Introduction to BANA
The British Acoustic Neuroma Association (BANA) was formed in 1992. BANA is organised and administered by people affected by acoustic neuroma, is a registered charity and exists for mutual support, information exchange and listening.
In 1997 we received 3-year funding from the National Lottery Charities Board. This enabled us to set up an office and employ a full time Co-ordinator. We are now funded entirely by our own fundraising efforts. We currently employ a part time Co-ordinator and a part time Office Administrator.
The Objects of BANA
The Charity is established to:-
a) Assist and support people who have been diagnosed as having or who have been treated for Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma), and other related conditions and others affected by such conditions.
b) Promote and support research and to publish the results of such research into medical, surgical and other procedures likely to lead to the prevention, early detection and successful treatment of such conditions.
c) Promote and support research and to publish the results of such research into medical, surgical and other procedures assisting in the rehabilitation and quality of life of people affected by such conditions.
Why join BANA?
Many who face and undergo treatment of acoustic neuromas and other benign tumours involving the cranial nerves have questions, concerns and physical and emotional adjustments to make. Membership in a group of those who have had a similar experience can be helpful to patients, as well as family members and interested medical personnel.
The benefits of becoming a member
Website - Members' Section.
- An active Members' Forum which allows members to share their experiences
- A list of all regional Branches and Support Groups including contact details of the group leaders
- Treatment Centre list which notes all hospitals which deal with Acoustic Neuroma (AN) and which treatment options they offer
- Treatment Centre Questionnaires completed by the relevant hospitals giving details of the number of patients they have treated, the different treatment options they offer, the names of the practitioners and other useful information
- A list of BANA Medical Advisors
- Member links to other AN-related organisations
- A wide selection of articles covering all aspects of AN management both before, during and after treatment including a selection of Members' stories. This section also includes a selection of Patient Information papers from several hospitals
- A Members' Notice Board which often includes requests for help completing surveys etc from other organisations
Office
Magazine
Booklets and information leaflets
DVDs and Videos
Support from other members
Branch and Support Group meetings
We have 9 large branches where meeting usually include a speaker and a chance to socialise with other AN sufferers. We also have 22 smaller regular Support Group meetings (some in hospitals/halls and others in members' homes) where members and guests have a chance to exchange experiences with others
Loan of Trophic Stimulators.
These facial stimulation machines are available to members to loan (yearly maintenance fee payable) under the supervision of a physiotherapist.
Read the BANA Constitution online.
Board of Trustees 2012-2013
Name/Role
KEVIN DIMMELOW - Chairman
JANET MERCER - Vice Chairman & Single Sided Deafness Contact
MAIREAD O'CONNOR - Treasurer
JACKEY WEIGHTMAN - Secretary, Office Manager, Magazine editor
CARYLL PETERSEN - Listening Ear
ALAN WEIGHTMAN - Branch Liaison
GORDON WAITE - Overseas Link
JOHN HUNTLEY - Regulations Co-ordinator
GERALDINE ROCHE