2020
The Blesma News for 2020 covering news, activities and fundraising events for limbless veterans.
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Chelsea Pensioners
9 February 2020
Some three-and-a-half centuries after it was first established, the world-famous Royal Hospital is looking to undergo a far-reaching modernisation programme. An ambitious strategy to modernise the Royal Hospital Chelsea has been devised to boost its ability to care for survivors of modern warfare. The Hospital, which was established in 1681 and is now home to 300 Chelsea Pensioners, is expecting an increase in applications from veterans who are coping with limb loss and mental health conditions. The Hospital’s far-reaching proposals include a wellbeing clinic that co
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A century at the cenotaph
8 February 2020
The first armistice day took place one century ago, in 1919, making this year's parade at the cenotaph perhaps more poignant than ever. The Association’s involvement in the Remembrance Day Parade is a hugely important tradition. For every Member it means something different, and over the course of the weekend a variety of emotions are experienced: from the fun, laughter, and companionship of the Saturday evening buffet, to the serious, sombre, and poignant business of the parade and two minutes of silent remembrance on the Sunday. Fifty three people attended
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Member chosen as first female Invictus captain
7 February 2020
Thirteen Blesma Members have been selected to compete for the UK team at the 2020 Invictus Games, which will be held in The Hague, The Netherlands from 09-16 May. More than 470 wounded, injured, and sick veterans took part in this year’s first ever Invictus Games UK trials, which were held in Sheffield, with just 65 people being selected to compete in the 2020 team. In another first, the team will be led by a female captain – Blesma Member and Royal Air Force veteran Rachel Williamson.
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The secret of seniors week
6 February 2020
From archery lessons to steam train rides, and from the cacophony of cabaret shows to quiet reflection at military memorials, Seniors Week packs a lot into seven days. The weeks are full of activity, but are carefully constructed so that those who take part – most recently a party of 10 Members and two wives – have plenty of time to build friendships and share their own personal stories of the ups and downs of military life. Seniors Week has been a regular, not to mention a hugely popular, part of the Activities Programme for some years now. Open to both Membe
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