A Kidney Angel in our midst
4 June 2008
Local nephrologist Dr Steve May will be honoured as one of 40 Inspirational Kidney Health Australia 'Angels' at a function in Sydney on Thursday evening, followed by a local celebration at Tamworth Hospital’s renal unit on Friday morning (6 June).
Dr Steve May is one of only two kidney specialists in the New England region and provides medical oversight to dialysis units in Tamworth, Armidale, Inverell and Moree and individual consultations to over 100 local patients managing kidney disease.
This year is Kidney Health Australia’s 40th Anniversary. To celebrate they have called for nominations from community members to honour and recognise the work carried out by hundreds of people daily in hospitals and medical clinics to assist over 14,000 Australians remain alive on dialysis and transplantation.
The Bucknell family nominated Dr May, citing his dedication above and beyond the call of duty.
Tamworth Hospital Renal Unit manager Mary Hancock said Dr May is a highly respected specialist in his field, and said she could not think of a more worthy recipient of the ‘Angel’ award.
"Not only does Dr May look after the health of the kidney patients in the area, but he is passionate about teaching his skills to junior doctors and is involved in the rural training schemes for them," Ms Hancock said.
"Dialysis and transplantation are the primary treatment options, but there is no cure for kidney disease.
"The continuing shortfall in the supply of kidney donors, and simultaneous 6 per cent increase in people on dialysis, is an alarming trend which may result in even more deaths among those waiting for a transplant."
"The morning tea at the Renal Unit on Friday is our way of ratifying the award. We want Dr May to know that his colleagues, patients and friends, also appreciate the amazing work he does every day," she said.
For further information on the Operation Angel Awards or on Kidney Health, please call the Kidney Health Info Line on 1800 682 531.
Photo opportunity: Kidney Health Australia ‘Angel’ Dr Steve May at a celebration in his honour at the Tamworth Hospital Renal Unit pergola, Friday 6 June 2008 at 10.00am
Contact: Kay Cope
Phone: 6776 9817