"The Beacon has given me back most of the things I have lost to multiple sclerosis. It is a place of care and compassion, of love, of good food and humour".

This is the response of Raymond Lowe, one of the clients who has taken up new opportunities offered at The Beacon, Presbyterian Support (East Coast)'s newest community service.

The Beacon opened its doors in what was the Hettye Charles House resthome overlooking Napier. The service enjoys a superb view over Hawke Bay and city.

Its development has been driven by a strong sense of justice and fairness for people aged 20-60 who have chronic deteriorating neurological conditions.

Beacon clients face an uncertain future. Living with a deteriorating disease like multiple sclerosis or motor neurone disease is not easy. It can be hard to see a future with any hope, and for partners and children devastating to witness the slow decline of someone dearly loved.

"The Beacon differs from other Presbyterian Support services in that it is both a partner and a facilitator of service for Hawke's Bay people and by Hawke's Bay people," says community development manager, Liz Andrews. "It runs on a community participation model. Clients named the service and have written its mission statement and a focus group comprising clients, staff, volunteers and others directly involved in the Beacon, meets regularly", she says.

" This gives the service a stance that is embracing and inclusive, with clients at the centre of its development and momentum. And the momentum and energy at the Beacon needs to be seen to be believed," she says.

The Beacon has brought about "the biggest change in my life", says Raymond Lowe.

"I have had multiple sclerosis for about 45 years, so by now I'm used to it, but that doesn't make it easy. It means days of endless pain, of devastating tiredness, of loneliness when nobody comes."

"The Beacon has changed my view of society, from inward-looking to a broader, richer one, to help in every way possible."

If you would like to visit or help in any way, you are very welcome to contact Lynne Parsons on (06) 835 4200.