News

Tenby mum urges others to join health research project

Published

7 years ago

May 27, 2017

Tom Sinclair

Tracey Evans: Urging others to take part in the health project

A TENBY MOTHER who suffers from psoriatic arthritis has joined a unique health research project in Wales to fight against major diseases and is urging others to do the same.

Tracey Evans, 44, has signed up to HealthWise Wales, a flagship Welsh study aiming to better understand the health and wellbeing of the nation, to help people feel more informed and less isolated when it comes to battling serious health problems.

People aged 16 and over and living in Wales are being asked to take 10 minutes to complete an online survey as part of HealthWise Wales, a project led by Cardiff and Swansea Universities and backed by the Welsh Government.

It is the first scheme in Wales to build a picture of future health needs. It collates detailed health and wellbeing information from people of all ages and backgrounds.

This information will then be used to plan future health services and invite people to take part in further relevant health research on specific conditions and their management and treatment.

Former legal secretary Tracey has suffered from the auto-immune disease psoriasis since she was 14 and arthritis since she was 18. Every month, Tracey has to have biological therapy in the form of an injection.

However, a side effect of the treatment is that it can mask other medical illnesses and, in 2016, Tracey nearly died after her gallbladder became infected and was on the verge of sepsis.

Due to the severity of the condition, Tracey had to have an eight-hour operation to remove her gallbladder and she was told by doctors that she would not have survived the weekend without the operation.

Tracey said: “When my illnesses flare up, which normally happens every six months or so, it’s so severe that I can barely leave the house. The last three years have probably been the worst but luckily my family and friends are hugely supportive – they’ve even helped spoon-feed me my Christmas dinner when I was too ill to feed myself.

“I’m on morphine and steroids every day and I had several toes amputated a few years ago. It affected my walking but I always use a stick anyway, to help with balance and I have a wheelchair at home for when I have a really bad spell.

“When I was first diagnosed as a teenager, I didn’t know anything about my illness. Over the years, I have discovered a lot but it’s been a long process so I want to share my information to hopefully help the next generation. Furthermore, my condition can be hereditary so I keep a close eye on my children, but signing up to the HealthWise Wales survey is just another way I can play a part in their futures.

“I filled in the initial form a few months ago and would be more than happy to help with further research.”

Those who register at www.healthwisewales.gov.wales will be contacted every six months to complete questions about their health and lifestyle and wellbeing, so that researchers can track changes in health and study how to prevent the onset of ill-health, treat and manage a range of health conditions. In addition, participants will also be contacted about new research studies that they can take part in if they wish to do so.

To find out more and to complete the survey, visit www.healthwisewales.gov.wales, or call the HealthWise Wales team on 0800 9 172 172/02920 768 090 between 8.00am and 7.00pm, Monday to Friday.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

9 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

9 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

10 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!