Burnett groups rally to launch a new kidney support group
SOUTH Burnett kidney patients could soon have a new place to go to get support during their illness.
Kidney Support Network general manager Peter Watling said the group wanted to create a support group in Kingaroy.
"The Kidney Support Network was formerly right across Queensland, supporting patients who might have been on dialysis, or transplant patients,” Mr Watling said.
"We did have a small support group in Kingaroy, but because of budget cuts under a certain State Government it closed.
"Now we're trying to re-establish in the area.”
Mr Watling said it was incredibly important for patients to have access to support services.
"The providers and public hospitals do a great job, but what is needed is extra support in the community,” he said.
"If we can get a group that empathises with kidney patients, because they are kidney patients, then that would be great.
"They can then share their own lived experiences, and know what each person is going through.”
Lady Bjelke-Petersen Community Hospital director Michael Bishop has offered the use of meeting rooms for the support group, as has SBCare chief executive officer Cheryl Dalton.
For more information on the proposed group contact the Kidney Support Network or the Lady Bjelke-Petersen hospital.
