World Parkinson's Day is 11 April. Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) is using this day to remind people living with Parkinson’s disease that it can be different for everyone, and support is available.
Parkinson’s is a progressive, degenerative condition of the central nervous system. Neurological diseases are the world’s greatest contributor to disability – and Parkinson’s is the most prevalent neurological condition. It has no cure.
According to Parkinson’s NSW, there are currently more than 200,000 people living with the disease in Australia, including more than 69,000 people in NSW. By 2040, the number of people living with Parkinson’s in Australia is expected to double.
Movement Disorder Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Kate Warren, who started at MLHD in January, says the day is a good reminder to the community that Parkinson’s Disease can be different for everyone, but support is available.
Kate Warren
“This World Parkinson’s Day, it is important people living with the condition are reminded that support is available. Everyone’s experience with Parkinson’s is different but we are here to help,” Ms Warren said.
“While Parkinson’s is a progressive, degenerative condition, MLHD is committed to working to enhance the quality of life and self-management of individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease.”
While the role is new, Kate has 24 years of nursing experience including many working with people who have Parkinson’s.
“World Parkinson’s Day provides communities across Murrumbidgee with opportunities to learn more about the issues facing people living with the condition as well as how lives can be improved through exercise, Support Groups, and community activities that provide social opportunities to reduce isolation.”
While Kate’s base will be at the Wagga Community Care Centre in Peter Street, her role is district-wide and will see her working across a variety of settings including out-patient clinics, clients’ homes, and residential aged care facilities.
The MLHD also offers a Parkinson’s Allied Health clinic that runs once a month, depending on demand. The clinic is free and staffed by community care, allied health, physiotherapy, occupational therapist, and clinical nurse specialists.
Anyone older than 18 who wants to make an appointment for an assessment with Kate can call the Community Care Intake Service on 1800 654 324 (select option 3) or call 0474 486 698.
Residents and visitors to communities in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) are encouraged to take precautions against mosquitoes this holiday season, as routine monitoring has detected several mosquito-borne viruses since surveillance activities began.
The Leeton Midwifery Group Practice (LMGP) is celebrating seven years of providing support to women throughout their pregnancy, birth and post-natal period.
