Derry rare disease day of events coming up via Zoom this weekend

This year people from Derry are being offered a programme of virtual events and activities organised by the NI Rare Disease Partnership (NIRDP).

Edel Rogan, Community Activator with NIRDP said: “I am particularly excited about our virtual ‘Living Well with...’ Programme. Delivered by Zoom, these sessions are being launched to mark Rare Disease Day. The concept of the sessions is to offer people affected by a rare condition the chance to get together and form support connections whilst benefitting from some brilliant speakers and information. All of this from the safety and comfort of your own home - something which is vitally important at this time when many in our rare disease community are isolated because of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Caroline McFerran, Community Navigator with NIRDP added: “In addition, we have an amazing treat at 3pm on Rare Disease Day, Sunday, February 28 with a musical concert being held on the NIRDP Facebook page - @NIRDPNews. Local NI singer/ songwriter Oonagh Clarke has kindly donated her time to help raise awareness of rare conditions and the support that NIRDP offers. Come join us for this musical interlude, bring a cuppa, relax and enjoy the music, and get involved in the ‘Live Chat’.”

Zoom Sessions have been organised for February & March as follows - 28 February - Musical Concert at 3pm, March 3 – Tai Chi class at 11am, March 12 – Parents & Carers Information Session at 11am, March 26 – Rare Disease Social Café at 11am, March 31 – Love to Move Exercise Class at 3.30pm

The Foyle group meets monthly and will meet virtually on Thursday, February 25 at 3pm. If you would like to join with this group or find out more about the local activities with NIRDP please contact Sandra Campbell , Foyle & NW Coordinator with NIRDP : [email protected]