PATIENTS suffering from chronic lung disease are set to benefit from new diagnostic equipment and information and support, through the efforts of a Newport charity.

The Newport Breathe Easy group, one of 19 in Wales and more than 200 across the UK, has embarked on a two-pronged campaign to raise its own profile, while providing specialists with more equipment.

The group - like the others, sponsored by the British Lung Foundation - officially launched last summer and Margaret Zier, who chairs it, said that after a slow start momentum is increasing.

"Our aim is to support all those in the Newport area who suffer from lung disease. We also want to raise issues relating to treatment and to increase understanding and awareness of what it is like to live with a chronic lung disease."

A £2,190 grant from Awards For All Wales will buy a computer, printer, promotional banners and stands, publicity material and fund transport costs.

It will also help pay for information leaflets and newsletters the group hopes to distribute through hospitals, GP and dental surgeries, clinics and other health facilities.

"We're getting vital backing and are very grateful for the support we have had. It helps us in our turn provide support for patients," said Mrs Zier, from Allt-yr-yn, Newport, who suffers from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive and incurable lung-hardening disease.

The group also aims to help purchase new equipment for the Royal Gwent Hospital's respiratory department.

  • Newport Breathe Easy group meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 2pm at the St Julius and Aaron Church in Wales Hall, Heather Road, Newport. Further information is available from Mrs Zier on 01633 246330.