Caithness Heart Support Group Praised At 2015 AGM

29th May 2015

CAITHNESS Heart Support Group was praised for its role in advising people on the lifestyle changes which could pre-empt heart attacks, as well as supporting them, before and after their operations.

The warm tribute, paid at the group's AGM, came from the county's Lord Lieutenant Anne Dunnett. Miss Dunnett said that some of the group's members were well-placed to relate to heart attacks and operations and went on to highlight the importance of heading off problems.

She told the group and its supporters at Mackay's Hotel, recently: "I think that it is, possibly, more important than after-care, but you do both and I commend you for it." The group had public displays and distributes leaflets, during the year and also organised a regular, keep-fit class.

Earlier, Miss Dunnett described it as "an honour" to be patron of what she termed "this very, very, hard-working group".
She went on: "I don't know where they get all their energy and ideas from, but they do us proud. I don't know of any other group which devotes so much time and effort to its fundraising and caring element. They are never-ending in their efforts, particularly as some of their supporters are involved in other organisations, so we are very fortunate to have such a great team. However, this group would be nothing without its members because if you don't turn up, there would be no point in the office bearers being here."

Miss Dunnett also paid tribute to the staff of the Royal Bank's Wick branch whose "extra help" was greatly appreciated.
Earlier, group chairman Ernie Ross was delighted to report an exceptional year on the fundraising front. The cost of items supplied to the county's GP practices and Caithness General Hospital, amounted to a record-breaking £15,000. The gratifying total included £7,000 for the latest cardiac monitor presented to the hospital.

Mr Ross's detailed report, which was circulated, also itemised the group's programme of social events as well as fundraisers. He paid tribute to his committee and the public for its continued support and said the group looked forward to "another productive years".

The group's audited financial statement was delivered by its treasurer, Emily Fraser. It showed a balance of £5,739 with some deductions for medical equipment pending.

The office bearers, unanimously re-elected, were- Ernie Ross, chairman, Noel Donaldson, vice-chairman, secretary, Marge Donaldson, treasurer, Emily Fraser, minute secretary, Janette Sinclair, and committee members Janice MacGregor, Robert Bell, Joan Fraser, and John MacLeod.

Group supporter, Laird Sutherland was elected to the sole committee vacancy.

Guest speakers were two nurses from Wick's Riverview practice, Mahri Swanson and Laura Stewart who spoke on the evolving role of practice nurse to nurse practitioner. The nurses are currently studying in order to make the transition to the latter position which would enable them to take on some of the GP responsibilities, when necessary. One of the modules undertaken by Laura and Mahri was funded by the heart support group.

The group's next meeting is in the conference room of Caithness General Hospital, at 7.30pm, on June 3. All are welcome.