A number of Derriford patients with liver-related illnesses have established a new peer support group for fellow liver patients and are keen to encourage new members from across the region to join.
The South West Liver Buddies was officially formed in early 2020, just before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and despite the subsequent lockdowns and restrictions on being able to meet in person, has so far gained around 150 members and continues to grow.
It started out with a small group of patients who were keen to give something back, set-up by the South West Liver Unit for service users, and has grown into a successful peer-run support group.
“We come from all over and from all walks of life, and each of us have had different liver disease journeys – some slow and progressive, some rapid and scary,” explained Josie, one of the founders of the group. But we all have one thing in common, and that’s receiving our care and treatment at Derriford Hospital.
“After my liver transplant a few years ago, I wanted to give something back and to help others through what I had experienced, so I began to visit patients on the wards after my clinic appointments to support them.
“I met others who wanted to do the same thing and that’s where the buddy idea came from.”
Now patients with liver diseases and conditions associated with liver illness, as well as their families and friends, can join a dedicated Facebook group, attend meetings and events via Zoom, and reach out to the group over the phone or by email.
The activities that members of the group can take part in range from bingo nights to participating in walking challenges and virtual transplant games. In early 2021, group members and Hepatology staff jointly took part in a challenge to walk the distance between Derriford Hospital and King’s College Hospital in London, which is significant as it’s where liver transplant patients attend for their surgery.
The Hepatology team at University Hospitals Plymouth also regularly organise and facilitate expert talks and discussions via Zoom, for all things related to liver diseases and conditions, which many members have found particularly helpful.
Katie Ramos, lead Liver Transplant Coordinator and nurse specialist at University Hospitals Plymouth, said:
“I’m absolutely bursting with pride with everything this group has achieved so far, from our joint step challenge to the small things each and every member does to support each other.
“It is truly fantastic. We now want to get the word out there and to make sure that all patients and their carers, from Somerset all the way down to Cornwall, are aware of the support available to them and know how to join the group.”
Last month group began their latest challenge, to virtually walk to all the transplant centres in the UK, which equates to the equivalent distance of 1150 miles (2.3 million steps).
To get in touch with the group email plh-tr.liverbuddies@nhs.net or call 01752 439002. To join the South West Liver Buddies Facebook group, please visit: www.facebook.com/groups/southwestliverbuddies/
