looking after your family - Canterbury District Health Board

Healthfirst
promoting a healthy canterbury
looking
after
your
family
B4 School Checks
oral health for
the whole family
getting your man to
take care of his health
Helping the elderly stay
in their own homes
CANTERBURY DISTRICT
HEALTH BOARD’S FREE
COMMUNITY PUBLICATION
ISSN 1176-0435 (Print) ISSN 1178-1734 (Online)
marCH
2009
PluS
a CanCer
Survivor’S
meSSage
of HoPe
recipes for
healthy eating

Healthfirst
PrOMOTIng A HEALTHy CAnTErBUry
Inside this issue
The Canterbury District
Health Board is encouraging
parents of four year
olds to take them for a free
health and development
check under a new national
programme, the B4 School
Check, introduced at the end
of last year. In Canterbury,
it will be delivered through
general Practices.
16
Child Cancer Foundation Family
Support Co-ordinator Cynthia
Annear knows first-hand just how
difficult a cancer diagnosis can be
for families. Fifteen years ago, her
daughter, Bridget (pictured), went
through months of treatment for the
disease – but now her story gives
hope and inspiration to others.
Healthfirst is produced by the Canterbury
District Health Board Communications Team:
Communications manager: Michele Hider
Communications officer: rachel Solotti
For story ideas, contact rachel Solotti on
03 364 4122 or rachel.solotti@cdhb.govt.nz
Phone (03) 364 4103 Fax (03) 364 4101
Or visit www.cdhb.govt.nz
Design & layout: James Mackenzie
Photography: John McCombe
Contributing writer: Kim newth
Printed by: APn Print Ltd
Canterbury
District Health Board
Te Poari Hauora o Waitaha
02 / HealtH FIrST MaRCH 2009
7
This edition of Healthfirst continues
a healthy recipe series
from the NOSH recipe book
by Christchurch Dietitian Julie
Leeper. The recipes cater for
people with a range of conditions
– such as diabetes,
high cholesterol, obesity and
coeliac disease – and anyone
who wants to eat healthily.
20
Safety at home
As we head further into the 21st century, the shape of
the average Kiwi family is changing dramatically from
what it has traditionally been in the past.
The average nuclear family consisting of Mum, Dad
and two kids is no longer the Kiwi norm. As the number
of two parent families decreases, the number of couples
living together with no children has risen. One parent
families are also more common and an increasing
number of people are living alone.
Whatever the make-up of our family/whanau, ensuring
both adults and children live in a nurturing environment
where they feel loved, secure and have the opportunity
to thrive is paramount.
With this in mind, the Canterbury District Health Board
(CDHB) is supporting the Ministry of Health’s Violence
Intervention Programme (VIP). The programme will aim
to help reduce the long term rates of family violence
and to help ensure children grow up in safer families.
As part of the project, the CDHB is appointing a Family
Violence Intervention Programme Co-ordinator. Their
role will include training front-line health professionals
to screen CDHB patients for partner abuse. Under the
programme, every woman aged over 16 seen by hospital
clinicians will be asked a series of screening questions
aimed at finding out if they are safe at home. Male
patients suspected of being exposed to family violence
will also be questioned.
Looking after our families/whanau also means giving
our children a chance to be as healthy as possible. This
begins during pregnancy and this month’s Healthfirst
looks at a new programme that will offer all pregnant
women in Canterbury the opportunity to have an HIV
test as part of a range of routine antenatal tests. Another
focus is food safety during pregnancy.
We examine the importance of childhood immunisations
to protect children against infectious diseases and
the new cervical cancer vaccination for girls and young
women aged 12-18. We also encourage parents of four
year old children to take their children for a new free
health and development check, the B4 School Check.
In this edition, we continue our healthy recipes series
from the NOSH recipe book by Christchurch Dietitian
Julie Leeper and tell the inspiring story of Bridget
Jacobs, a child cancer survivor.
Last month, I joined the CDHB as its new Chief
Executive after a spell with the Wairarapa DHB. I’m
enjoying being back in my hometown
and am looking forward to working
with a team that continues to work
hard to provide the best healthcare
possible for Canterbury people.
We hope you enjoy this edition of
Healthfirst and find plenty of information
to help you and your family/
whanau to stay safe and healthy.
Best wishes
David Meates
Chief Executive Officer
Canterbury District Health Board

Taking the initiative
against cervical cancer
Ros and daughter
Laura Brenssell.
Laura BrensseLL, 15, is one of thousands of young Canterbury women
aged 12-18 who are taking advantage of a new cervical cancer vaccination.
With the support of her mother, ros, Laura has had the first of three
doses of the vaccine, which protects against four strains of the human
papillomavirus (HPV). Girls and young women can arrange to have the
vaccination at any General Practice in Canterbury.
Full story – turn to page 4
Vaccinations &
immunisations
HealtH firsT / 03

Vaccinations &
immunisations
“
04 / HealtH first
i think if you can protect your child against that
(cervical cancer), why wouldn’t you? ros Brenssell, mother
Ros Brenssell says she didn’t hesitate to encourage
her daughter Laura to have the new cervical cancer vaccination.
“Although i have not had the vaccination myself, i just
thought that cervical cancer would be something she
wouldn’t have to worry about if she had it and i wanted her
to be protected. the information that came through from the
medical centre said that cervical cancer is one of the killers
of women. i think if you can protect your child against that,
why wouldn’t you?”
Laura, 15, is one of thousands of young women aged
12-18 in Canterbury who are eligible for the new Human
Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. Girls and young women
receive three doses of the vaccine over a period of six
months, which they are able to get from any General
Practice in Canterbury.
the vaccination protects against the two strains of human
papillomavirus that cause 70% of all cervical cancer cases
and the two strains that cause 90% of all genital wart cases,
provided the girl or young woman has not already been
infected with those strains of the virus.
HPV is a common virus spread through skin to skin contact
and, while most infections clear by themselves, some
strains can cause cell changes that may eventually lead to
cervical cancer.
Laura received her first dose of three in January after
receiving a letter from her General Practice inviting her to
have the HPV vaccination. she will have another two doses
within six months.
she says she decided to have the vaccination after speaking
to her mother about it and deciding it was a good idea.
“injections are not really my thing so i was a bit nervous
about it but it was over quickly and i didn’t even realise that
she (the practice nurse) had finished. Before i had the injection,
she talked to me and asked me if i had any questions
about it, which was really good as i’m sure some people
may have questions about it.”
Pegasus Health immunisation Co-ordinator Ann fraser
says the aim is to immunise young women before they
become sexually active and can therefore be exposed to
HPV.
However, a young woman who has already had sexual
contact may still benefit from having the vaccination because
it is unlikely she will have been exposed to both of the two
HPV types that cause seven out of 10 cervical cancers.
she says the advantage of offering the vaccination from
General Practices is that young women and their parents
have the opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns
in private with a well informed and trusted health professional
who has a broader knowledge of their health.
trials have shown the vaccination has no serious side
effects, although some people
may experience redness
or swelling at the injection
site. A few may also develop
a mild fever.
it is not clear yet how
long young women will be
protected after they have
received the vaccination.
However, trials show that
after six years it still provides
immunity for the two strains
of HPV it protects against.
the HPV vaccine does not
replace the need for cervical
smears nor the use of
condoms for the greatest
protection against HPV and
other sexually transmitted
Ros Brenssell and Laura, 15.
infections.
YounG women aged 12-18 in Canterbury will receive
the HPV vaccination from their General Practice, rather
than schools as in other parts of new Zealand. the HPV
programme began in september last year, with young
women born in 1990 and 1991 initially being eligible for
the free vaccination.
for more informAtion about the free cervical cancer
vaccine, talk to your General Practice or health clinic,
visit www.cervicalcancer.govt.nz, www.gardasil.com or
call 0800 immune (0800 466 863).

THE INFLUENZA SEASON is fast approaching – so people
aged over 65 or with a long-term health condition are encouraged
to have a free vaccination before winter to protect themselves
against the illness.
General Practices are expected to begin offering the influenza
vaccination this month. Although it is available to everyone,
the vaccine is free until June 30 for people aged 65 or
over, or under 65 with a long-term health condition, such as
asthma, cancer, diabetes or kidney disease. This is because
these people are considered to be at “high risk” of developing
serious complications from the flu.
Canterbury District Health Board Virologist Dr Lance Jennings,
who is also Spokesperson for the National Influenza Strategy
Group (NISG), says having an influenza vaccination is the best
way people can protect themselves against the virus.
He recommends people should get their influenza vaccination
before the beginning of winter because it can take up to
two weeks following immunisation to develop immunity.
He says there are lessons to be learnt from overseas about
Vaccinations &
immunisations
GET IN EARLY TO HEAD OFF THE FLU
The influenza vaccine is a prescription medicine.
Talk to your doctor about benefits and possible risks. TAPS XXxxxx
the importance of people being immunised against influenza.
The United Kingdom is currently experiencing its worst influenza
season in eight years, with many people being hospitalised
with the flu and its complications.
“Being generally healthy won’t stop you from getting influenza.
You are never too fit to get hit and you can only be
immune to a particular strain of the virus if you’ve had it before.
As the virus strains change each year, most people are unlikely
to develop natural immunity. That’s why annual immunisation is
so important to provide protection from the strains most likely
to circulate in New Zealand,” he says.
Influenza is more severe than a “bad cold” and can include
symptoms such as a high fever, a headache, aching muscles
and a dry cough which may become moist. The illness comes
on suddenly and can lead to serious complications, such as
pneumonia or heart failure, especially if someone already has
an existing medical condition.
FOR MORE INFORMATION about influenza, contact your GP
or practice nurse or phone 0800 IMMUNE (0800 466 863).
Ask your doctor or
nurse about influenza
immunisation.

Vaccinations &
immunisations
Help protect your children
from infectious diseases
Keeping up-to-date with your child’s free vaccinations
is the best way to protect them from infectious disease.
Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr ramon Pink
encourages parents to get their children vaccinated on
time, according to the childhood immunisation schedule.
He says the recent rise in whooping cough cases in
Canterbury and other regions is a timely reminder to ensure
that our young are given protection from potentially life
threatening diseases. “the schedule is designed to provide
as much improved immunity as early as possible. for
conditions such as whooping cough and measles, this is
important because these diseases are potentially fatal.”
research shows that babies who do not receive their
immunisations on time have a five times greater risk of
being hospitalised with whooping cough. Young babies
under one year old are most at risk of serious complications
from this disease, including death.
Dr Pink says babies get antibodies from their mother’s
placenta and breast milk, which help to protect them from
many diseases. However, childhood immunisations, which
begin at six weeks and are designed especially for infants’
systems, are needed to protect them from viruses and
bacteria their immune systems would not otherwise be
ready to cope with.
research shows that from six weeks old, the infant
immune system can effectively develop antibodies to
whooping cough, for example. By the age of five months,
after three doses of whooping cough vaccine, 83% of
infants will have developed good protection.
He says parents who get their child immunised for the
first time at six weeks have an opportunity to introduce
them to the health system early on. “this is also an opportunity
to, and probably the stepping stone, to getting your
baby’s healthcare established.”
He says if parents realise they have missed one of their
child’s vaccinations, they should still contact their General
Practice to complete the full course.
e Patient
BOUQUEts
06 / HealtH first
Childhood immunisation makes for happy and healthy children.
tO finD the childhood immunisation schedule, check the
back of your child’s Well Child/ tamariki Ora health book.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOn about immunisation, contact your
General Practice, phone 0800 iMMUnE (0800 466 863) or
see www.immune.org.nz.
Darfield and Burwood Hospitals: (Darfield Hospital) is a great hospital when you need treatment; the food is excellent and
the staff first class. This is my second time here and I would jump back if I required help again. I also got excellent treatment
and service at Burwood Hospital and the new hospital there was first class. – BB, Hillsborough

Children who have
turned four years old
since September 1 last
year are now eligible for
the B4 School Check,
which includes vision
and hearing tests; an
oral health check and
height and weight
measurements.
Do you have a four year old child?
the Canterbury District Health Board is encouraging parents
of four year olds to take them for a free health and
development check under a new national programme,
the B4 school Check.
the B4 school Check was introduced at the end of last
year. in Canterbury, it will be delivered through General
Practices, with the help of Public Health Nurses in some
cases.
Children who have turned four years old since
september 1 last year are now eligible for the check,
which will take about 45-60 minutes. it is the eighth and
final Well Child/tamariki Ora check for children.
the check includes vision and hearing tests; an oral
health check and height and weight measurements,
including Body Mass index (BMi). it will also include a
strengths and difficulties assessment, which will comprise
a questionnaire completed by the parent/caregiver
and another completed by their early childhood teacher/
carer.
Canterbury District Health Board B4 school Co-ordinator
Brigid Jenkinson says one of the aims of the new check
is to ensure “that when children start school they are as
healthy as possible and can meet their potential”.
in Canterbury, parents of four year old children will
receive a postcard titled ‘You’re 4!’ from their General
Practice team, which will invite them to arrange to have
a check with an accredited B4 school Check Practice
Nurse.
if, after assessment, the parent/caregiver and the nurse
Parents of four year old children in Canterbury will receive
a postcard titled ‘You’re 4!’ from their General Practice
team, which will invite them to arrange a check with an
accredited B4 School Check Practice Nurse.
identify issues about the child’s wellbeing, they will discuss
this further. this may result in a referral to a doctor for further
assessment and support. However, as this is a Well Child/
tamariki Ora check, around 85% of children will not need to
be referred to another service.
Parents will be asked for their full consent before the check
is carried out. the child’s information will be stored on a central
database and anonymous information will be collected at
national level, in the hope that the needs of the local population
can be met in the future.
fOr MOre iNfOrMatiON about the B4 school Check,
contact your General Practice, visit www.moh.govt.nz/
b4schoolcheck, or call the Canterbury B4 school Check
Co-ordination Centre on 0800 B4sC123.
HealtH first / 07

Family violence
Physical abuse can cause
long-term health problems
the canterbury District health board (cDhb) is
supporting a national programme that aims to
help reduce the long term rates of family violence
and to help children grow up in safer families.
as part of the ministry of health’s Violence
Intervention programme (VIp), the cDhb is
appointing a Family Violence Intervention
programme co-ordinator. their role will include
training front-line health professionals to screen
cDhb patients for partner abuse.
once the programme is up and running every
woman aged over 16 seen by hospital clinicians
will be asked a series of screening questions
aimed at finding out if they are safe at home.
male patients suspected of being victims of family
violence will also be questioned. more details
will be released once the programme is under
way.
cDhb child protection service co-ordinator
sue miles says historically most efforts to address
family violence in new Zealand have focused on
crisis intervention through community agencies
such as Women’s refuge and government
agencies such as child Youth and Family (cYF)
and the police. often they only became involved
when the situation reached crisis point.
today there is much greater awareness and
acknowledgement that family violence is also the
business of health services.
health professionals are in an ideal position to
help victims of family violence and child abuse
because they come into contact with people
for many aspects of healthcare, including pregnancy,
illness and injury. they are well positioned
to engage in early identification, support and
referral of victims of abuse before it escalates to
severe or life threatening levels.
08 / HealtH FIrst
statistics
show that
women who
are victims of
physical abuse
use health
services more
and are admitted
to hospital
at a rate of
three to 70
times more
than non battered
women.
cDhb service Development manager,
secondary care, gill Fowler, says it is vital to recognise
the contribution health services can make
in the intervention of family violence. a lot of people
who suffer from family violence are seen by
a wide variety of cDhb health professionals, not
just those in the emergency Department.
the ministry of health believes assessing for
abuse is as important as completing risk assessments
for patients presenting with any other condition.
emergency departments routinely screen
for tetanus, but family violence is more common
than tetanus as a health issue. they cite studies
which show that because child and partner
abuse often happen together identifying partner
abuse increases the chances of also identifying
children at risk.
In maternity services, studies have shown that
as many as one in six pregnant women may be
victims of abuse and partner abuse may sometimes
begin during the pregnancy.
phYsIcal abuse causes significant long
term health problems, including emotional, medical
and mental health issues. statistics show
that women who are victims of physical abuse
use health services more and are admitted to
hospital at a rate of three to 70 times more than
non battered women.
child maltreatment is associated with a wide
range of immediate and long term health issues.
these children have a greater likelihood in adulthood
of drug abuse, mental illness, suicide,
sexually transmitted diseases, severe obesity,
cancer, chronic lung disease and heart disease.
For InFormatIon or support call the Family Violence Information line on 0800 456 450,
or visit www.areyouok.org.nz, or contact your local Women’s refuge.

Men’s Health
Setting a healthy example
DO yOU wanT to encourage your man to be active and
healthy? Do you want to persuade him to see a health
professional for a check-up?
If you’re leading a healthy lifestyle and getting regular
check-ups yourself, it’s more likely your partner will.
Canterbury Men’s Centre Office Co-ordinator Simon
Gurnsey says men are more likely to want to make life-
style changes with their partner’s support.
“It’s about both of you doing something. you can’t live
in a house where your partner is eating fruit for breakfast
and not be affected by it. Instead of having a drink with
your partner, say: ‘let’s go for a walk’. Men like the idea
that even if their partner has driven the idea, they can
help her stick to it.”
The same goes for encouraging men to see a health
professional. If you want him to have a health check,
book yourself in for one too.
Research shows that men get less active encourage-
ment – and are more reluctant – to see a health profes-
sional, which can ensure they are less likely to have the
opportunity to improve their health and prevent illness.
Research also shows that men do not live as long
as women and are at higher risk of accidents, injuries,
suicide and some diseases, such as heart disease and
bowel cancer.
Canterbury Men’s Centre Manager Donald Pettitt says
women wanting to encourage their partners to look after
their health better could talk to them about the impor-
tance of being around for them, their children/tamariki
and their grandchildren/mokopuna.
“Men have to have a motivation to make changes
and may wonder what’s in it for me? Talking to them
about making lifestyle changes so they are around for
e Patient
BOUQUETS
their grandchildren is a good way to motivate them. It’s
about appealing to their sense of being the protector,”
he says.
Other good motivators for men include seeing other
men who have made positive lifestyle changes. “It may
be seeing a friend who has done it, for example, their
partner’s brother who has lost 20kg and kept it off,”
Donald says.
Eating well, with plenty of fresh fruit
and vegetables, is just one way of setting
an example for men to follow.
akaroa Hospital: From my arrival at this hospital to my departure, I have been given the utmost consideration, care and
attention anyone could wish for. All the staff, night and day have been so caring and helpful checking on me and giving me
my medication etc at the correct times. The meals have been great but the attitude and helpfulness of all the staff stands out.
Thank you all very much for making my stay so enjoyable. – JH, North Brighton
HealtH fIRST / 09

Oral Health
e Patient
BOUQUEts
10 / HealtH first
starting early is the secret to a
Children who are encouraged to look after their teeth
are less likely to have dental problems as adults – and
parents play a key role in showing their children how to
adopt good oral health habits.
Community Dental service Professional Leader Heather
Kirner says research shows that parents who have good
oral health habits are more likely to have children with
healthy teeth.
“Parents are role models because they are in charge of
the shopping and choose what food and drinks to provide
for their children.
“they have a responsibility to encourage healthy behaviour
among their children at an early age, which includes
limiting the amount of sweet food and drinks they have,
and brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a
day.”
she says tooth decay can have far reaching effects on
children and their families – which is why prevention is
the key.
“if children are getting sleepless nights because they are
suffering from toothache, it impacts on the whole family. it
can also affect their learning if they are going to school the
next day in pain or tired. Good oral health helps to make
a happy, healthy family.”
Heather says children with poor oral health can have
problems eating, and with their speech. it may also lead
to self esteem issues later in life.
“if a child’s teeth have to be pulled out, it can affect their
speech because certain sounds need the tongue or lips
to touch teeth for correct pronunciation.
“Baby teeth are space maintainers for permanent teeth
so early loss of the first teeth can lead to overcrowding
which can have an impact on a young person’s appearance
and their confidence.”
Canterbury District Health Board Oral Health Promoter
torunn Borsting says the good news is that tooth decay
is preventable. Brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride
toothpaste is important as soon as a child’s first tooth
appears. Children, like everyone else, should avoid sugary
drinks and should have milk and water instead to protect
their teeth.
regular check-ups, which are free for children and
young people until the age of 18, are also important to
detect any concerns as soon as possible.
Orthopaedic Outpatients, Christchurch Hospital: Thank you so much for all the caring, loving assistance from all staff
involved. – MC, Rangiora

Children who eat healthy snacks such as fruit are more likely to have decay-free teeth.
lifetime of healthy teeth
To mainTain good oral healTh
it is recommended people should:
Brush twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.
Try to limit sweet food and drinks to main meals.
See a dentist once a year.
Other tips:
• Although muesli bars may appear healthy, many are
high in sugar and fat so try to limit your intake of them.
• Make milk and water the first choice, and avoid sugary
drinks such as cordial, juice and fizzy drinks
• enjoy healthy snacks such as cheese, fresh fruit, fruit
salads, light yoghurt, vegetable sticks with hummus dip
and homemade popcorn.
• Keep dried fruit and fruit bars as an occasional treat,
as they have high sugar levels.
For more information about good oral health, see www.
cdhb.govt.nz/dentalcare. to find out more about free
dental care for children, call 0800 tiny teeth or 0800
its free (for adolescents) or see the above website.
the jOurney
bAcK frOM
MentAl illness
for 20 years, lorelei burdett struggled
with her mental illness – but now
that she’s learned how to manage it
she’s published a book of her experiences
which she hopes will resonate
with, and help others.
since 1985, lorelei has been hospitalised
five times, firstly with postpartum
depression psychosis after
the birth of her two children and latterly
with bipolar disorder.
last year, she published a book
entitled Mummy why did you lie in
the middle of the road? – based on
the many notes she scribbled while in
hospital, including hillmorton hospital
in christchurch. the book also contains
copies of the artwork she produced
while seriously ill and gets its
title from a question her daughter
asked after she saw lorelei lying in
distress on a suburban street.
At the beginning of her book, lorelei
says that wanting to help others with
mental illness prompted her to write
it.
“i genuinely hope that my writings
will truly help someone … if any of my
experiences tap you on the shoulder,
then don’t give up, hold on and just
know that if you manage to get that
professional help and personal support,
that all will not be lost.”
lorelei says her mind was racing
while she was writing the notes that
make up the book but she wanted to
leave them in much the same format
so that the book would illustrate to
people with mental illness and supporters
alike the thought processes
she experienced. “My mind was hopping
incredibly quickly but i wanted
to let people know what can happen,
that it’s all part of the condition and
that it’s OK.”
she credits the staff at hillmorton
hospital and her family with helping
her on the road to recovery.
lorelei’s book is available from the
Mental health resource centre, 221
Gloucester st, christchurch.
HealtH first / 11

Older persons’ care
e Patient
BoUQUets
12 / HealtH first
A heAlthy lifestyle is
the key to independence
Most
elderly
prefer
to stay
in their
own
homes
As people get older, it’s often expected that they will have to
move from their own homes into residential care.
however, many older people want to, and are able to,
stay safely at home with the right support.
older persons specialist health service clinical director dr Jeff
kirwan says research shows remaining independent for as long
as possible is beneficial for older people’s mental and physical
health.
“no matter how old someone is, staying at home is usually people’s
preference. We therefore want people to stay at home and
to keep them well and healthy. that’s what we aim for until that’s
going to be difficult or unsafe for the older person.”
Around 94% of older people in new Zealand currently live in
their own accommodation and look after themselves.
As the population is continuing to age in canterbury, more older
people will be living at home for longer. over the next five years,
the number of people over 65 in canterbury is set to increase
from 62,560 to 70,115 and by 2021 it is expected there will be
96,650 people over 65 living in the region.
dr kirwan says as people get older it is increasingly important
that they have a good relationship with their General practitioner,
who has a good knowledge of their medical history. “General
practice is the first port of call because they are able to manage
any existing problems and to identify any emerging health
issues.”
he says older people can increase their chances of being able
to stay in their homes for longer by taking any medication as prescribed,
by eating healthily and limiting their alcohol intake. they
should also aim for 30 minutes of physical activity a day and to
be smokefree.
he says it is also important older people keep mentally active,
for example by doing crosswords or soduku. Many older people
Ward 27 (Oncology), Christchurch Hospital: Thank you so much for the most excellent care and attention your Ward 27
staff have provided to my wife. I can’t praise each and every one highly enough; they are all worth their weight in gold. The CDHB
system is effective and has saved my wife’s life and given us hope for the future. – JN, Diamond Harbour

Help is available for older people who need support to stay in their own homes. elderly people
should see their General practice in the first instance, and may be referred to the Canterbury
District Health board’s Older persons specialist Health service for a needs assessment.
may also be able to continue to participate in some
of the activities they may have done when they were
younger, for example yoga, bowls or swimming.
social interaction is also important as people get older,
Dr Kirwan says. “Older people may want to join a club
so they socialise regularly with others.
“families are often not as well connected as they used
to be so older people may have the support of long term
friends or neighbours. Older people are also increasingly
internet savvy so it may be that an older person
keeps in touch with family members over email or on
skype (a programme that allows people to talk over the
internet).”
Older persons specialist Health service Clinical
assessor Heather Campbell says older people who
want to stay at home but need assistance may also
be eligible for help at home. General practices are
able to organise short term assistance for older people.
Older people needing more long term help will
be referred to the Canterbury District Health board’s
Older persons specialist Health service, based at the
princess Margaret Hospital, for a comprehensive needs
assessment.
Health professionals may then discuss any possible
treatment with the older person and their families and
other options such as domestic assistance and carer
support. there are also options for referral to Non
Government Organisations (NGOs) such as the Nurse
Maude association or alzheimers New Zealand.
“Care packages are individually tailored to the needs
of the older person and can change as their needs
change,” Dr Kirwan says.
HealtH first / 13

Food safety
HEAt before you eat. that’s the
message from the Canterbury
District Health Board’s Community
and Public Health division, which
is running a new food safety
campaign to remind people to
heat cocktail sausages (cheerios)
before eating them.
Giving out cocktail sausages to children may be a Kiwi tradition,
but it is one that needs to change. they can be a quick
and low cost snack, but they do need to be heated and served
hot if they are to be safe.
the risk is that, in a busy butcher’s shop or delicatessen,
they can easily become contaminated from contact with raw
meat, resulting in infection with campylobacter, salmonella or
yersinia.
Mind what you eat if you’re pregnant
If you’re “eating for two” ensure food is freshly prepared or
piping hot.
sue McEwan, Health Protection Officer with the Canterbury
District Health Board’s Community and Public Health division,
says pregnant women are at increased risk of contracting a
common bacteria called listeria from food because their immunity
levels are lower than usual. Exposure to listeria can have
serious consequences for the unborn child as it can cause
miscarriage and stillbirth and serious infections in babies.
“Listeria is a bug that can survive and develop for a long
time in different environments, including the fridge. if you don’t
know how food has been prepared, it’s best to avoid it. freshly
prepared and/or hot options are always the safest.”
Pregnant women should ensure food is thoroughly cooked
until it is piping hot and should eat it immediately after it is
cooked. Any leftovers should only be kept for a short time
(1-2 days in the fridge) as any longer gives the listeria bacteria
a chance to grow. All left overs must be thoroughly reheated
until steaming hot.
foods to avoid include chilled, pre-cooked seafood, unless
eaten hot; all raw fish and seafood and all pre-prepared food
such as takeaway salads, coleslaws, sushi and sandwiches,
savoury spreads such as hummus or dairy based spreads.
Pate, pre-cooked chicken, ham and other chilled pre-cooked
and vacuum packed meat products should also not be eaten
while pregnant.
Other foods pregnant women should stay away from include
e Patient
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14 / HealtH first
Heat before you eat
Community and Public Health
a division of Canterbury District Health Board
+ =
Cook me till I’m steaming hot!
Phone: (03) 364 1777
for more information
the most recent case in Christchurch was in August 2008
when a child was infected with yersinia after eating unheated
cocktail sausages from a local supermarket.
Community and Public Health is distributing Heat before you
eat resources to butchers’ shops and supermarket delicatessens
in the Canterbury and West Coast region. these include
signs to be displayed for consumers to read and stickers to go
on bags of cocktail sausages.
raw (unpasteurised) milk and or foods made from raw milk.
soft, pasteurised cheeses, including brie, camembert, blue
cheese, ricotta, mozzarella and feta, should be avoided too;
however they are safe to eat if cooked. Other tips for safe eating
during pregnancy include thoroughly washing and drying all
fruit and vegetables that are going to be eaten raw immediately
before they are consumed.
OtHEr tiPs inCLUDE:
• Always check the ‘use by’ or ‘best before’ date. if the date has
expired, avoid it. Check for damaged packaging. Avoid dented
tins, leaking cartons or bottles (for example, milk), ripped boxes
or packets, broken or pierced seals (for example, yoghurt).
• Avoid products in loose vacuum packs, for example bacon.
Any packaging should be airtight.
• Avoid chilled products that are not cold to the touch and frozen
products that are not frozen solid.
• Always wash hands before preparing food and ensure equipment
is clean.
Eating out can be a bit of a challenge, but stick to the basic
rules of ensuring food is hot or fresh and not pre-prepared. if
eating at a friend’s place, let them know what you can or cannot
eat beforehand. for more information, see www.nzfsa.govt.nz
Pamphlets are also available from Canterbury District Health
Board’s Community Health information Centre (CHiC) at 80
Chester st East, Christchurch (03 364 7844) or Elizabeth st,
Ashburton (03 307 8081).
Ward 19 (Orthopaedics), Christchurch Hospital: I would like to thank all the staff of Ward 19 for their kindness and
caring during my six night stay. They are truly wonderful people. You read often of problems in the health system but not enough
is mentioned of the true heroes who help you get through an operation. – JS, Ohoka

Hearing tests for
newborns offered
Canterbury District Health board is to begin offering
the parents of newborn babies hearing screening under
a new national programme aimed at detecting hearing
loss earlier.
the universal newborn Hearing Screening and early
Intervention Programme (unHSeIP) will be gradually
rolled out this year until all parents are offered the opportunity
to have their newborn’s hearing checked before
they leave hospital or in the community if they have a
home birth.
babies who are at greater risk of hearing loss will
continue to be screened throughout the rollout of the
programme.
angela Deken, Canterbury District Health board’s
newborn Hearing Screening Co-ordinator, says hearing
loss among children is
currently diagnosed on
average when they are
four years old.
this late diagnosis
leads to children being
at greater risk of experiencing
language and
communication problems.
“early intervention
is the key. Picking up
hearing loss early gives
families the option of
accessing the support
“
Picking up hearing loss
early gives families the
option of accessing the
support and intervention
which is most appropriate
for them.
angela Deken
and intervention which is most appropriate for them,”
she says.
She says the screening consists of two basic tests,
which are quick and non-invasive.
If there is a possibility of hearing loss, babies will be
referred to the CDHb’s audiology department for further
tests and diagnosis as initial screening cannot do this.
It is estimated that between 135 and 170 babies are
born in new Zealand with mild to permanent hearing
loss, making it one of the most common conditions that
babies are diagnosed with after birth.
For more information about the hearing screening
programme, see www.nsu.govt.nz
Antenatal screening
HIV check for
pregnant women
all Pregnant women in Canterbury are
soon to be offered an HIV test as part of a
range of routine antenatal tests designed
to reduce the risk of disease being
passed to their babies.
all pregnant women are currently
given a blood test to determine
their blood group, antibodies,
and blood count. they are also
offered a blood test for rubella
(german measles), Syphilis and
Hepatitis b. using the same
blood sample, the HIV (Human
Immunodeficiency Virus) test will
soon be offered alongside these
tests.
Canterbury District Health board
antenatal HIV Screening Co-ordinator
Janette Philp says HIV can be passed on to
babies during pregnancy, during labour or through breastfeeding.
without treatment, HIV affects the body’s ability to
fight infection and can lead to aids.
about one in three babies born to untreated HIV positive
mothers develop HIV themselves, and some of these mothers
do not know they have HIV because they have no symptoms.
If it is found a pregnant woman has HIV she can receive treatment
which will reduce the risk of the baby developing HIV to
less than one in a hundred.
“every woman wants to remain healthy during her pregnancy
and to give birth to a healthy baby. antenatal blood
tests are designed to protect her health and the health of her
baby and family/whanau by identifying conditions or diseases
as soon as possible in her pregnancy so that treatment can
be offered. HIV is no longer the death sentence it was in the
20th century and most people with HIV in new Zealand now
live to old age with antiviral treatment,” Janette says.
a doctor or midwife will discuss and offer these tests, which
are confidential, when women see them about pregnancy
care. Support is available for all women and their family/
whanau if tests prove positive.
the HIV screening programme is a national programme
which has already started in some other regions.
For more information see www.nsu.govt.nz and go to
antenatal HIV Screening.
HealtH fIrSt / 15

Healthy eating
in this EditiOn of Healthfirst, we
continue a healthy recipe series
from the NOSH recipe book by
Christchurch dietitian Julie Leeper.
e Patient
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16 / HealtH first
the recipe book caters for people
with a range of conditions – such as
diabetes, pre-diabetes, high choles-
terol, high blood pressure, obesity
and coeliac disease – and anyone
who wants to eat healthily.
ninety five per cent of the recipes
have 10% or less fat.
the recipes are simple to make
and use ingredients that are avail-
able from the supermarket.
Moroccan Pilau Rice
Basmati rice grains tend to stay intact and they don’t stick
together as much as ordinary rice. it also has a lovely aromatic
flavour. Make a meal of this dish by adding some stir
fried skinless chicken and serve it with a salad.
4 Serves
2 tablespoons pistachios
2 tablespoons pine nuts
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 medium red onion, diced
1 teaspoon crushed garlic
1 to 2 teaspoons ground allspice
¾ cup basmati rice
1 cinnamon stick or ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 cardamom pods (optional)
1¼ cups liquid vegetable stock
1 cup cold water
12 dried apricots, sliced in slivers
½ cup dried currants
Method
1. Place nuts in a non-stick frying pan and cook over a low
heat until lightly browned. remove from pan.
2. Add oil to frying pan and when hot add onion, garlic and
allspice. Cook for a couple of minutes.
3. stir through the rice. Add cinnamon stick or powder,
cardamom pods, stock and water. Bring to the boil and
simmer, stirring occasionally, for 12 minutes.
4. Add apricots and currants to the rice and stir through
gently.
5. turn element off and cover pan with a lid. Leave for two
minutes or until liquid has absorbed. remove cinnamon
stick and cardamom pods. stir through nuts and serve
immediately.
Nutrition Information (per serve)
Energy: 1238 kj (297 cal)
Carbohydrate: 53g
fibre: 3.2g
total fat: 6.7g
saturated fat: 1.1g
sodium: 440mg
Glycaemic index: Low
Gluten free* Use Gf spices & vegetable stock
Ward 2a, the Princess Margaret Hospital: I would like to thank the staff on Ward 2A for looking after me so well when I
had a stroke. The level of service is very high; the hospital is a pleasure to have stayed at. The Princess Margaret Hospital…is a
lovely hospital with its large open foyer, lovely café and so many nice places to sit and recover. – PT, Upper Riccarton

Head
Moroccan Pilau Rice: add some fried skinless chicken and
seve with a salad for a delicious and nutritious meal.
For a cheaper Moroccan Pilau Rice
option replace the:
•`red onions with brown onions.
• Pistachio and pine nuts with peanuts.
• Basmati rice with long grain rice (this will
increase the glycaemic index).
• Liquid stock with powdered stock.
• Dried fruit with sultanas.
Berry Mousse
Healthy eating
Berries are great – the colour, texture and taste. from
a nutritional perspective they are low in kilojoules (calories),
high in antioxidants (cancer protective agents)
and they have a low glycaemic index.
4 Serves
2 cups fresh or frozen berries
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1½ teaspoons gelatine
1 x 250g pottle low-fat ricotta cheese
1 cup low-fat plain yoghurt
1/3 cup castor sugar or equivalent sweetener
Garnish (optional)
½ cup fresh berries
Method
1. thaw berries if frozen and remove juice.
2. Place three-quarters of the first measure of berries
through a sieve.
3. Combine lemon juice and gelatine. Leave to swell.
4. in a food processor, process ricotta cheese,
yoghurt and sugar or sweetener together until very
smooth. Use a sieve if you don’t have a food processor.
5. Melt gelatine over hot water. Add to ricotta mixture.
6. Divide mixture into two. Mix sieved berries through
one of the mixtures.
7. Alternate spoonfuls of the plain and berry mixtures
into one-cup parfait glasses. Place remaining berries
between layers.
8. refrigerate for at least two hours. Garnish with
some fresh berries.
Nutrition Information (per serve)
Energy: 839kj (201 cal)
Carbohydrate: 22g
fibre: 1.7g
total fat: 7.7g
saturated fat: 4.6g
sodium: 107mg
Glycaemic index: Low
Gluten free* Use Gf ricotta cheese & yoghurt
For a cheaper option:
•`Use frozen berries (these are usually cheaper
but not always).
•`Make your own yoghurt.
HealtH first / 17

Primary Health
Get to know your
general practice team
and benefit from a full range of healthcare services
canterbury people are being encouraged to
develop an ongoing relationship with their General
Practice team.
Dr Graham mcGeoch, a General Practitioner at the
Barrington medical Centre, says he would encourage
people whenever possible to visit the same General
Practice team with any health concerns.
“it takes a while to develop a trusting relationship
with a General Practitioner. Getting to know someone
is important so that you can trust their judgement
and feel relaxed enough to talk to them.
“although people might think that any doctor could
solve their problem, it is worth making an effort to
see the same General Practice team every time you
have a health concern as they have patients’ medical
histories on file. where possible, people should also
aim to initially see the same General Practice team
for the full range of health concerns, whether it be for
an stD (sexually transmitted disease) check or for a
sports injury.”
Dr mcGeoch says people should go directly to
Christchurch Hospital’s emergency Department in
an emergency, such as when they have severe chest
pain, a badly broken bone or very bad bleeding.
However, for non-urgent problems, people will
generally get the attention they need quickly and
efficiently at their General Practice.
“most General Practitioners are experts at sifting
through a patient’s concerns and have a broad
knowledge of health issues. they will often be able to
make a decision quickly, recommend specialist treatment
if it is needed and advocate for patients where
necessary because we are essentially the ‘travel
agents’ in the health system.
18 / HealtH first
“Christchurch also has excellent after hours surgeries,
many of which have x-ray facilities and good
access to Christchurch Hospital if they need further
treatment.”
Dr mcGeoch says General Practitioners and
Practice nurses are the key points of contact for
routine healthcare, such as childhood immunisations
and cervical and mammogram screening (a test to
detect breast cancer). they are also able to look at
the ‘bigger picture’ and at ways to keep their patients
healthy.
“General Practice teams are able to look at a
patient’s preventative health and suggest ways in
which they can manage their health on an ongoing
basis.”
many General Practices are also evolving with
the times and are able to offer other services such
as answering patients’ queries or organising repeat
prescriptions over text or email.
“often the most private way of getting in touch
with younger people might be through their mobile
phone. this is the kind of flexibility that many General
Practices are able to offer,” he says.
many General Practices also offer a range of other
services on site including physiotherapy and pharmacy
services.
as more people access the internet and other
sources for health information, Dr mcGeoch says
General Practitioners also play a key role in clarifying
any confusion.
“People can get health information from so many
different sources these days, for example the internet,
that General Practitioners can play an important
role in putting a professional context around it.”

Glenys Tyrell and baby Corbyn with their new curtains.
Keeping out the
cold – thanks to
the Curtain Bank
Thanks To Community Energy Action Charitable Trust’s
(CEA) Curtain Bank, Glenys Tyrell, of Broomfield, has her
bedroom back.
Until recently, the single mum shared her bedroom with
her two children – Krystal, nine, and Corbyn, three months
– as their rooms were too cold to sleep in due to the lack
of insulation provided by the curtains. Krystal was using the
same thin, worn set that Glenys had as a child.
Glenys called Citizen’s Advice Bureau for advice on getting
assistance to warm her home, and was encouraged to
contact CEA. There, she was able to choose curtains for
both the children’s rooms and the kitchen.
The staff at CEA added thermal lining to Corbyn’s curtains
and adjusted the kitchen ones to the correct size.
Corbyn’s bedroom is now adorned with colourful teddy
bear curtains, thermally lined for extra warmth, and Krystal
also has quality pre-lined ones in hers.
Glenys describes the Curtain Bank service as “fantastic”.
“The house is much warmer and it’s great that the children
can now sleep in their own rooms,” she says.
She recommends the Curtain Bank for those on a benefit
who, like her, may not otherwise be able to afford curtains,
particularly thermally-lined ones.
CEA opErATES ThE CUrTAin BAnK from March to
october, offering free recycled curtains to people who hold
a Community Services Card.
All AppliCAnTS MUST BE rEfErrEd through CEA’s
partner agencies. further information about these or other
aspects of the Curtain Bank project can be obtained by calling
377 8741 (9am-3pm) or emailing info@cea.co.nz.
if yoU woUld liKE To donATE curtains or curtain rails
to the Curtain Bank, take them to Community Energy Action
at 198 Armagh St (9am-5pm). Curtains that are clean and
large are particularly appreciated.
Winter Warmth
CAn’T Afford
doUBlE GlAzinG?
ThinK AGAin . . .
If you sTruggled last winter with “weep-
ing” windows, problems with water sitting on
your window sills, or just keeping warm and
healthy in your home, installing plastic win-
dow insulation could help to make this winter
more bearable.
Community Energy Action (CEA) sells an
effective diy plastic window insulation kit
– which acts like permanent double glaz-
ing but is more affordable. installing plastic
window insulation will reduce condensation
and help to keep your home at temperatures
of between 18-21°C (recommended by the
world health organisation). Kits are available
in three sizes and prices range from $9.50 to
$24.70.
plastic window insulation kits consist of
a thin plastic film which is fitted on to the
inside of window frames using double sided
sticky tape. Kits can be easily cut to size and
installed onto both wooden and aluminium
frames. CEA recommends window frames
should be at least 10mm deep but has
received positive comments from customers
who have used kits on 5mm-deep frames.
To gain maximum benefit from the plastic
window insulation, it is recommended peo-
ple install them in the rooms they heat the
most. The end of summer and early autumn
is an ideal time of the year to install the kits
because homes will have had a good chance
to dry out. This helps to minimise moisture
and condensation between the window and
the plastic.
for MorE inforMATion see http://www.
cea.co.nz/retail-shop/#window%20kit, visit
198 Armagh St or call 03 374 5698. you can
order and purchase kits online as well (don’t
forget to measure your windows first).
HealtH firST / 19

Family support
e Patient
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20 / HealtH first
Bridget’s cancer battle
Child CanCer is a traumatic
experience for both children and
their families. the cancer diagnosis
alone is terrifying and it is usually followed
by months of treatment and
uncertainty.
Child Cancer foundation family
support Co-ordinator Cynthia
Annear knows just how difficult it
is for affected families. fifteen years
ago, Cynthia’s daughter, Bridget,
was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma
in her bowel. the date is
etched on her mind: November 29,
1993.
to treat it, surgeons had to remove
23cm of Bridget’s bowel and she
had to undergo prolonged chemotherapy.
Bridget was just 11 years
old.
Brave smile: Bridget was
diagnosed with cancer at
the age of 11.
Canterbury District Health Board Adolescent and Young
Adult Cancer Key Worker Linda Hogg, who was Bridget’s
outreach nurse at the time, remembers her being extremely
unwell at times during her treatment.
“Bridget was extremely stoical. she was just a wee waif,
but she was so brave and quietly put up with unpleasant
and painful treatments.”
Over months of treatment, Bridget became progressively
weaker and prone to infection. Her weight plummeted to a
mere 20kg.
if you’d asked her at the time, Cynthia would not have
rated her daughter’s chances of survival very highly.
On one occasion, Bridget was so afraid she would die in
the night that she would not let her primary nurse, Wendy
Wayman, go home.
in fact, Wendy thinks that was when Bridget started to
turn the corner.
“she began to really fight it – she wasn’t just lying there,”
recalls Wendy.
doubly significant day: Bridget and Archie Jacobs on their
wedding day, 15 years to the day since her cancer diagnosis.
Eventually, after a long battle, Bridget did beat her cancer.
Last year, she married her boyfriend, Archie. the wedding
date? fifteen years to the day since her diagnosis:
November 29.
Cynthia feels it’s important to bring hope to families going
Ward 16 (General Surgery), Christchurch Hospital: As an inpatient, and also a visitor, I have the highest regard and
appreciation for the Registered Nurses, doctors and other staff for their expertise, care, concern, hospitality, understanding and
education. – VR, Sydenham

gives hope to others
through child cancer. in her job with the Child Cancer
foundation, she often brings out her photos of Bridget. “i
know how terrible it is to find out your child has cancer. the
bottom falls out of your world. As parents, you instantly think
of it as a death sentence.
“And yet i look at my daughter now and
i know you should never give up,” says
Cynthia.
it was Bridget’s cancer that first led
Cynthia to her role with the foundation.
Her job sees her liaising with families,
offering support and providing a bridge
between families, the foundation and
staff at the Canterbury District Health
Board.
“i’m part of the team and i’m there at
the hospital every day. i really enjoy hav-
“ i look at my
daughter now
and i know
you should
never give up.
Cynthia annear
ing that direct contact with families. there’s nothing worse
than feeling like you’re alone and isolated with something
like this,” says Cynthia.
in November, Cynthia’s outstanding contribution was recognised
by the Christchurch City Council with a civic award.
she was nominated for the award by work colleagues.
CHild CanCer Foundation – FaCts
• the Child Cancer foundation is a not-for-profit organisation
that supports children and young people with cancer,
their families and the health professionals who care for
them. four divisions, in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch
and Dunedin, support 23 local branches throughout the
country.
• Each of the four divisions has family support Co-ordinators.
their job is to provide support for children, young people
and their families during the course of their treatment. family
support Workers assist families when the child returns
home.
• Website: www.childcancer.org.nz
Families with questions about child cancer are welcome
to drop by Child Cancer House at 20 Cashel street in
Christchurch, or contact Cynthia Annear on (03) 365 1485.
Family support
Inspiring others: Bridget and her mother, Child Cancer
foundation family support Co-ordinator Cynthia Annear.
Reunited: Bridget (middle) with members of her former nursing
team, Linda Hogg (left) and Wendy Wayman. Linda is now an
adolescent and young adult cancer key worker for the Canterbury
District Health Board while Wendy is a volunteer for the Child
Cancer foundation.
HealtH first / 21

Kidney Health
Around
one
adult in
10 has
some
sign of
chronic
kidney
disease,
but most
do not
know it.
e Patient
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22 / HealtH first
HigH blood pressure
linked to chronic kidney disease
Keep the pressure down – that’s the theme of
World Kidney day, which was held this month.
High blood pressure is a key symptom and
cause of chronic kidney disease (CKd). raising
awareness of the need for early screening of
people at increased risk of the disease was
another major thrust of this month’s kidney
health campaign.
those more likely to be at risk include both
Maori and pacific people, those aged over 50,
those who smoke, have high blood pressure
or diabetes, and people with a family history
of kidney disease.
Around one adult in 10 has some sign of
CKd, but most do not know it.
professor Kelvin lynn, Medical director
of Kidney Health New Zealand, says early
detection is the best way to prevent or slow
its progress.
“if you are in one of these high risk groups,
then it would be a good idea to arrange to
see your doctor for some simple tests: blood
pressure, a test for protein in the urine and
a blood test to check kidney function,” he
says.
treatment of raised blood pressure slows
the progression of CKd and makes it less
likely that dialysis, which replaces kidney
function and cleans the blood artificially, will
be required.
Making lifestyle changes can also have a
profound impact on lowering blood pressure
and improving overall health. “that means
not smoking, or seeking help to give up if you
are a smoker; if you are overweight, then we
recommend getting some dietary advice; and
making time for regular exercise,” he says.
CKd increases the risk of heart disease
and stroke ten-fold, and treating kidney failure
costs at least $100 million in New Zealand.
“Most people with very serious kidney disease
will need to go onto a kidney dialysis
machine or have peritoneal dialysis where a
tube is put in their tummy to enable fluids to
be exchanged regularly,” says professor lynn
“Neither option is pleasant and both are
time-consuming. it involves your family. it
interferes with your social life, your work and
your ability to travel.
“ideally, a patient will be able to have a
kidney transplant, but even after that would
need to stay on medication for the rest of
their life.”
Kidney Health New Zealand’s Kidney Health
Week, incorporating National Just Water
Week and World Kidney day, was held from
March 9 to 15.
for More iNforMAtioN
see www.kidneys.co.nz
Ward 16 (General Surgery), Christchurch Hospital: You were all splendid; young and skilled, comforting, kind and enormously
attentive and hardworking… Throughout I was kept clearly informed about everything that was going on and about all
possible outcomes and my husband was included in the loop. I am enormously grateful for all your care, impressed by the work
that you do and feel privileged to have met you all. – MM, Avonside

Kidney Health
Keen golfer faces dialysis
facing the prospect of dialysis is not easy, says
christchurch woman christine sparks.
the 59-year-old first developed high blood pressure
while pregnant with her second child. that was some 30
years ago and she has been on medication ever since.
“i knew that high blood pressure could mean that i was
more at risk of having a stroke, but i don’t recall anyone
talking to me about my kidneys,” she says.
a keen tramper and outdoors person, christine was
shocked when first told that her kidneys were failing. “that
was in 2000. at that stage i still felt so good. that’s the
trouble with kidney disease: it happens silently so you’re
not aware of it.”
these days, her kidney disease has progressed to the
point where she’s had to give up tramping and struggles
to complete a round of golf. “i’m almost at the stage
where i’ll have to start dialysis or get a transplant. i know
it’s going to happen – but it’s not something i’m looking
forward to.”
Without medication and an active lifestyle it is likely she
would have had to start dialysis earlier.
christine is encouraging other people in her age group
to get screened for chronic kidney disease. “i know there
are many people of my age with high blood pressure who
think they can sort it out by doing a bit more exercise.
“they don’t take their medication and i don’t think
they’re even aware they could have serious kidney dis-
ease.”
christine sparks has
been an active tramper
and golfer but her kidney
disease has progressed
to a point where she
struggles to complete a
round of golf.
christine is having ongoing checks and blood tests to
determine when she will need to start dialysis.
HealtH first / 23