On a very cold January evening, in a very chilly village hall, East Markham WI members and visitors welcomed member Louise Kendall to talk to the group on ‘Heart Health’.
Louise told of her nursing career and how, after working in cardiology units for many years, she became a Community Heart Failure Specialist Nurse Practitioner. Her presentation explained what heart failure is and what it is not. Louise explained that it is a chronic condition which, if diagnosed early, can be successfully treated and managed.
The aim of practitioners like Louise is to help patients diagnosed with heart failure maintain the best possible quality of life, by encouraging them to: take their medication; eat healthily; take exercise; and take full advantage of the information and advice available.
In addition to giving medical support and advice the nurse also provides practical help to ensure the patient’s comfort and welfare.
There were many questions and Louise was generous with her time in answering them. She had brought along a range of information booklets for members to take away. Muriel Baker gave a vote of thanks to Louise, who was presented with an orchid.
At the meeting in March, members will celebrate the 74th Birthday of the WI in East Markham with a carvery meal followed by entertainment.
The new WI year starts in April, when members old and new are welcomed to another year of friendship, talks, activities and fun. If you are interested in joining, go along to the meeting on 19th April; you can come as a visitor (fee £5.00), or become a member. The membership fee for 2023-24 is £46.00.
For more information, contact the Secretary on 07971 291883 or Membership on 01777 871567.