Be a healthy hero, not a superman, this Father’s Day
Last year, The Alfred provided care to more than 8,000 trauma patients – more than any other hospital in Australia.
With men over-represented in these figures, they are once again being urged to keep better tabs on their health, and take less risks, as The Alfred gears up for its annual Father’s Day Appeal, presented by Bulla Family Dairy.
Emergency and trauma physician, Dr Joseph Mathew said a momentary decision can have a lifelong impact – and has the potential to change a family forever.
“We see more men than women in our trauma centre, and the number is growing,” Dr Mathew said.
“People who would have once died at the scene of a car accident are now more likely to survive their injuries thanks to improved vehicle safety, and advances in pre-hospital and trauma care."
While car accidents often feature in the news, one-in-three patients who need The Alfred's trauma care have been injured by the impact of a fall.
“Don’t assume you can continue to be superman beyond-65. As your physiological function and your reflexes change, so does your ability to correct your balance," Dr Mathew said.
“The good news is men and women can avoid the devastating outcomes of poor decision-making by pausing before they act. When in doubt, think again, or ask for help.”
In response to growing patient numbers, funds raised by this year’s appeal will support the expansion of our trauma service, which will also include The Alfred’s first purpose-built facility dedicated to promoting early recovery after trauma.
Brett Mumford is one dad who benefitted from the specialist trauma care at The Alfred.
Brett was admitted to the Victorian Adult Burns unit on August 13 after he accidentally set himself alight. The dad-of-two was attempting to get his backyard firepit started when disaster struck.
Support the Father’s Day Appeal by making a donation, listen to 3AW broadcasting live from The Alfred (1 Sept and 3 Sept) or pick up a copy of the Healthy Men booklet at Dulux Trade centres, HealthSmart Pharmacies, Thomson Real Estate offices, Bunnings stores, and Michel’s Patisseries throughout Victoria.
To make a donation visit www.alfredfoundation.org.au or phone 1800 888 878.
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