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"I was in Cambodia for work. It was a very hot night, and I literally swept my hand down my body and said out loud, ‘Oh, it's so hot!’ And I felt this lump, It felt like half the size of a golf ball. I thought, I'm not going to be too worried about it, but I emailed my doctor and… View more"I was in Cambodia for work. It was a very hot night, and I literally swept my hand down my body and said out loud, ‘Oh, it's so hot!’ And I felt this lump, It felt like half the size of a golf ball. I thought, I'm not going to be too worried about it, but I emailed my doctor and made an appointment.
They've said all along you're very lucky you caught it early.
I guess there's some people who go through this sort of thing who are not information seekers. But I'm like, ‘tell me everything!’. My oncologist, at our first meeting, said, ‘our job is to take your body to the very edge to kill the cancer. We take you to the edge, knowing that once we stop, the systems that we are affecting will recover.’ So it is scary stuff.
I just asked questions all the time. I'm a pretty cynical person, but I'm so impressed with the quality of care. I was told when I was first diagnosed, you're in the best city in New Zealand for breast cancer care. When you go in for your chemo you are given a nurse for the day, and she looks after you. They're super resilient these women I mean, obviously they have to be.
When I was heading into chemotherapy, I think the vision I had was that it would be a very quiet, somber place. Oh, no! It's like, hi!, hi! Hi! it's bustly, people are laughing. I actually come away from my chemotherapy sessions feeling quite uplifted because the talk's very lively, and there's just this feeling of caring and concern.
I'm at the pointy end of the treatment now, and although I'm only having treatment every three weeks, the drugs that I'm having now are very heavy duty. I'm just holding my head above water with work.
I continue to turn up with full makeup, I'll put earrings on. And my eyebrows, which I draw on fastidiously every morning and sometimes I end up with like Groucho Marx and sometimes I end up looking like Twiggy. It just depends on my mood. People say to me, oh, gosh, she's looking so well. That helps me too because it's a bit of normality in a very abnormal situation.
Perspective is really important. Getting your head out of what might happen, and bringing yourself back to the present is really important. Counseling helps, right? Breast Cancer Foundation and the Cancer Society both fund counselling.
At the beginning, I was trying to be upbeat about it all the time. I'm not now. I acknowledge when I have down days, those are the days when my sister rushes around and gives me a foot massage.
Actually, for the last week, I felt really afraid of dying. Most of the time, I'm not, because I have faith. So it’s just like, I’ve got this job to do this year, which is an absolute shit job. But it will come to an end.
Boy, have I developed as a person and I'll continue to develop right to the end of this journey, whatever that looks like. Because it just forever changes you. Physically and mentally and emotionally. Spiritually. I've got people praying for me all over the world, and I believe that has made a difference."
- Kate
View more stories, or nominate someone: @humansofchch
www.humansofchch.org...
Unopened 20kg MaxCare Lamb & Kid milk replacer
Expired June 2023
Been stored in a dry place.
$60
“ Just home from Strictly Sex Factor (on Ice) and Murder in Little Grimley. What an awesome fun evening. Well done to the cast and company.”
For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the charming coastal town of Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.
Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be … View moreFor only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in the charming coastal town of Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.
Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.
Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or you can simply sell it!
Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
URGENT. Wanted used supermarket bags are needed in the CITY MISSION op shop. We are in the Gables Arcade at the council carpark end. THANK YOU.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Recruiting medical professions into rural areas remains a challenge, says a North Canterbury mayor.
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says Health New Zealand has made good progress in recruiting staff, but Hurunui mayor Marie Black says rural areas are … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Recruiting medical professions into rural areas remains a challenge, says a North Canterbury mayor.
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says Health New Zealand has made good progress in recruiting staff, but Hurunui mayor Marie Black says rural areas are missing out.
Training more health professionals is a priority in Budget 2024, with $22 million set aside for doctor training.
‘‘That will take us from an intake of 589 this year to an intake of 614 from next year,’’ Reti said.
‘‘We are also progressing a cost benefit analysis for a proposed third medical school through Waikato University, which will focus on primary and rural care.’’
While overseas-trained medical professionals make a valuable contribution, Reti said training young New Zealanders was more sustainable in the long term.
‘‘Health workforce shortages are a problem in every country around the world.
‘‘That is why it is so important we invest in training doctors and other health professionals here in New Zealand.’’
In the year to December 2023, Health NZ recruited more than 200 full-time equivalent senior doctors, 2500 nurses, nearly 100 midwives, and more than 230 scientific and technical staff.
There were still shortages in mental health, critical care and midwifery, Reti said.
While it was reassuring to know progress has been made in recruitment, Black said there was little evidence of it in ‘‘primary health provision in country areas’’.
The Hurunui district has been doing its bit to encourage health students to consider working in rural areas, she said.
Third year Otago Medical School students have been visiting the district each August for several years.
The initiative has been running for 10 years, with the students visiting medical centres, St John, District Nurses, police, the North Canterbury Rural Support Trust and a local preschool.
‘‘If we can grow our own people that is the best solution,’’ Black said.
Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon said he was pleased the Government was addressing workforce shortages.
A new medical centre was being planned in Rangiora to offer urgent and after hours medical care, but it would need more medical professionals, he said.
‘‘I am pleased with the Government’s announcement that funding will be allocated to ensure we are training more doctors and health care professionals here in New Zealand.
‘‘This will help to alleviate doctor shortages particularly in the regions and rural communities.’’
The Kaikōura district faced similar challenges, and its over 65 population was expected to increase to one-third over the next 30 years.
Takahanga Marae has hosted tertiary health students from around Aotearoa in recent years for a three-day Noho Marae visit.
The initiative was a partnership between Te Tai o Marokura, a Maori health and social service provider in Kaikōura, and Hauora Taiwhenua/Rural Health Network’s careers programme.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
When it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?
From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of… View moreWhen it’s cold outside, there's nothing quite like being inside the cosy warmth of a kitchen infused with the aroma of spices. But did you know that beyond their aromatic allure, these spices harbour a treasure trove of health benefits?
From the fiery kick of chilli to the sweet warmth of cinnamon, each spice brings not only flavour but also a host of nutrients and healing properties to our winter dishes. So, whether you're sipping on mulled wine, indulging in gingerbread, or savouring a hearty stew, every bite promises to not just please your palate but also contribute to your overall wellbeing.
Click read more for the full story.
Hello Neighbours
The word “Reiki” means “mysterious atmosphere, miraculous sign.” It comes from the Japanese words “rei,” meaning universal, and “ki,” meaning life energy.
Reiki is a type of energy healing. Energy can stagnate in the body where there has been physical injury … View moreHello Neighbours
The word “Reiki” means “mysterious atmosphere, miraculous sign.” It comes from the Japanese words “rei,” meaning universal, and “ki,” meaning life energy.
Reiki is a type of energy healing. Energy can stagnate in the body where there has been physical injury or even emotional pain. In time, these energy blocks can cause illness.
Energy healing aims to help the flow of energy and remove blocks in a similar way to acupuncture or acupressure. Being a Reiki Practitioner (who has undergone formal training in this healing art) I believe that improving the flow of energy around the body can enable relaxation, relieve pain, speed healing, and reduce other symptoms of illness. Reiki is a form of complementary and alternative medicine, being open to receiving life force energy is a must.
Invest in Yourself: Take a small retreat from your busy life to relax & enjoy a peaceful, gentle, healing session with me. Improve your physical emotional mental & spiritual well being. Reduce anxiety, stress & tension.
Book a Reiki Session with Me, and I will help you on your HEALING journey.
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Light Therapist
Sensing Souls
Clairvoyant/Medium/Psychic Available
Love and Light
Rae
Click on the Read More link for more information.
We're extending the consultation period for the Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw 2024 to Sunday 23 June 2024.
We want to make sure that everyone has had the opportunity to get informed on the proposed amendments to the Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw 2024. Have your say now! 🗣️
👉 … View moreWe're extending the consultation period for the Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw 2024 to Sunday 23 June 2024.
We want to make sure that everyone has had the opportunity to get informed on the proposed amendments to the Northern Pegasus Bay Bylaw 2024. Have your say now! 🗣️
👉 waimakariri.govt.nz/ourbeaches
Give your berries room to grow and plenty of airflow with this helpful trellis finished in Resene Kwila Timber Stain. Keeping the canes off the ground means berries stay healthy and are easy to reach when ready to pick.
Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Rangiora residents deserve to know when a new after-hours medical centre will finally be built, local MP Matt Doocey says.
Doocey, the associate health minister, welcomed news that South Link Health Group has obtained a consent to build a new medical … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Rangiora residents deserve to know when a new after-hours medical centre will finally be built, local MP Matt Doocey says.
Doocey, the associate health minister, welcomed news that South Link Health Group has obtained a consent to build a new medical centre at the Rangiora Health Hub on Ashley St.
But the not-for-profit health provider has yet to announce when the build will start or set a timeframe for its completion.
The community has been pushing for an after-hours medical clinic for more than five years.
The Ministry of Health entered into an agreement with South Link Health Group in 2021, following a petition calling for after hours healthcare being presented to the former Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) two years earlier.
It was initially announced the new facility would open in 2022, but the project has been beset by delays, partly due to Covid.
‘‘It is now time the community got some clarity for when construction will start and when it will open because the community has been waiting for a long time,’’ Doocey said.
A South Link Health Group spokesperson said the recruitment of medical professionals remains a challenge.
‘‘There just isn’t enough GPs to go around,’’ she said.
‘‘We are in a good position of being a not-for-profit, which is a real point of difference for us.
‘‘But it doesn’t make it any easier.’’
The provider has been busy completing the merger of two medical practices and future proofing the operation ahead of building the new medical centre, she said.
Now known as Rangiora Medical, the practice will continue to operate from two locations, Good St and Victoria St, until the new facility opens.
Doocey said the Government increased funding in the latest Budget for the training of GPs.
It will allow for more places at the Auckland and Otago University medical schools, while a new medical school was opening at Waikato University ‘‘with a focus on serving rural and regional New Zealand’’.
Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon said he kept in regular contact with South Link Health Group and hoped to hear an update soon.
‘‘The new centre, which received a building consent last month, will mean our residents have access to extended hours of medical care as well as high-tech imaging radiology right here in North Canterbury.
‘‘This project is the result of huge investment and commitment from South Link Health Group, Pacific Radiology and the local GPs.
‘‘There is no doubt Rangiora Medical has faced its fair share of setbacks, but the passion and dedication from those involved in this project has been unwavering.’’
While there is limited after hours provision in North Canterbury, for now most residents are having to travel into Christchurch for urgent care.
South Link Health Group, which is a network of 26 medical practises, is responsible for funding and constructing the new facility.
It will include full radiology services (ultrasound, CT and MRI scans), GP services, a pharmacy, and urgent after hours healthcare.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
A North Canterbury council is considering charging for official information requests as it struggles to keep up with demand.
In a report to recent council committee meeting, Waimakariri District Council governance team leader Thea Kunkel said the … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
A North Canterbury council is considering charging for official information requests as it struggles to keep up with demand.
In a report to recent council committee meeting, Waimakariri District Council governance team leader Thea Kunkel said the council had responded to nearly 300 requests for information in the last 12 months.
The requests were received under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act.
Councillors were due to workshop a draft charging policy this month, before adopting it at the next month’s council meeting.
Chief executive Jeff Millward said the requests were adding to staff workload.
‘‘We are making sure we respond to them promptly, but it is causing quite a bit of work.’’
The legislation allowed for councils to charge for costs associated with processing a request, but until now the council has not charged for an official information request.
But three recent requests were ‘‘considered substantial’’, so staff had advised there would be a charge if the work was undertaken, the report said.
The council received 71 requests between March and May, compared to 61 for the same period last year and 32 in 2022.
Staff had spent 194 hours responding to requests over the last three months and it was estimated to have cost the council $8588.
Charging guidelines provided by the Ministry of Justice suggested staff time be charged at $76 per hour, with no charge for the first hour.
The requests were for information on a range of topics, including drainage, proposed solar farms and other consent applications, property purchases, security at council facilities, threats to councillors and staff, and annual plan processes.
One recent request wanted information regarding Kintyre Ln in Ohoka from 2007 onwards.
Staff estimated it would take more than 40 hours to collate the information.
Last year, several information requests were in response to the inclusion of statements relating to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the council’s 2023/24 annual plan.
Known as Agenda 2030, it was adopted by the United Nations’ 193 member nations, including New Zealand, in 2015.
It comprised 17 goals, including eliminating poverty, a focus on health and wellbeing and action on climate change.
The council has come under increased scrutiny since Covid, which has led to a heightened awareness of the right to access official information, the report said.
It has also led to the council beefing up its internet security due to a growing number of threatening emails, including death threats, and security staff were increased during last month’s long-term plan hearings.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Manure from grain-fed horses in 40l bag. 4 bags for $30, or $8 a bag. Free delivery Rangiora. Limited supply. Support your local community. Phone 021 118 0071 or email lionshorsemanure@gmail.com
Dry, easy to light, made from recycled wood, packed in 4kg boxes. 4 boxes for $30, or $10 a box. Free delivery Rangiora. Limited stock. Support your local community. Phone 021 1180071 or email lionskindling@gmail.com
Pig manure and aged sawdust in 40l bag. 4 bags for $30, or $8 a bag. Free delivery Rangiora. Limited supply. Support your local community. Phone 021 118 0071 or email lionspigmanure@gmail.com
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