Arlingham WI: A powerful talk on kidney research with Geoff Gidley

OUR October meeting was opened by our President, Chrissie, who informed us about the forthcoming events; these included a fundraising day for Denman, the County Quiz, a walk at Kemble and an embroidery workshop.

Following the Financial Report, our speaker for the evening, Geoff Gidley, gave a powerful talk on kidney research.

Kidney disease is progressive and will affect one in twenty of us, often with no warning signs.

The rate of decline varies from person to person but at present there is no cure.

Once diagnosed there are in effect three options; to do nothing (in which case you won’t survive), dialysis or transplant.

For the latter, the average waiting list in about three years.

Geoff explained how his wife became a living donor for him and that today with better anti-rejection drugs, it’s not essential to be closely related to the recipient.

However, it’s a serious operation for both parties and the recipient will need to take immune-suppressant drugs for the rest of their life.

Currently nine lives a day are saved by donation although three people unfortunately will die per day due to lack of organs.

Nationally 32 per cent of people have signed the Organ Donation Register although Gloucestershire is above average in that respect with around 58 per cent.

It is interesting that when questioned 96 per cent would happily accept an organ if it would save their life.

Although there are wonderful new developments that could see real change in the future such as growing organs from stem cells and 3D printing, this is all a long way off.

Geoff urged us all to at least have ‘the conversation’ with loved ones about our final wishes.

That decision could save someone’s life!

Jeanette gave the vote of thanks as we enjoyed sandwiches and cakes provided by Bronwen.

The competition for an item beginning with the letter W was won by Carol with some weighing scales, second place went to Bronwen with a watering can and in third place was Sue with some wool.

The flowers were given to Eve.

Our next meeting will be the AGM on November 10 and the competition will be something beginning with the letters XYZ.

New members and visitors are always welcome.

We meet on the second Thursday of the month at the village Hall at 7.30pm.