Community event chance to say thanks for the care
14 May 2010
Cessnock area residents are invited to attend a free barbecue at Peace Park to help recognise the valuable contribution made by the local community, volunteers and health professionals in supporting those in our community who have life-limiting illnesses.
The barbecue – at Peace Park, Weston, on Thursday 27 May from 10am to 2pm is being held during Palliative Care Week and hopes to also raise awareness of this very important service.
Palliative Care Week is being held from Sunday 23 May to Saturday 29 May 2010.
Cessnock/Kurri Kurri and Singleton Palliative Care Service Manager Caroline Short said the local palliative care teams worked hard to provide specialist care in association with the patients’ GPs.
“This is our chance to recognise their efforts and also others in our community who help provide that care and support,” Ms Short said.
“There are groups like Friends of Palliative Care, who are a group of local residents who work hard to raise funds and provide a broad range of support to people requiring palliative care in our local communities.
“There is also the Mid Hunter Palliative Care Volunteers, a team of trained volunteers based at Singleton who can assist with a range of tasks such as respite care, household tasks, shopping, transport, transport escort assistance and correspondence.
“This is our chance to say thank you all and to raise awareness.”
Palliative care recognises the special needs of those who have a life-limiting illness. Its focus is on comfort and helping people get control of their treatment and quality of life. Support is also provided for their families.
“Cessnock/Kurri Kurri and Singleton Palliative Care team provide specialist nursing care in partnership with the person’s GP, social work services and also consults with specialist services at Calvary Mater Newcastle hospital,” Ms Short said.
“Care can be provided in the home, in a hospital or other health care setting like a nursing home or hospice.
“We can help provide nursing, medical care, equipment loans, occupational therapy, linen services, bereavement support and a wide range of support for trained volunteers. We can also assist with pain management, symptom control, information and education, coordination, and emotional and practical support.
“Anyone can refer to Palliative Care. This means you or your family can phone, or your doctor can do this, or other health professionals. And there is no cost for the service,” Ms Short said.
Cessnock/Kurri Kurri and Singleton Palliative Care Service can be contacted on 4991 0438. Friends of Palliative Care can be contacted on 4991 0438. Mid Hunter Palliative Care Volunteers can be contacted on 6572 2121.
Contact: Frances Holz
Phone: 4939 2216