authorship of Professor Joan Walker and Philip Ruiz. This highly recommended booklet can be ordered through the editor of Polio News for $10(Can).
Directory
Contact address: Post Polio Support Society NZ (Inc), P.O. Box 249, Oamaru.
Phone 0800 4 POLIO 0800 4 76546
President Ray Wilson, 29 Aln Street, Oamaru 8901,
Ph / Fax 03 434 6405 email Ray1.wilson@xtra.co.nz
Secretary and Treasurer: J B Munro, 120 Factory Road, Mosgiel email JBmunro@xtra.co.nz Tel. 03 4891995 Fax 03 489 1996.
Mission Statement
"The aims of the Society are to provide support for those who have had polio. In particular
(i) to collect and distribute information that will enable members to understand and moderate the changes occurring in their conditions;
(ii) to inform medical practitioners of the reality of post -polio syndrome and help update them on advances in research and treatment, and
(iii) to work towards the establishment of assessment and treatment clinics for polio survivors and the establishment of at least one centre of excellence in New Zealand for the study and treatment of post-polio syndrome.
Publication: Polio News is published in March, May, August and November - copy deadline the 15th of the preceding month.
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the writers and not necessarily of the Society.
Acknowledgement:This newsletter has been paid for by a grant from the Lottery Aged Committee of the Lotteries Grants Board and the J.R. McKenzie Trust, to whom we express our thanks.
POST POLIO SUPPORT SOCIETY OF NZ INC
FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2006
2004/05 I N C O M E 2005/06
6883.00 Membership Fees 6,I40.00
480.00 Support Group M/ship & Donations 355.00
4207.26 Donations 4,064.60
7300.00 Grants – Lottery Board 6,000.00
I0000.00 _ J. R. McKenzie Trust 8,000.00
I35I.23 Interest Received I,777.42
87.3I Books, Videos and Badges 8I.00
5029.80 Annual Meeting & Conference 345.70
$35,338.60 TOTAL INCOME $26,763.72
E X P E N D I T U R E
2246.I8 Printing and Stationery I930.24
4050.96 Tolls, Teleconference costs, E Mail 4638.I3
40I8.68 Newsletters 778I.57
I0727.6I Conference and AGM this year 7488.40
560.00 Stella Anderson grants I,I80.00
I202.90 Travel Expenses 2,760.95
I365.00 Payments to Support Groups I,04I.76
.00 Library & Website Development I,475.00
285.00 Subscriptions and Fees 364.50
6I9.50 Sundry 2005 Newsletter 2,980.00
805.00 Depreciation 703.00
$25,880.83 TOTAL EXPENDITURE $ 32,343.55
$9,457.77 Net Surplus/(Deficit) for the Year $ - (5,579.83)
POST POLIO SUPPORT SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND INCORPORATED
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
As at 30 June 2006
2004/05 2005/06
Current Assets
8,6I8.49 Westpac & SBS Current account $ 6 740.24
23,000.00 Term Deposit (Note I) $ 20,00I.42
2,I08.00 Fixed Assets (Note 2) $ I,405.00
33,726.49 Total $ 28,I46.66
REPRESENTED BY:
24,268. 72 Accumulated Funds as at I July $ 33.726.49
9,457.77 Add Net Surplus (Deficit) for Year $ (5,579.83)
___________
$ 33,726. 49 $ 28,I46.66
Notes to Accounts:
Note I: Investments: Currently reinvested with SBS for 94 days @ 7.35% ($II,700 Stella Anderson Reserve and
$8,30I.42 General)
Note 2: Depreciation: The following assets have been depreciated at 33 I/3% DV
Cost Accum.Dep’n Book Value
Laptop Computer & Printer $2,I00 I478 622
Photocopier $2,0I9 I236 783
Note 3: Goods and services Tax: These accounts have been prepared on a GST Inclusive basis.
The Post Polio Support Society of New Zealand Incorporated is not registered for GST
Note 4: Basis of Preparation:
There have been no changes in accounting policy. These accounts have been prepared
on a Receipts and Payments Basis. Subject to Audit.