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Wall of Hope unveiled at Waikato Hospital: stories of courage and inspiration

Source: Waikato District Health Board

The Wall of Hope, an exhibit featuring framed photos and stories has been unveiled outside Waikato Hospital’s Critical Care Unit – sharing incredible stories of people who had a journey of recovery from serious illness or trauma requiring hospital care and time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

These inspiring stories offer solace, hope, and strength to all who read them. They are a source of comfort and inspiration, especially for those with loved ones currently undergoing treatment in our Critical Care unit.

A ceremony was held last week to launch the exhibit, bringing together the patients whose stories feature on the Wall of Hope, along with their families and hospital staff, who played a crucial role in their care.

Norbert and Judith Eichblatt viewing wall of hope

Expressing the sentiments of the staff, Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Interim Group Director Operations for Waikato, Michelle Sutherland emphasised the honour it is to receive these stories and thanked the patients and their families for sharing their experiences.

“This wall speaks of courage, strength and love reflected in your journey. There are lots of emotions here today, and looking at these stories has likely rekindled many of those feelings.

“The stories on the Wall of Hope serve as a beacon of support, strength, and inspiration for others facing their own journey of recovery.”

Each patient showcased on the Wall of Hope endured a significant health crisis but, more importantly, has overcome it.

“The Wall of Hope is a powerful reminder for our staff that there are real people behind the work we do,” said Ms Sutherland.

Waikato Hospital trauma director and surgeon Mr Grant Christey expressed gratitude and welcomed the patients and their families, saying, “It’s a privilege to look after them”.

“This is what we are here for. While it’s our job, it’s something entirely foreign to them to have their lives suddenly turned upside down.”

Mr Christey acknowledged the resilience of the patients, highlighting their ability to navigate the challenges and emerge with transformed lives.

“They show incredible strength to not only survive their ordeal but to move forward with their lives. The Wall of Hope is a testament to their resilience and determination.

“Thank you to our patients who have shared their story to give hope and courage to others. It is intended that further stories will be added to the wall in the future.”

Group photo – Patients, families and staff at the Wall of Hope unveiling – L-R Jenny Dorrian, Jane Hoebers, Serety McCudden, Grant Christey, Tash and Karl Muggeridge, Miriama Prentice with her mokopuna Billy and Kohl, Pete Sheely, Judith Eichblatt, Bronwyn Denize, Norbert Eichblatt

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Stained cell structures create art for clinic waiting room

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Inclusion cyst in the skin

Across the new artworks lining the halls of Waikato Hospital’s Dermatology Clinic, the concept of beauty goes beyond skin deep.

Staff have chosen vibrant microscopic images of skin and tissue samples to be made into artwork. The bright colours are the result of stains used to help identify various skin issues.

Waikato Hospital dermatologist, Dr Reinhard Gansel, came up with the idea for the art collection while preparing for his Vocational Professional Assessment as a Dermatologist in New Zealand. Patient feedback regularly discussed improving the clinic waiting area and hallway, with a common theme being a lack of colour.

“It came to my mind that we always look at colours through the microscope, investigating stained microscopic skin.”

A stark contrast to the plain white of the hospital environment.

The images came from Dr Duncan Lamont from the Histopathology Department and were selected in collaboration with the Dermatology team.

“Dr Lamont was excited to showcase magnified images of stained cell structures, choosing from a wide range of non-identifiable material and matching some in pairs with complementary colours,” said Dr Gansel.

The artworks were installed during September and feedback from patients and staff has been very positive.

Scabies in the skin

Stomach crypts with helicobacter

Group photo caption: L-R Dermatology team, Dr Amanda Oakley, Dr Reinhard Gansel, CNS Karina Hayward, Dr Amrit Singh, Dr Juhee Roh, Dr Cristina Mello, Dr Lydia Chan, Dr Julia Zhu.

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotokauri and Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake)

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotokauri and Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) and remains in place for Lakes Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui.

A new health warning has been issued today for Lakes Rotokauri and Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) due to a rise in cyanobacteria biovolume to 1.85 mm3/L at Lake Rotokauri and 3.6 mm3/L at Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake). Biovolume is the measure used to decide when a health warning should be issued, with the cut-off value for a health warning set at 1.8mm3/L.

Lakes Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Waikato Regional Council monitors cyanobacteria levels at Lakes Kainui, Rotokauri, Ngā Roto, Puketirini, Waikare, Whangape, Hakanoa and Waahi.

Dr Richard Wall, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Wall.

“If people still choose to use the lakes when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial health warnings  is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Significant rise of cyanobacterial levels for Lake Ngā Roto

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Cyanobacterial levels at Lake Ngā Roto have risen to extremely high levels this week, with a consequential increase in health risk to the public. The cyanobacteria biovolume is 123mm3/L compared to the New Zealand guideline level of 1.8mm3/L.

A health warning was issued for Lake Ngā Roto on 8 November 2023. The Te Whatu Ora Waikato Public Health Service is issuing this update to warn people of this significant increase in cyanobacterial levels.

Cyanobacterial bloom at Lake Ngā Roto – image courtesy of Mark Palmer

“We strongly recommend that people avoid any recreational activities that involves contact with the water” says Dr Richard Wall, Medical Officer of Health for Waikato. “People using boats are also advised to stay off the lake, because of the risk of contact with the water”.

The predominant cyanobacterial species present in the lake is a type that is known to produce toxins in New Zealand, which can cause serious illness. The cyanobacterial bloom extends to most parts of the

lake, and is not restricted to the edges of the lake. However, scums may accumulate along the shoreline and are a particular risk as they may contain particularly high levels of toxins.

Cyanobacterial toxins can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water. Long-term exposure to cyanobacterial toxins may cause additional health risks.

If contact with water does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.

Lakes Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial risk is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake)

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) and remains in place for Lake Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui.

The Public Health warning issued on 5 October 2023 for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) has now been lifted, after subsequent tests showed that cyanobacterial levels to be once again below the warning level. Lakes Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Waikato Regional Council monitors cyanobacteria levels at Lakes Kainui, Rotokauri, Ngā Roto, Puketirini, Waikare, Whangape, Hakanoa and Waahi.

Dr Felicity Dumble, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Dumble.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” she said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils, Waikato Regional Council or by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Whangape

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Whangape and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui.

The Public Health warning issued on 7 July 2021 for Lake Whangape has now been lifted, after subsequent tests showed that cyanobacterial levels to be once again below the warning level. Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Waikato Regional Council monitors cyanobacteria levels at Lakes Kainui, Rotokauri, Ngā Roto, Puketirini, Waikare, Whangape, Hakanoa and Waahi.

Dr Felicity Dumble, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Dumble.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” she said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils, Waikato Regional Council or by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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Health warning issued for Lake Ngā Roto

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Ngā Roto and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Hakanoa, Whangape, Waikare and Kainui.

A new health warning has been issued today for Lake Ngā Roto due to a significant rise in cyanobacteria levels. Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Hakanoa, Whangape, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Cyanobacterial bloom at Lake Ngā Roto – image courtesy of Mark Foster

Waikato Regional Council monitors cyanobacteria levels at Lakes Kainui, Rotokauri, Ngā Roto, Puketirini, Waikare, Whangape, Hakanoa and Waahi.

Dr Richard Vipond, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Vipond.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils, Waikato Regional Council or by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website

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Huri Whenua marks the start of Waikato’s new mental health facility

Source: Waikato District Health Board

A huri whenua (sod-turning) ceremony was held at Waiora Waikato hospital campus today (19 October) in preparation for construction to start on the new Adult Acute Mental Health Inpatient Facility.

The ceremony was led by Kaunihera Kaumatua and mana whenua Te Haa o te Whenua o Kirikiriroa and brought together Te Whatu Ora mental health and addiction services staff, tangata whaiora/service users, project teams and partners.

Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Regional Director Hospital and Specialist Services for Te Manawa Taki, Chris Lowry, acknowledged the work of the many people who had supported the design and planning process.

“This is a significant milestone on our journey to delivering a new mental health facility to support our community and staff,” said Ms Lowry.

The Adult Acute Mental Health Inpatient Facility has been designed to provide a welcoming and therapeutic environment for people experiencing mental illness and reflects an adult acute health care plan that incorporates key cultural elements.

The new facility will have eight internal courtyards, maximising natural light use, and will provide space for 64 beds.

A further programme of work to deliver additional community services is underway alongside the development of this facility.

The current Henry Rongomau Bennett Centre is no longer considered suitable for contemporary approaches to mental healthcare, making the new facility a much-needed addition.

The new facility is being built on the current site of the Waikato Regional Renal Centre.

It will be built in two phases, allowing the new renal centre to be completed first and the services to move across, making way for the mental health building.

We are in the process of confirming a construction contract for the mental health facility and it is expected an agreement will be able to be announced soon.

The renal building is expected to be completed in December 2024, with the mental health facility reaching practical completion in 2026.

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued again for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) and remains in place for Lakes Hakanoa, Whangape, Waikare and Kainui

Source: Waikato District Health Board

A health warning has as of today been placed on Lake Rotoroa. An earlier health warning had only been lifted recently on Thursday 28 September 2023. However, a highly unusual incidence of cyanobacterial species growth has occurred over the past few days, causing increased levels in more recent laboratory testing. The warning signs at the lake will continue to show the ‘Alert’ warning until two consecutive samples show that the risk has decreased.

Lakes Hakanoa, Whangape, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Cyanobacteria levels are regularly monitored at Lakes Rotoroa, Kainui, Rotokauri, Ngā Roto, Puketirini, Waikare, Whangape, Hakanoa and Waahi.

Dr Richard Vipond, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any recreational activity that involves contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Vipond.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes.

Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569

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New partnership halves fares to Waikato Hospital while protecting environment

Source: Waikato District Health Board

From 16 October access to Waikato Hospital will be easier for staff, patients and visitors thanks to a partnership between Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand and local councils.

Te Whatu Ora Waikato Operations Director for Clinical and Operational Support, Melinda Ch’Ng said the initiative will deliver a 50 percent discount on bus fares for people using their Bee Card to and from Waikato Hospital using the Pembroke St and Hague Rd bus stops.

“This initiative is aimed at improving equity of access to our hospital while contributing effectively to our carbon emission reduction goals.”

“Anyone travelling to and from the hospital using their Bee Card who tags on or off at the three bus stops near Waikato Hospital will automatically have the half price subsidy applied to the fare charged to their card, so it’s better for your wallet and, better for the environment.”

Te Whatu Ora will be covering the cost of concession for a trial of up to 12 months. Ms Ch’Ng said there was sound reasoning behind the investment.

“During the Government’s 50 percent public transport subsidy we saw a 28 percent increase in bus passengers travelling to or from the hospital and in partnership with the Waikato Regional Council, we want to build on that success.

“As an organisation we’re continuously seeking ways to mitigate the effects of population growth, lessen demand for onsite staff parking, care for our staff and help care for the environment by reducing single occupancy vehicle use, be that by staff, patients or visitors.”

The public transport fare subsidy initiative is part of Te Whatu Ora Waikato’s Sustainability Framework and the hospital’s Travel and Access Plan.

“One of the main goals of these strategies is improving access to transport for healthcare for priority populations and by keeping bus fares to and from the hospital affordable, it gives people healthier, more environmentally sustainable travel options.”

Waikato Regional Council’s public transport manager Trudi Knight said, “This is an operationally unique model in our corporate concession scheme that will deliver subsidised fares to passengers travelling to and from Waikato Hospital”.

“The scheme plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental consciousness, and in the case of Te Whatu Ora, it makes trips to the hospital easier and more affordable.”

The Pembroke St stops are serviced by the Comet, Orbiter, 12 Fitzroy, 24 Te Awamutu and 26 Te Kūiti, buses and the Hague Rd stop is serviced by the 25 Taumarunui bus. For more information about Hamilton and regional buses visit busit.co.nz or call 0800 205 305.