text:
Not despairing
Everyone's thoughts will be with Gordon and Sarah Brown tonight, after the news emerged that their four-month-old son Fraser has cystic fibrosis.
My thoughts instantly turned to an event a couple of years ago which I attended at 11 Downing Street. It was, ironically, to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. The star of the evening was Emily Thackray, pictured on the right with the Chancellor.
Emily is beautiful and charismatic and looks a picture of health. However, she is very ill with cystic fibrosis. When she told the assembled company that she was being considered for a transplant as "time is running out" I well recall the impact she made. Several people in the room fainted. The chancellor was visibly moved. So much so that I asked my camera crew to give him some privacy.
The good news is that two years later Emily is still with us. She was told in March 2005 that without a lung transplant she only had a year left to live but she is - I'm told - still fighting on.
The even better news is that parents like the Browns hold out real hope that a gene therapy cure will be developed which will mean that their children will never go through what Emily has suffered. Not so long ago cystic fibrosis was a disease which only children had. Now half its sufferers are adults.
No parent would want to hear what the Browns have heard but they are not despairing. Their son Fraser is lively and healthy and they will hope and pray he stays that way.
- 1.
- At 10:01 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
My son was affected by ALL Leukaemia that was discovered a few days before his fourth birthday. The whole family went through hell and our lives were turned upside down. It was a life changing experience. There was pain mixed with guilt and despair. I wish Mr. Brown and his family all the best.
- 2.
- At 10:01 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
My heart goes out to them
- 3.
- At 10:07 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
Naturally I wish the Browns all the best - but still, I bet any money you like that any treatment little Fraser and his family gets, will be faster and better than the treatment experienced by the vast majority of families who find themselves in similar circumstances and dependent on the NHS.
- 4.
- At 10:18 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
It really makes you think about what a lottery having a child can be. What the Browns have been through is heartbreaking.
- 5.
- At 10:22 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
Time for us all to take time out from the bluster and buffoonery to wish Gordon Brown and his family all the best.
- 6.
- At 10:25 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
I feel very sad for the Browns. But I hope that their tragedy will spur the goverment into providing more funding for research into these horrible genetic diseases. Maybe a little more of the defence budget could be shifted in that direction, to the greater benefit of British people and, indeed, of all mankind? We all know that cures for many diseases are possibly - it's just a matter of providing, funding, motivation, and telling animal rights activists to stay away from people who are working for all human and animalkind......
- 7.
- At 10:28 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
Well, I don't have CF, but I am aware that with the right monitoring, drugs and physio, children and adults with CF have a lot better life expectancy than previously. I do, however, have a different impairment and I know from that directly that this child's ability to iive the life he chooses to live is directly connected to to the attitude his family has. Good luck to the Browns, because they will need it.
- 8.
- At 10:51 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
Every child in the world belongs to us all they are the only true wealth we will ever have.
So why do we have to give money to charities to fight these terrible conditions? mankind spends untold amounts of wealth on wars, just think what we could archive if we used all this wealth on finding cures and helping each other.
- 9.
- At 11:01 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
Some people are making political points about the NHS and defence spending above. Regardless of politics and personality, this is a private matter for the Brown family and has nothing to do with public policy. We should leave it that way.
I don't know why the BBC is reporting this, they kept quiet on some family matters relating to the Blairs and should respect the Browns' privacy too.
- 10.
- At 11:01 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
I can't believe that Mary thinks this is a moment to score cheap political points. I'm sure there is no question of Gordon Brown resorting to private health care - he didn't when his daughter Jennifer was prematurely born and fighting for her life, and indeed praised the NHS hospital for their sadly unsuccessful efforts to save his baby. For the Browns to be hit by this second tragedy affecting another one of their babies is truly sad.
- 11.
- At 11:04 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
My thoughts and best Wishes goes out with the family. But we should not be disappointed as Science has been so revolutionary in the last decade that you never know ,you could have a breakingnews on BBC Breakfast tom about the breakthrough achievment made in the treatment of Cystic Fibrois .
- 12.
- At 11:05 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
"Everyone's thoughts will be with Gordon and Sarah Brown tonight"
Eh - no they wont because I have my own issues to deal with.
I do not know Mr & Mrs Brown but I wish them well, however I am thinking of the people I am related to, work with and care for who have problems and are not in the media spotlight
- 13.
- At 11:08 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
Why would ALL our thoughts be with Gordon Brown and his family?
My thoughts are with kids in worse positions: Living in slums and no food, kids with AIDs in Africa, kids without parents living on the street, abused kids, kids being killed for political, ethnic or religious reasons.
Ok, it's sad for Gordon and even more sad for his kid but at least he'll get enough to eat and plenty of medical attention.
Kids elsewhere get nothing.
- 14.
- At 11:24 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
Is it just me?
I fail to understand why this is news worthy and deserves such a prominent place on the BBC News website.
It's a private matter and is of no concern or consequence to us the British public.
I'm surprised we didn't had "Breaking News" as the poor lad was taken into hospital with minor chest infections.
I do however wish to pass on my best wishes to the Brown's and wish them many many years of happiness with Fraser (and John)
- 15.
- At 11:38 PM on 29 Nov 2006,
My heart goes out to the Browns as well as all the other families that are suffering any sickness, especially with children.
But here we have a man who may be able to actually do something to stop children suffering in this country and other countries.
We should not need Children in Need, or Childline, we should not see children blown up in wars we are raging.
Gordon Brown can make a difference, if anything is going to make a man do something, this kind of thing will.
I hope it can be in time for his own child, but i hope i don't see any other child in Iraq on a dirty bed in a dirty hospital again also.
If you read this Mr Brown, do all in your power to help your own child, but also help ours, and the worlds children.
- 16.
- At 12:02 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Mary - what parent wouldnt do, or spend what they could for their child - get a grip and cut the political spin, leave that to the experts.
- 17.
- At 12:25 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
As everyone else says, our thoughts have to be with the Browns.
After the loss of their first (?) child I had hoped that their future experiences of parenthood would all be good ones.
- 18.
- At 12:27 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Emily Thackray is indeed very much still with us and has, with another vibrant young woman with CF, launched the "Live Life then Give Life Campaign" to raise awareness about organ donation.
I am saddened for the Browns that they are being faced with health concerns for their son, particularly after losing their daughter. From my experience people with CF are a resilient lot and, if Miss Thackray's indomitable spirit is anything to go by, young Fraser will take his condition and life very much in his stride.
Best wishes to the Browns (and Miss Thackray)
- 19.
- At 12:57 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
In response to Mary's comment, "bet any money you like that any treatment little Fraser and his family gets..".
While I agree with you, is this really the time or place for politics? If you were in the same position, could you honestly say you wouldn't use whatever power or influence you had to get your child the best treatment? I know I would - and its not wrong - its natural.
- 20.
- At 12:59 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Cystic Fibrosis is no longer the childhood killer that it was. The estimates of life span for many CF people has gone from "max 30" to "probably 50" - and the horizon keeps improving.
My athletic, strapping 6' 3" godson has the condition and you would never guess. Several trampolining champions took up the sport as a therapy for their CF condition.
Constant use of anti-biotics against lung infections is essential. However it is the "Creon" enzyme supplement that made the health breakthrough by enabling the digestion of fats.
CF can now be regarded as similar to diabetes in that a person is often capable of a long, self-sufficient, productive life.
However - the anti-biotics and all important "Creon" are not on free prescription for the many who now survive childhood. Possibly the Chancellor could address this problem.
Another adult area that needs attention is the education about the side-effects of CF on a teenager's sexual development. Puberty is delayed and CF produces infertility - although sexual abilities are not impaired.
Whilst the NHS CF clinics give some counselling to teenagers there is a general lack of information on these side-effects. These will become increasingly important when many more CF people take their normal places in adult society.
- 21.
- At 01:11 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
I myself suffer from CF and at the age of 23 my lungs are now badly affected by this condition,but people with CF are fighters.We fight everyday of our lives to try and make sure that this illness won't beat us.With all the advances in CF over the past decade I'm positive that everything will be done to give Fraser as normal a life as possible and I hope that he is active,healthy and happy for a very long time.
I also know Miss Emily Thackray and she is an inspiration to us all,a truly beautiful person inside and out.
- 22.
- At 01:20 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Tragic news, coming on the heels of the death of their daughter this must indeed be bitter news. But, Gordon & Sarah have each other and with love and luck they'll pull their family through this one. God Bless!
- 23.
- At 01:43 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
i'm sorry Mary but we take Nick's example and look at this as a personal issue for a family and not as a platform for making political points?
I think that anything that starts along the lines of "I feel very sorry for the Brown's" then follows with a big stinking, "But" is, today, quite distasteful.
my thoughts are with the Brown family today.
- 24.
- At 01:55 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
I have always had the impression that Grodon Brown is a strong man, a man of principle and that he was always spoken up for the vulnerable and the needy. It would be good to think that at this moment of personal crisis, the Brown family might be bouyed up by the good wishes and/or prayers of all of those other families he has helped. As you cash your tax credit this week, think of Gordon and Sarah
- 25.
- At 02:04 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
I am 21 years old and live with Cystic myself.
My Mum was very interested in the news tonight and told me of the diagnosis. Obviously little Fraser is gonna have trouble with his illness much like all of us do, but i'd like to share some insight that hopefully will inform everyone that CF is not all doom and gloom.
1. If Fraser attends the Great Ormond Street Hospital as i did, he'll be treated by some lovely poeple, meet and interact with other sufferers, play games, and have fun in there.
2. There are many CF people who do not present with some or all of the known symtoms, such as having to take Enzymes with meals, or even frequent chest infections. This can lead to a great state of health throughout childhood and adulthood as some only attend hospitals once or twice a year and lead "normal" lives.
3. NOW is probably the best time to be born with CF. In 21 years, when Fraser is my age, he will have available two decades of new research and medications and treatments. I had and elder brother who died before i was born with CF, he died at age 8. Because of new treatments, funds and awareness, i, like many other have liveda much longer life than those before us.
And future generations will live much longer than i will, which isn't great news for me, but hey, 'the children are our future'...
- 26.
- At 02:21 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Nick, We are all affected by life's twists and turns. No-one is immune and no-one escapes, not even those who handle the affairs of the nations.
We are all human and we are all sharing our lives together, each with our individual hurdles and hardships.
With this sad news, I am reminded that it's acts of kindness from individuals and professionals that help us to cope when help is needed. Politicians may try to nurture a culture of care, but ultimately its how we all interact at an individual level that makes all the difference.
I am sure that the Browns will be given all the support and expertise available. I hope that I can go some way to help those around me who may be in need also. A simple act of kindness or friendship may be able to make a world of difference for someone else.
- 27.
- At 02:53 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Message 3# and 6# I just knew somebody would find something to moan about. It's insulting to the Brown's and the NHS to suggest they would get faster treatment. Thou if you have any evidence for your allegations then please present it?
Also the Government has increased spending on the research for genetic diseases. It's not just a question of writing cheques but it needs the correct strategy, implementation and the correct skills base. The Prime Minister has been a loud cheerleader of the scientific community, he has also constantly taken every opportunity to take on animal rights activists. So lets have some balance here.
I wish Gordon Brown and his family the best, I'm sure they will get outstanding care from the NHS.
- 28.
- At 03:45 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
You have correctly said that all thoughts are with the Browns. Mr Brown is a brave man and I am sure Fraser will grow up as brave as his father. May God bless Fraser with a full, healthy and succesful life. I also hope that the media paparazzis do not take this as an opportunity for their own gains. Everyone should respect their privacy and especially, we must not make the life of Fraser any more difficult.
- 29.
- At 04:03 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
I'm 32, I suffer from Cystic Fibrosis and have every sympathy for Fraser Brown. I have very little sympathy for Gordon Brown. In funding the war in Iraq he has shown a flagrant disregard for the lives of thousands of people so I find it very difficult to feel any sympathy for him now that he is experiencing his own personal tragedy.
I very much doubt Frasers treatment will be compromised by the lack of investment in CF research and treatment and the NHS in general which has made life so difficult for those of us with CF who don't have future Prime Ministers as parents.
I remarked recently to a family member that CF will never receive an appropriate level of funding until someone very famous or very influential, parents a child with CF. Can't get much more famous and influential than Mr Brown. It's a shame however that another child has to be burdened with this disease before our Government starts to take it's effects seriously and invest the appropriate level of funding it should have being doing anyway as a matter of general principle.
- 30.
- At 09:40 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
I'm sorry everyone, it is a very sad story but it didn't warrant being lead story on the ten o clock news. The beeb spent over 5 mins with lives from Nick ( who normally I have great respect for). People are so blind, the exclusive is in the friend of Labour's Sun newspapers & I'm sorry to say Labours other helper the Beeb, who are looking for a new Chairman chosen by the PM or PM to be. Everyone should be ashamed about this story & should be thinking about poor little Fraser, instead of playing politics.
- 31.
- At 10:05 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
I thought that Nick's report that I saw on Newsnight last night was unique in that it was kind, caring, not patronising and without political gossip, and this from a person with politics running in his blood. I think this demonstrated that Nick Robinson is a "good" person. I believe that people who are "good" do a better job that those who are't.
- 32.
- At 10:06 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
I agree with Scott, it should be a private matter and not played thru the media. With this poor babys illness, I hear that parents need to spend a lot of time at hospitals and quality time with their children. So should Gordon Brown take a back seat from politics and his leadership bid, to help Sarah with the care the baby needs??
- 33.
- At 10:14 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Love is all we need
- 34.
- At 10:23 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
My husband has CF, and I know how difficult it is for him, and how difficult it has been for his parents. When he was born he was not expected to live past 2months, but he is now 25yrs old, and happly (i hope :P ) married to me, and hopefully with the advances in medical research he will live for a long time.
To cut a long story short, CF is horrible, and very deadly. But if you are healthy, excersize, and do everything the docs say, you can lead a relativly normal life.
It just means you have alot more sick days than the average person :) and quite alot of blood tests!
- 35.
- At 10:40 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
This is a private tragedy, not a national disaster. Like Scott, I was surprised that the 10 o'clock news led on the item and spent so much time on it.
Newsnight had the balance right - second item, concentrating on what it means for a child with cystic fibrosis and his or her parents. The BBC1 report was mawkish, strong on emotion and sentiment, short on rationality.
Please let the Browns get on with their private lives, in private, and get back to reporting matters of public interest - not what interests the public.
- 36.
- At 10:53 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
My thoughts are with Gordon Brown's family at this time.
To respond to the question frequently raised above as to why this is news - anything that reinforces the message that conditions such as CF affect us all is useful to help those who are going through a similar experience to Gordon Brown know that its not just them who are dealing with these issues.
I do not like personalising politics and I do not think the media should be intruding into somebody's private life but as a result of tonight's news report I'm confident that some people who would never have heard of or understood what CF is will now have an understanding, even if it is only a very general one.
- 37.
- At 11:12 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Dear Nick,
Is Gordon Brown resigning to look after his child? If not then maybe you could explain to me why on earth the BBC's political commentator is commenting on a baby's illness. If this is a story at all (which I doubt) then it should be in the BBC's Health pages.
And let's remember who we're talking about here. This is a man who sat back and said nothing as Britain was used as a stopping point for weapons used against many hundreds of innocent Lebanese civilians. My heart went out to the blameless children needlessly annihilated by these weapons.
No, I like the vast majority feel no sympathy for Gordon Brown whatsoever. But we best be ignored as we wouldn't want to offend the sensibilities of the BBC and the political elite. After all, real opinion is in such 'bad taste' these days.
Yours dismayed,
George Reddan
- 38.
- At 11:12 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Really Mary - what a sad and pathetic post that was (number 3)
My daughter had CF and has never been left wanting for anything health wise. Many years ago she was picked for trialling a new treatment - £30 a day and this was over 10 years ago. No one blinked an eye and was put on it virtually straight away.
The CF Clinics do a great job out there whoever you are.
Grow up and get a life Mary
- 39.
- At 11:18 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
No doubt worry and anxiety lie ahead for the Brown family. But this little chap has and will continue to bring much joy and love to his parents. Illness can touch any family. It is after all part of life. Let them deal with this privately. Stop making this child a victim.
- 40.
- At 11:27 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
How typical of our political class and their media hangers on to be so presumptuous and presume that 'everyone's thoughts will be with .. the Browns'. The great British public have to bear their own crosses - terminal illness, the whole gambit of sickness both physical and mental. Debt and bills , the list is endless and nearly all them on circumstances less privileged than the Chancellor's. To add insult to injury it is the same Chancellor's raid on our personal finances that has reduced peoples ability to alleviate their own humble tragedies.
- 41.
- At 11:43 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
Being the parent of a CF child, I can sympathise with Mr & Mrs Brown, the news that your child has a condition for which there is no cure is earth shattering but Mr & Mrs Brown have to get on with being parents.
They need to start as they mean to go on & that means controlling the illness and not allowing it to control them, I wish them luck.
Oh & if the Chancellor/PM elect could get round to adding CF to the list of illnesses which are exempt from prescription charges, all the better.
- 42.
- At 11:59 AM on 30 Nov 2006,
My thoughts are with the Browns. I'm sure medical advancements of the future will make sure cystic fibrosis patients lead a normail life. I sincerely hope that our politicians should now review their health policy. They should make sure that the extra money injected into NHS should go patient care and research rather than managers.
- 43.
- At 12:17 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Whether or not you like or agree with Gordon Brown now is completely immaterial. Our hearts go out to him and his family.
- 44.
- At 12:28 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Come on Nick, are we realy expected to believe that all comments related to this story are sympathetic to Gordon Brown (as you've shown above). Gordon Brown...the second most powerful figure in a British government responsible for more needless death and destruction than any before it. Come on, be a little braver in your selection of comments please. You wont get in that much trouble, will you?
All the best,
- 45.
- At 12:30 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
This is sad, but fortunately not tragic news. It is an essentially private issue, which Gordon Brown himself would say was not of great general interest, but then he has recently accepted that the public want to know more about him, so the BBC can be forgiven for giving it such prominence.
All the political comments on this post should - at the very least - be put onto another page, because many people will find them entirely inappropriate, if not offensive.
- 46.
- At 12:33 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
i have CF and maybe this unfortunate circumstance will push the government into providing free prescriptions for people who have CF, which they promised to do beofre thye got elected in 1997 and yet they still have not changed this. It is shocking that someone with diabeties gets there medication for free and people with CF do not. Maybe this will give the labour party sometihng to think about!
- 47.
- At 12:40 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
If the news today had been that Brown's son had autism not CF, imagine how the public would have reacted against George Osborne following his recent attempt to call Brown autistic.
The choice of disability for the insult should not matter.
Osborne should apologise for his tasteless remark which as came at a time when the Brown's were privately come to terms with real illness within their family.
- 48.
- At 12:41 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Clark (#14): No, it's not just you.
While this is undoubtedly a very hard time for the Brown family, it is essentially a private matter and I really fail to see why this story has to be given so much prominence in the media.
Mind you, it's probably good news for CF patients in general: anything that raises awareness of the disease is a good thing, and, call me a cynic if you like, but my guess is we're going to see increased government funding into CF research sometime soon.
- 49.
- At 01:01 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Politics have no place here. This is about two parents who have just found out that one of their children is very ill.
My thoughts and prayers are with baby Fraser and his family.
- 50.
- At 01:10 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
I know nothing of CF, its effects or its limitations. I do however know about the love of a parent for their children and wish Mr Brown and his family all the best in coming to terms with the news.
While I do not feel that this is newsworthy from a political perspective as some people are treating it, I do feel that any publicity that may help further funding into genetic disorders by raising awareness is in the public interest.
I would never critise any action Mr Brown takes to help his child, if private care is better then so be it. There is no point trying to score a political point out of a fathers love for their child.
- 51.
- At 01:25 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
As the father of a daughter with CF who was diagnosed at birth, I hope that Fraser, like my own child remains well and active and isn't debilitated as many other sufferers of the condition are. But I echo the comment above. Now that we have such a high profile and influential person so closely impacted by CF, I hope the profile of this awful condition improves along with support and funding for the research programmes. I also wish Mr Brown refocuses his efforts into encouraging more people into becoming donars and in addressing the ridiculous need for adults with CF to pay prescrption charges for the drugs they need every day to keep themselves as fit & healthy as possible.
- 52.
- At 01:41 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
This is sad for the Brown's but it is not newsworthy. Politicians complain about media intrustion into their private lives and then we have this sort of extraordinary news. Sometimes it is hard not to be cynical about the motives.
- 53.
- At 01:48 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
I wish the Brown family the best in dealing with their difficulties - especially with the responsiblity Gordon Brown will soon take on.
With Nick R reminding us of Emily Thackray's continued efforts on behalf of CF and related problems (please, please read one of her websites at www.livelifethengivelife.co.uk), I ask - when will she finally be nominated for an honour?
- 54.
- At 01:58 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
It's very sad news for the Browns. Inevitably it will make their life very difficult and is likely to mean that as good loving parents they will want to focus the majority of their time on their child in these early precarious years.
Inevitably this is going to affect the Labour party also. Clearly there is little chance that Gordon Brown could consider abandoning his wife and child and running for the leadership now. I'm sure that for the good of his family and ultimately his country he will decide it's time to step away from the limelight all together.
This is not a time to criticise Mr Brown. So whilst many may say that some of the decisions at the Treasury have been very erratic of late, the rampant overspending, the tax credits system, the pensions collapse, the NI debacle just unfolding now to name just a few things, perhaps we should all just take a little time to consider that he has been through a very difficult time already and will inevitably go thro a very difficult time over the next few years. Perhaps it's not surprising that the running of the treasury has suffered and perhaps we should all just understand that this was perhaps inevitable - now that we understand a little more of what has been happening in his life.
Mr Cameron's message of support was entirely appropriate. As someone who, a number of years ago now, had to deal with difficult years of sleepless nights, he doubtless knows, more than most, how a tragedy such as this completely consumes one's life.
I guess now Mr Brown's old political ambitions probably seem to him to be almost completely irrelevant compared to the opportunity to spend every possible second with his family.
Some may say this is doubly cruel blow for Mr Brown, coming at a time, when unlike Mr Cameron who was an unknown opposition back-bencher when his life was consumed by his personal tragedy, was at the very threshold of the power he has sought for so many years.
But I know millions of us around this country will support him in placing his family first, not shirking his responsibilities, not asking his country to compromise or asking them to put up with a potential prime minister who's mind simply could never be on his job.
When Mr Brown steps down from the Treasury and proudly makes his way to the back benches as he now almost certainly will, regardless of political preference we should cheer him and thank him for having already tried to do a difficult and demanding job in very difficult circumstances and crucially for recognising both his and our priorities. His loyalty to his family, his country and finally his party will be unquestionable.
- 55.
- At 02:10 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
I was very sad when I heard about Gordon and Sarah's child having been diagnosed with CF. It must have been an earth-shattering blow, as I know how happy they both were when he was born and considering their earlier loss but children who are born and live with conditions bring a great deal of light and hope and love to this world. Through his illness, Fraser will bring countless joys to his parents and many heartaches I'm sure but his spirit will shine through regardless. I don't know why some are born with illness while others aren't, do any of us? What I do know is he's here, he made it this far and he'll be a blessing to the Browns.
- 56.
- At 02:33 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
As a person with CF, I can say that a full & happy life is attainable, despite the restrictions a very heavy load of medical treatment puts on my daily routine. I wish the Browns & all those affected with CF the very best. We learn to keep fighting because a life with medication is better than no life at all.
I do very much hope, as others have commented, that greater awareness of this most common of all genetic illnesses will be raised in the general population; and also that those in the government responsible for organising free prescriptions would finally add CF to the list. I am on 12 medications daily for the rest of my life, and find it outrageous that because I lost out in the genetic lottery I should have to pay for these. The CF Trust has been campaigning for free prescriptions since the 1970s - it would make some difference to our lives.
- 57.
- At 03:32 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
In reponse to Mary, message #3, Manjit message#27 asks for evidence about Gordon Brown receiving a better service than others in the NHS. Well, here it is. In Scotland, the health service is better funded than in England due to the Barnett formula which Gordon Brown vigourously defends. Thus babies in Scotland are routinely tested at birth for Cystic Fibrosis and will get the appropriate treatment straight away. In England lower funding levels mean the test is not routinely carried out and babies go untreated until much later. So in that sense Mary is right because Gordon Brown receives preferential treatment in the Scottish NHS
- 58.
- At 03:45 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Is there any talk at Westminster about whetehr this terrible news affects Gordon Browns amnitions to be PM I wonder?
- 59.
- At 03:46 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
As a Disabled person myself, I think there have been some positives to come out of this. The news has, refreshingly, been treated with restraint in most media outlets. I get angry when words like "tragic" get bandied about, as though someone's position precludes their family from being Disabled. That also immediately confers a negative value judgement on the quality of life of others who are also Disabled, regardless of their impairment, or the relative impact it has on them. I'd like to think that we will now see Disability Issues - and not just curing diseases - pushed up the agenda, but that is a conversation for another time.
- 60.
- At 04:28 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
My thoughts are with Mr Brown and his family.
But I can't help but think where he sees his political future in light of this.
Both of the prospective Prime Ministers have chioldren with significant difficulties. How can Gordon Bron or David Cameron consider becoming this country's next Prime Minister when they should be putting their efforts into caring for their children. The PM's role is too demanding for them to be able to give their disabled children, and the rest of their families, the care and attention they will need for many years to come.
Oh wait, wives and nannies will have to pick up the burden. leaving Brown and Cameron to indulge their selfish desire for power rather than take care of their families.
- 61.
- At 04:33 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
I was deeply saddened when I first commented,plese consider this a continuation.
I consider myself priviledged to have nearly completed training to enter the medical profession. Even more so to have worked with children and young adults with CF. I still consider myself only slightly qualified to comment.
I agree with those who say people with the condition are in general resilient, a factor common to many people with chronic disease. There is always hope of new treatments, and If the media spotlight does any good then a reluctant so be it.
The NHS staff who will treat Fraser will no doubt do so as they would any other patient. With dignity, respect, and compassion. Considerations absent from too many responses here.
Personally I beleive that you should not compare tragedies in scale, tragic circumstance is tragic circumstance, and that is enough.
As a point of observation can I note that the Browns will have known since early August , and simply confirmed the fact now. Those without the knowledge to work this out for themselves could have read it in the report. Those implying political gain in this should be deeply ashamed.
I beleive Nick spoke for the silent majority at the start of his article. He certainly spoke for me. My heart continues to go out to the Browns.
I have no doubt that they will meet this challenge with the resolve they have demonstrated time and again. I only hope they appeciate the level of support and goodwill present for them.
- 62.
- At 04:49 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Although my thoughts are with the Browns at present, I cannot recall much coverage being given to David Camerons' son who also has a disability that is common in this country.
- 63.
- At 05:11 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Although I have no time for Brown whatsoever,I have a great deal of sympathy for him and his family.I hope his son has a long and happy life. One thing for sure,he'll not be at the back of the queue for any treatment. The young boy's
father,though,is a different matter.This man has been a disaster for this country,not his own,causing untold damage to thousands upon thousands of pensioners ,people on working tax credits ,mortgaging this country for generations to come etc. etc..He's been an unmitigated disaster,and it's time people woke up to the fact.
- 64.
- At 06:03 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Agreeing with Richard Sloan, post #31. Also, although this is perhaps not the most important news story at the moment, it should remind us of something important: politicians are human too.
With warm and best wishes to the the Browns, especially baby Fraser.
- 65.
- At 06:10 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
What a truly compassionate piece of journalism by Nick last night on this story. I just wanted to pass on my thoughts to the BBC. More work like this would help bring the media closer to its public it seeks to serve. Well done !
- 66.
- At 06:10 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Whilst clearly a personal set-back for the Browns and cause for all to express appropriate sympathies, I can't believe that the BBC choose to major on this story when far more interesting stories abound - eg the State Dept Analyst revealing that the "special relationship" is dead on its feet and Blair is "routinely ignored" in Washington; the fact that Iraq has ground to a standstill because the Iraqis believe civil war is imminent. Does Nick Robinson want to be a serious political reporter or the "And finally" hack at the end of the news? Is this "dumbing down" or evidence that the relationship between the press and govt is too cosy by half? Pull your socks up, BBC.
- 67.
- At 07:43 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
What a load of sycophantic, sentimental old tosh.
No wonder Grade has left for ITV - he must be desperate to return the real world inhabited by those whose lives have been blighted by meddling mediocrity Brown. It's a PRIVATE matter.
- 68.
- At 07:48 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
The NHS may not be perfect but I know from personal experience, that when the health chips are down there are no safer hands.
My best wishes to the Browns & their sons & any other families facing the trauma of illness at this time.
- 69.
- At 07:53 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
Although it isn't nice to be told a relative has an illness. I cannot say my thougts are with Gordon and his family. I have a good friend whose daughter has the same condition and her wish is to live beyond 35. That is a brave young lady who is fighting daily.
Maybe a high profile person such as Brown may inject more funds to the CF related charities
- 70.
- At 11:11 PM on 30 Nov 2006,
I do not like Gordon Brown, or his Party Politics or his Prime Minister, but whose heart could not go out to him as a father, and a husband, upon hearing the news concerning his little boy? Good luck, Gordon, may God be with you.
- 71.
- At 10:46 AM on 01 Dec 2006,
Does the BBC's Political Editor have no politics to report on?
- 72.
- At 10:50 AM on 01 Dec 2006,
#45 'All the political comments on this post should - at the very least - be put onto another page'
#49 'Politics have no place here.'
errrr...am I lost or is this the 'Political' Editors blog page, found on the BBC's 'Political' web site.
Personally I am offended by all the comments about personal and family health problems.
But perhaps they're right though, politics would be a much nicer without all the…err…politics?
Congratulations on the variety of comments, Nick. It's encouraging.
- 73.
- At 11:43 AM on 01 Dec 2006,
David Morris' comment (#72) is self-defeating in its attempted criticism.
If he were 'offended by all the comments about personal and family health problems' then splitting such discussions (those which are clearly more in the realm of personality from your more conventional political posts) would solve the problem for everyone.
There is a real problem with the private/personal overlap.. could I suggest that you distinguish future personality-centric stories from straight-old-fashioned politics in some clever way (tags, colour coding)?
More of a dividing line between policy and personality needs to be drawn, if only for the health of our democratic process.
- 74.
- At 12:48 PM on 01 Dec 2006,
Those complaining that politics should be kept out of this should contemplate the amazing coincidence that this sympathetic "news" story comes out the same week that the Charities Commission announced that it is to investigate the Smith Institute, an organisation closely associated with Brown.
This latter story, of course, seems to have been completely ignored by the not-left-wing-at-all BBC.
- 75.
- At 03:08 PM on 01 Dec 2006,
Wow, Nick, you make a great Agony Aunt. Your talents are wasted!
Well chosen comments by the way.
- 76.
- At 03:28 PM on 01 Dec 2006,
I'm really saddened that little Fraser has CF but what really saddens me is that people think this is not newsworthy.
CF is the Uk's most common genetic life threatning disease and yet still there is little known about it. We need people to know about this illness and the implications surrounding it - especially the fact that without new lungs, people are dying waiting for transplants.
It would be good if every new baby diagnosed made the headlines and helped get the message across but obviously they don't. Mr Browns profile was clearly going to mean this story got media interest and I'm glad it did. People don't care enough, and that makes me sad.
I am living with CF, I am a working mum and life can be difficult. Knowing there are people out there trying to make a difference means so much to me because this way babies like Fraser will have a much better chance in life.
- 77.
- At 04:16 PM on 01 Dec 2006,
My son has cystic fibrosis and I know what hard work on him and all the family it is.
We have been comparatively lucky. He has not suffered the post-code lottery for recieving the drugs he needs; he was diagnosed at 7 weeks; he lives 20 minutes from an excellent specialist centre; our GPs do not refuse to prescribe very expensive drugs; his schools have almost always been inclusive of his needs; he has had excellent cf specialist nurses.
This is not the same for everyone and although I feel sad for the Brown family as I do every time another baby or child is diagnosed, I hope that some of the inequalities of care can be addressed as a result of the publicity. As I write, there are moves afoot to "lose posts" of cf specialist nurses in Brighton as part of a hospital move. Clearly this is madness based on funding crises. So please Mr Brown, when you are ready, help the cf community.
- 78.
- At 04:48 PM on 01 Dec 2006,
Dear Nick,
I recently commented on another of the stories you reported on, and have to admit I was less than complimentary about your style of questioning as I thought it had led to embarrasment on the part of Israel's Prime Minister.
Can I just say that I thought the report you gave last night regarding the plight of Gordon Brown's child wass handled sensitively and responsibly.
Many thanks,
Sean Richards
- 79.
- At 07:23 PM on 01 Dec 2006,
Not realy sure whether I think this is the right kind of post for Nick either. But since he has written it, I suppose it has to be said that we all feel sympathy on a personal level, whether we approve of Brown and his policies.
Many more cynical posters on other sites say that the news was broken now for ulterior motives! Who knows? But I don't really think that's likely.
Reference the test for CS in Scotland and complaints that it is not yet available in the rest of the country. Seems it's coming in the next few months.
As regards Brown deciding against grabbing his "rightful" place as PM. Ahem .... RIGHT!?! We'll see.
"When Mr Brown steps down from the Treasury and proudly makes his way to the back benches as he now almost certainly will .... crucially for recognising both his and our priorities. His loyalty to his family, his country and finally his party will be unquestionable."
I won't add my link here this time. Wouldn't like to be accused of inappropriate use of the thread.
- 80.
- At 03:07 PM on 02 Dec 2006,
Emily Thackray is a friend of mine and every detail written about her is true...she is strong, beautiful and incrediably inspiring. My father was also being considered for heart transplant a few years ago, so I've had a lot of contact with this area and the NHS. Quite frankly, if it didn't exist, my father wouldn't be alive today as we couldn't afford expensive medical care. The doctors are wonderful and amazing people-perhaps people should consider it is their own discomfort with the idea of organ donation that has continued the suffering of children and adults dying from this devastating disease? Personally I cannot think of a more beautiful thing you can do-to live life, then give life. Please please think about it and don't use this difficult time as a playground for politics. I may not support Mr Brown's political moves, however, I have a hard time believing he timed his son being diagnosed with CF with an important week in politics. hate to shatter any illusions but its not the kind of disease you can choose to happen when you wish it to. And sorry to anyone who's "offended" by my personal story, I suggest you spend some time getting some perspective and realise you're undermining and shaming humanity by having not an ounce of compassion for a family in a time of hardship; a mere fraction of the huge cf community. I am probably a good deal younger than most of the people who have commented, and it saddens me to think those twice my age have closed and hardened hearts and minds. I shudder to think some of you might even be pleased that the Browns are suffering-are you saying that the severe shortening of this child's life compensates for the innocents killed in Iraq? More undeserved death does NOT make up for it, you ought to be ashamed. Emily Thackray however is a fantastic example of the beauty and positivity that can arise from such an affliction; i am sure she could have worded this so much better than me and I just wanted to say I am so so proud to call her my friend. I hope some more awareness and support will reach those who had previously no understanding of CF.
- 81.
- At 03:09 PM on 02 Dec 2006,
P.S. in reference to what I said about people being many years my age...if you're not, you certainly sound it. OPEN YOUR MINDS.
- 82.
- At 10:08 PM on 03 Dec 2006,
On the news (and on your blog entry) you said that you ordered your cameraman to avert his lens from Gordon Brown when he became visibly moved by a speech he was listening to.
It doesn't really inspire much confidence in the BBC's impartial status if you deciding to self-censor, does it?
Your job is to report the news, not decide what it should be. No wonder people are trusting the word of people like Iain Dale and Guido Fawkes over you to a greater and greater extent. Perhaps you have become too close to the government, which is always a danger for a lobby correspondent.
- 83.
- At 06:20 PM on 04 Dec 2006,
Come on David, just think about that for a moment. Does the fact that Nick asked the camera crew not to show Gordon Brown crying really make him "too close to the government" or does it just make him a person?
Would you really like to be shown crying on television in front of millions of people?
Choosing not to show the Chancellor crying is hardly "deciding what the news should be", it's more about just being a bit nice, surely!
Best wishes, Alice
- 84.
- At 06:26 AM on 08 Dec 2006,
also... you must have rattled him a bit..... he started saying nukuler again. :)
- 85.
- At 04:22 AM on 15 Jan 2007,
Who putt this news in BBC's basket?


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I did feel sad in this episode but if it didn't happen then it wouldn't have been so memorable. I'm glad it didn't pop back up out of no where like Primape did because that would have ruined the magic.
I did feel sad in this episode but if it didn't happen then it wouldn't have been so memorable. I'm glad it didn't pop back up out of no where like Primape did because that would have ruined the magic.
Butterfree didn't have much of a personality, so it's hard to care that he was released. It's like if Ash released his Boldore or something. I wouldn't care. It was a nice episode and I enjoyed it so it gets a 9.
I'm reading the comments in this episode thread and one guy brought up Gliscor's release saying they didn't care. At least Gliscor got screen time, had a personality and spent a lot of time with Ash before being released. Butterfree had none of this, so IMO it's hard to care about Butterfree. Gliscor and Ash seemed closer and giving him away was unnecessary.
That Butterfree was not shiny. -_-
Last edited by BurningSociety12345543210; 15th November 2012 at 11:26 PM.
I loved/hated this episode because Butterfree was Ash's first Pokemon and it would be cool if he still had him. In the end Ash should of stuck with the Raticate
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strike two, whole sig removed
A really sad episode. Hearing the sad song play during Butterfree's 'release' was sad. Well, it was good to see Starmie battle in here too. Even though Jessie did hit it with a sledgehammer. (-_-)
Naruto AMV - Gaara - Hurt
InuYasha AMV - Koga - E for Extinction
Naruto AMV - Sakura - Cicada Moratorium
Naruto AMV - Tsunade - Sweet Sweet Cendrillon Drug
Fight me in Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 on PS3: YokoKuramaRose
Such a sad episode =/
The first Pokemon Ash EVER catched. See them leaving each other was so heartbreaking. The music for this scene is so good and I love the fact Pikachu is crying here too. Caterpie had a hard time on the time in the begining. Mistys phobia for bugs left Caterpie in a tough position and Pikachu was there for him when he told him he wanted to become a Butterfree. Butterfree was also the first Pokemon Pikachu became friend with (okay it was a Caterpie at the time being but still).
I can't watch at this scene without crying, it is such a sad moment but they for sure made a masterpiece of work when it comes to emotions. For me this will probably always be the saddest moment in Pokemon
This may be the very first dramatic episode of Pokemon. Back in the 80s this would have been a "very special episode".
Katie you's a window shopper
Mad at me, I think I know why
AJ you's a window shopper
In the jewelry store lookin' at stuff you can't buy
Colin you's a window shopper
In the dealership tryin to get a test drive
Eli you's a window shopper
Mad as heck when you see me ride by
Apparently I heard that in the original Japanese version, it is true that Butterfrie does actually die after mating, which explains why Pikachu was so upset when it left. However, in the episode "The Tower of Terror", it is implied in the original Japanese version that Haunter, a Ghost-type Pokémon, is actually Butterfire's soul, thus sparking the theory that Ghost-type Pokémon were actually meant to be the souls of Pokémon that had died, not just their own separate elemental type. So technically, at least according to the original version of the episode, it was implied in the beginning that Haunter is actually Butterfrie, but this concept was later completely written out and changed so that instead Butterfrie would NOT have died and instead come back in much later episodes in later generations. I guess the people in charge of the anime figured that having Butterfrie die and come back as a Haunter would be too dark and confusing to little kids, so they changed it to have Ghost-type Pokémon be their own separate Pokémon instead. To be honest, I actually liked the original concept of Ghost-type Pokémon being other Pokémon's souls, but then again it's still pretty sad to think that Butterfrie would die and it would probably be a little confusing to future generations of Pokémon fans, so that's why they changed it.
Yes, that is true, but I'm saying that I heard that this was the original concept of the only known Ghost-type Pokémon at the time, or at least a long time ago. But like I said, they changed this years ago, though it probably would make more sense to have Pokémon be ghosts of other Pokémon and not people, mainly because it just seems inconceivable that a human could turn into a Pokémon after death. However, no matter. You are still right because it is true that Pokémon like Yamask are ghosts of people, which actually creates a more interesting storyline anyway. Either way, Pokémon is still a cartoon, and I actually personally don't care that much about the whole "Afterlife" thing anyway.....I just know that there are other people who believe in it so that's why I bring it up, since obviously there are other people out there besides people like me. I just thought it was a really interesting theory and I've heard several people talking about it on other sites.
Last edited by MentalFreak9; 31st October 2013 at 2:50 AM.


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The Commission usually meets the 3rd Thursday of every month at 141 Keyes Road (unless otherwise noted*) at 7 PM. The public is welcome at any meeting.
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Proposed Revisions to the Demolition Delay Bylaw
The Concord Historical Commission (CHC) takes seriously its charge of identifying and protecting Concord's historic resources and has spent the last four years studying how Concord can better protect its architectural heritage. The Commission has become increasingly concerned with the impact of demolition on this heritage, and is planning to put forward a revised Demolition Delay Bylaw for the 2014 Annual Town Meeting which they believe will address this problem. Many surrounding communities have adopted more comprehensive Demolition Delay Bylaws, and the revisions now proposed for the Concord Bylaw are intended to provide the same protections which other communities are giving to their important cultural resources.
The proposed revisions to the Bylaw will allow the CHC to determine if a proposed demolition will impact an historically significant structure and if so, provides a period of time where the demolition can be delayed so that alternatives to demolition can be explored or the historic structure documented. One of the proposed changes to the current bylaw will require any structure proposed for demolition that is older than 75 years to be subject to review to determine whether the structure is historically significant. It also changes the period of delay from the present 6 months to one year in cases where the structure is determined to be historically significant. General household maintenance such as painting, replacing gutters, altering doors or windows, etc., will not be affected by these proposed changes.
Copies of the existing and proposed new Demolition Delay Bylaws as well as additional information on the process and properties that would potentially be impacted is available in the above links. The CHC has a public hearingsscheduled for Thursday, Nov. 21, at 7:00PM in the Harvey Wheeler Community Center Auditorium, 1276 Main Street, West Concord. CCTV taped the CHC's Town House public hearing held on October 23 and will be rebroadcasting it during the week of October 28th. Please send any questions or comments on the proposed Demolition Delay Bylaw or process to the Historical Commission at firstname.lastname@example.com.
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New Orleans Saints: 4 Reasons Joe Vitt Won't Produce More Wins
By (Correspondent) on October 31, 2012
758 reads
New Orleans Saints fans hope that the return of Joe Vitt as the interim head coach will bring stability to an otherwise tumultuous year so far.
After serving his six-game suspension resulting from the bounty controversy this offseason, Vitt will assume the role of interim head coach in place of Sean Payton, who has been suspended for the entirety of the 2012 season.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not Vitt can turn around the Saints' 2-5 season.
Certainly there was an understandable expectation that the Saints would struggle in the wake of the bounty scandal and the suspension of Payton, but I expected that the transition would be mostly seamless under the leadership of Drew Brees.
During the lockout in the spring of 2011, Brees had demonstrated this type of leadership by organizing team practices. That said, I don't know that he hasn't played this role.
Given losses to weaker competition, like the Carolina Panthers and Kansas City Chiefs, it seems as though the problems in New Orleans extend beyond a missing coach.
The Remaining Schedule
J. Meric/Getty Images
In the final nine games of the Saints' season, four of their games will be against division-leading competition.
This does not include Vitt's first game back, a loss on the road to AFC West-leading Denver.
Looking at this upcoming schedule, all of the teams except for Oakland are in the top half of the league in terms of fewest points allowed. Though Drew Brees and the Saints offense are close to the top of the league in points scored, expect these numbers to be skewed in the second half.
Even with four division games remaining, two are against the undefeated Atlanta Falcons. The remaining two match the Saints against the Panthers, who have already beaten New Orleans, as well as a Tampa Bay Buccaneers team that nearly came back against the Saints in Week 7.
Opposing Defenses
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By all accounts, the New Orleans offense is fairly one-dimensional. Even though they do a lot of different things, they do most of it through the air.
In lieu of a more traditional running game, a lot of plays out of the backfield go to Darren Sproles on swing passes and wheel routes. The result is more of a pseudo rushing game, and the statistics reflect this.
While the Saints' offense is first in the league in passing, it is last in rushing.
Lacking variation, upcoming matchups against two top-three pass defenses—the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys—figure to be particularly challenging. Even more unnerving is the fact that Brees, despite his touchdown efficiency, has thrown eight interceptions in just seven games this season.
Saints Defense
Harry How/Getty Images
This is maybe the one place where Vitt should have a significant impact, but it may be too little, too late.
Vitt, a former linebacker turned defensive position coach, will be charged with resurrecting one of the worst defenses in the NFL. The Saints have the 30th-worst pass defense and 31st-ranked rush defense this season. Certainly this is due in no small part to the absence of Jonathan Vilma.
With such poor production in both facets of the defense, it is hard for New Orleans to force opposing offenses into becoming one-dimensional. It will be even more difficult given the versatility of many of the offenses that New Orleans still has left to play.
In Carolina, Panthers quarterback Cam Newton poses both a rushing and passing threat. Both San Francisco and Atlanta have franchise quarterbacks with multiple deep options balanced against veteran rushing attacks. New Orleans even has to travel to the Meadowlands to face hot-handed quarterback Eli Manning and the New York Giants.
The Denver Game as a Harbinger
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Maybe the most damning evidence against the Saints 2012 season is their Week 8 game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday night.
Through the first six games of the season, the Saints managed a 2-4 record, but each of the games—ugly as they may have been—were decided by eight points or less.
In Vitt's first game back at the helm, the Saints were blown away by Peyton Manning-led Broncos.
While Manning threw for 305 yards and three touchdowns and Willis McGahee rushed for 122 yards and a score himself, the Saints scored only twice. Their last touchdown came just before the two-minute warning at the end of the game.
Denver is the kind of team that New Orleans will see consistently from here on out: a franchise quarterback with a well-rounded offense and defense. If Vitt cannot figure out how to keep those games manageable, it promises to be a long and drawn-out end for the Saints in 2012.
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Babson issues formal apology for anti-Semitic acts before 1978 soccer game against Brandeis
It was 35 years ago, but the acts of anti-Semitism still sting.
At a Babson College soccer practice before a game against Brandeis University, two Babson team members hung a sign with the letters K T J, short for Kill The Jews, and a Jewish star with a cross superimposed onto it.
Babson players wore swastikas, and were yelling holocaust. The next morning, a sign with the words Happy Holocaust was found in the gymnasium.
The year was 1978.
On Wednesday morning, Babson College President Leonard Schlesinger issued a formal apology for the hateful acts the students committed.
Public acts require public apologies, and we are now in the business of being very clear: that I actually dont believe there is any time duration that is too long to address that wrong, Schlesinger said at a press conference held at the New England Regional Anti-Defamation League office in Boston.
Schlesinger said the 1978 incident was first brought to his attention in February by a former Babson student. Schlesinger and his staff uncovered documents which confirmed the anti-Semitic acts, and learned more about the administrations response at the time.
The incidents were controversial at the time, and Babson College administrators and students took several steps to respond: the athletic director and soccer players issued apologies, the Babson president wrote a letter to the college community, the soccer team was required watch a movie about the Holocaust and to attend a series of other educational sessions. But Schlesinger said he was disappointed that the administration didnt issue a formal apology, or make a public apology to Brandeis.
There was an institutional response; I want to be very clear about that. And that institutional response was not insignificant..., he said Wednesday. [But] it doesnt strike me as an appropriate institutional response either at that point or for today.
In addition to the formal apology on Wednesday, Schlesinger wrote a letter to the president of Brandeis University, Frederick M. Lawrence, in which he called the acts a source of great shame for Babson.
As I have come to learn more about these incidents, I have been greatly disturbed by the administration handling of the hateful acts experienced both by the Babson and Brandeis communities, Schlesinger wrote in a letter earlier this month. Although it is some 35 years later, as President of this institution, I believe I have a fundamental responsibility to respond to what I have learned, including extending my most sincere public apology to the entire Brandeis community for the unconscionable behavior of Babson students.
Lawrence wrote back, thanking him for the letter and for your leadership in seeing the opportunity for learning and healing from the events of 1978.
On behalf of the Brandeis community, we accept your apology and appreciate the spirit in which it has been offered, Lawrence replied. We can agree that hatred of all kinds- including anti-Semitism - has no place in our institutions of higher education.
As he learned more about the incidents, Schlesinger did not confront the students who committed the acts more than three decades ago, but instead chose to look forward and try to learn from the hateful experience.
At the press conference Wednesday, Schlesinger announced that Babson is working with the Anti-Defamation League to bring an anti-bias training program to the 500 first-year students coming to the Wellesley-based school for orientation. This will be followed by a week of training for faculty and staff.
Robert Trestan, the New England Regional Director of the ADL, applauded Babson for learning about its history and responding in a proactive manner.
Hate and bigotry on college campuses are not just annoyances, theyre not just blips on the screen or incidents, Trestan said. But theyre a threat to the integrity of academic institutions and they present a serious challenge to their ability to carry out their mission. And Len is a president who recognizes that.
Trestan also emphasized that instituting this program is just the first step.
It is not a one-shot deal, this is the beginning of a relationship, he said. Its the beginning of a partnership between Babson and the ADL.
Jeffrey Robbins, also of the ADL, commended Babson and said that I dont expect that it was an easy thing necessarily for Babson to do.
This is an example of leadership -- real moral leadership, real wisdom, he said. And the effect of Babson doing this ought not to be minimized.
Schlesinger, who is Jewish, is stepping down as Babson president next week. He said both of his parents were Holocaust survivors, and his mother, who is still alive, lectures to middle school students about the Holocaust.
One of the important agendas of Holocaust survivors is obviously to never forget. Im a strong believer in the importance of testimony to ensure that other generations dont forget, Schlesinger said. Theres no question in my mind that experience frames how I think about this issue. But Im a college president who happens to be Jewish, not a Jewish college president.
Schlesinger said he is proud that Babsons campus is far different now -- the college says its students come from 74 different countries. He says that although some would say, why dont you just let this go?, he wants to speak out against the past and use it as a teachable moment for future students.
We are going to be as ironclad sure as we can be -- that the incidents of 1978 can not and will not ever be repeated on our campus, he said.
Looking for more coverage of area colleges and universities? Go to our Your Campus pages.
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Saturday, December 15, 2007
Our Tree
Just for fun I thought I'd share our tree with you. I LOVE an overly ornamented tree, as long as there is some sort of rhyme or reason to it.
Our tree is loaded with memories, each ornament, except the 2 dozen plain red balls and white lights, has a story behind it. Every year from birth on, we give our children an ornament and date it. I started this because when I moved out of the house I had nothing, not a single ornament, or the funds to purchase any, so my first tree was a lonely sort of thing with some bread dough ornaments I quickly made. They lasted just that year as I couldn't afford the sealer to make them last any longer. My mom also started this when my oldest son was born, now they bring them an ornament from their travels each year . So probably 70 percent of the ornaments you see here belong to my kids and will leave with them when they have a family of their own. I get Jay a fishing related ornament every year, too and there are ornaments from friends, in addition to the ones the kids have made through the years at school or camp. I just love all of them! I've been on the lookout for the perfect topper for years, but haven't located one yet, so for now it's a red bow. I will know the topper when I find it, it will speak to me.
The tree skirt which you can't see, is handmade and there is a felt appliqué designating each year with a holiday image of one sort or another. This was a something my mom started on their tree and I remember making the appliqués for their tree skirt. I have never been able to get my own kids interested in this though, so it remains up to me. Don't tell anyone I am a few years behind! LOL As you can see we simplified our wrapping, we used to be all ribbons and bows, not anymore, a label on the top allows for stacking and is just easier. I also have such a problem with all the paper waste, but that is another column.
The truck you can see on the right belonged to Jay when he was a little boy. It was made for him when he was little by his grandfather. The stuffed bear on the truck was made by my grandmother although his snow cap disappeared somewhere over the years.
For many years we purchased a tree, but in our dry, and sometimes hot December weather, made for a very brittle tree by Christmas. So we went artificial a few years ago. I miss the tree hunt and the pine smell, but the ease of pulling it out of the garage and having it prelit are a bonus.
Lastly, an online friend of mine, Bev, recently suggested a "Cross One Thing Off Your List" campaign. I don't know about you, but I love the holiday time and at the same time think otherwise. So, this year, I am crossing off holiday baking. The cards are done and in the mail today, the gifts are mostly all done, many left to be wrapped, but the baking is my least favorite thing to do, so that is getting the axe this year. What will you cross off?
Who knew a post about a tree could get so long! LOL
Happy Happy Holidays!
13 comments:
- Sharon (notimetostamp) said...
Lovely tree!!! I crossed baking off years ago. All my friends know I don't bake as Christmas, so the ALL bring us bakery -- LOL!!! It is just wonderful!!! I also crossed off shopping for my kids (big boys)this year -- isn't that awful!!!! We gave them money and told them to do their own shopping -- so much easier -- so they have been shopping all month, and, I must say, enjoying it!!!
- December 15, 2007 at 8:25 PM
I also crossed off baking. My Mom does enough for the both of us. And your tree s beautiful. Ours is the same way, loaded with memories, we easily get 8 new ornaments every year, more this year because I just fell in love with those pinecone ornaments from scrapbook paper. My poor tree will look bare and lonely when the kids are gone!
- December 16, 2007 at 3:31 AM
It is a LOVELY tree Val! I LOVE Christmas trees! I can stare at them for hours (guess I have a simple mind and am amused easily huh?)
Congrats on finishing your cards so early - I have only gotten out 11 so far, miles to go...
...and I don't intend to give up holiday baking either. It will be easier to get more done after the winter break starts next Friday, 3:30 pm, not that I am counting or anything...
~Meredith - December 16, 2007 at 7:41 AM
- Nancy Riley said...
Val, your tree is GORGEOUS!!! I love how each ornament has a story behind it! My ornaments are like that too but my tree doesn't look nearly as good as yours!
- December 16, 2007 at 7:49 AM
I gave up buying so many presents for so many people and donated the amounts I'd have spent to charities instead. Saves time.
I also gave up wrapping with lots of bows/ribbons and decorating so much outside with lights. Lessened my carbon footprint...
I will not give up baking, as it is the only time I make cookies throughout the year! I will not give up cardmaking either - my customers and family members love getting my cards! Who am I to deprive them, eh? LOL. I just make them simple! - December 16, 2007 at 8:00 AM
- QC said...
I sent out exactly 9 Christmas cards this year.....I've "crossed that off my list" because of the expense - and the fact so few are returned. I instead EMAIL a picture of the card with a "holiday letter"! :)
Your tree is beautiful, Val! Better start getting yourself some ornaments before the kids leave or you'll be back to "bread dough" ornaments! Good thing Brett's still young! (Wink) - December 16, 2007 at 8:09 AM
I too have crossed off baking. We just bought our new house so things like that will have to wait. The kids are getting less this year, but isnt Jesus the real reason for the season? Merry Christmas!
- December 16, 2007 at 1:03 PM
- stampqueen said...
I also crossed off baking years ago before Xmas anyway - I try to do some baking when the kids are home for Xmas break - they like to help.
Besides neither the DH or I need any sweets - just more time I have to spend in the gym LOL... - December 16, 2007 at 3:22 PM
Lovely tree-and I like mine full to running over with ornaments!.
Due to some health problems I have crossed several things off my list this year-the one I miss most is our annual Christmas Open House. Because I can't do simple--I just crossed it off for this year. May still have a small tea for a few friends I have been doing things with for years. - December 16, 2007 at 4:40 PM
- Tex said...
Gorgeous tree with a delightful story, Val! Like you, I do love a fully "embellished" tree ... although not the "perfectly matched everything" trees on displays so much. Christmas trees require the touch of the family ... the "character" of those who will share their family moments around said tree. Eliminating one thing? I almost don't want to say this ... it will appear to be "cased"! haha I'm not baking. Golly .. I haven't even gotten to the fudge yet for my kids! eeek!
`Tex - December 17, 2007 at 12:15 AM
- Lisa Charleton said...
Your tree is beautiful! Maybe you'd like a tree topper like mine. It's a finial tree top ornament. Mine is purple and silver and is similar to this one: http://www.christmaslightsmt.com/christmas-ornaments/red-gold-christmas-tree-topper.htm
(Though I didn't pay NEARLY that much for min!)
I have purple ornaments and silver bells on my tree in addition to all the "special" ornaments - and then we tie all the cards we receive in the mail onto the tree with bows - the hand made ones in front of course! ;) - December 17, 2007 at 8:38 AM
Hmmmm...I should cross off making handmade gifts because I never seem to get them done in time. I really enjoyed this post, Val. My tree is also heavily ornamented with sentiment. So heavily ornamented that I had to give up my tradition of acquiring one new ornament per year. Merry Christmas!
- December 18, 2007 at 1:14 PM
What a beautiful tree! It looks perfect -- the kind I treasure too!
Three dozen large gold jingle bells with red bows unify our handmade ornaments from the kids, family, friends, craft fairs, and travels. Our oldest daughter made our topper, a cross stitched angel with beautiful soft colors and golden wings. It always goes on last. Each of the last six years, she has made a different beaded snowflake design, and given me six. They are so beautiful!
Since our children are grown, we no longer give them an ornament each year, fill stockings, or put breakable decorations on every available surface that tempt the grandchildren! But some special traditions are musts! - December 18, 2007 at 2:50 PM


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- Families Home
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- Animal Defenses
Animal Defenses
5th Grade Oral Language Resources
Content Objectives
Students will:
• Learn about the concept of animal defenses.• Access prior knowledge and build background about defense mechanisms.
• Explore and apply the concept of defense mechanisms.
Language Objectives
Students will:
• Demonstrate an understanding of the concept of animal defenses.• Orally use words that describe different animal defenses.
• Extend oral vocabulary by speaking about how humans defend themselves.
- Use key concept words [size, teeth, skin, poison, agitated, foe, boundaries; defense, camouflage].
• Use the slideshow to review the key concept words.- Explain that students are going to learn about:
-- Why animals defend themselves.
-- What are defense mechanisms.
-- How animals defend themselves.
• After the host introduces the slideshow, point to the photo on screen. Ask students: What kind of animal is this? (cheetah). What are they doing? (running fast). Why? (to get away from another animal). • Ask students: When do you run fast? (answers will vary).• Say: Just like people, animals have defense mechanisms too. These are ways in which they protect themselves. Running fast is one defense mechanism. What other defense mechanisms do animals have? (camouflaging, using their body as a weapon, running).
Guided Practice
• Guide students through the next five slides, showing them how animals defend themselves. Always have the students describe how they defend themselves.Apply
• Play the games that follow. Have them discuss with their partner the different topics that appear during the Talk About It feature.• After the first game, ask students to talk about what they defend themselves from. After the second game, have them discuss other defense mechanisms that people have.
• Ask students: From what do animals defend themselves?• Summarize for students that animals also defend themselves from people and the weather. Animals camouflage themselves from people and find new shelter if their habitat is in danger. Encourage them to think about how they would defend themselves against an animal.


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Upping Collaboration, Prosecution to Fight CorruptionCorporate Counsel 2013-06-20 16:09:34.0
Corporate executives whose companies are working on the international stage should be wary of the Department of Justice's aggressive prosecution of individuals on bribery charges, Mythili Raman, acting assistant attorney general for the DOJ's criminal division, said in a speech Monday. |


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Tom Cruise religion branded 'creepy'
News Corp chairman Rupert Murdoch took a swipe at Tom Cruise in a series of Tweets regarding the Hollywood star's controversial religion Scientology.
Cruise has long been a prominent member of the Church of Scientology, often described as a cult. The actor made headlines on Friday when it was revealed his wife, actress Katie Holmes, had filed for divorce and was seeking custody of their daughter, Suri.
"Scientology back in news," Murdoch posted on his official Twitter feed. "Very weird cult, but big, big money involved with Tom Cruise either number two or three in hiearchy (sic)."
Later in the day, he tweeted: "Watch Katie Holmes and Scientology story develop. Something creepy, maybe even evil, about these people."
Murdoch acknowledged his tweets would be controversial about an hour afterward with: "Since Scientology tweet hundreds of attacks. Expect they will increase and get worse and maybe threatening. Still stick to my story."
Meanwhile, Holmes is said to be increasingly worried she is being followed by Scientologists. The Sun newspaper in the UK reported that the 33-year-old was being followed by mystery men days before she filed to end her high-profile marriage.
A legal representative of the Church of Scientology denied the group was involved in following Katie.