Cambrian Lodge (and Mark Masons) Help Haverfordwest Girl

Pictured on the play area from l to r are: John Benbow of Cambrian Lodge, Ella with her Mum Emma, Dyfed Mark Charity Steward Steve Thurgood, and Cambrian Lodge Charity Steward Eryl Thomas.

Cambrian Lodge and Dyfed Mark Masons have come to the aid of a family in Haverfordwest. 13-year-old Ella Meacham suffers from a number of neurological conditions that cause various disabilities and complex health needs. She uses a wheelchair and mobility aids as she is unstable when on her feet. The family home in Haverfordwest has had some internal adaptation work done to enable Ella to live safely, but she loves to play in the garden which was made up of a concrete patio and stone chippings so was unsuitable for Ella if she fell or was on her knees. A soft play area was what was needed but the family did not have the funds required having just purchase their house.

John Benbow of Cambrian Lodge heard about the predicament as a representative of the local Rotary Club. He had visited the family and confirmed the need for the safe play area. A quote of £1,500 to lay a soft play area had been provided by Simply Landscaping of Pembroke Dock. John asked the Cambrian members if the lodge could offer any support to the family, and it was agreed that the lodge would provide 50% of the required amount. As John is also a Mark Mason, he then asked R.W. Bro. Gary Hicks, the Provincial Grand Master of Dyfed Mark Masons if they could offer any assistance, and it was agreed that the Mark Masons would provide the remaining 50% of the cost.

The soft play area has now been installed and Ella’s Mum Emma is delighted with it. She said “It enhances Ella’s life and well-being. She just loves being outside.”

Dyfed Mark Provincial Charity Steward Steve Thurgood commented “ Dyfed Mark Masons are pleased to collaborate with Cambrian Lodge and provide Ella with this safe area for her to play outside without her Mum having to worry about her injuring herself.”