Open morning for patients with heart disease

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) is holding an open morning for adult patients born with a variety of congenital heart problems and their relatives on Saturday 22nd March.

The open morning for patients who were born with congenital heart conditions who are now adults, known as patients with ‘grown-up congenital heart disease’ (GUCH) will include talks from Dr Leisa Freeman, Consultant Cardiologist, about local services for patients as well as advice for relatives.

As a result of conventional or keyhole surgery most people who were born with a congenital heart problem are reaching adulthood and even old age. Since the heart condition has not been cured, lifelong follow up is vital. NNUH has provided a GUCH service since 1993 and now runs three clinics per week. As a person with a congenital heart condition becomes older, insurance, benefits, contraception, genetic inheritance, pregnancy, life-style and job issues are of great importance.

At the open morning, members of the team will give talks on why some of the regular investigations are necessary. Information about application for benefits will also be given by the Citizens Advice Bureau and there will be advice on insurance. A representative from the Somerville foundation, formerly the GUCH Patients’ Association, will also highlight the resources available to patients and talk about stress management.

Dr Freeman, Consultant Cardiologist and specialist in GUCH and Maternal Cardiology, said: “This is an opportunity for patients, relatives and partners to come along and talk informally with members of the team as well as learn from the different specialists and support services that Toni Hardiman, Lead Specialist GUCH nurse, has lined up.”

The event is being held from 9am until 1pm in the Benjamin Gooch Lecture Theatre, East Atrium Level 1, on Saturday 22nd March 2014. Refreshments will be provided. This event is free and usual car parking charges of £2 for the day apply.

Space is limited so anyone interested in attending should email Lin Burnett on nnu-tr.guch@nhs.net or telephone 01603 289666 to confirm attendance.