Page 22 - Essex Mason Spring Special Edition

Essex Cornerstone Club

supporting through the COVID-19 crisis

It is often been said that, necessity is the mother of all invention and in these testing times, a number of
inventions have been put to use that have gone quite some way to ensuring that we are not alone.

Virtual Social Events
At the Essex Cornerstone Club, we have
emphasised that although self-isolation is
absolutely vital to help protect the NHS and
the country as whole, it doesn’t mean that
we shouldn’t keep in touch. Despite the
Covid-19 restrictions, modern technology
through social media allows us to catch-up
with one another and share a drink or two!
As part of our efforts to stay connected, we
have held a series of social events that take
place on ‘Zoom’ an online platform which
enables brethren from several lodges to
video-call each other from the comfort of their
own homes. The zoom platform offers us an
opportunity to update our members on the news around the province and also provides a means by which we can all let
off some steam!

Recently, we held an inter-club social event on Zoom where Essex Cornerstone Club was joined by Brethren from two
other New and Young Mason clubs, Prorsum Semper of Gloucestershire and The Sarsen Club of Wiltshire The event
was a huge success with over 35 brethren attending and information about each club and its members were shared.
Shaun Butler, UGLE Communications Manager joined us to update on the efforts of Grand Lodge during this difficult
time. We’re working to extend this initiative out across the UK by hosting more virtual events with other New and Young
Mason clubs.

Our NHS iPad appeal
The Essex Cornerstone Club are helping to support a desperate plea from NHS Doctors & Nurses for any old working
electronic tablets / iPads. Due to the COVID-19 crisis patients are not allowed to receive visitors in hospital.
This initiative will support patients (many who are elderly and frail and do not have access to smart devices) who may be
nearing the end of their life the opportunity to speak to family and loved ones via video calls. The devices, regardless of
age, need to be wiped clean of data, in working order and have FaceTime/ video call capabilities.

Donations have already been made and are
making a difference. Our such case is Gilberte
Abouharon, she underwent live saving surgery but
was unable to have visitors during recovery. Her
grand-daughter Annabelle said ‘‘It’s made all the
difference being able to see loved ones during
this trying time, this such a fantastic idea. Thank
so much for giving us an opportunity to speak to
our Nan’

If you'd like to donate your old electronic tablets
or if you'd just like to make a cash donation so that
we can purchase new ones, please contact
barry@essexcornerstone.com for more pictured right: Gilberte Abouharon
information. (91) contacting her family via
Facetime with Club Chairman Dr.
Jack Gilliland.
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