Supporting services for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients at the RCH.

Area: Western suburbs

The story so far

Caring Friends of CF Auxiliary believe that there are many CF areas within the RCH that are badly in need of funds, and it was on this basis that they were formed in 2006. The value and importance of CF research cannot be undervalued and Caring Friends of CF Auxiliary make this possible with their fundraising endeavours.

Their ongoing craft stalls at the RCH, supplemented by outside fundraising activities, bring significant amounts of donated funds each month.

We have recently approved funding for the Development of Guidelines for Management of Gastro-Intestinal Manifestation of Cystic Fibrosis.  The main aim of providing these guidelines is to assist the RCH  Cystic Fibrosis team by providing easily and readily accessible evidence based on information and clinical algorithms to deliver better care to these patients from a nutrition and gastrointestinal viewpoint.

What we are working on

Caring Friends of CF, where possible, make an annual commitment to fund major CF research projects which, although so far not achieving the ultimate goal of finding a cure, have certainly helped improve the quality of life for CF patients.

2014 started with the Auxiliary providing a major item of equipment – a Portable Ultra-Sound Machine – to the RCH’s Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Management. This equipment is used in pre and post operative anaesthesia and pain management for CF patients, to guide needle insertion in vascular access procedures, with positive resulting reduction in patient trauma.

The Auxiliary has also purchased a significant amount of equipment for the RCH’s Physiotherapy Department. This equipment is aimed at enhancing breathing activities and airway clearance, physical activity and exercise for respiratory inpatients, many of which are CF patients.

Other areas funded are assisting families whose children are admitted unexpectedly for treatment. This takes the form of emergency food/beverage vouchers and/or fully packed toilet bags which are distributed by the CF coordinators to ensure they help those most in need. They are also continuing their ongoing supply of chocolates, sweets, textas, pens, pencils, crayons, colouring sheets and stickers for CF children to use and enjoy whilst on the wards.

Office bearers

President/Secretary/Treasurer: Daryl Gunn
Vice-President: Yvonne Felton

Contact

Email
[email protected]

Phone
0417 328 767

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