Story
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Thank you for visiting my justgiving fundraising page. <br /><br />Through my fundraising page, I will be supporting Northern Ireland Chest heart and stroke, and the great work they do, and the support they give to many COPD sufferers. COPD is the umberella term for Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema. It means Chronic Obstructive, Pulmonary Disease and is Northern Ireland's forgotten illness.Over 80,000 people suffer from COPD in Northern Ireland alone. It claims 8,000 lives each year, and results in over 28,000 hospital admissions every year. Yet over 85% of the population in Northern Ireland have never even heard of it. <br /><br />My Father was diagnosed with Emphysema back in 2001 but sadly he Passed away in September 2010 <br /><br />Since the diagnosis back in 2001 his health had declined rapidly, and for the last 3 years of his life, he was on Oxygen 24/7. Even with that he never complained, and he accepted this chronic illness graciously. Watching my father suffer endlessly, has taught me never to take my health, or my ability to breathe for granted, and always remember those who dont have the blessings that I have.<br /><br /> N.I Chest heart and stroke. All donations are very very much appreciated. As my Grandmother used to say "it's in giving that we receive" I truely believe this, so in return for your donations, and as a personal gesture of 'Thanks'" I will send you a link from which you can download my Special CD. Dont forget also if you are a uk taxpayer, the charity can claim an extra 28% on gift aid. <br /><br /><br />Heartfelt thanks <br /><br />Sheila <br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /><br /></span></span></p>