November 2012

Picture Above Bro John Bartram receiving a cheque from W.Bro Colin Wilson WM of Harte Lodge 4217.

Bro. John Bartram Assistant Secretary of Harte Lodge No. 4217, whose grandson was diagnosed with Fragile X Syndrome three years ago, recently gave a talk to his lodge on this little known condition and the society which supports those with it. Few people have heard of Fragile X, yet, despite its low profile, it is the most common known cause of intellectual disability, and sufferers are spread across the whole country. It results in learning, developmental and behavioural problems, there is no cure, and it is hereditary, although some generations are only carriers rather than sufferers.

As those with the condition can live a normal life span, there are tremendous and far reaching implications for the rest of heir families, and this is where the Fragile X Society comes in. The Society, which receives no financial aid from government, and which relies heavily on fundraisers and volunteers, offers support, advice and assistance in a whole range of area to families and sufferers alike. The Society also acts as a dissemination centre by passing on new information about Fragile X and the latest details of drugs which might help to control and improve the condition for sufferers."

It response to Bro John's talk the Lodge Charity W.Bro John Thompson proposed a Notice on Motion that £200 was taken from lodge funds and donated to this worthy cause, also at the meeting was members of the Hartlepool Masonic Benevolent Association which match funded after an application to the committee.

Bro John Bartram who is a fundraiser and representative for the Charity in the North East was thrilled by the kind support of the Brethren of Harte Lodge and of Hartlepool Masons in General. He commented "Although this is a national Charity these funds will help to contribute to giving support to members of our own Province"

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