Blesma News
Latest news from Blesma, The Limbless Veterans
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Jody shows resilience in epic charity swim
4 February 2020
A woman who was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer has swum the English Channel in aid of Blesma. Jody Jones was set to swim the Channel last year but the shock diagnosis brought her training to a halt. Surgery to remove half her colon was followed by chemotherapy and then further surgery, but Jody remained determined to complete the challenge. “When I was diagnosed, I was eight months away from the swim and it was the fittest I’d ever been,” said Jody. “I delayed the swim for a year, but it never crossed my mind not to do it.” Jody began the epic challeng
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First All-Blesma Team Prepares for the 'Race Across America'
4 February 2020
After a long and comprehensive selection process, 18 Members have been chosen from more than 60 applicants to represent Blesma in Race Across America. The team will attempt to ride 3,000 miles between the USA's Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Along the way, they will cross 12 states, climb the Rockies and Appalachians, and take on scorching deserts where temperatures can reach 45 degrees Celcius. The race will get underway on Saturday the 20th June 2020 Having an all Blesma team is something we've always wanted to achieve. Individuals w
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Bill Gillett is recognised for services to veterans
3 February 2020
Former Blesma Support Officer Major (Retd) Bill Gillett has been awarded an MBE for services to veterans. Having served in 3 Commando Brigade, 5 Airborne Brigade, and 16 Air Assault Brigade, Bill then worked as a BSO for 16 years, helping to provide vital support and advice to limbless and injured veterans, as well as their families. During his time with Blesma, Bill built close relationships with many hundreds of Members, and would often handle up to 40 individual ‘assists’ at any one time. Bill said it was “absolutely incredible” to receive the honour, adding: “I’m very proud. I st
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Blesma Brunches given National Lottery boost
28 January 2020
The Midland Area’s Blesma Brunch project has received a financial boost from the National Lottery. The grant, which is worth almost £10,000, will enable Midlands’ BSO Sam Wileman and Outreach Officer Vanessa Lucas to bring even more Members together in the local community. The brunches allow Members to meet each other over a cuppa and a snack. As well as spending time socialising, the Members gain confidence and conquer isolation by making new friends and finding support from like-minded people. “The brunches have proven to be really popular,” said Vanessa. “For those of our M
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