Anne Blake
ANNE Blake, 52, is the Chairperson of the 'Carers Forum on Learning
Disability', here in
Lisburn. This very worthwhile charity aims to improve the lives of those
with learning disabilities and their carers within our society. The Mayor of
Lisburn, Alderman Paul Porter has chosen this local charity as his Mayoral
Charity and will be holding a table quiz to raise money on Thursday 21st
October in the Island Hall at Lagan Valley Island.
What do you like doing on your day off?
I love to go shopping for some retail therapy and spend time with my
granddaughters Megan and Abbey.
If you were to choose your favourite meal what would it be, where and
why?
I love egg and chips and would take this instead of steak and chips every
time, which my husband finds amusing. The yolk has to be runny and the café
in Tesco can get it just right.
What has been your proudest moment?
I have many proud moments but the one that I remember most is when my
learning disabled son sung in the school choir when he was younger.
What was the most frightening moment of your Iife?
This would definitely be when my son Jonathan took his first epileptic fit
when he was ten months old.
How would you describe your taste in clothes?
I like plain clothes whether it is for day-to-day wear or for functions.
I am not a fussy, ruffle type person, so some of the latest fashion
trends are just not me.
What would you do if you won a million pounds?
I would make sure all my family were comfortable, help someone who has a
learning disability and send some money to the young boy I sponsor in Africa
through Vision Aid.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
I do not really get embarrassed easily but I suppose I do remember one
occasion. I had helped a small group in Aghalee that was at risk of losing
their facilities due to funding cuts. When I had returned at a later stage
to participate in my son's review they presented me with flowers. I was not
expecting any thanks so was embarrassed.
What music do you like?
I enjoy listening to country and western including Garth Brooks and Shania
Twain.
What sports person do you most admire?
My youngest son James, who plays football for Lisburn Rangers. He has
played from a very young age and really enjoys it.
Describe your best ever holiday. What would your dream holiday be?
My best ever holiday would be when my husband and I were able to spend a
long weekend in Jersey; as with our carers' responsibilities we do not get
the opportunity very often to take time out of our daily lives. It was in
October, the weather was fantastic and we met some lovely people. My dream
holiday would be to Israel. My younger brother would regularly visit Israel
to meet up with friends and I would love to visit this historic country.
What is your greatest remaining ambition?
The first would be to get the law changed in Northern Ireland to state that
it is a legal requirement for people with a severe learning disability to be
provided with day care services. Secondly, I would like recognition to be
gtven to the lifelong carers that work in Northern Ireland. There are some
people who have been caring for over 50 years and I think it is a crying
shame that the NI Assembly does not recognise this dedication.
If you were stranded on a desert island what three things would you want
with you?
A good book, my cigarettes and a sign that says 'No Non-Smokers'.
Favourite things
- Car Jaguar XJ8 sport
- Film The Green Mile
- Comedian Frankie Boyle
- CD Garth Brooks
- Book Anything by Patricia Cornwell
- Drink Glass of Bailey's without ice.
Ulster Star
15/10/2010
