Dear Jo Public Is this the single largest inexcusable travesty of the 21st Century? What do you know, or choose to know? Do you care? I live in a world where injustices are metered out as commonplace where inequalities are the accepted norm, where people like my daughter Jen are unknown and unseen, invisible in full sight. In my world … Read More
Championing social change
I’m honoured to be recognised as a finalist for “20 years a Social Enterprise Champion” in Selnet Ltd awards, and to have been nominated for the SMK Lifetime Achievement award. I have always championed social change, challenging assumptions and adding my voice and support wherever I can – as a naturally shy introvert that’s been quite something! I believe when … Read More
Together against loneliness
With an important caveat. All views are personal and formed over 70 years of living, 44 with Jen, who today presents as her most fulfilled self ever. Let’s consider the work/life balance for all of us. What works best – for you, for people you know, for your family members, your loved ones, for people with learning disabilities? And how … Read More
Humanity rising – the power of love
These past couple of weeks have been amazing, a microcosm of our world in theory and in practice. We have embraced risk and opportunity, we have committed to each other and travelled the miles, inspired and impacted unsuspecting others, and opened doors to the future for DanceSyndrome with Jen seen, heard, valued and respected communicating through her language of dance. … Read More
The vibrancy of life being lived
The stifling heat in Antigua greeted my sister (Paul’s Mum), Merie two weeks ago. It has been pure joy to hear her excitement as she witnesses the next unexpected and revels in the numerous offbeat opportunities presenting. I am thrilled that we are able to make new memories with someone so dear to me, someone who I only came to know … Read More
DanceSyndrome 17 years on
Thank you for noticing and for your congratulations! Can it really be 17 years since we took those first faltering steps towards the birth of DanceSyndrome? Like so many decisions it was driven by necessity. Jen’s world was crumbling around her and the frustration of her aspirations not being recognized just because she has a learning disability was too much … Read More
Choosing your path
I shall always remember the very first time we visited and fell in love with Guernsey. Aft clambering over rocks we were resting and admiring the view from the alluring coast path, Jen gurgling happily in a kangaroo carrier as Malcolm and I chatted quietly smitten by the beauty of our surroundings and the profundity of the moment as we … Read More
Atlantic crossing complete
27 January 2026 at 14:42:06 GMT Day 18 cont…………… Minimal winds through the day of around 21 knots. Wall to wall sunshine causing us to hide whenever possible. 1600 ‘Let’s get the bimini up. That should be quick and easy’ Tried but abandoned. Sadly we have no photos but would have been good with me lying prone across the cockpit … Read More
Atlantic crossing days 16-18
25 January 2026 at 18:56:20 GMT Day 16 There seemed to be no reason on a mostly clear night, but strangely Orion lost his head and shoulders! 3.30am and 32 knots was the point where I was definitely uncomfortable with our sail set. I unintentionally managed to awake the whole ships company but happily having watched the instruments for a while it … Read More
Atlantic crossing days 13-15
Team photo: Sue, Malcolm and Paul, as we set off from Tazacorte, La Palma 9th January 2026 23 January 2026 at 11:41:13 GMT Day 13 Consistent strong winds continued throughout the day. Bumpy seas forced us to carefully hold on down below and on deck to avoid being tossed about by the waves. Paul got properly wet on his morning … Read More