tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71902913305225377872024-03-21T19:14:31.023+10:00Spasmodic DysphoniaA supportive voice for those of us who struggle with voice and the many other forms of dystonia.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.comBlogger209125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-9813128470755311412009-03-31T18:03:00.003+10:002009-03-31T19:09:53.438+10:00World Voice Day Celebration, Cairns. 16th April 2009Are you a <strong>health professional</strong> <em>or a person with a diagnosed neurological movement disorder</em> in or around the <strong>Cairns</strong> area? If so, consider joining us in celebration of <strong>World Voice Day 2009</strong>.<br /><p>For Health Professionals Thursday 16 April at <strong><a href="http://www.gpcairns.org.au/">General Practice Cairns</a></strong>,<br />6:00PM– 7.15PM.<br /><br />For interested clients<strong>,</strong> family members and carers, Friday 17 April 2009 at <strong>GPC</strong>,<br />10am - 11.15AM (Corner Arthur and Sheridan Streets, North Cairns).<br /><br />Viewing of the film <a href="http://www.blinddogfilms.com/twisted/index.html"><strong>Twisted</strong> </a>presents qualitative analysis of diagnostic process and treatment options including <strong><a href="http://images.google.com.au/images?hl=en&q=deep+brain+stimulation&cr=countryAU&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=tNLRSeUggpi0A6-8lNED&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&resnum=4&ct=title">Deep Brain Stimulation</a></strong> for patients diagnosed with a <a href="http://www.wemove.org/"><strong>neurological movement disorder</strong></a>. The first event is suitable for Medical practitioners, Nurses and Allied Health practitioners. The second event is suitable for interested clients, family members and carers. <strong><a href="http://www.neradatea.com.au/">Tea</a></strong>, <a href="http://www.mareebacoffee.com.au/"><strong>coffee</strong> </a>and finger foods provided.<br /><br />These events are hosted by the <strong>Cairns Neurological Movement Disorders Support Group</strong> and are supported by the <strong>Atherton Tableland and Cairns Dystonia </strong><strong>Support Group</strong>.<br /></p><p>For further information please contact: </p><p> </p><ul><li><strong><a href="http://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/include/IA/index_pages/facilitiesRecreation/parksGardensLeisure.html">Cairns</a></strong>: Sue Bayliss (07)40321063 / 0407624578 or Gail Rogers 0412906241; </li></ul><br /><br /><ul><li><strong><a href="http://www.tablelands.org/aboriginal-history.html">Atherton Tablelands</a></strong>: Maureen Slocum (07)40917137.<br /></li></ul><p>For catering purposes, confirmation of attendance would be appreciated by 14th April.</p><p><em><span style="color:#006600;">(Follow the highlighted links in this article for great information)</span></em></p><p><strong>Sue Bayliss</strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/">Cairns</a></strong><strong>,</strong> <strong><a href="http://www.australia.gov.au/topics/australian-facts-and-figures">Australia</a></strong></p>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-16856829622854303352009-03-31T15:25:00.005+10:002009-03-31T18:00:11.745+10:00Belated news: Celebrating 2008’s World Voice Day in Cairns, Australia.<strong><a href="http://www.allergan.com.au/">Allergan Australia</a></strong> and Australia’s branch of <strong><a href="http://www.ipsen.com.au/">Ipsen Pty Ltd</a></strong> generously supported our <strong>Atherton</strong> <strong>Tableland</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Cairns</strong> <strong>Dystonia Support Group</strong> in hosting 2008’s <strong>World Voice Day</strong> Celebration at the <a href="http://www.cairnscolonialclub.com.au/conferencecentre.html"><strong>Colonial Club</strong> </a>in <a href="http://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/include/IA/index_pages/aboutOurRegion/localClimate.html"><strong>Cairns</strong></a>.<br /><br />In planning stages for that event we thought how great it would be to get about 30 locals from our professional community to come along. When we passed 30 RSVP’s we were so excited, realizing we could comfortably reach the 50 mark. Reaching 116 RSVP’s resulted in our decision to cut off at that point or we would not have enough funds to feed them all!<br /><br />Networking was a major opportunity not missed by anyone present. Trade displays offered good insight into what is available and by whom. Photographic displays bore a pride of place for our support group and was of keen interest to all attending. During pre-dinner meet and greet drinks and nibbles we were serenaded by <strong><a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=243842110">Raymond James Molloy</a></strong>, a local musician with a delightful Irish brogue.<br /><br />Impressive presentations by <strong>Dr John O’Sullivan</strong> and <strong>Dr Steven Dommann</strong> focusing on <strong><a href="http://www.wemove.org/">neurological movement disorders</a></strong> and specifically on <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/">dystonia</a></strong>, gave many of our local family doctors and other health professionals first-rate information. Supporting presenters gave good overviews of the following areas:<br /><br /><ul><li>The role of <strong>Clinical Nurse Consultant, Neurological Movement Disorders</strong>,</li></ul><br /><ul><li>Diagnostic process, referral protocol and role of <a href="http://www.msqld.org/"><strong>MS Queensland</strong> </a>for patients with <a href="http://www.msqld.org/about-ms/what-is-ms"><strong>Multiple Sclerosis</strong></a>,</li></ul><br /><ul><li>Team work focusing on the assessed needs of patients by <strong><a href="http://www.ahpa.com.au/about.htm">Allied Health professionals</a></strong>. Specifically, <strong><a href="http://www.healthdirectory.com.au/Allied_health/Speech_pathology/search">Speech Pathology</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.physiotherapycairns.com.au/">Physiotherapy</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://users.bigpond.net.au/cairnsot/">Occupational Therapy</a></strong>.</li></ul><br /><ul><li><strong>Dystonia Support Group</strong>. Two member’s overview of <strong><a href="http://www.care4dystonia.org/">living with Dystonia</a></strong> and attendance at a <strong><a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/">National Spasmodic Dysphonia Symposium in the USA</a></strong>.</li></ul><br />Evaluation sheets completed by guests gave positive feed back and great encouragement to host another event at a future time. This outcome has given us renewed enthusiasm!<br /><br />Amazing things happen when we take a step in faith. It is that very first step that makes such a difference!<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.entlink.net/AboutUs/worldVoiceDay.cfm">World Voice Day 2009</a></strong> will be celebrated in <a href="http://www.cairnsesplanade.com/"><strong>Cairns</strong> </a>with our Support Group offering two screenings of the film <em><strong><a href="http://www.blinddogfilms.com/twisted/index.html">Twisted</a></strong></em>. The first screening is on <strong>World Voice Day</strong>, <strong>Thursday 16th April 2009</strong>, and is suitable for local medical, nursing and allied health professionals. The second screening on Friday 17th April is for patients, family members and other interested community folk. If you would like more information, watch this spot!<br /><br /><strong>Sue Bayliss</strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.cairnstropicalzoo.com.au/">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.australiazoo.com.au/">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-90583343009461014812008-10-01T20:18:00.006+10:002008-10-01T23:12:23.677+10:00Voice from oblivion.With <strong>shaky, effortful, broken voice</strong> and <strong>painfully twisted neck</strong> it is good to be back! My excitement about our <strong>World Voice Day</strong> <strong>Movement Disorders </strong>Symposium five and a half months ago is as alive now as it was then. What an event it turned out to be! Prior to the Symposium here in <strong>Cairns</strong>, Maureen Slocum and I travelled from <a href="http://www.cairnsairport.com/"><strong>Cairns</strong>, <strong>Australia</strong></a>, to <strong><a href="http://www.utah.com/saltlake/">Salt Lake City</a></strong> in the <strong>United States of America</strong>. We attended the annual symposium for the <a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/"><strong>National Spasmodic Dysphonia Association</strong></a> and met so many great people. Shortly after those two wondrous events life took a turn down a very bumpy road indeed.<br /><br />In the coming week it will be great to write about both symposiums mentioned above. However, a brief overview of recent life events for this <a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/">dystonian </a>will suffice for now.<br /><br />Immediately prior to tripping off to the <strong><a href="http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Travel.shtml">U.S.A.</a></strong> my son and I downsized our home by relocating to a small but comfortable apartment on the Southern side of <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/content/root/index.html">Cairns</a></strong>. On our second night there we answered a knock on the door only to be asked if we had any marijuana or meth amphetamine! As if that is not hint enough of what lay ahead!<br /><br />Off I went on my trip to America. After a few days my son phoned saying there were further incidents at the block of units (apartments). Upon return to Cairns I encounted some of the most frightening experiences of my life.<br /><br />Extreme domestic violence occurred daily in one of the upstairs units. A woman frequently screamed out for assistance so we became quite adept at using the emergency telephone "OOO" code. Following these incidents a violent home invasion occurred directly above.<br /><br />Weapons were used (gun, wooden clubs and metal bars). Security doors and inner doors were ripped off and thrown over the railings. Threats both verbal and physical were made. Punches and other serious assaults followed. People stood at our rear and front doors preventing our escape. Police were inundated with emergency calls leading to their arrival in force. However, the culprits had means to know where the police were and left the scene immediately prior to police arrival. It was a long night. The young couple from that unit left during the early hours of the morning and have not been sighted since.<br /><br />Enough? Not so! Another incident at a time close to the home invasion occurred when approximately 30 youths attempted to gain entry to the other upstairs unit in the block of four. On this occasion police quickly responded only to find all these figures jumping fences and running in all directions thus evading arrest. We then discovered that in recent months a young woman in that unit had been raped by an intruder.<br /><br />What is that I hear you say? Enough is enough? No way!<br /><br />Next came a group of solvent sniffers in the unit where the youths had attempted to gain entry. Experiences associated with that group are too frightening to relate - I have nightmares! We were sleeping in shifts with one of us awake at all times. We had 'weapons' placed at strategic places throughout the little unit if needed. After some weeks police were unable to control the situation. We felt unsafe and at great risk of significant harm.<br /><br />Off to a motel we went! What an expensive way to live. Eventually, we found a house suitable for us so relocate we did - again! Whilst all these events took place we experienced serious illness in our family but that is another story entirely.<br /><br />During the height of drama I attended the <strong><a href="http://www.cairnsshow.com.au/">Cairns Annual Show</a></strong> as a demonstrator of my handcrafts. It was a relief to sit there for three days talking to people, answering questions and demonstrating some of my 'know-how' around crochet, knitting etc. Won lots of prizes for my entries too!<br /><br />Two weeks after The Cairns Show, together with my sister (Bettina Glass) and two of our cousins who are also sisters, we presented 'The Talented Taylor girls: connecting threads through the generations' exhibition in the <strong><a href="http://www.trc.qld.gov.au/events/foyer-art-gallery-exhibition-opening">Foyer Art Gallery at the Tableland Regional Council</a></strong> Chambers during the month of August.<br /><br />Now that was lovely. Our exhibition, an expression of what we believe is inherited talent, was presented as a tribute to our fathers who were two of the Taylor brothers (eight siblings, all very talented artists and master craftsmen - and women!). More about that at a later time.<br /><br />All things aside, we are now nicely settled in a tranquil little neighbourhood close to the <a href="http://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/cairns/services/botanic_gardens/fbg_main.htm"><strong>Cairns</strong> <strong>Botanic Gardens</strong></a>, finally able to get on with our lives - Internet reconnected today.<br /><br />Thank you for all the emails in my mailbox. I will get around to answering. Apologies to all those people who have emails returned. My mailbox filled quickly!<br /><br />Looking forward to writing regularly again. Do explore the highlighted links and return soon. You are very welcome!<br /><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.australia.gov.au/">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-72924922617840336872008-04-10T11:21:00.007+10:002008-04-11T21:09:10.701+10:00Media release: Cairns World Voice Day Neurological Movement Disorders Symposium.CELEBRATING WORLD VOICE DAY, 16TH April 2008.<br /><br />In celebration of World Voice Day a Neurological Movement Disorders Symposium hosted by the Atherton Tablelands and Cairns Dystonia Support Group will be held on Wednesday 16th April at the Cairns Colonial Club Conference Centre commencing at 6 PM. Dr Nichola Davis is Medical Chair for the symposium.<br /><br />Specialist speakers are providing information to our local medical and allied health professionals about a variety of movement disorders, many of which affect voice. Consultant Neurologist Dr John O’Sullivan from the Royal Brisbane and Woman’s Hospital Department of Neurology is principal speaker. Another prominent Consultant Neurologist, Dr Steven Dommann from Townsville General Hospital Department of Neurology, is also speaking at this event.<br /><br />Ms Karen O’Maley, Clinical Nurse Consultant from Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Department of Neurology and Ms Maree Brockie from the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland are also travelling from Brisbane and presenting papers at the symposium.<br /><br />Ms Gail Rogers from Cairns Speech Pathology Clinic, Ms Melanie Mirotsis from Diagnosys Physiotherapy and Ms Kerry Stingel from Cairns Occupational Therapy are all local practitioners presenting papers at the symposium. Two additional speakers from the Atherton Tableland and Cairns Dystonia Support Group have recently returned from a dystonia symposium in the United States of America. They are Ms Maureen Slocum, a workplace assessor and trainer and also a numeracy and literacy tutor and Ms Sue Bayliss, a retired social worker.<br /><br />This event is possible due to very generous support by Allergan Australia Pty Ltd and Ipsen Pty Ltd. These companies provide botulinum toxin (BTx) in Australia. BTx is the preferred treatment recommended by neurologists to treat muscular spasming associated with symptoms of dystonia and other neurological conditions.<br /><br />Dystonia is a neurological syndrome characterized by involuntary, sustained, patterned, and often repetitive muscle contractions of opposing muscles causing twisting movements of abnormal postures. It can affect just one part of the body or several different areas. Dystonia can also be secondary to other illnesses that affect the nervous system such as Wilson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and multiple sclerosis.<br /><br />Specific goals for the event are,<br />. to present the opportunity for the medical / health professional community in FNQ to increase their knowledge from specialists regarding movement disorders,<br /><br />. to communicate with the medical / health professional community in FNQ educational and promotional material specific to movement disorders,<br /><br />. to establish a network of medical / health professionals in FNQ interested in movement disorders,<br /><br />. to establish a movement disorders network / support group in FNQ,<br /><br />. to increase support from the community by raising awareness of movement disorders,<br /><br />. to increase resources for individuals to access<br />1. timely referrals,<br />2. specialist assessments,<br />3. management services and,<br />4. appropriate equipment & support.<br /><br />Anyone interested in further information may contact Sue Bayliss, 0407624578 or email s.j.bayliss@bigpond.com.au.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-38589826152504773492008-03-16T08:09:00.003+10:002008-03-16T08:29:44.623+10:00Moving and overseas travel<strong>Sue and Darren are on the move.</strong> Priority housing has been granted to Sue because of the disabling effects of the multiple forms of dystonia she has. Struggling to keep a full house and garden going, Sue is moving to disability friendly and smaller accommodation with a yard kept by somebody else.<br /><br /><strong>For those who have moved house before, you will appreciate the stress and time it takes to pack, clean and vacate- especially with a weeks notice!</strong> Lucky Mum (this is <a href="http://www.imaginif.com.au/~ima33724/blog/"><strong>Megan from Imaginif</strong> </a>writing this)! Because of Easter public holidays this week, Mum needs to be out of her house by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Thursday"><strong>Maundy Thursday.</strong></a><br /><br /><strong>While this may be no mean feat for an able bodied veteran of the suburban move, for a person with a disability</strong> it becomes a little more difficult, particularly given Mum's impending trip to the U.S.A to attend a Dystonia conference. Add to that an incredibly busy work schedule this week for Paul and I and we are all a bit behind the eight ball. But, a move is warranted and a move will occur.<br /><br />So....<strong>Sue won't be around much this week</strong>, or for the following two weeks after that while she cripples her away half way around the world. Neither the blog or Australia have been permanently abandoned. If there's anything to report from the U.S, Mum will no doubt let me know and I'll post it here to keep you all informed.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-70965643393678138962008-03-09T14:40:00.008+10:002008-03-09T16:03:12.293+10:00Images of local wildlife around Cairns.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyBrYYKw3S956ZfS4XjZLaDyaN_9FIS8DVI2eDmZtIgnO55T6eoBGDsDvrZqzGBj-Bx4JxRkz5rWcChYQFb6yAu2bbKMrvR7GLoLbGfWljRbwVF7aHhITx-GIqKgJRzc9C7OhkEpNGqlH/s1600-h/crocodile+for+lunch.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175599425701632226" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" height="206" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyBrYYKw3S956ZfS4XjZLaDyaN_9FIS8DVI2eDmZtIgnO55T6eoBGDsDvrZqzGBj-Bx4JxRkz5rWcChYQFb6yAu2bbKMrvR7GLoLbGfWljRbwVF7aHhITx-GIqKgJRzc9C7OhkEpNGqlH/s400/crocodile+for+lunch.gif" width="284" border="0" /></a>You can see these images and many more by following the link to our local paper, <a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/entertainment/photo-gallery/"><strong><br />The Cairns Post</strong></a>.<br /><br /><br /><br />Never smile at a crocodile - he will smile right back so watch out!<br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDu2suStGvWwJAiGDXgEvquLGYNA9Nhf7TvGcY5SMIsRMvK1qmCOTyx53W9feJJ_lL4qpdFknHM-M7lkXKp3vNEmeWgyk0FJB3jlTD9srlbNDvGV-6cymY49f0aB_tOUZlL8h0AwGBrsV/s1600-h/That+wasn%27t+the+hose+they+tripped+over.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175599026269673682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDu2suStGvWwJAiGDXgEvquLGYNA9Nhf7TvGcY5SMIsRMvK1qmCOTyx53W9feJJ_lL4qpdFknHM-M7lkXKp3vNEmeWgyk0FJB3jlTD9srlbNDvGV-6cymY49f0aB_tOUZlL8h0AwGBrsV/s400/That+wasn%27t+the+hose+they+tripped+over.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p>It was not the garden hose these folk tripped over in their garden. We really do need to watch where we walk!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Uof6-8SpkHlGuk4ZoqEH7cj5u6LQlBjqeDuExzM_Qm65ECG2sKRABAOLBOXj7TWrZMGvvhW2ndW87hS0Cz_ROkdllJCaepXF4t2IN3LYd_JJJ0EaZF6uEZTohLTr75ZDiDjfW4Wrmqg9/s1600-h/Migaloo+visits+Cairns.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175598502283663554" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Uof6-8SpkHlGuk4ZoqEH7cj5u6LQlBjqeDuExzM_Qm65ECG2sKRABAOLBOXj7TWrZMGvvhW2ndW87hS0Cz_ROkdllJCaepXF4t2IN3LYd_JJJ0EaZF6uEZTohLTr75ZDiDjfW4Wrmqg9/s400/Migaloo+visits+Cairns.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p><p></p><p><br /><br />Migaloo (Aboriginal for 'white fella' or white man) the one and only white humpback whale enjoying sun and warm sea whilst cruising the Great Barrier Reef waters on his annual migration journey North from Antarctica.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg932u4aSpxajpaL9lKvIyf9UX4J4yqhgf5kcZb8AFnfkWel-l-gXaPgfGNXp5QI6e1SlrI7-9DJxCE1lneyXGBH-0PK3dZtRLosDolHHhu0ohbLXn4mHZMT8IocN7-SGRlufgoZLX_Pgtj/s1600-h/A+giant+Triggerfish.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175597772139223218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg932u4aSpxajpaL9lKvIyf9UX4J4yqhgf5kcZb8AFnfkWel-l-gXaPgfGNXp5QI6e1SlrI7-9DJxCE1lneyXGBH-0PK3dZtRLosDolHHhu0ohbLXn4mHZMT8IocN7-SGRlufgoZLX_Pgtj/s400/A+giant+Triggerfish.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zOkCFGIKAfzVyTAxYsqVm9MMPl975rd8bxHyDSEhxUH-MuP8vGCDW4-vVixAUIPlrCIh0Z5lpyP_RJa8I4bZFUyBLo-rH7_B5a6U4eEQKT1mrY17TZgEzMffbYPtVZoYgj3DrS_KoJxj/s1600-h/Black-necked+Jabiru+stork.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175597548800923810" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zOkCFGIKAfzVyTAxYsqVm9MMPl975rd8bxHyDSEhxUH-MuP8vGCDW4-vVixAUIPlrCIh0Z5lpyP_RJa8I4bZFUyBLo-rH7_B5a6U4eEQKT1mrY17TZgEzMffbYPtVZoYgj3DrS_KoJxj/s400/Black-necked+Jabiru+stork.jpg" border="0" /></a> Fishing is good for locals and the birdlife too!</p><p></p><p></p><p>Black-necked Jabiru looking for a feed.</p>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-90564837809429021132008-03-09T11:43:00.009+10:002008-03-09T14:10:29.300+10:00World Voice Day 16th April 2008 - 6 PM until the fat lady sings!<blockquote><blockquote>Members of Atherton Tableland and Cairns Dystonia Support Group planning a Neurological Movement Disorders Symposium in Cairns, Far North Queensland.</blockquote></blockquote>.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivL6WV53DIotQxTZmv_hGaVLAKNQNTLGw4Xxd2EbnAgexfO-O8Dt6QfIOGdfA27xIARCVdgx7TST9jyiKKcYeXiSxhVNZqUFlnuBKj20bblIcFzdXWZNUEAJx1h1fGkPlXgXt2Nag0nP-L/s1600-h/dystonia+support+group+17.11.07.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175559332181923986" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivL6WV53DIotQxTZmv_hGaVLAKNQNTLGw4Xxd2EbnAgexfO-O8Dt6QfIOGdfA27xIARCVdgx7TST9jyiKKcYeXiSxhVNZqUFlnuBKj20bblIcFzdXWZNUEAJx1h1fGkPlXgXt2Nag0nP-L/s400/dystonia+support+group+17.11.07.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjNmeCynzeUORlf8K8Z2HnPINbnHcVwpJIhFh6f-vTe3bkoQDF7vGNZkYKiIjxf1iGHL7eNN7hWzyZTWvhkZLkKvFdl5tylera1OWHP9M11HMVKkB1pCDXEbqWw3wA3IesN2kj2zPrzOp/s1600-h/dystonia+support+group.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175558468893497474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjNmeCynzeUORlf8K8Z2HnPINbnHcVwpJIhFh6f-vTe3bkoQDF7vGNZkYKiIjxf1iGHL7eNN7hWzyZTWvhkZLkKvFdl5tylera1OWHP9M11HMVKkB1pCDXEbqWw3wA3IesN2kj2zPrzOp/s400/dystonia+support+group.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2YMqf5HSTkGMcjZS91GVKD2y5Znf5e3TJQy7gwWUKKooRCusfEu6U4uFDZvw8ewlyqb4WBFBXkcCL1V0_ra7KhppLA4AAEDJzTg0Wru_dgSb_t39cYrYw1j3Uu1leaR2ivZ9QbKrSsxT/s1600-h/Dr+John+O%27Sullivan.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175556716546840690" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2YMqf5HSTkGMcjZS91GVKD2y5Znf5e3TJQy7gwWUKKooRCusfEu6U4uFDZvw8ewlyqb4WBFBXkcCL1V0_ra7KhppLA4AAEDJzTg0Wru_dgSb_t39cYrYw1j3Uu1leaR2ivZ9QbKrSsxT/s400/Dr+John+O%27Sullivan.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Principal speaker, Dr John O'Sullivan MBBS, FRACP, PhD.<br /><br />Consultant Neurologist, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital.<br /><br />Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.<br /><br /><br />Are you are a health professional with an interest in movement disorders?<br /><br />This event is for you!<br /><br /><br />The Atherton Tableland and Cairns Dystonia Support Group invite you to attend a Movement Disorders Symposium on Wednesday April 16th 2008 at The Cairns Colonial Club Conference Centre, Lockhart Room, Behan Street entrance.<br /><br />This exciting event brings together a panel of expert speakers discussing various aspects of a range of movement disorders; options for referral and treatment, recent research outcomes in Australia, Britain and the United States of America and the bio-psycho-social effects of movement disorders on patients in Far North Queensland.<br /><br />Principal speaker :<br />Dr John O'Sullivan (MBBS, FRACP, PhD.), a Consultant Neurologist, Neurology Department, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, (R.B.W.H.) will be speaking about dystonia.<br /><br />Additional speakers :<br />Dr Steven Dommann, Consultant Neurologist, Townsville General Hospital. Movement disorders.<br /><br />Ms Karen O'Maley R.N., C.N.C. Neurology Department, R.B.W.H. Parkinson’s disease & other movement disorders.<br /><br />Ms Maree Brockie, Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland. Brisbane.<br /><br />Ms Melanie Mirotsos, Physiotherapist, Diagnosys Physiotherapy, Cairns.<br /><br />Ms Gail Rogers, Speech Pathologist, Cairns Speech Pathology, Cairns.<br /><br />Ms Suzanne Bayliss, Social Worker (Retired). Atherton Tableland and Cairns <a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/"></a>Dystonia Support Group.<br /><br />For your information & interest the specific goals for the event are:<br /><br />a.to present the opportunity for the medical / health professional community in FNQ to increase their knowledge from specialists regarding movement disorders<br /><br />b. to communicate with the medical / health professional community in FNQ educational and promotional material specific to movement disorders<br /><br />c. to establish a network of medical / health professionals in FNQ interested in Movement Disorders<br /><br />d. to establish a Movement Disorders network / support group in FNQ<br /><br />e. to increase support from the community by raising awareness of movement disorders<br />to increase resources for individuals to access<br />· timely referrals<br />· specialist assessments<br />· management services<br />· appropriate equipment & support.<br /><br />With great pleasure we are able to provide this evening free of charge thanks to very generous educational grants by Allergan Australia and Ipsen Pty Ltd. whose representatives will be attending the evening. These grants will enable our local health professionals to continue their professional education in the areas of neurological movement disorders.<br /><br />Programme:<br />6.00PM – Meet and greet on Lockhart verandah.<br />· Registration.<br />· Welcome drinks and canapés.<br />· Complimentary juice, soft drink and iced water.<br />· Bar available to self-purchase alcoholic beverages.<br />· Poster, trade and pharmaceutical displays.<br /><br />7.00PM – Move through to dining room.<br />Buffet dinner with banquet style seating.<br />Guest speaker presentations.<br />Panel forum receiving and responding to questions.<br />Completing evaluation forms and collection of same.<br /><br />Conclusion approximately 9.30pm. Early confirmation of attendance is essential.<br /><br /><br />RSVP by 4th April to:<br />Sue Bayliss,<br />M: 0407 624 578<br />E: <a href="mailto:bayliss@bigpond.com.au">s(dot)j(dot)bayliss(at)bigpond(dot)com(dot)au</a>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-12970841152742467332008-03-07T18:16:00.010+10:002008-03-08T07:50:38.805+10:00Our family's intergenerational celebration of International Women's Day in Cairns.<strong>Today is <a href="http://www.internationalwomensday.com/">International Women's Day</a></strong>. I am celebrating with other women including my daughter Megan at a relaxed afternoon tea hostessed by the talk doctors of <a href="http://www.imaginif.com.au/"><strong>Imaginif</strong></a>.<br /><br /><br />Unfortunately for us, my grand daughter Jade (with my first great-grandchild well on the way) is unable to celebrate with us in person today. Jade left with her husband for a holiday in Thailand yesterday. However, before Jade left, Megan managed to get three separate photos so we could showcase three generations of women who believe strongly in the rights, stories and experiences of women:<br /><br /><strong>My grand daughter</strong> Jade looking very proud about our special baby bump. Jade is 25 - I think.<br /><br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb28/imaginif/IMG_1245.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>My daughter Megan</strong> (from <a href="http://www.imaginif.com.au/~ima33724/blog/"><strong>Imaginif</strong></a>) is around about 44 or maybe 45 this year. Megan is our beautiful Jade's wonderful mother<br /><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb28/imaginif/IMG_1242_edited.jpg" border="0" /><strong>Myself</strong> in our lush, tropical garden - it is all the rain making it so green, not my tender loving care! I am around 60 + something.</p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb28/imaginif/SBIWD08.jpg" border="0" />Pop over to <a href="http://imaginif.com.au/~ima33724/blog/2008/03/08/international-womens-day-at-imaginif/"><strong>Megan's post</strong></a> about how we celebrated <strong>International Women's Day</strong> here in <strong>Cairns</strong>, <strong>Australia</strong>. <a onmouseover="javascript:window.status='';return true;" href="http://www.clixgalore.com/PSale.aspx?BID=73197&AfID=158341&AdID=8518&LP=www.australiagift.net%2faustralia"><p align="center"><img height="60" alt="Australia Gift Shop" src="http://www.is1.clixgalore.com/cgd.aspx?BID=73197&AfID=158341&AdID=8518" width="468" border="0" /></a><br /></p><p></p>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-86365883397035565852008-03-06T21:48:00.005+10:002008-03-06T23:32:22.536+10:00Dystonia: overpowering the reign of muscular spasms in our life is easierwhen we are awed by the influence and strength of Mother Nature.<br /><br />The magnificent sight below brings together tourists and locals alike to marvel at <a href="http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,23325777-421,00.html"><strong>Far North Queensland</strong></a>'s <a href="http://www.barronriver.com.au/"><strong>Barron River</strong></a> in <strong><a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/hydro/flood/qld/brochures/barron/barron.shtml">flood</a></strong>.<br /><br />Join me in forgetting for a little while an <strong><a href="http://www.wemove.org/dys/">aching body</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/">funny dystonic voice</a></strong>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/03/06/2043_local-news.html">Click here</a> to read of our <a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/03/06/2075_local-news.html"><strong>amazing deluge</strong></a> bringing bitter-sweet <strong>experiences of both relief and hardship to many people living in the <a href="http://www.tropicalaustralia.com.au/about_tropical_queensland/places_to_visit/cooktown">Far North East of Queensland</a>, Australia</strong>.<br /><br /><br />Picture: EVE STAFFORD<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4t4TnAtGoH00acoiipLf1SsyyrscSbPmeRlw7Z1fRRxr6H8VA4A5DSp71txVAx9k9dln-SRgJaa5qJjdoXvRonFIREua9PyR2cQAWuZczekPlxLRjloxkxqo7NX-Q_SRil3MiF1g4rjbP/s1600-h/Rain+eased+overnight..jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174594727416799858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4t4TnAtGoH00acoiipLf1SsyyrscSbPmeRlw7Z1fRRxr6H8VA4A5DSp71txVAx9k9dln-SRgJaa5qJjdoXvRonFIREua9PyR2cQAWuZczekPlxLRjloxkxqo7NX-Q_SRil3MiF1g4rjbP/s400/Rain+eased+overnight..jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Wherever you are, following the highlighted links in this article will take you on a voyage of discovery. Enjoy your journey and come back soon to spend time browsing through many other interesting articles on this site. You are very welcome.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/visitor-information/highlights/rainforest.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/change/">Australia</a></strong>. </span></div>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-53306737593009633962008-02-29T15:06:00.005+10:002008-02-29T15:34:19.144+10:00Tasty treat: This awesome photograph of a 5m python dislocating its jaw to swallow a wallaby and joy, was snapped recently. Picture: DARREN CLELAND<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqRehds7u_Xyu-DmYgsaTNbsLoO9llUPymKJ2V1BDk4CdH3VhD6YKN9_RJYEI3xCRBTDD4t59ukv5Wln2UdF-P6-vZshM4fAK4IM_Drd8Y-5dLjZdD_NMsRjNV-0LnlV-0nwd0miUUfCr/s1600-h/snakemain.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5172264812342828722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqRehds7u_Xyu-DmYgsaTNbsLoO9llUPymKJ2V1BDk4CdH3VhD6YKN9_RJYEI3xCRBTDD4t59ukv5Wln2UdF-P6-vZshM4fAK4IM_Drd8Y-5dLjZdD_NMsRjNV-0LnlV-0nwd0miUUfCr/s400/snakemain.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;">This is okay but what's for dessert? </span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/02/29/1839_local-news.html"><span style="font-size:180%;"><div><br />Click here and read about this story from Far North Queensland.</span> <div><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;"><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong></a></strong></span></div></div><a href="http://www.epa.qld.gov.au/nature_conservation/wildlife/native_animals/living_with_wildlife/snakes/what_snakes_live_near_you/snakes_of_the_cairns_region/">Cairns</a>, <strong><a href="http://www.kidcyber.com.au/topics/wallabies.htm">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-14391671317466657642008-02-27T15:31:00.004+10:002008-02-27T15:47:46.404+10:00Are you a health professional interested in neurological movement disorders?The <strong>Atherton Tableland and Cairns Dystonia Support Group</strong> invite you to attend a Movement Disorders Symposium on Wednesday April 16th 2008 at <strong>The Cairns Colonial Club Conference Centre</strong>, Lockhart Room, Behan Street entrance.<br /><br />This exciting event brings together a panel of expert speakers discussing various aspects of a range of <strong>movement disorders</strong>; options for <strong>referral and treatment</strong>, <strong>recent research outcomes in Australia, Britain and the United States of America</strong> and the <strong>bio-psycho-social effects of movement disorders on patients in Far North Queensland</strong>.<br /><br />Principal speaker :<br />• <strong>Dr John O'Sullivan</strong> (MBBS, FRACP, PhD.), a <strong>Consultant Neurologist</strong>, Neurology Department, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, (R.B.W.H.) will be speaking about <strong>dystonia</strong>.<br /><br />Additional speakers :<br />• <strong>Dr Steven Dommann</strong>, <strong>Consultant Neurologist</strong>, Townsville General Hospital. <strong>Movement disorders.<br /></strong>• <strong>Ms Karen O'Maley</strong> R.N., C.N.C. Neurology Department, R.B.W.H. <strong>Parkinson’s disease & other movement disorders</strong>.<br />• <strong>Ms Maree Brockie</strong>, <strong>Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland</strong>. Brisbane.<br />• <strong>Ms Melanie Mirotsos</strong>, Physiotherapist, <strong>Diagnosys Physiotherapy</strong>, Cairns.<br />• <strong>Ms Gail Rogers</strong>, Speech Pathologist, <strong>Cairns Speech Pathology</strong>, Cairns.<br />• <strong>Ms Suzanne Bayliss</strong>, Social Worker (Retired). <strong>Atherton Tableland and Cairns Dystonia Support Group</strong>.<br /><br />For your information & interest the specific goals for the event are:<br />a. to present the opportunity for the medical / health professional community in FNQ to increase their knowledge from specialists regarding movement disorders<br />b. to communicate with the medical / health professional community in FNQ educational and promotional material specific to movement disorders<br />c. to establish a network of medical / health professionals in FNQ interested in Movement Disorders<br />d. to establish a Movement Disorders network / support group in FNQ<br />e. to increase support from the community by raising awareness of movement disorders<br />f. to increase resources for individuals to access<br />• timely referrals<br />• specialist assessments<br />• management services<br />• appropriate equipment & support.<br /><br />With great pleasure we are able to provide this evening free of charge thanks to very generous educational grants by <strong>Allergan Australia</strong> and <strong>Ipsen Pty Ltd</strong>. whose representatives will be attending the evening. These grants will enable our local health professionals to continue their professional education in the areas of <strong>neurological movement disorders</strong>.<br /><br />Programme:<br /><br />6.00PM – Meet and greet on Lockhart verandah.<br />• Registration.<br />• Welcome drinks and canapés.<br />• Complimentary juice, soft drink and iced water.<br />• Bar available to self-purchase alcoholic beverages.<br />• Poster, trade and pharmaceutical displays.<br /><br />7.00PM – Move through to dining room.<br /><br />• Buffet dinner with banquet style seating.<br />• Guest speaker presentations.<br />• Panel forum receiving and responding to questions.<br />• Completing evaluation forms and collection of same.<br /><br />Conclusion approximately 9.30pm<br /><br /><br />RSVP by 4th April to:<br />Sue Bayliss,<br />M: 0407 624 578<br />E: s(dot)j(dot)bayliss(at)bigpond(dot)com(dot)auSue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-78899362907958646452008-02-27T13:28:00.009+10:002008-02-29T15:38:35.623+10:00Why do Queenslanders walk with bowed heads?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinF8JpRqy5zQIJrHwlOp-2WAOWBuitli2oUhck2xiZqDE5Ht2bQkYaZ8v8svU8hPXPubwjOXNtzIrFEz2eRoNSBTa09Pd9r5YustagUA4x-ErlYZbK68w8ssiTg0EanLguc-GfceMB8P-0/s1600-h/Stuart+Douglas+shows+the+lump+in+the+python+where+it+ate+the+Peric+family%27s+dog..jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5171523828117970530" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinF8JpRqy5zQIJrHwlOp-2WAOWBuitli2oUhck2xiZqDE5Ht2bQkYaZ8v8svU8hPXPubwjOXNtzIrFEz2eRoNSBTa09Pd9r5YustagUA4x-ErlYZbK68w8ssiTg0EanLguc-GfceMB8P-0/s200/Stuart+Douglas+shows+the+lump+in+the+python+where+it+ate+the+Peric+family%27s+dog..jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">To avoid stepping on snakes of course!</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lSLy6kiGE8b9HsY02i3kX82rBgnYgabZllnTwf8Tm7lIJgerdhkZj-uFz4edGxtzPnFDyMlOSpJNngD0Y3uZB6nw0PAAHZs0XUQcgMCgHNv4GvcT-GtUusuYM6c3379NSt1jyThU-oHk/s1600-h/27.02.08.+A+Kuranda+python+after+eating+the+family+dog.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5171501936669662786" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lSLy6kiGE8b9HsY02i3kX82rBgnYgabZllnTwf8Tm7lIJgerdhkZj-uFz4edGxtzPnFDyMlOSpJNngD0Y3uZB6nw0PAAHZs0XUQcgMCgHNv4GvcT-GtUusuYM6c3379NSt1jyThU-oHk/s200/27.02.08.+A+Kuranda+python+after+eating+the+family+dog.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Photographer : Jake Nowakowski <a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/02/27/1811_local-news.html"><strong><br />The Cairns Post</strong> 27.02.08.:1</a></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong><a href="http://www.animalplanet.com.au/australia_uncovered/index.shtml"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Australia</span></a></strong><span style="font-size:130%;"> is renowned for <strong><a href="http://www.animalplanet.com.au/australia_uncovered/creepy_crawlies/index.shtml">creepy crawlies</a></strong> however, when local wildlife encroaches upon human habitat for a feed of domestic pets all rules of equilibrium in nature become somewhat skewed!</span></div><div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">One local family is traumatized following a rather </span><a href="http://www.animalplanet.com.au/australia_uncovered/snakes/index.shtml"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">handsome python</span></strong></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> devouring their <strong><a href="http://www.dolforums.com.au/lofiversion/index.php/t124395.html">much loved canine companion</a></strong>. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">The family attempted to save their pet while also telephoning for assistance from <strong><a href="http://www.altnews.com.au/fnqrescue/">wildlife experts</a></strong>. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Although a <strong><a href="http://www.rage.net.au/news/stories/2008/02/22/2169789.htm?site=tropic">professional snake handler</a></strong> was there in quick-time it was too late to save their brave little dog. </span><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><em><br />Click on <strong>The Cairns Post</strong> highlighted link above for the story</em>. </span><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,22833284-421,00.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.australianexplorer.com/photo_album.htm">Australia</a></strong>.</span></div>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-85553787339179711712008-02-26T21:28:00.003+10:002008-02-26T22:24:29.536+10:00Well, well, well. Three wells and a pond as well!<strong><a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/qld/cairns/climate.shtml">Monsoon rain</a></strong> brings such refreshing relief from dry, dusty terrain and water restrictions.<br /><br />The monsoon also plays havoc by way of waterlogged telephone lines - or so I thought. However, our dead as a doornail telephone resulted from some hard working trench-diggers installing a very nice new fence around next door's swimming pool.<br /><br />It just so happens that our telephone line travels right along the fence line before branching off towards our house! Ho-hum, ho-hum.<br /><br />We checked out the batteries in the cordless phone, inspected our waterlogged yard for the possibility of rain soaked lines, rang <strong><a href="http://www.telstra.com.au/abouttelstra/index.cfm?tR=1">Telstra</a></strong> on a mobile to report a fault but did not think for a minute that the line could have been cut in a couple of places - neither did the men dismantling the old fence and putting up the new one!<br /><br />All is well that ends well. Our line is now restored and some of my emails have been answered this evening. Will get around to more tomorrow. Meanwhile, I do need to acknowledge a very important person.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://imaginif.com.au/~ima33724/blog/">Thank you Megan</a></strong> for posting notices on my site. I am most grateful.<br /><br />Talk to you all again soon.<br /><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/visitor-information/index.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23276033-2702,00.html">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-89627520995284613402008-02-25T15:34:00.004+10:002008-02-25T15:57:22.221+10:00Fence sitting and the phone still doesn't ring<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwR69NQ0Sapqe2Dkrk5bcvUNIf82wXzkk_n7759pmVFEiaA0GCVyJLZGf6KSdZRthrtnaQ5SiPCd_Ht5uwaewmxZtvOptbQ1Y2tpn7y3AHEXTe0F9ne1SCzH__235dJgShDnL5lk2jY1d/s1600-h/broken+by+CraigPJ+at+stock+exchange.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170791652158119474" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwR69NQ0Sapqe2Dkrk5bcvUNIf82wXzkk_n7759pmVFEiaA0GCVyJLZGf6KSdZRthrtnaQ5SiPCd_Ht5uwaewmxZtvOptbQ1Y2tpn7y3AHEXTe0F9ne1SCzH__235dJgShDnL5lk2jY1d/s200/broken+by+CraigPJ+at+stock+exchange.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>Yesterday in </strong><a href="http://spasmodicdysphonia.blogspot.com/2008/02/telephone-line-spasms.html"><strong>Telephone Line Spasms</strong></a> I gave you a blogospheric ring on the inability of Mum's telephone and internet communication.<br /><br /><strong>Tech dude did flex his communication muscle but only to discover his voice line was chopped in several places</strong> (hope he now knows what it may be like to have spasmodic dysphonia)! It seems that the neighbours had a new fence put in and that Mr Fence contractor inadvertently cut the telephone line!!!!!<br /><br /><strong>Sitting on the fence, an unsatisfactory and possible time frame for fixing has been offered</strong>. With a trip to the States about to eventuate and a <a href="http://www.wemove.org/"><strong>neurological </strong></a><a href="http://spasmodicdysphonia.blogspot.com/2008/02/come-to-cairns-and-celebrate-with-us.html"><strong>movement disorder symposium in Cairns</strong></a> to finalise, communication is of the utmost importance.<br /><br /><strong>With an air of compassion and flavour of duty, I kindly offer my own email address</strong>. Should you need to contact Mum, please email me and I'll print it out to give to her (we live very close to each other so it is no drama). Contact me <a href="http://www.imaginif.com.au/contact.htm"><strong>here</strong></a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Photo from </span><a href="http://www.sxc.hu/photo/940938"><span style="font-size:85%;">stock.xchng - Broken (photo by CraigPJ)</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">. Wouldn't it be terrible if Mr Fence contractor</span><br /><div align="right"><span style="font-size:85%;">sat on that fence!<br /></div></span>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-61532371150974567142008-02-24T11:50:00.004+10:002008-02-24T12:18:15.160+10:00Telephone line spasms<a href="http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb28/imaginif/photobynicotheinatsxcphotoexchange.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb28/imaginif/photobynicotheinatsxcphotoexchange.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>It seems that Sue Bayliss is not the only conduit of dystonic spasms</strong>. Her telephone line has become water logged and a technician will be arriving in the next few days to flex his working muscles at the wretched thing.<br /><br /><strong>Temporarily without either telephone or internet, Sue is rendered communication mute</strong>.<br /><br />So many of you email her that she wanted you to know that she is not being rude and ignoring you, nor is she unwell: <strong>she just has no voice - literally and now metaphorically!</strong><br /><br /><strong>A few more days and she will be back with you</strong>.<br /><br />Megan (Sue's daughter) from <a href="http://www.imaginif.com.au/~ima33724/blog/"><strong>Imaginif</strong></a>.<br /><br />Photo: <a href="http://www.sxc.hu/photo/936375">stock.xchng - Golden Gate crisis phone (photo by nicothein)</a>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-62451920656827663322008-02-21T16:23:00.009+10:002008-02-21T17:47:54.890+10:00The story of a brave little green turtle.Alfie pictured with Jennie and Paul<br />from Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169316382431551010" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xFhX1Ib2uJEX68u47cAd3fUJLbS1-McUHAY7QDSQadRe23HAoAuzsKrY42qxW4dg22-2NCRSAWgjTfenPBbIFB_AQ8PEC0oOOLrwVor4IqDUYaR-9FjbQMjzfm2bVapRWMfdXTObDIuc/s200/green-island.jpg" border="0" /> Centre.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3t9Dh7yNHWZXwpAgpUN4Y2a4kbR7Hyds_QzQ8v_BfommoAQ-39Nw5tYPveVaPa5uwXPa7Dww2niSwmo4sQLJfYdJMg7oIXkHHxil7U2pcBQ9a1B7SI752JB5Kly2ggcho9tJT-pG8hie5/s1600-h/alfie_turtle_released_08.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169315660877045250" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3t9Dh7yNHWZXwpAgpUN4Y2a4kbR7Hyds_QzQ8v_BfommoAQ-39Nw5tYPveVaPa5uwXPa7Dww2niSwmo4sQLJfYdJMg7oIXkHHxil7U2pcBQ9a1B7SI752JB5Kly2ggcho9tJT-pG8hie5/s200/alfie_turtle_released_08.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><div>A little <strong><a href="http://www.aims.gov.au/ipstcg/index.html">green turtle</a></strong> named “<strong>Alfie</strong>” has found a new home on <strong><a href="http://www.greenislandresort.com.au/">Green Island</a></strong> (above right) thanks to <strong>Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre</strong> and <a href="http://www.greatadventures.com.au/"><strong>Great Adventures</strong></a>.</div><div><br /><strong>Alfie</strong>, a <a href="http://www.aims.gov.au/ipstcg/pdf/ipstcg-newsletter-200604.pdf"><strong>juvenile turtle approximately 10 years old</strong></a>, was released at <strong>Green Island</strong> on Valentines Day after successfully recovering from ‘<strong>floaters disease’</strong>.</div><div><br />Jennifer Gilbert of the <strong>Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre</strong> said <strong>Alfie</strong> was found floating near <strong><a href="http://mymissionbeach.com/">Mission Beach</a></strong> about eight weeks ago and was brought into the <strong>Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre</strong> by the rangers from <strong><a href="http://www.innisfailtourism.com.au/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,23/">Innisfail</a></strong>. </div><div><br />“He was suffering from ‘<strong>floaters disease’</strong> and was quite sick. He had been floating for a while as he had a layer of algae and barnacles on his shell. Without treatment, <strong>Alfie</strong> may have died from starvation as these animals (with floaters disease) are unable to dive, and therefore cannot feed.” </div><div></div><div><strong><br />Great Adventures Environmental Manager, Jason Reynolds</strong> said “<strong>Green Island</strong> was the ideal place to release <strong>Alfie</strong> as it has a <strong>healthy population of juvenile turtles</strong>, and the <strong>marine-park protected reef</strong> also <strong><a href="http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/corp_site/info_services/publications/sotr/latest_updates/seagrasses">supports significant seagrass beds</a></strong> in the shallows for him to graze on.”</div><div><br /><strong>Alfie</strong> made his <strong>trip out to Green Island aboard a Great Adventures boat</strong>, much to the delight of many tourists travelling to the island on their <strong>day cruise</strong>. </div><div></div><div><br />“When he was released, <strong>Alfie</strong> took off across the <strong>seagrass beds</strong> and did not look back. This was a great result. <strong>The Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre</strong> would like to thank <strong>Great Adventures</strong> for taking him out to the island so he could go back home,” said Ms Gilbert.<br /></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong><br />Great Adventures</strong> is pleased to have been able to assist the <strong>Turtle Rehabiliation Centre</strong> and congratulates the team of <strong>Jennie, Paul and Damian who cared for</strong> <strong>Alfie</strong>, returning him to health.<br /></div><div><br />*Photographs Courtesy of <strong>Graeme Bint Island Photography</strong></div><div></div><div></div><div><br />I hope you enjoyed the above story about a very special little green turtle.</div><div> </div><div><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/corp_site">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.science.org.au/nova/010/010key.htm">Australia</a></strong>.</div></div>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-33066798938553846242008-02-20T14:06:00.006+10:002008-02-20T16:49:39.570+10:00The Corporate Angel Network of Australiais a <strong>not for profit organisation <a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/Info.html#offer">run entirely by</a></strong><a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/Info.html#offer"> <strong>volunteers</strong></a>.<br /><br /><strong>Corporate <a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/About_Us.html">Angel Network of Australia</a></strong> is a registared charity working nationally to provide <strong><a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/Corporations.php">FREE air transport</a> between home and treatment centre for cancer and leukaemia patients</strong>, <strong>bone marow donors</strong> and <strong>members of their families or carer</strong>.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/Hospitals.html">The network liaises with hospitals</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.healthinsite.gov.au/topics/Cancer_Support_Services">cancer</a> and <a href="http://www.leukaemia.org.au/web/index.php">leukaemia</a> <a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/Support.php">support services</a></strong> <strong><a href="http://www.cancer.org.au/Home.htm">right across Australia</a></strong>. This service does not provide <strong>travel for people who are entitled to</strong> <strong><a href="http://www.health.qld.gov.au/services/community/ptss/default.asp">government assisted travel</a></strong> and does not provide hospital to hospital transfers.<br /><br />ALL patients travelling must have a <strong>Doctor's certificate of fitness to travel by air</strong>, must be ambulatory and be able to travel unaccompanied. All requests for assistance are from the hospital or support service. <strong>The Angel Network</strong> do not accept requests directly from the travellers or members of their family.<br /><br />Most <strong><a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/Info.html">requests for this service</a></strong> <strong>are made by hospital social workers or nursing staff.</strong> For further information please check out <strong>The Angel Network of Australia</strong> website at <a href="http://www.angelnet.asn.au/">www.angelnet.asn.au</a> (phone: 07 5496 8854)<br /><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.faess.jcu.edu.au/swcw/index.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.aasw.asn.au/">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-41343477172788732822008-02-15T12:17:00.004+10:002008-02-15T15:47:24.092+10:00What action do you take when realizing you are running around in circles?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGHk7wRjTYClZIfr4Nc4PlbBi4p94XtfEHSFRPdIu4Vaqjtrap74YKFLcskMiqv77YX5BEhZiGNo1eU5KM2vFQUhQRna2A-wOYot6hsCJI3w0UrUsugguQeiJTJFOnpzwYCEmHFPGBRAk/s1600-h/attachment.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5167025721753771506" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGHk7wRjTYClZIfr4Nc4PlbBi4p94XtfEHSFRPdIu4Vaqjtrap74YKFLcskMiqv77YX5BEhZiGNo1eU5KM2vFQUhQRna2A-wOYot6hsCJI3w0UrUsugguQeiJTJFOnpzwYCEmHFPGBRAk/s200/attachment.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Sometimes we just need to stop! </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><div><br />Running around in circles is usually a <strong><a href="http://www.jpc.qld.edu.au/resources/Newsletters-Primary/2005-08-03_Edition11August.pdf">reflection of stress</a></strong>. This may be from some mental, emotional or physical strain. <strong><a href="http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=1.5"><br /><br />Anxiety</a></strong> or <strong><a href="http://www.itim.com.au/Services_proact_stress.html">working beyond reasonable limits</a></strong> may result in <strong><a href="http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Work-related_stress?OpenDocument">stress related symptoms</a></strong> like <strong><a href="http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/BHCV2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Headache_and_stress?OpenDocument">headaches</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/Heart_Information/Heart_Conditions/Blood_Pressure.htm?gclid=CI7BtNqmxZECFQO7iQodyBoxyw">elevated blood pressure</a></strong> or maybe even some degree of <strong><a href="http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=1.3&gclid=CL_OvoOnxZECFRTOiQodZFiiyw">depression</a></strong>.<br /><br />Looking after our selves may be a challenge to our deeply rooted <strong><a href="http://www.cyh.com.au/HealthTopics/HealthTopicDetails.aspx?p=114&np=99&id=1754#9">values and beliefs</a></strong> about ‘<strong><a href="http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,23186679-5001031,00.html">selfishness</a></strong>’, ‘<strong><a href="http://www.cathnews.com/news/802/27.php">self-centeredness</a></strong>' and ‘<strong><a href="http://au.answers.yahoo.com/answers2/frontend.php/question?qid=20080213054535AAS7Rj7">priorities</a></strong>’. However, if we do not care for self in a holistic way how can we care for those we love and others for whom we have a <strong><a href="http://johnderrick.com/law-of-attraction/wealth-abundance/taking-personal-responsibility/">sense of responsibility</a></strong>?<br /><br />As our <strong><a href="http://www.thechristianwebsite.com/gpage17.html">Easter Season</a></strong> continues many of us will be thinking about a more <strong><a href="http://au.answers.yahoo.com/answers2/frontend.php/question?qid=20071028133941AAiJ8rj">holistic sense of being</a></strong>. What do we need to change in our life to fulfill that sense of <strong><a href="http://www.brf.org.uk/">spirituality</a></strong> within?<br /><br />Consider leaving a comment reflecting your thoughts. Who knows what encouragement your words may give to others? I would like to hear from you. </div><div></div><div><br />Links in this article lead to a range of views in the hope you will find something meaningful to your own life journey.<br /><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairnsbaptistchurch.org/?page_id=12">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.dreamtime.net.au/indigenous/spirituality.cfm">Australia</a></strong>.</span></div></span>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-71967728529743880942008-02-14T14:30:00.010+10:002008-02-14T15:52:54.259+10:00Our P.M's apology to Australia's Aboriginal people paves the way for reconciliation. However, one wee problem needs urgent response.<strong></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Kidney Health Australia</strong> Welcomes <strong>Rudd Commitment on Indigenous Health.</strong><br /><br /><strong>Kidney Health Australia</strong> today welcomed the <strong>commitment by the Federal Government to tackle the health issues facing Indigenous Australians</strong> with a concerted effort to <strong>close the seventeen year life expectancy gap between Indigenous Australians and the rest of the community</strong>.<br /><br /><strong>Anne Wilson CEO of Kidney Health Australia</strong> said, "The <strong>overall death rates from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) are up to ten times higher in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities compared to the rest of the Australian community</strong>.<br /><br />"The incidence of <strong>kidney failure is increasing in the Aboriginal population at a faster rate than in non Aboriginal communities</strong>."<br /><br />Ms Wilson said that the public statement and commitment on resources to tackle the <strong>health issues of the Indigenous communities</strong> as part of <strong>Prime Minister Rudd's "Sorry Statement"</strong> is a major signpost to the people in the front line of <strong>combating chronic diseases</strong> that the <strong>Federal Government</strong> is looking beyond the band-aid approach of the past.<br /><br /><strong>Medical Director of Kidney Health Australia Dr Tim Mathew</strong> said, "Greater prevalence of CKD in some <strong>Indigenous Australian communities</strong> is due to the traditional high risk factors including , <strong>diabetes, high blood pressure and smoking</strong>.<br /><br />"This can be compounded due to increased levels of <strong>poor nutrition,</strong> <strong>high alcohol use</strong>, <strong>streptococcal throat and skin infection</strong>, and <strong>socio economic disadvantaged living conditions</strong> which makes the <strong>Federal Government commitment to housing</strong> an important step in <strong>chronic disease prevention</strong>.<br /><br />"<strong>Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)</strong> <strong>is often referred to as the "silent killer" as 80 -90% of kidney function can be lost before an individual experiences any symptoms.</strong><br /><br />"The latest research has recognized <strong>kidney disease is a "disease multiplier".</strong> It <strong>causes death in many people with diabetes and hypertension and predicts the development of a cardiovascular event."<br /></strong><br /><strong>Kidney Health Australia</strong> with the support of the <strong>Federal Government and BHP Billiton</strong> has organised <strong><a href="http://www.kidney.org.au/Whatwedo/Detection/tabid/602/Default.aspx">KEY - 'Kidney Evaluation for You'</a>, an early detection program to evaluate kidney function, cardiovascular health and diabetes in high risk individuals</strong> to be carried out in three States as <strong>Australia's first national screening program</strong>.<br /><br />"If <strong>detected early through the screening</strong> of high risk groups <strong>CKD can be treated</strong>, thereby reducing other complications," Dr Mathews said.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.kidney.org.au/">http://www.kidney.org.au/</a></strong><br /><br />(<em>end of media release</em>)<br /><br />Don't let any wee problems in your life become <strong>chronic kidney disease</strong>. Take action now.<br /><br />Ask your family doctor for a <strong>kidney function test</strong> or phone 1800 682 531 to make a "<strong>Kidney Evaluation for You</strong>" appointment. If you use a <a href="http://www.aceinfo.net.au/Services/NRS/"><strong>TTY telephone</strong></a>, call 1800 005 881.<br /><br />E-mail contact for <strong>Kidney Health Australia</strong> is, <a href="mailto:Health@kidney.org.au">Health@kidney.org.au</a><br /><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/02/14/1527_local-news.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://parlinfoweb.aph.gov.au/piweb/view_document.aspx?ID=2766433&TABLE=HANSARDR&TARGET=">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-70829732025463750582008-02-11T22:44:00.000+10:002008-02-12T01:37:25.438+10:00Come to Cairns and celebrate with us . . .<a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_g-dRbjeb6IQ/R7BLf5JwneI/AAAAAAAAAM8/uZ8W_9G75iI/s1600-h/Dr+John+O%27Sullivan.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165711783883742690" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_g-dRbjeb6IQ/R7BLf5JwneI/AAAAAAAAAM8/uZ8W_9G75iI/s200/Dr+John+O%27Sullivan.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">giving <strong>voice</strong> to<strong> <a href="http://www.wemove.org/">neurological movement disorders</a></strong> on <a href="http://www.entnet.org/news/History-of-World-Voice-Day.cfm"><strong>World Voice Day, 16th April 2008</strong></a>.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">(<span style="font-size:85%;">Dr John O'Sullivan, pictured</span>)<br /><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Are you are a <strong>health professional with an interest in movement disorders</strong>? This event is for you!<br /><br />Principal speaker is <strong>Dr John O'Sullivan</strong> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">MBBS, FRACP, PhD. </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Dr O'Sullivan is a Consultant Neurologist</strong>, Department of Neurology, <strong>Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital</strong>, Brisbane, Queensland.</span><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><strong>Atherton Tableland and Cairns <a href="http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/dystonias/detail_dystonias.htm">Dystonia</a> Support Group</strong> are hosting this inaugural <strong>Movement Disorders Symposium</strong> at The <strong><a href="http://www.cairnscolonialclub.com.au/conferencecentre.html">Colonial Club Resort Conference Centre</a></strong> commencing 6.30 P.M. with pre-dinner drinks followed by a banquet style dinner and guest speaker presentations.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cairnscolonialclub.com.au/accommodation.html"><strong>Accommodation</strong></a><strong> is available at the resort</strong> for people from out of town who are attending the conference.<br /><br /><br />This free <strong>promotional and educational dinner symposium for medical professionals and also allied health professionals</strong> is possible thanks to very generous support by <strong><a href="http://www.allergan.com/index.htm">Allergan Australia</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.ipsen.com.au/">Ipsen Pty Ltd</a></strong>. RSVP by 4th April is essential (see below contact details).<br /><br /><br />Additional speakers are,<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><ul><li><strong>Dr Steven Dommann</strong>, <strong>Neurologist</strong>, <strong>Townsville General Hospital</strong>.</li><li><strong>Ms Karen O'Maley R.N., C.N.C.,</strong> (Parkinson's Disease and other movement disorders) <strong>Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital</strong>.</li><li><strong>Ms Maree Brockie</strong>, <strong>Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland</strong>. <strong>Brisbane</strong>.</li><li><strong>Ms Melanie Mirotsos, Physiotherapist</strong>, <strong>Diagnosys Physiotherapy</strong>, <strong>Cairns</strong>.</li><li><strong>Ms Gail Rogers, Speech Pathologist, Cairns Speech Pathology, Cairns.</strong></li><li><strong>Ms Suzanne Bayliss</strong>, <strong>Social Worker</strong> (Retired), <strong>Atherton Tableland and Cairns <a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/">Dystonia</a> Support Group.</strong></li></ul><p>There will be a panel available for questions and answers following the speakers presentations. <strong>Ms Maureen Slocum</strong> from our support group will also be available on the panel. </p><p>Maureen and Suzanne are attending the <strong><a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/">National Spasmodic Dysphonia Association</a> Annual Symposium in the <a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/events/event.asp?id=1868">United States</a></strong>, March 29th, two weeks prior to our symposium in <strong>Cairns</strong>.</p><p>If you would like to know more about this event, please contact me on mobile telephone number 0407 624 578. If you are visiting Cairns from overseas at the time of this symposium and would like to attend please telephone me on +61 407 624 578 or email: <br />s(dot)j(dot)bayliss(at)bigpond(dot)com(dot)au. </p><p>If you are a person with a diagnosed <strong>neurological movement disorder</strong> and would like to know more about this event, please contact me.</p><p>Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/02/11/1440_local-news.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/02/11/1352_local-news.html">Australia</a></strong>. </p><p>(Please click on the highlighted links in this article for more information).</p><p></p><br /></span><br /><br /></span></span>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-22355412630805233202008-02-11T13:27:00.000+10:002008-02-11T14:23:51.388+10:00Do you know . . .<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ibqAaig_Zz45va-U4xaA2Cdl4wPBxC_hvZlK7XfX2aPCK1TJ71-zEfYpArvr9Du7yozSddfPfmwi7lDP5jD_0BTADx6hGCYG_Qcbgx51Zrxn27G0evNm-hQI2ws-bDNsT6qsk_GUy1WZ/s1600-h/anne.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165561039121587666" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ibqAaig_Zz45va-U4xaA2Cdl4wPBxC_hvZlK7XfX2aPCK1TJ71-zEfYpArvr9Du7yozSddfPfmwi7lDP5jD_0BTADx6hGCYG_Qcbgx51Zrxn27G0evNm-hQI2ws-bDNsT6qsk_GUy1WZ/s200/anne.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>World Kidney Day is Thursday 13 March 2008 and this year will promote the theme of Amazing Kidneys</strong>. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Our <strong>kidneys filter 200 litres of blood daily and 73,000 litres annually</strong> - twice the amount of water it takes to fill the average backyard swimming pool.</span> </div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><em><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />Photograph is of <strong>Ann Wilson</strong>, Chief Executive Officer of <strong><a href="http://www.kidney.org.au/">Kidney Health Australia</a></strong></span></em>.</span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Have a read of <strong>Kidney Health</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>'s </span><a href="http://www.kidney.org.au/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=LV1ksWIF%2bvU%3d&tabid=652&mid=1566"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">February on-line bulletin</span></strong></a><span style="font-size:130%;">. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><div><br />Wherever we live, an <strong>awareness of</strong> <strong>chronic kidney disease</strong> is something<strong> </strong>we all need to have.<strong> </strong>What will you do to ensure your <strong>kidney health</strong> today?</div><div></div><div><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.ramsayhealth.com.au/cph/services/Renal_Dialysis.asp">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.kidney.org.au/ForPatients/DialysisandTravel/tabid/608/Default.aspx">Australia</a></strong>.</span></div>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-38897233403450844422008-02-09T16:39:00.000+10:002008-02-09T18:28:02.455+10:00No, that won't make you go blind but this will ...<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnAWZ9h9WtH2CikBJP7mV7gxOhqtrUIUa5Dj68vnZg5tnf8JX0kwOdNrJNzmtcTH9cVx14FZh_VGdFlhCd6LE90j7aMoN8j2wu8EuaWOBEPafzGKmOIZ0zVG1db0Hg1B5FgMkqW_JOeKw/s1600-h/Kidney+Health+Australia+Medical+Director+Tim+Mathew.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164871911618944450" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnAWZ9h9WtH2CikBJP7mV7gxOhqtrUIUa5Dj68vnZg5tnf8JX0kwOdNrJNzmtcTH9cVx14FZh_VGdFlhCd6LE90j7aMoN8j2wu8EuaWOBEPafzGKmOIZ0zVG1db0Hg1B5FgMkqW_JOeKw/s200/Kidney+Health+Australia+Medical+Director+Tim+Mathew.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Kidney Disease Could Increase Risk Of Blindness Threefold</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://www.kidney.org.au/?section=41"><strong>Kidney Health Australia</strong></a> today said a major Australian study just published has identified for the first time a significant relationship between early age related <strong><a href="http://www.mdfoundation.com.au/">macular degeneration</a></strong> of the eye and <strong>early Chronic Kidney Disease</strong> (CKD). The findings could see <strong>future best practice protocols for people with CKD include monitoring of the eye for evidence of macular degeneration. </strong><br /><br /><br /><strong>Kidney Health Australia</strong> Medical Director Tim Mathew said, "<strong>Age related macular degeneration is the commonest cause of irreversible blindness in Australia</strong> and whilst <strong>known to co-exist with chronic kidney disease</strong> (CKD) has not previously been recognized to be increased in frequency in these patients."<br /><br /><em>Image above right: <strong>Dr Tim Mathew Medical Director Kidney Health Australia</strong></em>.<br /><br />"<strong>The Blue Mountains Eye Study</strong> studied 1184 people aged over 54 yrs and assessed eye function sequentially through a five year study period."<br /><br />Dr Mathew said, "The results showed a surprising <strong>threefold increase in the onset of macular degeneration</strong> during the five year period in those with early CKD compared to those with no CKD."<br /><br />"This association increased with increasing age and suggests that the 2 conditions share similar causative mechanisms."<br /><br />"<strong>Early age-related macular degeneration</strong> thus joins the list of conditions known to occur significantly more frequently in people with CKD."<br /><br />"These include <strong><a href="http://www.healthnetwork.com.au/diseases-conditions/anemia.asp">anemia</a>, <a href="http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/Heart_Information/Heart_Conditions/Blood_Pressure.htm?gclid=CPP6p77StpECFQUBiQodPk8zOQ">high blood pressure</a>, <a href="http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/Heart_Information/Heart_Conditions/Heart_Failure.htm">heart failure</a>, <a href="http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/document/NHF/Current_Trends.pdf">atherosclerotic vascular disease</a> and <a href="http://www.virtualbonecentre.com/diseases.asp?did=286">bone disease</a></strong>."<br /><br />Fast Facts: </p><ul><li><strong>1 in 3 adults are at increased risk of developing CKD</strong>. </li><li><strong>1 in 7 adults have at least one clinical sign of existing CKD</strong>. </li><li><strong>Approximately 2 million Australians may be affected by early-stage kidney disease and don't know it</strong>.<br /></li></ul><p>Media Enquiries:<br /></p><ul><li>Dr Tim Mathew, Medical Director KHA Mobile: 0416 149 863. </li><li>Ron Smith Media Communications Kidney Health Australia<br />Mobile: 0417 329 201</li></ul><p><em>end of media release</em></p><p>Wherever you live, ask your family doctor about an <strong>annual <a href="http://www.kidney.org.au/KidneyDisease/HowourKidneyworks/tabid/590/Default.aspx">kidney function</a> test</strong>.</p><p>Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/visitor-information/things-to-do-in-cairns.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.rottnestisland.com/en/default.htm">Australia</a></strong>.</p>Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-50079171035013329932008-02-08T22:50:00.000+10:002008-02-09T14:07:11.448+10:00Dystonia: post treatment thoughts.Refreshing dew falls through the sultry night as <strong><a href="http://www.tropicalblooms.com.au/">blossom buds send out their heavy scent</a></strong>. <a href="http://www.alanswildlifetours.com.au/popups/tourTKangaroo.html"><strong>Nocturnal creatures</strong></a> fluttering through the air make a softly whooshing noise. <strong><a href="http://rainforest-australia.com/bird.htm">Owls calling to their kind</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.batreach.cairns.tc/ffoxes.html">flying fox screeching</a></strong> as they compete for <strong><a href="http://www.rainforest.com.au/attractions/orchard.htm">tropical fruits</a></strong> upon the trees.<br /><br />Clouds flowing through the sky look eerie in moonlight. Thoughts of loved ones here sleeping safely in their beds and those living far away who may be thinking of us now.<br /><br />The comfort of loving arms surrounding me are tenderly felt. A presence sensed yet visible only in mind's eye. Husband, parents, brothers. Those from generations before my own. Stepping through the door of life they are now journeying on, united in their faith.<br /><br />What hardships, joys, sorrows and hopes they must have encounted throughout their life upon this earth. Entwined like golden threads through time, they are gently nurturing my soul.<br /><br />My <strong><a href="http://www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/dystonia.asp">body aches with pain</a></strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.asta.asn.au/">Neck twisting, pulling</a></strong>, waiting for <a href="http://www.wemove.org/dys/cdys_bota_inj.html">relief to start</a>. <strong><a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/">Voice softly responding to toxin</a></strong> given <a href="http://www.health.qld.gov.au/rbwh/">before</a> the <strong><a href="http://www.coastshop.com.au/maps/4brisbane_cairns_map.htm">long trip</a></strong> <strong><a href="http://www.qantas.com.au/info/about/index">home</a></strong>.<br /><br />Yes, <strong><a href="http://worldpeace.org.au/">peace</a></strong> is within my heart. That place where thoughts and feelings hide. The pain will stop and morning come to brighten a brand new day. With hope comes promise of better times. Let us move forward through <strong><a href="http://www.redbubble.com/people/artisticbynature/art/418992-5-contemplating-life">life's journey</a></strong>. Together, we will find a <strong><a href="http://care4dystonia.org/index.php/dystonia/treatment-for-dystonia/">cure for dystonia</a></strong>.<br /><br /><br />Sue Bayliss. <a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/"><strong>Cairns</strong></a>, <strong><a href="http://www.scienceinpublic.com/scienceinmelbourne2007/">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-43013229013949300662008-01-31T20:07:00.000+10:002008-01-31T22:51:07.001+10:00Look. There it is, in the blink of an eye!<strong><a href="http://www.brainaustralia.org.au/AZ_of_Brain_Disorders/blepharospasm">Blepharospasm</a></strong> is one of <strong><a href="http://www.life-in-motion.org/factsheets/dystonia.html">many types of dystonia</a></strong>. It may have a gradual onset first noticed as an <strong>eye irritation or watering eyes</strong>, <strong>uncontrollable involuntary blinking, winking or squinting, sensitivity to light and sometimes a feeling of inability to keep eyes open</strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/blepha/index.asp">Muscular spasms</a> may close the eye or eyes causing blindness,</strong> not due to <strong>vision impairment</strong> but to the <strong>eyelid spasms</strong>. <a href="http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/dystonias/dystonias.htm"><strong>Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder</strong></a>.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.dystoniaaustralia.org.au/dystonia.htm">Dystonia comes in many forms</a></strong>. It is recognized as the <a href="http://www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/dystonia.asp"><strong>third most common neurological movement disorder after essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease</strong></a>. Although this is <strong>not a life threatening disease</strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.asta.asn.au/">dystonia</a></strong> does result in <strong><a href="http://www.blinddogfilms.com/twisted/">sustained muscular contractions causing twitching and repetitive movements</a></strong> in <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia.org.uk/about-dystonia-page7541.html">one affected part of the body, in adjacent parts of the body, several non-connecting parts of the body or over many parts of the body</a></strong>.<br /><br />The first place to go when a person experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above is to the <strong><a href="http://www.mydr.com.au/">family doctor</a></strong>. Even if your <strong><a href="http://www.gp.org.au/">local doctor</a></strong> does not know much about <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/more_info/44.php">blepharospasm</a></strong> or <a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/"><strong>any other form of dystonia</strong></a>, you can request referral for an opinion to a <strong>neurologist</strong> who has an interest in <strong><a href="http://www.neurosurgerytoday.org/what/patient_e/movement_disorders.asp">movement disorders</a></strong>.<br /><br />Following a thorough <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/how_is_dystonia_diagnosed_/40.php">neurological assessment</a></strong> by an appropriate <strong>neurologist</strong>, symptoms of <strong><a href="http://www.allergan.com/treatments/neurosciences/blepharospasm.htm">blepharospasm</a></strong> and any other <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/forms_of_dystonia/41.php">type of dystonia</a></strong> are able to be treated. <strong><a href="http://www.allergan.com/assets/pdf/botox_fact_sheet.pdf">Botulinum toxin injections</a> are the <a href="http://www.dystoniaaustralia.org.au/pdf/botox.pdf">favoured form of treatment</a> for some of the dystonias</strong>. There is also <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/oral_medications/121.php">oral medication</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/surgery/131.php">surgery</a></strong> and some <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/complementary_therapy/156.php">alternative forms of treatment</a></strong> that your <strong>treating neurologist</strong> may discuss with you. In addition to <strong>discussing your options with your neurologist,</strong> it is good to know there are <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/non_drug_therapies/110.php">additional treatment options</a></strong> available from <a href="http://www.ahpa.com.au/"><strong>allied health professionals</strong></a> such as <strong>physiotherapists</strong>, <strong>speech therapists</strong>, <strong>occupational therapists</strong>, <strong>social workers</strong> and <strong>psychologists</strong>. There is even <strong><a href="http://www.bebaustralia.org.au/index.html">support available</a></strong> through <strong><a href="http://www.dystoniaaustralia.org.au/support.htm">support groups</a></strong> both nationally and internationally.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.dysphonia.org/support/online.asp">Support groups</a> provide contact with others</strong> who have already experienced what you are going through. Geographical areas may place people a long way from each other. However, there is always the opportunity for telephone contact, email and <strong><a href="http://www.wemove.org/ASO/">on-line support groups</a></strong>. If you attend a <strong>botox clinic</strong> in a <strong><a href="http://www.health.qld.gov.au/rbwh/">hospital</a></strong> you may feel comfortable chatting to others in the waiting room. Who knows, they may also feel a need to have <strong>contact with another person</strong> <strong>with</strong> <strong><a href="http://care4dystonia.org/">dystonia</a></strong> too.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/support_groups/107.php">Newly diagnosed people may feel very alone</a></strong> and afraid of what this means for them in day to day life. Dynamics in relationships may change. Employment prospects may be different. Family responsibilities may need to be discussed both with loved ones and with someone in your treatment team.<br /><br />Above all <strong>be a survivor</strong>, not a sufferer or victim of <strong>what ever form of dystonia you have</strong>. If someone in your family, a friend or perhaps a neighbour has <strong>dystonia</strong>, read all you can about this <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/funding_opportunities/142.php">neurological movement disorder</a></strong>.<br /><br />Be informed. Get involved. Make a difference. Together we will move forward and in doing so will <strong><a href="http://www.dystonia.co.uk/">find a cure for dystonia</a></strong>.<br /><br />Sue Bayliss. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/01/31/1182_local-news.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/special/rsjproject/rsjlibrary/hreoc/stolen/">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7190291330522537787.post-18844795222058416282008-01-28T22:09:00.000+10:002008-01-29T00:56:00.152+10:00Botulinum Toxin: a safe treatment option for symptoms of dystonia.We read about <strong>demands for safer administration of botulinum toxin</strong> by <strong>attaching notices on packaging and information to physicians</strong>. In this instance <strong><a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSN2422612920080125?sp=true">media in the United States of America reports the death of 16 people allegedly linked to the use of botulinum toxin injections</a></strong>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/treatments/6.php"><strong>Looking further</strong></a> than the original article makes good sense. We sympathize with the families of those who died and indeed think of the people themselves and how life can be cut short when least expected. However, <strong>much more information is required</strong>.<br /><br />What do we know about the <strong>group making demands for stronger warnings</strong>? Do we know what their motivation for this request is? Were there <strong>other medical complications present</strong> when these people died?<br /><br />What are the <strong>facts of which we are aware in relation to the use of <a href="http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/pages/botulinum_toxin_injections/124.php">botulinum toxin</a>?</strong><br /><br />In coming weeks it will be interesting to hear more about this issue. Meanwhile, we do know that in relation to <strong><a href="http://www.myobloc.com/">treating the symptoms</a> of certain forms of dystonia</strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.botoxmedical.com/">botulinum toxin</a> is the favoured treatment</strong>. <strong>There is a great deal of evidence stating <a href="http://care4dystonia.org/index.php/dystonia/treatment-for-dystonia/botulinum-toxin/">botulinum toxin</a></strong><strong> is also <a href="http://www.allergan.com/products/neurosciences/botox.htm">a safe treatment</a></strong>.<br /><br />Talking to your <strong>treating neurologist</strong>, <strong>family doctor</strong> or <strong>some other member of your treatment team</strong> is a good place to start if you have any questions about your treatment. The <strong><a href="http://www.allergan.com/treatments/neurosciences/cervical_dystonia.htm">drug companies in question are reputable</a></strong> and have <strong>sound policies of corporate responsibility</strong>.<br /><br />By all means, follow news articles about these warnings but please, do not consider changing your <strong>treatment plan</strong> without discussing this with the appropriate people first. <strong>The relief gained for people with dystonia using botulinum toxin is very well documented</strong>. I am travelling 1,600 kilometres to Brisbane next week for <strong>botulinum toxin treatment</strong> at <strong>The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital</strong>. My <strong>treatment team</strong> is indeed professional, trustworthy and reassuring, when ever I have questions about my <strong><a href="http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/dystonias/dystonias.htm">dystonia</a></strong> or any form of treatment.<br /><br />Follow the highlighted links in this article to understand better the concerns raised and watch for further information as it comes to light.<br /><br /><strong>Sue Bayliss</strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/01/28/1110_local-news.html">Cairns</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.puretasmania.com.au/">Australia</a></strong>.Sue Baylisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12681330289537484939noreply@blogger.com1