Local support group to be launched

National Eczema Week 2002 - 21 to 28 September 2002

19^th September 2002

In support of National Eczema Week 2002, the Dermatology team at the West Suffolk Hospital are extending an invitation to everyone over the age of 16 years, with eczema, to help set up an Adult Eczema Support Group.

An informal ‘Get to know you meeting’ will be held on Wednesday 30 October 2002 at the Post Graduate Centre within the main hospital building from 7pm until 8.30pm.

“We hope people will come along, with a friend or partner, and share their experiences and tips on eczema management,” said Marie Retzback Dermatology Clinical Nurse Specialist.

 “Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Susan Handfield–Jones, will be chairing the meeting. We already have a very active Childrens’ Eczema Support Group at the hospital involving up to 40 families.”

Anyone interested in the group should contact Marie Retzback Dermatology Clinical Nurse Specialist on 01284 712646. Eczema affects one in five children and up to one in 12 adults.

The Dermatology Department will be giving its full support to the excellent work of the National Eczema Society. The Society is launching a Specialist Phone Day on Saturday 21 September. The information line will be manned from 10am until 4pm with free specialist advice on eczema and its management. Telephone: 08702 413604.

Posters and general eczema information will be on display within the Outpatients Department in the West Suffolk Hospital during National Eczema Week.