2021
Blesma Updates for 2021, covering news, activities and fundraising events for limbless veterans.
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Wounded Highlanders pushing for inclusivity
3 December 2021
A team of injured veterans are campaigning to make the Highland Games more inclusive for competitors with disabilities. Originally held to allow clan chiefs to select their strongest warriors and swiftest messengers, the tournaments now attract athletes and spectators from around the world. However, competitors with disabilities only competed for the first time in 2018. Injured veterans have now formed the Wounded Highlanders, a team that became associated members of the Royal Scottish Highland Games Association (RSHGA) in 2020. The team currently has 30 athletes and adaptive
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An important announcement regarding Blesma's Christmas Carol concert
2 December 2021
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, Blesma have had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year's Christmas Carol Concert in Chelmsford. Please refer to the below message from the Chief Executive. "Dear Blesma Members, I regret to inform you that due to the developing Covid situation and the recent discovery of the Omicron variant in Essex, out of an abundance of caution I have taken the very difficult decision to cancel the Blesma Carol
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The Big Give Christmas Challenge 2021
30 November 2021
Blesma are once again taking part in The Big Give Christmas challenge! For one week, the Big Give offers Blesma supporters the opportunity to have their online donation doubled. This means that every pound gifted will be matched. Last year, with help from our supporters, Blesma was able to raise over £15,000 in just one week! This year, the challenge will be raising funds to help combat loneliness within the Blesma Membership.
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Member speaks about Infected Blood Inquiry
26 November 2021
A Blesma Member who contracted Hepatitis C from contaminated blood has given evidence to the Infected Blood Inquiry in the hope of helping others. Brendan West lost his leg in 1979 and was given a blood transfusion while at a British Military Hospital in Germany. After trying to give blood earlier this year, the 61 year old learned he has been infected with Hepatitis C for decades. “It was a surprise. Tests show it has caused significant damage to my liver. I am on medication for 12 weeks in the hope of removing the virus, but I must be monitored for the rest
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