An open afternoon is being held at the Renal Unit at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital on Saturday 9 July from 3pm.
The event marks the third anniversary of the opening of the unit, which was made possible thanks to funding through the Eric and Marion Scott Trust. The facility fulfilled a long held ambition to develop renal services in the Isle of Man. It has increased capacity and versatility whilst providing greater convenience and a choice for patients.
Sister Jackie Smith said: “Our kidneys are vital to our health and wellbeing as they clean the blood by removing toxins and waste products. A healthy lifestyle is important to keeping the kidneys working properly. Common problems that can cause kidney failure include high blood pressure and diabetes which can be caused by poor diet, being overweight and a lack of exercise.
“If the kidneys become damaged and no longer function properly, toxins can build up, which is lethal. The only options are dialysis or a kidney transplant. Waiting times for a transplant are approximately 2-3 years. Dialysis is usually needed at least three times a week and involves the patient being connected to a dialysis machine for a minimum of four hours at a time.
“We use complex equipment, but the amount of time that patients spend in the unit means we endeavour to make the procedure as routine and comfortable as possible. We hope that we can raise awareness about good kidney care by opening our doors to the public, letting them view the equipment and ask us about the work we do.”
The event is open to all, with no need to book. Anyone wishing to attend should go to the hospital reception and follow the signs.
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