Palliative Care Awareness Week in Tamworth

26 May 2008

The Nioka Palliative Care Unit at Tamworth Hospital will be open to the public on Wednesday as part of 2008 Palliative Care Awareness Week.

Nurse Unit Manager of the Nioka Unit Naida Hunt said the open day will begin with a morning tea followed by a service at the hospital chapel to remember loved ones.

“While a big part of health care is aimed at curing illness, the care of people with an incurable illness is an important part of the way Hunter New England Health cares for our community,” Ms Hunt said.

“Palliative care deals with the control of pain and other symptoms as well as psychological, social and emotional needs of patients and their families.

“National Palliative Care Week is raising awareness of this vital service and an opportunity for carers, family members, the community and healthcare workers to come together and share their experiences.

“The chapel service is an opportunity for people to express their grief with family and friends, while supporting each other,” Ms Hunt said.

“It is also a chance to reflect on the lives and achievements of those who are no longer with us.”

The open day and morning tea will be held from 10am Wednesday (28 May) at the Nioka Palliative Care Unit, Tamworth Hospital.

Media are invited to attend the open day for interviews, photographs and footage.

Contact: Emma Gibbs

Phone: (02)6767 7137 or 0428 114 767