Hibiscusmatters 1 May 2013 | 15

Feelin’W O M E N ’S H E A LT H F E AT U R E

GoodFeelin’A simple varicose vein operation, undertaken at the Rodney Surgical Centre in Warkworth, has made a world of difference for a local mother who is caring for an invalid husband and raising a family.The woman is one of 142 residents, between the North Shore and Whangarei, who have so far benefited from a Northlink Health scheme, which provides free or subsidised day surgery operations.The woman’s condition was deteriorating while she waited for an operation at a public hospital. Gardening, one of the main ways she subsidised the invalid pension the family relied on, was becoming increasingly difficult.Northlink Health chief executive Wendy Hawkings says the woman’s case is typical of the circumstances a lot of local families and individuals find themselves in. The offer specifically targets people who are on a public health service waiting list, who are constantly being downgraded as higher priority cases take precedence.“Every week we receive thank you cards, letters and phone calls from patients and their families,” she says.

“It feels very good to be in a position to help people in this way.”Northlink launched the scheme, believed to be unique in NZ, 18 months ago with a $750,000 commitment.So are, $420,000 has been spent, with a further $100,000 approved. The most common procedures include hernias, veins, skin surgery, cataracts and knee surgery.The funding largely comes from the rent generated from a housing project in Mangawhai and is one of many community projects funded by Northlink (formerly the Rodney North Harbour Health Trust) since it was established more than 25 years ago.Mrs Hawkings says the Northlink Health Trust was motivated to introduce the scheme not only to improve people’s quality of life, but also to help raise the Rodney Surgical Centre’s profile and reduce the Waitemata DHB’s waiting list. The scheme has been so popular it has been extended to cover parts of Northland.“I don’t know if people know how lucky we are to have the centre in Warkworth. We just want to do

Northlink Health chief executive Wendy Hawkings and board chairman John Evans sort through letters of appreciation from people who have benefited from the day surgery scheme.

Health offer restores quality of life

everything we can to ensure people know about it and use it.”She says the board will make a decision on whether or not to continue the scheme in July. “It will depend on what funds are available.”

BRIEFSR18 sunbed useConcerns about the risk of skin cancer have lead to the Government’s plans to amend the Health Act to prohibit access to commercial sunbeds for people under 18 years of age. Introducing an age restriction for commercial sunbeds is one of five areas Government is investing in to help prevent skin cancer, and provide faster treatment for people with melanoma. The four other areas are: sun safety education; resources and training for health professionals; cancer treatment initiatives and better access to skin lesion removal.

Fundraising start to dayThis month will see breakfasts held to raise funds for the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation. The breakfasts are part of Pink Ribbon Breakfast month. Last year, more than 1200 breakfasts took place around the country during May, raising $500,000 for the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation. Proceeds from the campaign support women with breast cancer, including post-surgery rehabilitation programmes and therapeutic services as well as a new support helpline. Info: www.pinkribbonbreakfast.co.nz

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| Hibiscusmatters 1 May 201316

Feelin’W O M E N ’S H E A LT H F E AT U R E

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The desire to eat gluten-free food has increased in popularity to the point where it could almost be called a trend.Coeliac NZ says there are no official figures as to how many people are affected by gluten intolerance in NZ, however the organisation understands there are about 8000 diagnosed coeliacs in NZ and that about 1 in 100 New Zealanders have coeliac disease.The prevalence of the problem is something that nutritionist Joan Buchanan of Puhoi is well aware of, having seen a huge increase in cases of gluten intolerance and Coeliac disease in her 30 years of practice.She says the process of splitting the wheat protein in order to make white bread, which started in the 1900s in England and Europe (and was characterised in the media of the time as “the great grain robbery”), as well as plant selection to find grains with longer shelf life, contributed to difficulty in digesting gluten.June, who trained in biochemistry and bacteriology before becoming a nutritionist, says for many people who have been diagnosed with gluten intolerance, the need to convert to a gluten-free diet is scary. It is not as simple as cutting out starchy food, and requires reading food labels as gluten can be found in tinned foods too.“It’s a big change, and the cost is great in the beginning as you change what is in your pantry,” Joan says. “Things like rice flour used to be inexpensive, but demand has pushed up the price for many gluten free items.”She says many of the gluten intolerant people she has treated, including triathletes, have previously been “carbohydrate junkies”, enjoying a diet overloaded with pasta, bread, cereal, cakes and biscuits.

Nutritionist Joan Buchanan says “the great grain robbery” is a principal cause of increasing numbers of gluten intolerant people.

Gluten free advice available

“Athletes often carbo-load before an event, but you can replace that with things like quinoa, amoranth and buckwheat in smoothies, pancakes or flatbreads,” she says.She says diet is all about balance, which is why people who love things like white bread and pasta can end up having issues with gluten.However, it’s not just the carbo-lovers who are affected and Joan has seen gluten intolerance in very young children as well as adults.The symptoms of gluten intolerance include a sore stomach, bloating and problems with bowel movements. Joan says it’s important to seek advice from a health professional and not to go off gluten until you have been properly diagnosed.Joan is presenting a talk in Orewa this month that offers advice to gluten intolerant people. The talk is also to promote Coeliac Awareness Week (May 26–June 1).Gluten-free talk • Orewa Library, Moana Ave, Orewa • May 22, 11am

GoodFeelin’

Hibiscusmatters 1 May 2013 | 17

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I was born with the dubious gift of always picking the slow queue at the supermarket. Today was no different, but thanks to the strategically placed magazines near the checkout, I’m able to keep up to date on the most important issues facing the modern woman: the royals, reality TV and who’s had plastic surgery. Everywhere I look, I see the “ideal” female body jumping off the cover, reminding me that I am not. If it makes me slightly uncomfortable, how does it look to teenage eyes?I often think that when talking about women’s issues, we tend to forget the youngest women. As if growing to adulthood wasn’t difficult enough, they are bombarded from all sides by images of what they should be, often an unattainable standard created by clever airbrushing, digital manipulation and imaginative cosmetic procedures. Unfortunately, not all young women are able to recognize the difference between the reality of human variety and the fantasy world created by a marketing industry. Luckily, most are able to learn to accept themselves as they are, but for some the stage is set for body image issues.Body image is how we view our physical selves, and often at this vulnerable age, body image is linked to self-esteem. Self-esteem is an important factor in how young people feel about themselves. Puberty brings on many changes, and young people can be very sensitive to the comments made about these changes by family and friends. Signs that a young person may be struggling with body image issues are a preoccupation with perceived “flaws”, obsessive control of weight or eating patterns, use of vitamin supplements as a substitute for real food, avoiding shared meals, calorie counting, and excessive exercise. In the worst cases it can lead to full-blown eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, which can be life-threatening conditions if left untreated.If you think someone you love is dealing with body image issues, it’s important to talk about it in a way that isn’t judgmental or blaming. Remember that they are just trying to cope with the confusing signals that are all around us. Stay positive and remind them that real people aren’t perfect, and many times perfect people aren’t real. Build them up so that they can learn to accept themselves for who they are and that being healthy, happy and confident is what true beauty is all about.

Healthwith Dr Lauren Roycroft coastcare@ccam.co.nz

No body’s perfect

Help for hair lossA service offered at Rodney Wayne in Whangaparaoa Plaza is helping people get to the root of issues with hair loss. Scalp analysis sessions with a Metaseuticals technician can be booked through the salon, or at Shampoo and Things next door. Kay Maria of Shampoo and Things says that among the primary causes of hair loss are hormonal changes, inadequate blood circulation to the scalp and weak anchorage of the hair in the follicle. The technician examines the scalp by passing a microscope over the area that provides a close up look at the follicles. This can ascertain the likely causes of the problem. Salon formulas are available that can assist. The sessions are held in a private consulting room at Rodney Wayne. The next consultation is on May 23. Info: visit Rodney Wayne or Shampoo and Things in the Plaza.

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GoodFeelin’

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Many people in the Rodney region may be missing out on health and disability services that would greatly improve their lives.To help spread the word about what is available, Homebuilders has helped to organise an expo in Warkworth this month to highlight what products and services are available.More than a dozen organisations are taking part in the expo, which is being funded by the Ministry of Health. It will take place at the Warkworth Methodist Church Hall on May 10, from 10am to 3pm.Disability information worker Tess Williamson says the aim of the expo is for people to discover what is available on their doorstep, and also give service providers a chance to network. Although there are believed to be thousands of people in the region who have some sort of disability, many people may be unaware of what is available locally, she says. The idea behind the expo was to show people they did not necessarily need to travel to access services. “Older people can also be stoic, and refuse to seek help,” she says. “There are just so many aids and equipment that could make their life a lot easier. The Independent Living Service, for

instance, finding out how to apply for a Lotteries grant for a mobility scooter, or how to access a disability allowance. For an elderly person, that could mean they could afford to get a personal medical alarm.”Tess hopes family members and others might come along to the expo, and learn about products and services that might help make the lives of their loved ones much easier.Organisations taking part include Homebuilders, the Independent Living Service, Arthritis NZ, Northlink Health, Health & Disability Advocacy Service, Warkworth Stroke Club, Lifeway Home, Accessible Environments North, Adults in Motion, St John, Unique Families, and Special Olympics.With almost all the organisations involved operating as not-for-profits, some are also keen to sign up new volunteers, as well as attract more clients, says Tess.As well as displays, there will presentations in the meeting room next to the hall, including talks from an arthritis educator, Northlink Health, a consumer rights advocate, and the Independent Living Service. Admission is free and light refreshments will be provided.

Expo highlights services for disabled people

Have a cuppa for HospiceThis month the annual Hospice Awareness Appeal, which includes The Hospice Cuppa event, will be raising funds for the charitable organisation. The Hospice Cuppa involves hosting a morning or afternoon tea between now and the end of May. All hosts and their guests go in the draw to win a High Tea for six people at the Peace and Plenty Victorian villa in Devonport. This year Hibiscus Hospice hopes to raise $40,000 through a combination of the Hospice Cuppa event, a direct marketing appeal and street collections. These funds will support respite care, which allows caregivers to have a break and gives patients a welcome change of scene. Info and to register: www.hospicecuppa.co.nz or phone 09 421 9180.

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at Whangaparaoa Primary School for club and competition nights. Come along to either of these times and give indoor bowls a go.

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Hibiscusmatters 1 May 2013 | 19

GoodFeelin’W O M E N ’S H E A LT H F E AT U R E

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Shop Locally and take advantage of our V.I.P programme, no card to clutter up your wallet, we keep it all on computer for you. Once you earn 20 points you will get a $25 voucher to spend in store. Our shelves are full and we also have some new additions: Now stocking: Pureology, Morrocan oil and Kevin Murphy products including Color BUG.

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By Laurinda Howarth Exercise plays a crucial role in making the transition through menopause easier and in enhancing health, happiness and productivity during what is sometimes referred to as ‘the second half of life’. The medical definition of menopause is “cessation of menses for 12 months, when the ovaries stop making the hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone”. For most women, menopause simply marks the end of their reproductive years. The average age of menopause is about 50, some women may experience it as early as their 30s or as late as their 60s. Symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, bladder and reproductive tract changes, insomnia, headaches, fatigue, irritability and joint pain.The good news is that a regular program of physical activity can help manage many of the symptoms, as well as related health concerns, such as heart disease and osteoporosis.Aerobic exercise has a mood-elevating affect that helps reduce the depression and anxiety that can accompany menopause. It also promotes the loss

of abdominal fat— most women more readily gain weight in this area during menopause. Research has shown that the increased oestrogen levels that follow a woman’s exercise session coincide with an overall decrease in the severity of hot flushes.Strength training also helps by stimulating bones to retain the minerals that keep them dense and strong. Keep in mind, good nutrition works hand in hand with an active lifestyle and is vital to realise the full benefits of exercise.If you have been an active person leading up to menopause, you have an advantage. Aerobic activity during the childbearing years reduces the risk of several health conditions that are prevalent after menopause. To reap the benefits of exercise, a balanced program of weight-bearing aerobic activity (walking is great), strength training (with weights, resistance bands, yoga or gardening), and flexibility is essential.Consistency is key, so strive for some form of activity daily.Laurinda Howarth is a personal trainer and owner of Funfit

Exercise assists transition to ‘the second half of life’

| Hibiscusmatters 1 May 201320

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Possible changes in district health board arrangements could spell the end of substantial charitable support for health initiatives in Rodney and Northland.While Waitemata District Health Board denies that there are any plans to amalgamate with the Auckland District Health Board, Northlink Health in Warkworth sees the amalgamation of the two boards’ funding and planning sections as a harbinger of things to come.Over the years, Northlink has financially backed a wide range of community organisations and initiatives. These include Hibiscus Coast Hospice, the Windy Ridge Boys’ Farms, the Kowhai Coast Youth Trust and the Westpac Trust Helicopter.Northlink employs 960 staff and cares clients between the North Shore and Cape Reinga. The bulk of Northlink’s 4000 clients are managed under Waitemata DHB contracts.Northlink general manager Pete Carter says Auckland DHB has already significantly reduced the number of health providers it contracts to and if amalgamation went ahead, then it is likely Waitemata will follow suit. “In the worse case scenario, we could lose well over half our business,” he says. “We’d no longer exist in North Shore and Rodney, although we might survive in Northland.”Northlink chief executive Wendy Hawkings says the impact would be felt across the community and programmes that would disappear would include the Northlink/Rodney Surgical Centre partnership, which offers free or subsidised day-surgery to those who meet criteria.

“We believe the changes to ACC contract arrangements, which came into effect in September last year, are a sign of things to come,” she says.Under the new arrangements, ACC cut its home care service providers from 86 to four national and two regional providers.Northlink partnered with major ACC provider McIsaac Healthcare to submit a tender, but was unsuccessful.ACC contracts make up about 10 percent of Northlink’s workload and it now sub-contracts to lead contractor Geneva Health. Mrs Hawkings says that while this has actually led to an increase in work, managing the paperwork has meant employing an additional staff member.“The surplus funds which were previously available for projects such as the $750,000 Rodney Surgical Centre partnership are being eaten up by contracting costs. This will only get worse if Waitemata follows Auckland’s lead.”When Northlink started in 1977 its charter was to provide care for the elderly in their homes. However, over the years this has expanded to include young people with a disability who would previously have been institutionalised.Mrs Hawkings says Northlink is continuing to be innovative in its approach to home care services. Seven support staff were recently trained to provide advanced care in insulin administration. Their work with two clients in Silverdale and Whangarei, if successful, will be rolled out across the district.Specialist training in hospice care skills is also being delivered.

Northlink fears impact of health contract changes

Feelin’W O M E N ’S H E A LT H F E AT U R E

GoodFeelin’

Hibiscusmatters 1 May 2013 | 21

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One of the main joys of living on the Coast is our accessibility to the sea. We have so many beaches scattered along our narrow peninsula that we are spoilt for choice. It means we can choose a sheltered bay if we prefer calmer conditions. It also allows the many people who love to fish an opportunity to get a line in the water. We are also fortunate that we have the wonderful Hibiscus Coast Boating Club on the coast that helps people in their love of boating and fishing. The club has been operating for around 30 years and the major benefit of joining the club is you will create a safer and more knowledgeable environment for your boating. When you are taking out your family or friends, the safety of the group is your responsibility. The club will put you through a thorough inspection to ascertain any improvements you can make to your boat. If you pay for a yearly tractor fee you also get access to two tractors to launch and retrieve on Stanmore Bay Boat Ramp. Your family vehicle will appreciate it and more importantly, your better half. Take a kid fishing has been a great concept. It is an organised event which encourages parents to let their children experience fishing. It’s a great buzz for the kids to catch sprats or piper from a wharf. More often than not, you’ll have a child hooked for life. I have a small 13ft boat that does us fine and can get us out in the bay for a fish. So when time and weather permits, getting to fish with one or two of my three kids is one of our greatest pleasures. To see their faces when they are reeling in a fish is always a highlight. Or just to be on the water and view our beautiful surroundings in the early morning or latter in the evening is one of the many privileges of living on the Coast. A good mate put us on to an activity for all the family to enjoy, do we packed a light dinner and headed out to Gulf Harbour to fish one of the canals. It’s an inexpensive good way to spending an evening. We kept the kids fed and entertained (an important combo). You’ll be surprised by what you can catch out there too. We’ve had a good time getting yellowtail and even the odd snapper and what’s really cool is that when the fish aren’t on the bite, the kids can run around and do what they do best – annoy each other! If you can ever get your hands on a bait net, it is well worth a try. Simply put some bread in the water and if you see movement on the surface, run the net around that area and you should come up trumps. It’s an awesome way to have fun and pick up fresh bait for bigger adventures. Anytime you can turn a small adventure into a big one, its a step worth taking. Good luck.

Reeling them in