TASCA Online #TASCAForMentalHealth
Behind each battle with chronic illness, can lie a hidden battle with mental health. This month TASCA has taken their plan to obtain mental health support digital, creating a social media campaign to boost awareness of the needs of people living with a chronic condition. A variety of posts have been created to support the work that TASCA has already been doing, including direct communication with parliamentary individuals to highlight awareness of the issue. Although each step we take in this endeavor is small, they are all moving us forward toward obtaining the support needed and deserved by TASCA members and friends alike.
AROUND AUSTRALIA SUPPORT IN QUEENSLAND
LIVEWIRE FOR TEENS
TASCA has commenced consultation with patients and parents in Queensland to expand our support. To increase the support provided, we are looking to start a working group with our members in Queensland to encourage activity in the state.
Our main priorities are: • • • • •
Support for children, young people and families Improving experience of attending hospital for children and families Connecting patients and families together Awareness raising Improving communication with treatment centres and clinicians
If you are a patient, parent or carer living in Queensland, we would like to get in touch with you to see what your needs are. We also want to connect patients in the state through social gatherings.
Do you know any teens who may be interested in a fun, safe online community? Livewire is a free online community for young people aged 12 - 20 (and siblings too) living with a serious illness, chronic health condition or disability. Livewire is a safe, supportive and fun space that hosts a fully moderated chatroom (open 12pm-12am AEST, 7 days a week), competitions, live streaming, an active newsfeed, special events and regular visits from celebrity guests. To find out more or to create an account visit www.livewire.org.au or check out their Instagram: @starlight_livewire
WWW.TASCA.ORG.AU
THALNSW UPDATE
NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Health Services in South Western Sydney Advocacy has always been on our agenda and continues in 2020 with our president George Houssos who spoke alongside Dr Anthony Brown of Health Consumers NSW at the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Health Services in South Western Sydney hearing in July. George addressed issues that South Western Sydney Local Health District thalassaemia and sickle cell patients face in accessing comprehensive haematology treatments and discussed the need for greater resources and support at the Liverpool Hospital treatment centre. If you have thoughts, feedback or questions on haemoglobinopathy treatments in this area, please reach out to Coordinator@
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