Celebrating the BSA Christmas spirit
By Rachel Albert

From left to right, BSA Chief Executive Norbert Lieckfeldt, Chair Rachel Everard, and Patron Jon Smith

Almost 120 people celebrated our 2004 Christmas Party.

Almost 120 people celebrated our third Christmas party at the Bonnington Hotel in London, in December 2004. The atmosphere from beginning to end was electric!

A big thank you to Max, David Rulton, Mark Tungatt, Aline Vale, Charlie Baxter and Tanveer Ali who decorated the hall. Rob Day our lovely DJ, did another amazing job, together with the very debonair Dr David Jones, our wonderful MC and auctioneer. A big thank you to all our members who contributed more than £1,000 with the raffle and auction, and to everyone who donated prizes - especially to our Patron, Jon Smith, and friend Kristina Kyriacou.

And in your words...

"A very warm atmosphere - and as someone who hasn't been to one of these events before, it gave me a great sense of belonging."
Diane

"Such a wholesome feeling - to be part of a whole and at home among friends."
Andrew

"Knowing what I am going through - I'm not alone anymore."
Simon

"It was inspiring to see so many people there, all with the same positive attitude - relaxed and happy, with the sole intention of enjoying themselves."
Mike

"My first Christmas party - it was good fun, lots of interesting, intelligent and fun people to meet. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, especially those letting it all hang out on the dancefloor!"
Peter

"As a new member of BSA, the Christmas party was the perfect opportunity to meet others who stammer. It was also refreshing to hear other people's experiences and their ways of coping - from the young and mature, to a retired GP and even a comedian!"
Naheema

"The event (our first) was very successful. The organisation was thoughtful and thorough. All the people that we met were welcoming and friendly. The raffle prizes were amazing."
Sheena and Roger

"I am so delighted that Rachel's idea of bringing BSA members together in a social forum has not only flourished but grown into a fully-fledged event that would do proud to any major fund-raising body in this country. I enjoyed the company of so many good people on that day"
Jon Smith - BSA Patron

From the Spring 2005 edition of Speaking Out