Kidney Health Week 24th May - 31st May 2008
A roar of support from over two hundred finely tuned and
gleaming motor bikes including the famous Harley Davidson machines
that were part of the third annual Kidney Fundraising Bike Ride on
February 23rd has raised thousands of dollars for Kidney Disease in
Tasmania.
Organised by Shannons Insurance together with the Tasmanian
Chapter of the Harley Owners Group. the ride attracted riders and
supporters from all over Tasmania.
In
the grounds of Royal Hobart Hospital.
Left to right: Rodney
Bilbin Shannons Insurance; Marshall Bird Transplant recipient;
Debbie Farrow Transplant recipient and KHA volunteer, and Anna Sear
Renal Unit Hospital Aide
Ms Carolyn Mackintosh, Tasmanian Health Manager for Kidney Health
Australia said all funds raised are being distributed to Tasmanian
hospital renal units in Burnie $2000, Launceston $2000 and Hobart
$1000 for the purchase of items and equipment to improve patient
comfort while undergoing lengthy dialysis sessions.
"Funds
amounting to $1600 have also been directed to Kidney Health
Australia, for production of public information about early
detection and treatment of kidney disease.
Ms Mackintosh said that Kidney disease is on the rise and the
only treatment available when kidney's fail, is dialysis or a kidney
transplant.
"Renal units around the state are under pressure to cope with the
increasing numbers of people needing dialysis treatment and support.
"Currently there are close to 200 Tasmanians on dialysis."
Kidney Health Australia urges everyone over 50 to see their
doctor and ask for a kidney health check.
For more information about kidney disease contact Kidney Health
Australia on 1800 4 543 639.
Media Enquiries:
Carolyn Mackintosh - Kidney Health
Australia - TAS (03) 6231 9663 or Mobile: 0412 016 947
Ron
Smith Corporate Media Communications Kidney Health Australia Mobile:
0417 329 201
