ACCORDING to provincial statistics, the majority of cancer patients hail from rural communities.
The Empangeni based Helen Ludwig CANSA House which caters to patients across the district, and responsible for conducting mobile clinic drives is faced with a mammoth dilemma in that the organisation does not have a nurse.
Intended to provide PSA testing, pap smears and breast examinations, the mobile clinic drive also imparts knowledge to the community about the various forms of cancer, prevention and treatment.
uThungulu CANSA Community Mobiliser, Lizzy van Zyl, said funding is available but recruiting an available and qualified nurse has been a futile task for months on end.
‘We are in desperate need of a nurse to assist with the mobile clinic in rural areas. We still host our corporate testing and screening awareness drives, but we would really appreciate any help, even part time,’ said van Zyl.
Progress
Despite challenges, CANSA has made great headway in creating a care centre for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation from the Richards Bay Medical Institute.
‘The centre accommodates for six patients, we currently have four live-in patients. Patients receive two meals a day, allowing for supper to be a self-catering facility,’ said van Zyl.
‘We really need help with improving our home in order to comfortably accommodate more patients receiving treatment. Painting, wiring, roofing, lighting, tiling and other interior as well as exterior revamping and maintenance is needed.
‘Assistance in service delivery with printing pamphlets, obtaining wheelchairs, urinals, bedpans and such items will make a big difference,’ added van Zyl.
Available for purchase at the centre are stomas, breast prosthesis and bras.
For more information, or those willing to assist please contact Lizzy van Zyl on 035 7725677.
