Sufferers breathe easy thanks to donation

Northland DHB’s physiotherapy department has gratefully received a Cough Assist Machine (CAM) worth $9,000 from Muscular Dystrophy Northern.

The donation was made possible by funds gifted to the muscular dystrophy association by the Mangawhai Golf Club following their Annual Charity Fundraising Tournament.

Mangawhai Golf Club president Mike Howard was on hand for the presentation, saying it is very satisfying that a concept born out of wanting to show his golfing friends what a great place Mangawhai is, was making a positive difference in local communities. 

Mangawhai Golf Club holds a charity fundraiser every year, and over the past seven years have raised more than $100,000.

“This year we hadn’t decided where the funds would go, so I placed an advert in the paper, inviting applications,” said Mike. “We received about twelve applications, and it was decided we would go about getting not one but two Cough Assist Machines.” 

There are approximately 44 Northlanders living with muscular dystrophy and registered with Muscular Dystrophy Northern. Field Worker Darian Smith says the CAM makes a significant difference to the quality of life for Muscular Dystrophy Northern members.

“Basically these machines will help clear mucus when their muscles are too fatigued to cough,” explains Darian. “Sometimes people are just so unwell they have real difficulty to cough without the assistance of a CAM machine.” 

Physiotherapy service manager Edith Rotgans said her team was delighted with the donation. 

“We have wanted one for some time now, but they are very expensive. This machine will be used in the care of inpatients, and it will make a significant difference to their wellbeing.” 

Respiratory physiotherapist Virginia Stanaway was barely able to contain her excitement in receiving a tool she has been eagerly awaiting. 

“This will make a huge difference to patients and us working with patients with muscular dystrophy. We will be able to set patients up on a system and management programme to reduce their need to stay as long in hospital, get them better and home to enjoy their quality of life. So thank you very much for your fundraising efforts and your kind donation.”