Like just about everyone else, here in the Ouch office we've been watching the dreadful developments in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. But we've also been wondering how disabled people in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama are coping in the terrible floods and destruction that the hurricane left in its wake. Have you got disabled friends or relatives in the affected areas? Have you heard from them or know how they're doing?

The Independent Living USA website has posted an email that's been circulating, sent originally by their colleagues in the affected states. It says:

". . . the Centers for Independent Living in Biloxi, Mississippi and New Orleans have been gravely affected by the hurricane. In fact the Biloxi, MS center was totally destroyed."

The email goes on to list various addresses to which you can send money specifically to help the independent living centres that are dealing with the disaster. We're not sure quite how this will work if you're trying to donate from the UK, but the best place to start might be the British Red Cross website, which has information on how to donate to the American Red Cross hurricane appeal.

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricane Katrina.