A group of brave veterinary nurses and a student nurse leapt out of a perfectly serviceable aircraft last weekend, both to raise money for children with epilepsy, and to highlight the need to protect the title 'Veterinary Nurse' in law.
Vicky Couzens, Jenny Cook, Kim Blowing, Michelle Dickens, Gillian James and Leigh Martin, none of whom had parachuted before (in fact, Gillian hadn't even been in a plane before), were raising money for the Muir Maxwell Trust, a charity which funds research into childhood epilepsy, and supports the families of some of the 70,000 children affected by it in the UK.
The daredevil nurses also wanted to highlight the fact that anyone can call themselves a veterinary nurse, regardless of whether they've ever even set foot inside a veterinary practice, let alone passed the demanding examinations. They argue that the title 'Veterinary Nurse' should be protected in law, in exactly the same way as 'Veterinary Surgeon', so that the pet-owning public can have the reassurance of knowing when their animal is being cared for by a qualified professional.
To support these nurses' efforts, and help them reach their fundraising targets, click the links below:
http://www.justgiving.com/Victoria-Couzens http://www.justgiving.com/Jenny-Cook23 http://www.justgiving.com/KimBlowing http://www.justgiving.com/Michelle-Dickens
Meanwhile, one of the children that has benefitted from the work done by the Muir Maxwell Trust is Emily Guthrie, daughter of the editor of VetNurse.co.uk and VetSurgeon.org. She sent the jumpers her own message of thanks:
PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.
I was pleased to support Vicky in this initiative, especially when it was made clear that it supported the charity that has helped Arlo and his daughter.
We're a small profession, and when one of our number does something, and asks for our support in doing it, then I feel that it is even more worthwhile, so please, support them.
George
PS - this is close to my heart as when I was looking for support the profession contributed in xs of £6000 to my cause - for which we were all extremely grateful.
Hi George - Saw you'd chipped in, and very touched. Thanks!
If George says it is a worthwhile cause then it certainly is. It is a pity though that it is not possible to donate to them as a group rather than as individuals. When you do not know them there is a tendency to pick the first name on the list. I, as contrary as ever, shall pick another and wish them all well in reaching their targets.
Tim.
Tim, thank you!