“Heart failure….. The word failure is just such a negative word, when you get a diagnosis of heart failure it can be such a dark time. But you mustn’t be put off. With the right medication and advice you can still lead a good life with heart failure.”
Allison Rand, 52 from Exeter, was diagnosed with heart failure a couple of years ago.
“It was a total shock. I had been feeling unwell for a while but ignored it as I was too busy with life. Eventually I went for an ECG and they thought it didn’t look right so booked me in for an appointment. I lay down on the table and that...
Staff and patients at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital have been showing their support for IPF Week 2015 (5th – 11th October) – a national campaign run by the British Lung Foundation (BLF) to raise awareness of a lung condition called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
IPF, a type of Interstitial Lung disease (ILD), is a condition that causes scarring of the lungs. This build-up of scar tissue makes lungs stiff and less able to take in oxygen, so people with IPF often feel breathless from simple everyday activities. It has no known cause or cure and the number of people...
A new group which offers support and education for people who have ongoing health challenges is starting in Exeter this month. The group is facilitated by an accredited Chrysalis Effect Practitioner/RGN who assists people with chronic health conditions, and specialises in supporting people in recovery from CFS/ME.
Long term illness, ongoing stress or health conditions can be very isolating and frustrating for anyone who is experiencing them, and issues including chronic exhaustion, pain, reduced mobility, and anxiety can prove difficult to manage over time. We aim to provide an...
Exeter Leukaemia Fund would love to hear from anyone, whether new to ELF, current or previous supporters, who are interested in helping to form or be part of a new supporter group in Crediton and the surrounding areas. ELF currently has 3 groups based in Exmouth, Okehampton and Tiverton. The groups all play a vital part in the success of the charity. From organising their own fundraising activities and helping with ELF events, the groups offer friendship and focus for patients, family and friends. Tracy Milton, ELF's Communications Manager said: "The supporter groups in other parts of...
