PEOPLE living with a chronic illness such as asthma, arthritis, diabetes, epilepsy, heart failure, back pain and Multiple Sclerosis are being encouraged to sign up for free a course in Callington. The course consists of six two-hour sessions over six weeks with the Callington course running from October 24 to November 28. The Cornwall Expert Patient Programme works on the principle that those living with a long-term illness understand the consequences of living with this type of condition. The courses are run by qualified tutors are all graduates of the programme and have personal experience of chronic ill health. 'Many people who live with a long-term health condition – back pain, depression, diabetes and asthma for example do not identify themselves as having a chronic condition,' course tutor Jane Jackson said. 'The courses are free and feedback from previous attendees has shown that the benefits include less severe symptoms, less pain, improved life control and activity, and a higher level of satisfaction.' Each week, course attendees focus on a different aspect of living with a chronic illness. Anyone over the age of 18, in the districts of North Cornwall and Caradon and living with a chronic condition may apply for a place on the course by calling Jane Jackson at Launceston Hospital on (01566) 765650.
