Christian faith, Finsbury Park, patient care, Rainbow Theatre, support group,
Monday 11th November 2013
Awareness Event, Saturday 16th November – all are welcome
A health awareness briefing on sickle cell anaemia will take place at the Rainbow Theatre, Finsbury Park at 1pm on Saturday November 16th. Hosted by the UCKG HelpCentre’s Patient Care Group as a community outreach activity and supported by Enfield Sickle Cell Support Group, the event is free and open to all.
Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic blood condition that affects the shape of sufferers’ red blood cells and can result in severe pain. It is widely believed to be most common among people of African and Caribbean descent, but anyone can inherit the disorder, including those from Arab countries, Greece, Turkey, Israel Italy, the Iberian Peninsula and Pakistan.
“Attendees will learn about the condition itself, as well as how those who are already affected can enjoy good health, for instance by paying attention to such matters as healthy eating,” said Agnes Musikavanhu who leads the UCKG HelpCentre’s Patient Care Group in Finsbury Park. “Many people find it easier to find out about health concerns in a neutral environment before going to their GP, and we’re aiming to fill that need in respect of sickle cell anaemia.”
The event will comprise an introduction, a drama on the subject of sickle cell anaemia by the VYG, the HelpCentre’s youth group and presentations by members of Enfield Sickle Cell Support Group.
A similar event by this team was held at the UCKG’s Edmonton HelpCentre in late October and attracted an audience of 120 people from the area.
ENDS
Notes to editors
UCKG is a Christian church and registered charity that offers a range of practical support activities alongside spiritual support and comfort and welcomes all-comers. It reached the UK in 1995 and has gone from strength to strength, providing support and spreading the Christian faith. There are UCKG HelpCentre branches in England and Wales.
Patient Care Group is a community support group of generous minded volunteers from the UCKG HelpCentre who are available to lessen the burden of illness on patients and their families by extending the hand of friendship to them. These make regular visits to patients in hospitals, hospices, nursing homes or their own homes and will also be there for the patients’ families if required.
For further information please contact the UCKG HelpCentre Press Officer via e-mail on press@uckgnew.org or direct line 020 7686 6033.
