www.mattscanaantrust.com

A Summer of Love, Wedding Bells and Hope

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:05:06 +0100

A Summer of Love, Wedding Bells and Hope

The original diagnosis of Jason’s cancer was devastating enough for him and partner Annie, but as sole carers of Annie’s two-year-old granddaughter, it was doubly frightening. How would they manage to combine a gruelling treatment regime and visits to the hospital, and provide Lily with the love and care an active toddler needs.

Chemo and radiotherapy can have very debilitating effects on the human body, even whilst attempting to fight the relentless progression of the disease. For Annie and Jason it was a time of courage and stretched resources, as well as a time of reflection, concern about the future, and love.

Lily is now 8, and amidst seeking a school that could provide for her special needs, Jason learned that the cancer had returned to other areas in his body. The oncologists’ prognosis was not good, and the only further treatment they could recommend for him was still fairly new and without any assurances.

That is when Matt’s Canaan Trust was introduced to the family.

Whilst talking to Annie and Jason, it was apparent that they would love to go away as a family, to rest and spend precious time together between the first and second course of Jason’s new treatment. After some Internet research, a perfect location was found in St Just, Cornwall: a picturesque ‘Captain’s Cottage’, one of Hoseason's holidays.

Bookings were made and everything seemed to be in place for the first week of June. But a couple of weeks beforehand, a very sick Jason was admitted to hospital. His blood quality was poor and it was unsure whether he would be well enough to go home, let alone go on holiday to Cornwall from Chichester, where they live.

However, after much prayer, Jason, Annie, Lilly and Bramble the spaniel, left for a desperately needed break, where it was hoped Jason would be able to prepare himself emotionally and mentally for further treatment, and Lilly could enjoy some time on the beach before starting at a special needs school.

Annie writes: ‘The cottage was delightful, beautifully equipped and very comfortable. The weather was, for the most part, very kind to us and we visited most of the local beauty spots, including St Ives, Land’s End, The Lizard, Cape Cornwall, Pendeen Watch and the Geevor Tin Mine, as well as a wonderful picnic day at Senner Beach. My family cannot thank you enough for the respite this break has given us and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Jason even proposed to me on the Sunday morning, and presented me with a beautiful sapphire and diamond ring.’

Jason and Annie are getting married on 14^th August, in the church at the end of their road. All has not been plain sailing since their return, Jason was re-admitted to hospital suffering from de-hydration and several infections. In his own words: ‘last week I was at death’s door, this week, I’m feeling good, continuing with wedding plans and just pottering in the garden.’

Whatever the rest of the summer holds for this special family, we hope they will always remember the precious time they had together, and those memories of love will carry them through to the day of the wedding and beyond …

When Chris Rayner was 13, he complained of excruciating ear pains, yet despite copious visits to the doctors, he was not diagnosed with a Grade IV medulloblastoma immediately. For the next two years, Chris bravely underwent surgery and exhausting chemo and radiotherapy treatment. He and his single mum, Cherie spent his 14^th and 15^th birthdays in hospital with tubes attached to his arm, feeding toxic chemicals into his body, in the hope that, like some trained marksman, they would find and destroy their target.

Before life-threatening illness struck him down, Chris’ passion was Motocross. Accompanied by his granddad, Chris would attend weekend meetings and compete under his personal number 41. The brain tumour and havoc it wreaked in his life has meant that his hobby had to be shelved, and when Chris’ granddad suffered a major stroke, it left him with little hope of ever being able to attend events in the near future.

When Matt’s Canaan Trust were referred to Chris and his mum they were able to arrange for some much needed home decorating, as well as presenting Chris with a special supportive neck brace, in anticipation of him returning to the track. A short break in New York was booked to coincide with Chris’ 16^th birthday, but devastating news following a routine scan revealed another tumour in his brain. Urgent surgery rendered Chris unable to go on his dream trip. Fortunately, we were able to get refunds for the flights and accommodation and the trip has been postponed temporarily. But Chris is determined he wants to fly across the pond as soon as he is declared fit.

Whilst waiting for results from the latest post-op scans, Chris is keeping busy planning a special event at a big track in East Anglia. He aims to complete 41 laps on his motocross bike, decorated in graphics advertising Matt’s Canaan Trust, to raise money to enable us to help other families facing life-threatening illnesses, such as his.

He wants to share his experiences to tell others that they are not alone when facing serious illness. He wants family members and friends of sufferers to be made aware of an adolescent’s feelings and fears when diagnosed with cancer and how best to help them get through the tunnel of adversity and emerge, full of hope, at the other end.

Go Chris - 41 times to be precise! It’s an honour to know you.

Thanks for Matt's Life

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:36:13 +0100

Today marks the 9th anniversary of Matthew's illness.

It all began with a simple request for prayer - "Dad, will you pray for me, I've got a headache."

We thank God for the privilege of being Matt's parents - even though it was for far too short a time. And we thank God for all the lives that have been touched, and changed, by our story, and we include our own in that.

We thank God, that even in the darkest place, He still has a plan, and it is a Master Plan.

We thank God for our son, and the precious gift of his life.

We thank God for His Son and the priceless gift of eternal life.

We love you Matt, infinity and beyond

Mum and Dad

Brighton's First Ever Marathon- Sunday 18th April 2010

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 14:23:08 +0100

With the first ever Brighton Marathon now just over two weeks away, our Fantastic Five runners, who are raising funds to help families through the Trust this year, are all well into their training schedules.

We are very excited because, despite setbacks from some pretty difficult weather conditions, all of our heroes have been able to build their stamina, and are now pacing themselves, in preparation for the big day: Sunday 18th April 2010.

If you haven't encouraged these guys already, or donated money, please consider doing so. This is for a very worthy cause.

Matt's Canaan Trust is a small, family run charity, that offers breaks and help to families dealing with terminal and life-limiting illness.

You can follow the link How You Can Help to donate on this site to donate, or give directly to the individuals, if you know them personally.

Our special heroes are:

Mark Watson

Martin Whiddett

Dominic Timm (Dominic has a dedicated page for his fundraising at: http://www.everydayhero.co.uk/dominic_timm)

Gareth O'Connell

Michael Hartnett

Please support them and give generously - their efforts are an incredible blessing to the Trust, and the families we hope to help this year.

The runners all want to complete the Marathon in just over 4 hours, some aiming to beat their previous best times.

Why not come along on the day and cheer them on?

It promises to be a fantastic event, with the course showcasing a great view of Brighton.

They will be wearing one of our t-shirts round the course, and would be so grateful for a rousing cheer.

You can find details for the event on the official website:

www.brightonmarathon.co.uk

If you'd like to attend the event and want to meet up, please email:

office@mattscanaantrust.com

As Mattie would say - 'Yey!'

Matthew's 21st

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 01:03:36 +0000

It's a difficult dilemma, to try and come to terms with life without Matt, and still live our lives out each day with a sense of purpose. especially when his birthday comes around. I have not died of a broken heart ... I am learning to live with one.

If he were here in skin, we would have celebrated, with joy, the anniversary of his birth. But we are caught in a tension of loss, and desire to commemorate what will always be a precious day for us.

We visited his grave today. Not because he's there, but because it sometimes helps our finite minds to have a tangible focus.

A chubby, confident robin approached us as we got out of the car, and when we verbally acknowledged him, instead of flying off, he hopped closer. He even stayed to eat some nuts and fruit Mark retrieved from the car, seemingly unafraid of us. He followed us to the graveside, just watching, as we arranged the roses and cards. He even grabbed a huge worm from under Mark's shoe, and stayed with us, posing for photos, for our whole visit.

Mattie's robin, I thought - how amazing was that! In some inexplicable way, I know it happened to give us a sense of peace, of wonder - to know that Mattie is free, and safe, yet joined with us in spirit - and we can know joy at the simple, and extraordinary action of a wild bird. The robin did not fly away until we left the graveside.

I sat silently looking out of the window of the car on the journey home and a very distinct 'heart' shape caused by the condensation on the glass, caught my eye. As we drove along in the early evening, the reflection of the street lights along the motorway made the heart seem as if it pulsated, as if it were beating.

I don't know how old my son is, or if age is relevant where he is. But I do know he is alive, and I will see him again one day. Until then, on December 30th each year, we will celebrate the gift that he was to us, for too short a time, and embrace the sadness at his absence.

Love you Matt, infinity and beyond...

Mum and Dad

\00o/

The First Brighton Marathon

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:22:10 +0000

Marathons - are they all Greek to you?

The Marathon is a long-distance foot race of 42.195 kilometres (26 miles and 385 yards) that is usually run as a road race. The event was instituted in commemoration of the fabled run of the Greek soldier Pheidippides, a messenger from the Battle of Marathon (the namesake of the race) to Athens, although the historical accuracy of this legend is in doubt.)

Annually, more than 800 marathons are organized worldwide.

Five of the largest and most prestigious races are run in Boston, New York City, Chicago, London, and Berlin,

The next top 5 take place in Amsterdam, Honolulu, Paris, Rotterdam, and Stockholm. Other notable large marathons include the United States Marine Corps Marathon, Los Angeles, and Rome. The Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon, inspired by the success of the 1896 Olympic marathon and held since 1897. The oldest annual marathon in Europe is the Košice Peace Marathon, held since 1924 in Košice, Slovakia.

At 9am on April 18^th 2010, Brighton hosts its very first Marathon in which over 10,000 runners will participate. Eventually Brighton – or London by the sea - hopes to be a contender for inclusion on the map of revered courses.

Brighton’s planned route around the city and along the coast will be generally fast and reasonably flat. The organisers have worked hard with the city council to come up with an event that tours much of the city of Brighton & Hove, taking in glorious coastal views, whilst aiming to keep disruption to a minimum.

The demand for places was so extreme, they sold out In record time leaving thousands of other would-be marathon runners still in the starting blocks. It’s a sure sign the event will be a hit within the City and further afield, as entrants from as far away as Australia and Thailand demonstrate.

Matt’s Canaan Trust is delighted to have secured 5 Premier places, and is looking for runners to join us for what promises to be a stunning and exciting inaugural Brighton Marathon.

Information – courtesy of Wikipedia and The official Brighton Marathon website: www.brightonmarathon.co.uk where the course and more details can be viewed.

In Celebration of Matthew Leitch 30.12.88 - 24.11.02

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:09:58 +0000

Another anniversary, the seventh, is here and sometimes it's hard to imagine the pain of loss ever diminishing.

Mattie was not just a huge part of our lives, he gave it length and breadth and depth.

He gave it colour.

We are learning to live a very different life to that we hoped for.

We are learning to release feelings of disappointment, and replace them with the realisation of Matthew's achievements during his short life.

We are learning to appreciate that many others are traveling on this road.

And that we have made remarkable progress

We are learning to talk to each other about our pain, and understand our differences.

We are learning to trust that Matt is in a far better place.

But it doesn't stop the missing...

With Jesus in Paradise,

until we meet again,

Love you, infinity and beyond.

Mum and Dad

CHRISTOPHER'S COURAGEOUS STORY

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:41:45 +0100

When Christopher was 12, after complaining of severe head pain, he was misdiagnosed with an ear infection and prescribed courses of antibiotics and olive oil. It took his mum’s tenacity and conviction that something more was wrong, before Chris received the devastating news that he had a Grade 4 brain tumour. The next day, his 13^th birthday, surgeons removed a tumour the size of a golf ball from his head. Gruelling chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed, further battering his young body.

His estranged father committed suicide after learning about Chris’ condition.

For as long as he can remember, Chris has been mad about motor cross. His grandad used to accompany him around the country, enabling him to compete in events. But following Christopher’s illness, his grandad suffered a stroke and is still recovering.

Speaking to Chris’ mum is like witnessing an episode of Holby City, where one trauma quickly follows another. Christopher’s grandmother died suddenly from cancer, 4 years ago, and it is hard to imagine how his mother has managed to cope, let alone remain sane. It is their determination to keep fighting and their strong love for each other that has kept them going against all the curve balls that life has thrown.

Now, aged 15, Christopher is trying to get his life back on track. Although easily fatigued, he has returned to school after an 18 month absence. He has had some individual tutoring and hopes to complete his GCSE course in 2011, and achieve more than his predicted grades. Over the next year, he has to attend hospital every three months, for further scans.

Although his school declined a presentation talk by The Teenage Cancer Trust, Christopher is passionate that people should be educated about this terrifying illness and he wants to help others learn more about symptoms and how to deal with the fear the word cancer can bring, especially to youngsters.

He also desperately wants to be able to take up motor cross again.

Matt’s Canaan Trust was approached, in the hope that we could provide a small gesture of love to this courageous boy and his mum. A small decorating makeover in their house was received as if it was a lottery win. It is our prayer that Chris’ recovery will continue until he is cancer free and, under the banner of an undying maternal love, he will achieve his goals.

Matt's Canaan Trust Newsletter Autumn 2009

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:40:33 +0100

The Matt's Canaan Trust Autumn 2009 newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

Recipients of Your Money

The smallest gesture can make the biggest difference.

For Some It Becomes Us

When the devastating news is about you.

Bonnie and Me

Becky’s Westie, Bonnie, who has been a girl’s best friend.

2009 Fundraising Fun

True grit in the saddle.

Honey, We’re Killing the Kids

Practical tips that could save lives.

Click on the link below to view the newsletter as a PDF file.

Becky Vines - An Inspiration

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:36:13 +0100

Becky was working as an Independence Tutor for young adults with learning difficulties up until May 2008. She loved her students and they adored her. From the first day at work it was obvious she had a natural rapport with them and she was promoted within months. She had just traded in her beloved but unreliable1970's VW Beetle for a modern one, which she promptly covered with bright flower transfers. When I mentioned that she might have devalued the car in doing this she said, "I don't really care Mum, all I know is, it makes everyone smile"

During the month of May she noticed her right foot felt heavy and then started to drag a little. A brain scan revealed a large mass, and Becky was operated on the very next day. The doctors removed what they thought was all the tumour, but caused damage to her motor area which resulted in right sided weakness. After two traumatic weeks in hospital, and unable to sit up in bed, she was transferred to a local stroke unit for rehabilitation.

However the next day we received a phone call to say her post-op scan revealed there was more tumour on her brain. This meant a further craniotomy and another two weeks in hospital, although she wasn't as ill post op, and no further damage was caused. Characteristically she had me wheeling her around the shops near the hospital three days later.

We were informed our precious daughter had a grade three mixed glioma (anaplastic oligoastrocytoma)

I never left her side for more than couple of hours in the whole month she was in hospital, sleeping on the floor next to her bed. When we brought her home, we adapted our front room for her bed and care, as she couldn't sit up unaided, never mind walk. But Becky is a very strong and determined young woman. One morning, after six weeks of complete paralysis in her right arm and hand, she’d managed to move her right thumb in the night, and was so excited she stayed awake until the next morning in case it stopped.

Each day a little more movement came back and now Becky can move her whole arm, although it remains weak. Her right toes are still paralysed, but as Becky says, she can easily manage without them! She walks with a pronounced limp but this hasn't stopped her walking for miles with her West Highland Terrier, Bonnie, and she now attends the gym regularly.

Following the operations, Becky was referred to an oncologist at Lincoln but he prescribed PCV chemotherapy instead of radiotherapy. When we asked him if it would affect her fertility he questioned why we were even worrying about fertility, as the majority of patients with Becky's type of tumour only survived one to two years.

It was devastating news, as no one had even told us Becky’s condition could not be cured, and he told us in such a cruel and cold way - never once looking at Becky or asking if she had any questions. We have since learned that 5% of patients with this type of tumour do survive over four years and a few survive after ten years.

The next day our GP referred us to Professor Brada at the Royal Marsden in London, for a second opinion. He said the PCV was inappropriate and Becky should start six weeks radiotherapy immediately and we were referred to Dr Levy at Weston Park, Sheffield. We found out later that radiotherapy should have been started within three weeks of operation and the Lincoln oncologist's reason for not sanctioning that treatment was because the scan showed the tumour was still too large. Shockingly we discovered he was shown the original scan in error!

In October 2008 Becky finally began six weeks of radiotherapy which entailed a five hour round trip every day. One of our lowest points was the first day when the consultant explained traces of a Grade Four had been detected in the tumour tissue. This meant that she would have to start Temozolomide chemo at the same time. Becky was devastated when told that it would probably make her infertile. She had always yearned for children, but now it seemed unlikely. However, true to form, our Becky bounced back within days and just accepted her situation. Her GP has told her she could have a baby through IVF with an egg donor and in true Becky style she decided it would be better than her own eggs anyway as she didn't want her children to be chubby and wear glasses!

Dr Levy was concerned about us travelling backwards and forwards to Sheffield every day and tried his hardest to persuade Becky to stay on the ward. She gave in to him and stayed for one night, but announced the next day she was going home as she was not ill, and the bed would be better used for someone who needed it! Once her radiotherapy was finished she went on to a six month course of chemo, which she tolerated well. In June 2009, her scan was completely clear and she now has six monthly scans.

I think she is an inspiration to others that may be facing such a poor prognosis. In a year Becky has gone from being bed ridden to being able to walk unaided. She lives on her own in a rented cottage in our village with her beloved Bonnie and three chickens. I have only ever seen her really cry with self pity on three occasions. Once when she first came home in a wheelchair and we had a major task just to get her into our small cottage. She just gets on with things and enjoys life to the full. She is loved by everyone in our village and has countless mobile phone numbers in case she ever needs anything: she falls over quite a lot and occasionally can't get herself up again. Bonnie goes everywhere with her and if Bonnie can't go, then neither can Becky!

The most important thing to Becky has always been her family and since her illness we have all found time to be together as much as possible. We had a wonderful family holiday in Cornwall in July 2009, thanks to Matt’s Canaan Trust, and we have such special memories of it that mean everything to us, especially to her brother, Dan. In addition to Cornwall, this summer she has been to a Take That concert, Russell Brand's O2 gig and met him afterwards, a Youth Cancer Trust break in Bournemouth, Mamma Mia in the West End, a weekend with her friend staying on Portobello Road, London, Lake District with her grandma, oh and got herself a boyfriend!

Last night she announced that she thinks its time she went back to work! It was very tempting to try and talk her out of it but I understand she needs to get her life back as much as possible. Becky is ringing her boss to discuss going back a couple of afternoons a week to start with. We all know that statistics are pretty grim for this condition, but miracles do happen and if anyone had told us what Becky would be doing one year on from that awful day of her diagnosis we would never have dared to hope for such a miracle.

Claire Vines – Becky’s mum – September 2009

CAN YOU RIDE TANDEM?

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 21:44:34 +0100

Paste this link onto your web browser

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UenzNJztr4g&feature=related (tailor made for Mark, with his bilingual and cycling abilities!)

Hot on the trail of his triathlon success, and following a summer of continued arduous training, Tuff Fitty Mark is off in the saddle again on Sunday 6^th September. But this time it is to revisit old territory as he once more takes part in the London (Richmond) to Windsor Bike Ride. He is being joined on the trail by his stalwart companions, Javid Rashid, Mike Shears and Paul (Mitch) Mitchell. But this year is slightly different, in as much as Mark is riding tandem with Tommy Parvin, 12, who has bravely volunteered to partner Mark, despite a sight impairment, and is joined by George Parvin, Tommy's brother and four lovely young stewardesses from British Airways, namely Denise Gray, Sam Stephenson, Katherine Totini & Zoe Bates

There is great expectation for this strong team to perform PBs on the day, in preparation for the 2012 Olympics, and a welcoming committee will be there to cheer them past the finish line at Alexander Gardens, Windsor. If you fancy joining us, please do so from 1pm onwards. Refreshments, music and entertainment are available on site at the finish.

Now, where's the gel shorts?

IT IS FINISHED

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:44:49 +0100

I’ve done it! I’ve finished my first triatholon, and am now officially a triathlete.

After 3 months intense training, and membership to theTuff-Fitty Triathlon Club in Littlehampton, I am now a fully affiliated member of the ‘hooked on triathlons brigade’.

On the good advice of a colleague at British Airways, I chose the picturesque Blenheim Palace as the backdrop for putting my young body through its first test of endurance racing, little realizing I would have neither the time nor the inclination to admire the architecture or gardens of that fine stately home.

Saturday 6^th June 2009 - the heavens opened and the rain poured down.

Scheduled off in the first wave of the super sprint event with 200 others, and bearing number 320 on my chest, I concentrated on staying calm, remembering where my bike was parked in the transition area, and praying I could quickly extricate myself from my wetsuit after the swim. (The latter being something not yet experienced under pressure and in the torrential rain that accompanied us for the entire day.) The only time I had practiced getting out of the suit was when Lynette was away one weekend and it took me over an hour to peel it off, dry!

The lake water registered a balmy 18ºC, and felt quite warm through my new Billabong wetsuit and tri-suit underneath. Excited and nervous I jumped in to the lake with the others, only to feel my feet and ankles disappear in a foot of soft, gluey mud. I quickly recovered from the weird sensation of being sucked into the depths, and came back up to join the others at the start. I could make out the turning point at the orange buoy and the finish line, 400 metres away, and counted my blessings a clerical error had entered me for the super sprint, instead of the sprint, which was double the distances.

Dead on 10am the Klaxon sounded and away we went: heads, arms and feet flailing in every direction. Spectators commented that we looked like a huge school of dolphins leaping across the lake. Unlike all my practice sessions in the local swimming pool, I couldn't see a thing. The water was dark, my goggles misted up and I found myself hemmed in on all sides by other participants, experienced athletes and novices alike. Undeterred, I fought my way through the murky waters to be pulled out of the lake by helpful stewards in 40^th place to continue to the next stage.

A long, uphill run of 400m on coir matting in the relentless rain brought me to the transition area and my bike, inconspicuously lined up with 199 others. I was rewarded for my efforts with loud cheers from Lyn, my mum and brother, looking on and trying to capture the moment on video.

I managed to remove the wetsuit, seemingly super-glued to my torso, in 5 minutes – a personal best - mind you it was my first attempt in those conditions. I donned my bike shoes and hat whilst running and steering my new shiny Specialized Allez, number 320 was finally on his way around the bike course. Head down, shoes clipped in, and wind and rain lashing into my body, I bravely went where no man had been before, (well no one from Star Trek anyway) on the 2 x 5k laps around the palace. The distance tested my ability to change bikes gears efficiently, and my stamina and determination as I passed others and others passed me! Only a couple of the latter, mind you, but flat out at tremendous speed.

Not long into the ride, my right foot developed pins and needles and then numbness. I presumed it was because of the cold and rain but pressed on, not realizing that my timer chip was attached too tightly to my right ankle. Finally, the two laps completed and drenched from Heavens waters and wheel spray, I disembarked and ran to the transition area again for the final change over.

Clinging and soaked bike shoes finally off, I battled to force my wet feet into dry-ish socks and trainers and headed off in the wrong direction on the run. To the helpful shouts of onlookers, I turned around, grabbed my T-shirt as I passed my bike again and set off for the last challenge. My right foot was by now completely numb, as I considered whether to see a medic, but decided it was only a short 5km run once around the lake, and I could do so at the finish line

With hindsight perhaps I should have stopped and changed the chip to the other leg, allowing the blood to flow freely, maybe it would have reached my brain!

I struggled on, though not at my usual panther pace (more like a penguin), until, 15 minutes later, the end was in sight.

Stopping briefly to pose for the press and cameras ( well, you have to consider your fans, don’t you?) I spotted my mum, brother and wife who had been loyally cheering me all the way around the rain-soaked course, that now resembled a quagmire. So much for beautiful Blenheim!

My emotions got the better of me as I hugged Lyn, crying with joy and relief from months of training and fund raising in memory of my darling boy, Matt and all those families out there who are facing the devastating reality of terminal illness.

Thank you so much, everyone, and my generous British Airways crew colleagues, for all your support.

£1200 was raised, which should yield another £300 through Gift Aid.

It is finished!

Well, maybe I could be persuaded to do another triathlon – after all, I’ve got the equipment and the bug!

If anyone’s interested in joining me on a future venture, please get in touch – I’d love to have your company.

God Bless

Mark

Triathlon Man coming to a town near you?

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:56:13 +0100

Well, scorching temperatures aside, things are certainly hotting up in the Leitch household. With only five days to go before Mark attempts his first triathlon, the training schedule has taken over the sedentary life I once knew. Actually, I’m only a little more active than normal, but mentally I’m constantly challenged to remember which particular exercise Mark should be doing on what day of the week. My culinary and nutritional knowledge is also being put to the test to produce complex carb and protein meals to satisfy and sustain this fit whippet I’m married to!

Now a member of the Littlehampton ‘Tough Fitties’, Mark is often found at the swimming pool, polishing up on his acquatic techniques, including swimming only using one arm. I did wonder if that meant he swum around in circles, to be politely told that only happens if you use one oar in a boat - and only then if, like me, you’re not really very good at rowing!

On alternate days, he practices running the required distance, attends a ‘spinning class’ (going all out on a fixed bike for an hour, that doesn’t ever get you anywhere) or speeds off on his newly acquired racing bike proper, that does everything, except inspire me to get on it. Essential items of equipment lurk around every corner, waiting to trip me up or, in the case of the wet suit, catapult towards me in a frenzied attack from behind the bedroom door.

It’s a relief to know we are in possession of the correct size of wetsuit now, since the first couple of attempts threatened to entrap Mark’s new svelte figure permanently. I was away for a couple of days recently, when I received a text saying his new wetsuit was great, and he wished he could be a frogman. The following text merely stated he might have to remain in it for the weekend, as he couldn’t get it off!

So on Saturday 6^th June Mark will be in the lake at Blenheim Palace at 10am, hoping to complete his first triathlon and win in his age group on behalf of his very special son. The swim will be followed by a dash to mount his bike, divesting wet suit as he runs, a challenging bike ride and finally a sprint to the finish line. I shall try to keep in close proximity to take some candid shots of my husband, of whom, I am ineffably proud. He has really enjoyed preparing for this event and I feel sure it won’t be the last we hear of ‘Triathlon Man’ who has become incredibly fond of all his lycra outfits.

On a serious note, thanks to Mark’s sterling commitment, the generosity of collegues at British Airways and all those who support the Trust, we are already able to offer two very special families holidays this summer. Their individual situations are extremely tough, and we are inspired by their courage. I’ll be reporting on their progress soon.

Meanwhile, your prayers are much appreciated, and watch this space – I will publish the evidence of success and all things lycra.

Blazing Saddles

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 18:34:52 +0000

It definitely feels like Spring is in the air: the sky is a vivid shade of blue, the sun is shining, making it feel quite warm here on England’s south coast, and Mark is mowing the lawn.

Aside from that necessary chore, he is also training in earnest for his first Triathlon attempt at Blenheim Palace on 6^th June. He will be attempting to swim 750 metres, cycle 20 kilometres and finish with a 5 kilometres run. Training was suspended for a month, due to a nasty hamstring injury, sustained in a body combat class at the gym. But rest, and a sensible return to training has rendered our stalwart fundraiser fit once more to tackle some serious projects this year.

Mark is hoping people will generously sponsor him with £5 for the triathlon. His goal is to raise £5000 and finish first in his age group. Colleagues at British Airways are already answering his appeal so that Matt’s Canaan Trust can provide more worthy holidays this year.

Acutely aware of the current economic climate and the fact that we have all just been targeted to give to Comic Relief and its worthy causes, we are especially grateful to those who have already donated. If you would like to support us, please visit our website www.mattscanaantrust.com where you can donate online. Alternatively, payments can be made by cheque or credit card, as detailed below.

Following Matthew’s terminal diagnosis, Mark and I gave up our jobs to nurse him at home for 19 months, during which time, we were almost solely supported by the unselfish donations of family, friends and strangers. We did not miss one mortgage repayment on our house, were able to pay all our bills on time, provide Matt with the best care, and gave away more money to other charities than we had ever done in our lives before.

All of that to say, however little you can afford to give can make a huge impact when it is all added up. We were so thankful then for the help we received, and it is our life’s passion to be able to provide a helping hand to others facing life-limiting illness. With plans underway to enable our first two families this year to take a holiday, we’d like to ask for your help to raise the finances.

If you fancy joining Mark on other events he has planned for 2009, please check your diaries and get in touch if you can join us to take part, or just cheer him on:

6^th September 2009 – Richmond to Windsor Bike Ride

26th September 2009 50k Brighton Bike Ride – check out more details on www.bikeevents.com

Please call 01903 779207 if you wish to donate by credit or debit card or send Cheques made payable to Matt's Canaan Trust to:

5 Willowhayne Close, Angmering on Sea, BN16 1PF

Matt's Canaan Trust Newsletter Winter 2008

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 20:05:39 +0000

The Matt's Canaan Trust Winter 2008 newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

Jessica Cannons

Six months on and Jessica continues her courageous fight.

Do They Know…

As many look forward to the festive season, there are some for whom Christmas will never be the same.

Canaan Press News

More releases planned as Canaan Press continues to support other authors and donate to Matt's Canaan Trust.

London to Brighton

An unofficial biker takes on the challenge of the Sussex Downs.

Click on the link below to view the newsletter as a PDF file.

That was the summer that was!

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:43:09 +0100

Well, the weather certainly wasn't what we'd all hoped for - but it has been a busy summer for the Trust - and Canaan Press.

However, despite referrals, we have only been able to help one family in desperate need, take a holiday together this summer, and provide finances for another family to better enjoy the summer months at their home. We are currently working with a family whose young daughter has cancer, and hope to report further on that in our next newsletter.

Meanwhile, please keep checking back for updates – and let us know of any families you think we could help.

Mark & Lynette

GO DAD!

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:37:52 +0100

On Father’s Day, Sunday 15^th June 2008, Mark Leitch is making his first attempt to complete the annual London to Brighton bike ride and, once again has managed to find willing friends and colleagues to sponsor his efforts.

Huge thanks go to all those amazing people who have once again dug deep in their pockets, amidst worries of a recession in the UK economy. Many are feeling the financial pinch, as petrol prices race ahead, house prices tumble and the daily rise in the cost of living is a huge concern.

Mark gets home from a very chilly Johannesburg early on Friday morning. After a resting day on Saturday, he’ll don his special gel-padded cycling shorts and join friends (including Nicky Carsons, who recently completed her first triathlon for the Trust) at 4am on Sunday for a coach journey to the capital, before heading back down to Brighton and a soothing warm bath.

If you live en-route, please look out for this determined Dad as he rides the 54 miles from Clapham Common to Brighton for his boy. And give him an encouraging cheer. British Airways have consented to him wearing his uniform for the race - but he won't be available to get you any drinks from the First Class bar!

Go Mark, all of us are very proud of you! You are the best dad – we love you - infinity and beyond. Linny & Matt \0o/

The Good the Bad and The Ugly!

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 16:57:02 +0100

We are being bombarded with warnings about cutting down our consumption of processed food. To help you sort the good from the bad and the ugly, here’s some info and tips. Go ahead – read it – make my day!

In western society we are using more and more processed food because changing habits mean life no longer revolves around a family kitchen in which the household food is prepared freshly from raw ingredients.

We eat relatively few foods in a natural, raw state and very many of the most familiar foods we use everyday are processed in one way or another, such as:

Bread and cakes, pasta, mayonnaise, ice cream, beer, wine and spirits, chocolate,

Processed foods transported long distances from the point of manufacture, and which spend time on the shelf before they are eaten, have many chemical additives in order to meet their shelf life

Top Ten Reasons to Avoid Processed Foods

1. Please your mum! Yes – Mums are right of course. At the very least you should eat the recommended 5-a-day of fruit and veg.

2. Addictive! Processed foods contain refined sugar, extra salt, and other flavor enhancers. Not only are these often unhealthy, but also we become addicted to them. They dull our taste buds to natural flavors. The result? A need to eat more processed foods to get the taste you want, and natural foods that don't seem to taste as good as they should.

3. Unhealthy!  Countless chemicals, all with weird sounding names, are added to foods so that they will stay fresh longer, or to enhance color. If you can’t pronounce it, it probably isn’t good for you.

4. Hidden Extras!  Processed foods often contain hidden sugar, salt, and fat. All three of these contribute to health problems!

5. Mystery Ingredients!  Many processed foods are filled with strange parts and pieces. For example, hot dogs contain "edible offal": animal skin, snouts, ears, esophagi, etc.

6. Few Nutrients! Processing takes a lot of the nutrients out of nutrient-rich foods. You get little that your body needs.

7. Fortified with Synthetics! To make up for the loss of nutrients during processing, synthetic vitamins and minerals are added. Although helpful, these synthetics are not as healthy as their natural counterparts.

8. Wrong Market! When you spend money on processed foods, you encourage growth in this market. Spending your money on fruits and vegetables, preferably organic, encourages others to enter this market. Buy local or organic produce, it's more expensive but tastes better.

9. Lose Money! Although! fruits and vegetables often appear to be expensive, they are often less expensive than processed foods. Fresh broccoli can cost £0.78/lb, while frozen broccoli can cost £1.19/lb. Tinned vegetables should not be counted in the five-a-day, as they are processed.

10. They're Dead! Much of the goodness is cooked or processed out of our foods. We do not benefit from the enzymes and nutrients the foods normally contain in either their raw or unrefined state.

Some daily papers have recently reported that one sausage a day can SIGNIFICANTLY raise the risk of bowel cancer, because it’s a form of processed.

Research shows, eating 1.8oz (50g) of processed meat a day (one sausage or 3 rashers of bacon) raises the likelihood of bowel cancer by a FIFTH,

Bowel cancer claims 16,000 lives a year. Lung cancer is the only form of the disease that KILLS more.

100 cases of bowel cancer are diagnosed every day in the UK.

Processed meats are those preserved by SMOKING, SALTING and any other method apart from freezing. So this includes bacon, ham, pastrami, salami and hot dogs.

Sausages, hamburgers and mince fall into the bracket if they have been preserved with salt or chemical additives. Read the labels.

LIVE RADIO INTERVIEW

Sat, 12 Apr 2008 15:09:25 +0100

What’s it all about? After attending a recent book launch by Canaan Press, Patrick Woodward from Splash FM in Worthing, was impacted by Matthew’s story. Hear him ask Mark and Lynette what it meant to live out their faith in the light of their son’s terminal illness and death and how one small step can change lives. Click on the following link: http://www.revivalmedia.org/media/audio/FL/matt.wma

Global Warming? Not brrrr-likely!

Sat, 12 Apr 2008 14:35:04 +0100

With sunshine, blue skies and temperatures comfortably suggesting Spring had truly sprung, no one could have foreseen what last Sunday really had in store for triathlon novice Nicky Carsons. Psyched-up and ready with the other entrants for an early start, Nicky waited her turn to begin with the 400metre swim. In a very short space of time, this part of the south coast was covered in a thick layer of snow, causing havoc to those ahead on the second leg, the 20 kilometre bike ride. A few brave challengers had even made it as far as the final 5 kilometre run but it soon became apparent the triathlon would have to be called off as conditions were becoming dangerous and some participants were suffering major effects from the sudden snowfall and change in temperature, even to the point of hypothermia.

Nicky was understandably frustrated at not being allowed to attempt what she had diligently trained for and felt she had let her sponsors, and us, down. But the reality is, no one completed the triathlon that day, due to adverse weather conditions. Undeterred, Nicky has quickly signed up for another triathlon attempt on 5^th May in Tonbridge, convinced she will be fitter, stronger and faster in four weeks time. Surely it can’t possibly snow in England on 5^th May! Can it? Be sure to check back for updates.

Our support and thanks go out to her as she continues her rigorous training and commitment to raise funds for Matt’s Trust. And our prayers for her son’s complete recovery from a recent, serious snow-boarding accident in Colorado. He’s undergone a major operation to repair his sinuses and put a plate in his facial bones.

Matt's Canaan Trust Newsletter Spring 2008

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 18:43:15 +0100

The Matt's Canaan Trust Spring 2008 newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

Rising To The Challenge

Matthew’s dad, Mark, is inspired to choose swimming as his most recent challenge to raise much needed funds for the Trust.

Jessica's Story

A mum's heartfelt plea for some sponsorship to spoil her very special daughter.

Help Us To Search For A Family…

Is there a family you know who desperately need some time-out from life's difficult circumstances?

A Publisher's Rejection Slip Spells Success

Another chapter in Matt's story is written as Canaan Press unveils new releases.

The Estate Agentathlon

Not included in the usual estate agent's package, but some inspiring fundraising from Nicky.

Click on the link below to view the newsletter as a PDF file.

LITTLE BRITAIN INSPIRES LITTLEHAMPTON

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:41:48 +0000

After meeting David Walliams, Matt’s Canaan Trust co-founder, Mark Leitch was inspired to Rise to the Challenge and swim to raise money for Sport Relief and his charity, in memory of his son Matthew, a keen swimmer, who died from a brain tumour, aged thirteen.

Mark, a British Airways steward, was encouraged when David told him he was doing a noble thing with the charity which provides holidays for families facing life-limiting illness. Although Mark hasn’t got immediate plans to attempt to follow David across the Channel or the Straits of Gibraltar, he and four friends each completed a mile swim in under 40 minutes. The Esporta Health Club in Rustington made its 25 metre pool available for the event on Sport Relief Sunday, March 16th.

The other aqua-heroes were Chris Evans, not the one with red hair and glasses and Phillip Atherton and his two sons, Patrick, fourteen and Fin eleven, all from the Littlehampton area. Patrick has competed at county level, Fin is a keen, all-round sportsman, having played criket before the swim; Chris is an over fifty tri-athlete and Phil is an accountant, putting his head for figures to good use counting lengths.

The Fearless Five didn’t encounter any sharks, dolphins or whales, but managed to raise a healthy sum to donate to the two worthy causes. Mark said it was a privilege to be part of something as life-changing as Sport Relief and to honour his son’s memory. Well done everyone and heartfelt thanks from Matt's Canaan Trust.

(Picture from left to right: Mark, Chris, Phil, Patrick and Fin)

Plastic Imperfection

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:52:08 +0000

In answer to an email that is doing the rounds, concerning what Sheryl Crow is purported to have said about drinking water stored in plastic bottles, left in warm temperatures causing breast cancer, I'd like to add my take on that.

Plastics have in fact been linked to cancer, especially hormonal cancers like prostate and breast. But as with everything we hear, we have to weigh the information against common sense. The worry is that many people in learning it's dangerous to drink water stored in plastic bottles and left in warm temperatures, would either stop drinking bottled water, or stop drinking bottled water that they had left in their cars, and think everything was OK . The isssue of toxic xenoestrogens and plastics goes FAR beyond water bottles. Consider plastic food storage, cooking in the microwave using plastic containers or plastic wrap, packaging of processed foods, the gasses emitted from every plastic item in our homes... the list goes on and on. Of course it's worth mentioning that water is not the culprit in those bottles... fruit juice, pop, sports drinks, kids' drinks... if it's in plastic, it's toxic.

We live in a very toxic society, where dangerous chemicals surround us every second of the day. To isolate one toxic component, like heated plastic water bottles is to miss the point. Taken out of context, little snippets of information like that can cause more harm than good.

The truth is, we need to ensure we drink a decent amount of (ideally) filtered water every day, (2 1/2 litres is good - see article 'Living Water') to properly hydrate our bodies - and as far as possible, avoid storing it too long in any container made up of toxic materials. i.e. plastic. We also need to eat a well-balanced, as far as possible fresh diet, including lots of vegetables, fruit, nuts, sprouts and good oils, to assist our immune system to combat illness, and take regular daily exercise. Oh - and don't forget to relax, unwind - and have a television, computer, electronic gizmo free-day every so often too! There's a lot to be said for spending quality time in the company of family and friends doing whatever brings you joy.

Be aware - be blessed!

Mark

Rising to the Challenge

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:13:32 +0000

On the 16th March 2008, Matthew’s Dad Mark will team up with Phillip Atherton, his son Patrick Atherton, and Chris Evans to RISE TO THE CHALLENGE and each swim a mile in support of Matt's Canaan Trust and Sport Relief.

The aquatic four will also be racing against the clock, each hoping to complete their target within an hour. They intend to wear the Sport Relief socks during their swim, as long as the drag doesn’t hold them back from achieving their goal!

Patrick, aged thirteen, is an accomplished swimmer, having competed for West Sussex County. At 10, he won a medal in the Medley Relay. His favourite stroke is backstroke and he has a collection of swimming hats, necessary to prevent his long locks hindering his performance in the water.

Phillip Atherton, fast and funny father of three is married to Gill and lives in Rustington. Known for a worthy impersonation of Ziggy Stardust, Phil will be swapping his silver lurex coat and Ziggy wig for his bathers to rise to the mile challenge. His is likely to attempt the challenge doing breast stroke, as it is his fastest style.

Father of two, Chris Evans - not the one with red hair and glasses - lives in Littlehampton with his wife and runs his own computer business in Worthing. As a super veteran triathlete, the mile swim shouldn’t pose too many problems for Chris.

Mark is training hard this year - swimming and cycling - and hopes to raise further much needed funds for Matt’s Trust as well as contributing to the Sport Relief appeal. Mark met David Walliams on board a BA flight last year and was encouraged by the celebrity to keep raising funds for a worthy and honourable cause. Perhaps the Channel next time then Mark?

If you are interested in sponsoring the Fab Four - please get in touch - lynette@mattscanaantrust.com and we’ll send you details. If you are a UK tax payer, you can also Gift Aid your donation. Forms are available by e-mail or post.

Matt's Canaan Trust Newsletter Winter 2007

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 09:20:48 +0000

The Matt's Canaan Trust Winter 2007 newsletter is now available to download.

In this issue:

Glad to be back
Finally Michelle and her dad revisit a place of happy memories

Tea on the terrace
Len with Aiden and Erin in France

Special times for Tamzin and family

Not the Hairy Bikers
Catch up with the intrepid cyclists as they brave the open roads

How you can help…
There are lots of ways you can continue to help Matt's Canaan Trust enable families to enjoy much needed time away

News from Canaan
Encouraging stories

Click on the link below to view the newsletter as a PDF file.

Encouraging Stories

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:24:04 +0000

Nursing Matthew at home and since his death, we have gleaned much information reinforcing our belief that a healthy diet and lifestyle, whilst no guarantee against illness, goes a long way in strengthening our immune systems and helping our bodies fight disease.

We are passionate about sharing our knowledge and are always encouraged to hear reports from others who have been inspired by our story or discovered for themselves that a healthier lifestyles can help in the battle against serious illnesses and hopefully prolong our lives.

Laura Canning

Laura Canning is one such lady diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, who adopted a healthy change of lifestyle inspired by Matthew’s diet and the fact that he survived his eight week prognosis by seventeen months. That was in 2003. Today Laura is well and living life to the full, convinced that her decision to eat and drink healthily has given her a second chance.

Dan Baskerville

Dawn and Brian Baskerville were shocked when surgery revealed their 26 year old son-in-law, Dan, had a fast growing cancer in his abdomen. What could have been the first and last Christmas for their newly married daughter and her husband was the start of a journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Whilst awaiting conventional treatment and through consultations with an holistic doctor, they helped Dan completely change his processed and junk food diet to one which included balanced meals and lots of water instead of his preferred sodas. Dawn recalls, “What I liked about this doctor’s approach was that Dan wasn’t made to fear for his life if he succumbed to the odd treat whilst adjusting to his new diet."

Dan has recently received his five year all-clear from cancer and Dawn is thankful for her son-in-law’s health, convinced the decisions they all made that Christmas in 2002 has changed their lives.

Not The Hairy Bikers!

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:21:38 +0000

On Sunday 2nd September 2007, Mark Leitch and three friends completed the Richmond to Windsor Bike Ride to raise much needed funds for Matt's Canaan Trust.

For some a grueling 37 miles, but for others a chance to show off their ostentatious lycra and funky helmets!

The boys crossed the Richmond start line in formation at 10.20 and were later cheered into the Tent of Triumph at Alexander Gardens, Windsor where refreshments and entertainment awaited them; even a suckling pig was roasted for the occasion. Javid Rajah arrived first in around 2 hours 30 minutes followed by Mike Shears, Mark Leitch and Paul Mitchell.

Javid Rajah is dad to two of Matthew’s oldest friends from pre-school who remained close to him right up to his death in 2002. Mike Shears is a long-time friend and Trustee and has raised considerable money for Matt’s charity over the past 5 years. Paul Mitchell, himself a dad and supporter, dusted off his bike and enthusiastically took on the challenge to show he cares.

This yearly Bike Event was hosted again by Bowel Cancer UK and participants were invited to raise money for their individual charities as well. The brave musketeers took to the saddle and raised in excess of £1200 before Gift Aid.

Our heartfelt thanks go to them for their valiant efforts and to their sponsors whose generosity will ensure another family can enjoy a special holiday in 2008.

In The Pipeline

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:19:57 +0000

As 2007 draws to a close we are already planning to help even more needy families next year.

We are currently in touch with devoted single mum Debbie McLean and hoping to arrange a break for her and her two children in the February half term.

Thomas is sixteen and has an inoperable brain tumour that causes him frequent sickness, fatigue, headaches and mood swings. He is trying to complete some of his studies at college but it is a daunting task and unlikely he will be able to undertake full-time employment due to his debilitating condition.

His sister Holly is fifteen and since her brother’s illness manifested seven years ago, she has missed out on many of the usual things young people take for granted whilst helping her mum care for her brother. Holly is struggling to find a reason to carry on with life which has dealt her family such harsh blows.

The role of Matt’s Canaan Trust is not that of counsellor or to provide solutions to the many problems people face dealing with life-limiting illness but it is our hope to offer a brief respite, an opportunity for loved ones to spend precious time away from their devastating circumstances and to show them there are people who care.

It is all too easy to feel overwhelmed or overlooked by administration and systems. We have an opportunity to act quickly at a personal level and express our compassion on behalf of us and our supporters.

Debbie and her children have already faced homelessness three times. With your help in 2008, we can show we care by extending our love to more families like them.

Dan's Story

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:23:46 +0000

The story began just three months after my daughter Soraya’s wedding. Her husband Dan had a sudden onset of acute abdominal pain and was rushed to hospital. Surgery revealed that a fast growing cancer had burst into his abdomen. It was devastating news, Soraya was 21 and Dan just 26 years old; the outlook for that Christmas was grim.

Although the actual tumour had been removed we were warned there was a high risk of the cancer spreading. Chemotherapy was not scheduled to begin until after Christmas and so I took the opportunity of booking an appointment with an holistic doctor in Brighton, with Dan’s approval. It cost us our savings but was to be the best money we had ever spent! Whilst acknowledging the seriousness of Dans condition he was also very hopeful and prescribed supplements for Dan to take immediately. The main one was curcummin, a natural anti carcinogenic which was only in powder form at that time was drunk as a paste-like tonic mixture to boost his immune system, buffer the effects of chemotherapy and help protect his liver.

Much more could be done by Dan himself that involved some radical changes in diet. The doctor wanted to know exactly what Dan ate and drank and then outlined an eating plan he believed would reduce the risk of recurrence. Dan at this point was concerned enough to try anything, albeit very tentatively. To his credit he made the all changes including drinking pure water. Although he never drank water, complaining he didn’t like the taste, he agreed to substitute that for his usual sodas and squash.

He also ate mainly vegetarian meals, avoiding red meat altogether and eating white meat only occasionally as a treat. Dan ate mainly organic and whole meal foods. Highly processed fatty foods were to be avoided including burger-type fast food meals and white bread both of which had been a large part of his diet. What I liked about the doctor’s approach was that if Dan lapsed and ate the odd unhealthy food item he wasn’t made to fear for his life! We all attended a seminar giving further health advice like not to use a microwave to cook as it alters the energy around food which changes it to a similar energy field found around cancers. Dan also started using natural deodorant, soap, washing up liquid and washing powder. and we were advised how to seek healthier alternatives.

The changes made us feel more optimistic about the months ahead as Dan faced the ravages of chemotherapy. He had sperm frozen, as permanent or partial loss of virility is a real danger after such treatment. However two years later we were all delighted with the birth of Emily, and then two years after that, Toby. Now, five years later, Dan has been declared cancer free and we continue to count our blessings and give thanks to God for his amazing recovery.

Dawn Baskerville - 2007

Recommended reading The Hope of Living Cancer Free by Francisco Contreras.

The Ten Commandments of Staying Healthy

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:22:59 +0000

1. Enjoy your food! That’s right, don’t rush it, stand up and eat it or bolt something down when you’re starving. Savour the flavours! Eat slowly, chewing each mouthful at least 10 times to prepare the acids in your stomach for food breakdown. That way your body will extract more nutrients from each meal. Try and identify what the different ingredients are - the main ones and the extras like herbs or spices. Think about what you are eating and how it got to your plate.

2. Take your time, sit down, share the time with others. Don’t sit in front of the tele, the computer or the fridge stuffing your face! Mealtimes throughout much of Europe are a special time for people to be together, to share their thoughts, their day with others. It is a time when people take time to listen to people. Go on try it! Ask someone you know round to share a meal if you know they live alone.

3. Thou shalt avoid any form of aspartame (or artificial sweetener whatsoever!) Originating from a laboratory accident - these hazardous chemicals can cause severe side effects including headaches and seizures. Methanol is 10% of Aspartame's molecular structure and when that is broken down by the human body it becomes formaldehyde (yes, embalming fluid) Every single monkey in one study developed seizures and it has been linked with countless illnesses from brain cancer to depression. Make sure you read labels - aspartame is found not only in diet sodas but ‘no added sugar’ fruit squashes, breakfast cereals, instant coffee and tea, gelatines, puddings and as a flavour enhancer/sugar substitute in chewing gums. Heating it makes it even more dangerous. Methanol is a toxin that builds up in the body and even small amounts have been known to kill. Also try and cut down on sugar intake - especially pay attention to labels on prepared food items. If you have a sweet tooth - try a little natural honey.

4. Drink lots of water - plain and simple Ideally we should try to drink 8 large glasses a day - that’s 2 1/2 litres of the plainest water you can find. With more than 50% of our bodies being made up of water - replenishing it is essential to life. And the more you drink the better your body’s chance of living healthily. It doesn’t have to be designer labelled, and definitely not fizzy. Not substituted with tea, coffee, squash, alcohol - or even juice - JUST WATER. Don’t complicate things. Your body is most often thirsty - not hungry. And don’t wait for a dry mouth - drink it anyway. Half an hour before meals and then about 2 hours afterwards are optimum times. AND GIVE UP COKES AND SODAS! Remember, your immune system is caught up for 4 hours after each can of sweetened fizzy drink you have - that’s plenty of time for viruses to take hold.

5. Know your FATS - the good, the bad and the positively ugly. Lets face it, fat has suffered some pretty bad press over the years. The bottom line is we need some types to help oil the complex machine that is our body, but we definitely don’t need to consume dangerous products. ALL HYDROGENATED OILS have been heat-treated in their preparation and our bodies cannot break them down - neither can washing up liquid and very hot water! Fats like margarine, spreads and shortening should be avoided totally. The best fats to eat are those that do not form long chain fatty acids in our bodies. Try cooking with unrefined coconut oil - the flavour isn’t overbearing in foods. Fast steam your foods first in a little water - like onions and meat for Bolognese - then after cooking’s complete - add extra virgin olive oil before serving. Cook with olive oil only on lower temperatures. Try to include flax seed oil in your diet - either in ground seed form or oil (which has a short shelf life). Give your body some r&r and don’t fry foods. And absolutely NO DOUGHNUTS!

6.Thou shalt avoid processed grub - Cut down on food that has already been prepared for you without you spending time in the kitchen - like tinned products, ready meals and sauces, as well as avoiding salted, cured meats, crisps and anything that says ‘refined’. If food’s been refined, it means it’s had all the good stuff removed to enhance its appearance - like white bread, white flour, white sugar, white rice and white salt. All these refined and processed foods do is starve you of proper nutrition, block your digestive system with stodge and leave you feeling just as hungry soon afterwards. Watch out for additives and preservatives on food labels as well as salt and sugar content. A little salt is beneficial but it needs to be the natural sea salt kind with essential minerals still present. Valuable, tasty meals can be prepared fairly quickly - we’re only limited by our imaginations

7. Eat as wide a variety as possible of fresh vegetables and fruits - the more colourful they are, the better for you and especially raw and organic. One way of ensuring you get adequate vegetables is to juice them - juicers are now cheaper and better than ever before. The goodness from veggie juices is in your blood stream within 30 minutes without your body working overtime to extract it. And make smoothies of lots of available fruits. Remember to juice the veg and smooth the fruit as you benefit from the extra fruit fibre without having too much fruit sugar that way.

8. Cut back on red meats - so much of our meat is contaminated with pesticides that get stored in fatty tissues - instead try different things like lentils and beans, short grain brown rice and nuts. Include some fresh oily fish in your diet, but again exercise caution, as the oceans have also been subjected to pollution. Again organic is best for these food items, though sadly, cheap farming in all areas makes more contaminated food more attractive because of the price!

9. Exercise - you know it makes sense! Try to do at least some form of moderate exercise 4 times a week for about 20 minutes. Whether it’s walking the dog, riding a bike, swimming, jogging - whatever, just make sure you get off those bottoms and onto those feet. Don’t slouch in your chair in front of the TV, the computer or the games console - get your blood pumping and your lungs working to full capacity. Exercise will increase your metabolism, help control your weight, make you look younger, feel healthier and put a smile of satisfaction on you face. If you live with your family - do something energetic together - if you live alone take up a new and exciting exercise - you’ll be doing your body a favour and may even make some new friends or raise some much needed funds for worthy causes!

10. Do everything in moderation - Try and eat what you know is good for you most of the time, at least that will counteract the days you can’t. Ideally we should get all our vitamin and mineral requirements from our food but we all know that’s not always possible, so take a good daily multi-supplement. Make an effort to be forgiving, harbouring a grudge doesn’t help your health. And try not to let the stresses of life get you all wound up or really down. Value friendships and share your heart’s desires with those you can trust. It’s a good thing to have ideals and goals, just ensure you stay healthy enough to realise them.

Coca Cola - I'll Have A Chemical Flavour Please

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:21:35 +0000

SOFT DRINKS - More than 80% of manufactured drinks sold in stores and fast food haunts are made from chemicals using artificial colours and flavours to make them acceptable. How crazy to drink something that is so distasteful it has to be dyed and artificially flavoured to be appealing!

A potential danger from drinking these drinks is that a chemical reaction can occur in the brain. You may feel a lift from drinking sodas but it’s short lived and the let down is fatigue, poor concentration, and headaches.

COCA: Coca is a South America and African nut containing 2% caffeine, theobromine and tannin. In normal doses it stimulates the brain, causing nervous restlessness and wakefulness. In larger doses it causes insomnia, paralysis of the heart muscles, convulsions, delirium, and other afflictions.

COLA: Grown in South America and India. Again it is the derivative of cocaine causing stimulation of the brain that's why we like it, and can result in normal sex desires being inhibited. It increases heart action and the irritability of the nerves, mental, and muscular depression and deadens the sensation of hunger and thirst TEMPORARILY but greatly INCREASES these when the effects wear off. It gives a temporary sense of hilarity and well being. How are the kids after a few cokes? Zebedee springs to mind.

SUGAR FREE SODAS: Clever marketing would have us believe that artificially sweetened sodas are fine to drink because the calorie count is negligable but those sugar fee drinks are even more dangerous, as recent findings on many sweeteners have revealed.

Get hold of some STEVIA: Available from most health food stores. You are going to fall in love with this incredible plant. Nutritionally: Contains protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates and vitamins. Physiologically: regulates and balances blood sugar levels. Benefits: suppresses cravings for sweets and controls appetite.

For the technically minded, Stevia contains sweet substances (glycosides) which are not metabolized in the body, and so are eliminated without any calories being absorbed. Therefore, you'll be pleased to know that stevia is not fattening. It is a herbal food with an impressive reputation for healing the body. Not only does it never cause blood sugar to rise, but it can bring down raised blood sugar levels. Unlike sugar it does not spur the growth of unhealthy bacteria and yeasts which can infest the body causing serious problems. Stevia can alleviate the craving for sweet foods by balancing the body's blood sugar levels and avoiding the see saw effects of hypoglycemia.

Add to fresh water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing drink. Put a little in your herbal tea - hot or iced. It will not harm your teeth. And taken in water before meals has been found to decrease appetite.

So why not give up coke and drink the real thing?

Yours in Christ,

Dr Mark

Living Water - Do You Get Enough?

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:19:14 +0000

• At 68°F (20c) a sedentary adult loses 2.4 (2300ml) quarts of water a day
• In hot weather the loss is about 3.5 (3300ml) quarts
• With prolonged heavy exercise loss equals 7 quarts (6600ml)

When you take a headache tablet, your body is more thankful for the water than the pill. When we take pain killers to relieve headaches we simply deaden the nerves carrying the pain sensation, masking the symptom of dehydration (your headache) brought about by your body to get your ATTENTION!

The human body is made up of more than 70% water. Every single cell in our body needs an adequate DAILY supply of water to successfully carry out all its functions and keep us disease free. Did you know that water is stored even inside our bones?

In order for us to survive without suffering some form of illness, we need to drink a minimum amount of water each and every day. If we don’t get enough water, our brilliantly designed body will ration what it does have to our different organs in order of importance, leaving other parts dangerously deficient. This causes our bodies to labour under extreme stress caused by dehydration and begin to break down and show signs of malfunction and disease.

Yet what do most of us drink when we are thirsty given the choice? Tea, coffee, orange juice, sodas, beers or other alcohol.

But we don’t need flavoured water, that’s no substitute! We don’t need drinks that have been processed using chemicals, including sodas, tea and coffee that will act as diuretics (causing increased output of urine) and further dehydrate us. WE NEED WATER!

*Did you know that a dry mouth and sense of thirst is the last indication our body gives us of it’s need for water and our sense of thirst declines as we get older? But this doesn’t mean we don’t need the same amount of water. And the less we drink, our sense of thirst becomes less active, making matters worse.

I’ll go even further and say the chances are most times you think you are hungry, you are not, YOU ARE THIRSTY! Drink a glass of water first, then eat, 30 minutes later.

An Iranian doctor, whilst imprisoned in Iran during the revolution, discovered by repeated remarkable experiences the healing power of water and his intense research since has revealed that many diseases of the human body can be cured, or more importantly, prevented, by the adequate intake of simple H2O. He has written a remarkable book entitled “Your Body’s Many Cries for Water” and his message is, “YOU ARE NOT SICK, YOU ARE THIRSTY.”

Having read the book and acted on the information I can only confirm what his important studies reveal - water, the right amount of water, on a daily basis properly hydrates our bodies and...heals. I suffered from continual stomach pain since Matt’s illness, which has recently been getting far worse, I put the water theory to the test and the pains stopped within 24 hours and have not returned! My long suffering tennis elbow is improving daily and Lynette’s hip, which was displaying arthritic tendencies, is pain free and feels far more flexible. We are both continuing to drink the recommended amount daily and have experienced many other amazing changes in our health.

Through personal experience and exhaustive research, the author, Dr Batmanghelidj has found that providing our bodies with at least the minimum amount of water daily can revolutionise our health - and he’s NOT SELLING ANYTHING (well apart from his book!). He shares amazing testimonies from patients who have recovered from an assortment of conditions including high blood pressure, stress, migraine headaches, arthritis, rheumatism, asthma, back pain, chronic constipation, stomach ulcers, colitis, heartburn, chronic fatigue syndrome and obesity.

Apparently it can take up to 4 weeks to rehydrate our bodies, and symptoms can and do improve during that time, but the overall message is this is not the latest fad but something we should do for the rest of our lives.

So, what’s the minimum requirement? We often hear about 6-8 glasses a day being recommended. But how big’s a glass? Ideally, you should drink a quart of water for every 50lbs of body weight. ( e.g.. a person weighing 150lbs needs 3 quarts) If you live in a hot climate, are physically very active, eat or drink foods that have a diuretic effect you need to drink more. DO NOT COUNT ANY OTHER LIQUIDS AS FULFILLING THIS MINIMUM REQUIREMENT. Drink your water 30 minutes before a meal and two hours after. Measure out the water you need at the start of the day and keep it in handy bottles if you are out at work or shopping.

If you drink other beverages remember to drink the same amount of water too - IN ADDITION to your daily requirement You will go to the loo more frequently - but that’s good and your urine should be pale in colour with no offensive smell. If strong in colour or smell, it is a firm indication that you are dehydrated.

No gimmicks, no excuses, no expensive concoction just plain and simple water. Remember, it’s water that the cells of your body need and want - not sodas, not coffee, not tea and probably not food!

What water? Good point. Tap is better than no water at all. If you fill a jug and leave it to stand overnight in the fridge, the chlorine will evaporate. Purified or filtered is OK, but make sure you add a little more salt to your diet as these important minerals have been filtered out. Bottled is fine, though can be expensive in some countries. But do not go without. ANY WATER IS BETTER THAN NO WATER Remember, when your mouth is dry and you feel thirsty it is already TOO LATE, your body is dehydrated. Don’t leave it until you get the body’s physical cry for water.

Drinking adequate water is the first step in reversing chronic dehydration. Another important step is to increase the amount of salt you consume. Yes I know we are continually encouraged to be ‘salt free’. But that’s the white refined, processed rubbish that we have been bombarded with for too long. We need the essential minerals that are all present in SEA SALT. Unrefined, hopefully greyish in colour and quite moist. As we increase our water intake, so it passes through our bodies more efficiently and washes out salts and minerals. You need to replace those minerals. Make sure you take 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt each day, either in preparation or added to foods.

Don’t be afraid of eating some salt. A summary of all studies on high blood pressure and salt has shown that in people with normal blood pressure, salt has no effect. In people who have high blood pressure, only 3% are affected by salt. Of these 3%, it is believed that they have high blood pressure because they are CHRONICALLY DEHYDRATED.

However, please exercise caution and be observant of your body. If you have any existing condition relating to water retention or high blood pressure, it is advisable to slowly build up water consumption and consult your physician. If you find that your ankles and eyelids swell as you increase your water intake and your urine output has not increased, then decrease the water and build up again gradually. All this, while drinking as little coffee and tea as possible.

If I told you I knew of a cure for most illnesses we suffer from today in our western civilisation, you would be pretty interested - right? But, the question is, are you just interested or are you prepared to DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT?

Interestingly enough Dr Batmanghelidj passionately believes that if his findings were widely adopted, billions of dollars would be cut from annual healthcare budgets in all advanced countries, greatly reducing our dependence on manufactured drugs from the giant pharmaceutical companies. But in spite of campaigning and repeatedly supplying all his proven findings to the necessary organisations, little has been done by governments and medical associations to share this knowledge with the wider public!

“My people are destroyed from the lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6

Please feel free to e-mail with any questions you may have, I will be happy to share any information I have to help.

Cheers!

Yours in Christ,

Dr Mark

* Whilst most headaches have been cured by simply drinking a large glass of water, migraine headaches are specifically mentioned in the book as the doctor believes continual body hydration will prevent their occurrence but should one occur, the patient is advised to follow their normal treatment as well as drinking water, since the headache will probably run its course.

* This information has been compiled with the help of ‘Your Body’s Many Cries For Water’ by Dr F Batmanghelidj and ‘Eat Fat Look Thin’ by Bruce Fife N.D. who both make the necessary disclaimers in their publications.

Disclaimer
This information is not intended to replace sound medical advice from a physician rather it is recommended that sharing this knowledge is highly desirable. Anyone with past history of major diseases, particularly renal disease should not make use of this info without the supervision of their attending physician.

Inspiration To Carry On

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:24:13 +0000

In the course of our contact with families for whom we seek to provide holidays, we are made aware of the many difficult day to day situations they face.

Daily reality for Caroline Walker is being a mum to six year old Ashleigh recently diagnosed with epilepsy and two year old Connor, whilst caring for her spouse who has an inoperable brain tumour. As a result of his condition, Sam is unable to work and suffers from seizures caused by the pressure on his brain. Many of us would find those circumstances challenging enough but Caroline, in her twenties is a remarkable young woman determined to complete her nursing and midwifery studies.

Matt’s Canaan Trust was absolutely delighted to arrange a week’s break in Wales over the October half term.

Hosts of Porth Tocyn Hotel, Abersoch - Nick and Louise Fletcher-Brewer warmly welcomed our guests and even arranged a cake with blue candles in celebration of Connor’s birthday on the day of their arrival. Meals and children’s high teas were provided in the award winning restaurant and Nick and Louise treated the Walkers like family. We could not ask for more.

Our acquaintance with these families is seldom transitory as we listen to their individual stories and try to customize a holiday to suit their needs and wishes. The more and more families we are introduced to, the more we are inspired by their courage in facing harrowing situations every single day. From personal experience we know something of the ordeal they face but in all cases, we have been touched by the overwhelming gratitude expressed to us for something as simple as a week’s respite away with their loved ones.

Their fortitude and our son’s memory give us inspiration to carry on.

Fun In France

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:23:53 +0000

Erin and Aiden Szilardy were determined to enjoy every minute of their French holiday, despite some unusually wet August weather.

With mum, Margaret and dad Len, who has a brain tumour, their adventures began when they boarded Eurostar in London, bound for south west France via Paris.

Their accommodation was a comfortable gite, complete with private pool and dining patio and plenty of space to run around. Margaret says, “It was just as you said; Frank and Sue at La Faiencerie were fantastic hosts, always there to help out when needed. Erin and Aidan still talk about our holiday; it's amazing what they come out with, out of the blue, after being back home for quite some time. Aidan tells everyone about the tourist train in Bordeaux, which was lovely, and the lizards. I can only remember seeing two tiny ones, but they obviously left a lasting impression on him. Thank you so much.”

We’re honoured to help by showing we care.

A Near Miss For Tamzin

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:23:33 +0000

When Wayne and Mandy Orr accepted a week’s break this summer courtesy of the Trust, little did they think their fourteen year old daughter Tamzin might be too ill to go.

Just a couple of weeks before the holiday, Tamzin, who has an inoperable brain tumour, was seriously ill in hospital in Nottingham after experiencing repeated problems with one of the shunts she has fitted in her brain. She bravely endured another operation, one of many she has had in her short life and made a remarkable recovery just in time to head off to the seaside town of Weymouth together with her sister Ellie and mum and dad.

Of this much needed family holiday, mum Mandy writes: “We were overwhelmed with the accommodation and the weather was gorgeous.” Dad Wayne adds, “It did us all good to get away from things and a highlight was building sandcastles on the beach and crabbing in the rock pools at Lulworth Cove. Thank you for allowing us to do that.”

Michelle Revisits Mevagissey

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 14:07:25 +0000

For Michelle Whitehead and dad Donald, a trip to Mevagissey in July was more than just a welcome break.

Now in her thirties, Michelle had a brain tumour removed when she was eight and her dad has been her full-time carer since she was three.

With critical gaps in her cognitive memory, we were delighted to be able to arrange for them to revisit Cornwall and stay in a fisherman’s cottage overlooking the harbour where Michelle actually remembers eating fish and chips and ice cream watching the fishing boats land their catch.

Donald writes: “It was a fantastic holiday that will be in our memories for years to come. The reality of how the holiday came about hit home during a session with Shell’s cognitive therapist. Relating your story brought tears to her eyes and I think the enormity of your loss and how you have turned it into giving so much to people you don't even know, registered with her.”

Encouraged by her dad, Michelle became interested in photography in Cornwall and together they have created an album of fresh memories to treasure.

Matt's Trust Goes Wide!

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:56:22 +0000

Since its initial conception Matt's Canaan Trust has undergone a few changes, not the least of which has been the recent decision to widen our horizons and offer holidays to families at a destination of their choice.

The original plan to provide a specific retreat in France for respite breaks was well-received and in the first three years, several families enjoyed space, peace and tranquility courtesy of Matt’s Canaan Retreat in south west France.

Increased contact with patients and families dealing with life-limiting illness revealed not everyone could undertake travel abroad, or even wanted to. It became clear people were in desperate need of quality time together and lacked funds but were often restricted by their ongoing treatment or physical condition. Not surprisingly we discovered many held cherished dreams to revisit a place that reminded them of happier times.

Matt’s Trust will fix it!

Thus our role has evolved so we now make contact with referred families to find out their specific situations and wishes and then the fun begins as we seek to match those needs with suitable accommodation at a chosen destination.

Matt was always looking out for those less fortunate than himself. Family life and especially holidays were important to him. Providing breaks for families facing life-limiting illness would be right up his street!

2007: Focus on the Family

With limited funds available in the bank at the start of the year it was a daunting task to decide where to concentrate our attention as research revealed such an immense need. A chance link with Patient Support at the Samantha Dickson Brain Tumour Trust highlighted a lack of holiday and respite breaks available for families where an adult is the patient.

There are many charities offering special holidays to families with children suffering from terminal or long term illness but none we know of who take into account the illness of other family members, including grandparents. No matter who the patient is, the ramifications of these heartbreaking situations are far-reaching and underline a real need for precious family time together.

As a result of that contact we have been able to provide holidays for five families from the UK this year and another one is in the planning stages. You can read about some of them in this newsletter. All the families referred to us deal with harrowing circumstances every day. Whilst most of us are still eating breakfast, one young mum cares for her husband, who has an inoperable brain tumour, as well as their two young children, one of whom has been diagnosed with epilepsy, before courageously attending college where she is studying to be a nurse!

Sadly, the cases we are able to help are only the tip of the iceberg. There are literally millions of carers in the UK who not only look after a family member with a disability or life-limiting illness but many of them have to hold down jobs too. It is the heartfelt wish of Matt’s Canaan Trust to show there are people who care enough to offer a brief respite from the daily ordeal of living with severe illness and who understand how tough life can be.

Through referrals and valuable contacts we make every week, we hope to offer a life-line to many who battle, often silently, with their difficulties and pain.

Join us in 2008 to help even more families and show we care.