Vital medical equipment to help patients with chronic lung conditions has recently been purchased by the Millicent Respiratory Support Group (MRSG) thanks to three local groups.

The generosity of the local community of Millicent allowed the group to raise more than $4000 this year and the new portable oxygen concentrator will be loaned out and put to good use.

The MRSG already had $1240 and the remaining cost was met by donations from the Millicent Uniting Church ($1000), Millicent Lions Club ($2000) and the Lions Club of Wattle Range Lioness ($1050).

Country Health Connect Limestone Coast respiratory nurse Jodie Collins said the oxygen concentrator could be booked out for trips to Adelaide.

She said it was the size of a back-pack and performed the same function as bulky oxygen tanks.

“The MRSG is extremely appreciative of the donations by the Uniting Church, Lions and Lioness clubs,” Ms Collins said.

“The new oxygen generator will help further improve the health outcomes of people living with chronic lung conditions.

“Most of the MSRG members are current clients of Country Health Connect and some utilise home oxygen therapy.”

The role of Ms Collins is to facilitate a monthly respiratory support group to provide education and peer support to members of the local community regarding their chronic lung conditions.

Previous years have seen the MRSG raise funds and accept donations to be able to purchase a variety of useful equipment for the good of local respiratory disease sufferers.

The list includes an exercise bike and treadmill for use in pulmonary rehabilitation programs, another portable oxygen concentrator and equipment for Banksia House.

The group holds regular monthly meetings with guest speakers and participation in education and information sessions, social and recreational activities as well as offering member-to-member support.

The MRSG also encourages and supports rehabilitation exercise programs.

Anyone interested in joining the group can attend meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 3pm in Banksia House, Millicent.