I've been singing with Gareth Malone’s virtual choir, it’s a new experience singing to a screen. I found the corner of the house which is the furthest away from neighbours as is possible I don’t have to worry about Nic hearing me! (Karen’s husband is very hard of hearing). My cupboards and drawers have never been so tidy. I now know how to use my Kindle properly! I celebrated my 60th at the beginning of the lock down, one of the highlights was when friends of ours turned up at my house, stood by the gate and sang Happy Birthday to me whilst maintaining their distance, of course. Nic and I have worked our way through the whole series of Spooks. We became obsessed with it.
One of the heartening pieces of music I have played many times during this time, with YouTube as backing, is "People got to be free". The song gives me happy memories because we were learning it at the Parkinson’s Sing Choir just before lock-down. Music is so therapeutic. I do miss our Friday afternoons together in song, tea and cake! Ever hopeful that we shall, in due course, be able to meet again.
All the world over, so easy to see!
People everywhere, just wanna be free.
Listen, please listen! that's the way it should be
Peace in the valley, people got to be free.
The Rascals July 1968. After the release of the album, The Rascals would only perform at concerts that featured an African American act.
Sandra, like Alec, is a member of the Ashby Physio Class. Sandra has written many poems over the years and finds it very therapeutic. This poem is one she wrote during lock down
Hey Mr. Parkinson, why are you still here?
You’ve been my companion for about four years.
At first I was told I had M.E, and of course I had no medication
But seeing the tremors I was soon under investigation.
Every day I wake up and pray, that soon you will have outgrown your stay.
You know one day we’ll find a cure, and you, Mr. Parkinson will be here no more!
So, people, I’m asking you to dig deep, In pockets and bags - and send a donation to Parkinson’s UK. (Many thanks!)