Help Table to help Komani

EVERY month, some members of Round Table visit patients in four of the wards at Komani Hospital. Originally, this project began when there was a question whether the meals were sufficient for patients, but that time is long past and new management at the psychiatric hospital has made a difference and meals are nutritious and plentiful.

So the Tablers take treats to spoil the patients now. They take donated items such as hot cross buns at Easter time, yogurt and chips from various businesses in town.

Patients have varying levels of ability and different reactions to the visits, but one thing is guaranteed in every ward, every month - the patients and nurses appreciate the breath of fresh air.

These goodies are fleeting, though, and Round Table would like to add more long-term benefit to the hospital, so their latest venture is to beautify the women’s ward which is current- ly a drab-looking section. Paint, vinyl stickers for wall decoration, curtain rails, curtains and magazines are being collected from donors so that a few patients’ stay at the institution is a little more comfortable.

Five years ago, Round Table redecorated the lounge in the children’s ward and today, the cheerful wall décor remains.

When visiting, it has been noted that some patients have ill-fitting clothing and shoes, so Round Table has made an effort to provide takkies to a few individuals. They would welcome donations of gently worn clothing, especially warm winter items for both men and women, as well as soft footwear in good condition.

Readers who have items that would be suitable should please contact a Round Tabler or a Gem to arrange for collection for the patients at Komani. We are all part of the community, which means helping those who are not able to help themselves.