Author's Blog
My involvement with the group
I have been involved with the IW Toy Library and Opportunity Group for nearly 12 years, first to bring my daughter Lauren, who has Down Syndrome, then to bring my son Benjamin and finally to help run the group. My daughter had open heart surgery at 4 months to have two large holes repaired in her heart and a valve created. More than anything, it was this surgery that changed our perspective and priorities in life. At IW Toy Library and Opportunity Group weekly play session, I found many parents who had shared similar experiences and it was good to talk about it with those who really understood.
Although sadly IWTLOG is no longer running its weekly sessions, I am happy to say that parents will still have this opportunity to meet at the various local groups that have developed in the Children's Centres around the Island.
I am pleased therefore to move the group forward (or perhaps I should say backward to its roots!) and revitalise the lending side, reaching out to more children than ever before on a more regular basis and hopefully ensuring our continued future.
Lauren visting Santa at a IWTOG Christmas Party and enjoying the dressing up box
I hope that other families will continue to benefit from IWTLOG's toys and books as we did.
Amanda Ringer
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