Big Quiz Nights

We've now packed our bags and moved!!!

You can find information about us now at www.quizessential.co.uk 

Rafiq's Story (sent in by his parents Hannah and Ikram)

Rafiq was born on the 6th of June 2004. Rafiq was diagnosed with congenital muscular dystrophy at 18 months old after being referred to Great Ormond Street Hospital. This meant his muscles would never develop as they should and that he would face a life of challenges.

As congenital muscular dystrophy is a life limiting condition, we were referred, as a family, to Keech Cottage. The very word ‘hospice conjured up visions of a grey, depressing, concrete place, where children die. However, after a visit from the Keech Community team, we were persuaded to visit, where we saw for ourselves the huge playroom, sensory room, music room, activities, and wonderful people, all contributing to a positive and comforting atmosphere.

As a parent of any small child, the role is a full time one. As a parent of a child who could suffer up to twenty fits a day, had medication every four hours, and needed repositioning to aid his breathing throughout the day and night, life is restricted - even finding a babysitter is almost impossible. Keech Cottage would take Rafiq for weekends - we called it his holiday home -which meant we could have some time to ourselves, and sleep through the night!

Rafiq died on the 6th of August, 2006. He was 2 years and 2 months old. Keech Cottage took him overnight, where we could stay with him, and liaised with the hospital, funeral parlour and cemetery, taking the pressure away from us. When a child dies, the support from Keech Cottage doesn't end. We've seen bereavement counsellors, the community team have visited us at home, and we have been involved with various events to remember Rafiq. Those who knew Rafiq were touched by his personality and bravery. We are honoured to have been his parents, and the people at Keech Cottage made that experience all the more pleasurable for us. No parent is supposed to lose a child, so if you can help someone like us by supporting Keech Cottage, you will be making a huge difference to these special children and their families.

What a great day Sunday was. The cricket match was a close contest with Crease Lightening (80 all out) losing to the innaugural winners Mad Batters Tea Party (81 for 7) by 3 wickets.

Most importantly, the sunshine held firm and with the proceeds being doubled by the Royal Mail, we managed to raise £1092 for Keech Cottage. This takes our total for the year to around £1800 with half the year to go.

Lee & I have commited to doing it all again next year, and if you would like to take part or join the organisation team, then please email us at bigquiznights@yahoo.co.uk with your contact details and one of us will get in touch.

Thank you all for your support and hope to see you at our next Big Quiz Night.

Ed