Patient support

Support Services

Being diagnosed with leukaemia or a related blood disorder can be overwhelming, and coming to terms with it can create many challenges. Our aim is to ease some of this burden. In addition to assisting those undergoing treatment, we also provide support to families who experience difficulties when a loved one becomes ill.

Offering a comprehensive array of services, ranging from someone at the end of the phone you can speak with to more practical help, we work closely with doctors, nurses and social workers to provide the highest standard of care possible.

How we help

Our programmes include:

Patient support: For many people, initial diagnosis leads to an array of questions and having someone to talk to who understands some of the issues and challenges can be hugely beneficial. Our Support Services Co-ordinators can help in a number of ways including sourcing practical help, financial assistance and information on specific diseases and treatments. To find out more about this service call 0800 15 10 15.

Financial assistance: The suddenness with which these diseases strike can often put enormous financial strain on people. To those experiencing difficulties we may be able to offer support including food or petrol vouchers, or help with paying utility bills. Each case is assessed on an individual basis.

Support groups: We run a number of support groups which provide a safe environment for people who are going through similar experiences. They can come together and learn more about their condition, so that they can make informed choices about their disease. These groups are open to existing people undergoing treatment as well as survivors. Click here for more information.

Advocacy: We represent the needs of patients and their families to the Government, related agencies and other relevant bodies. Click here for more information.

Educational materials: We produce a series of 10 patient information booklets and can provide information on other related blood disorders, to help aid understanding about these diseases.

To find out more about our Support Services call us on 0800 15 10 15 or email lbf@leukaemia.org.nz.