Devenish’s June Howard has been forced to travel to Wangaratta three times a week for dialysis treatment since being diagnosed.
A fierce advocate for the community, Ms Howard spoke to Nationals candidate for the state seat of Euroa Annabelle Cleeland in early September to call for a commitment to get dialysis treatment in Benalla.
With the assistance of Ms Cleeland, current Member for Euroa Steph Ryan, Liberal candidate for Euroa Brad Hearn and Nationals deputy leader Emma Kealy she has secured that promise.
She now plans to put pressure on the state Labor Party to ensure no matter what the result is in November, dialysis treatment will be available at Benalla Health.
Ms Howard said access to treatment in Benalla would be life-changing.
“I’ll be on to the Labor Party now, I promise you that,” she said.
“I’m overwhelmed, proud and happy at this announcement.
“It would take so much stress off me, and my family.
“Coming to Benalla to have my dialysis will make my life much easier and more comfortable."
Ms Kealy made the announcement alongside Ms Cleeland and Mr Hearn at Benalla Health on Tuesday, September 27.
“Annabelle has advocated passionately for this project, which will mean locals can get the treatment they need closer to home,” Ms Kealy said.
“Rather than having to travel three times a week for essential treatment, Benalla residents will have accessible and local dialysis with the Nationals in government.
“This is another example of the Nationals listening to our constituents and investing in their priorities.”
Ms Cleeland said she was motivated to push for the commitment after listening to the experiences of Ms Howard.
“This $1.5 million commitment will see four chairs installed in Benalla, so locals no longer need to travel to Wangaratta for dialysis,” Ms Cleeland said.
“June, like many others in our community, is travelling three days a week to receive treatment in Wangaratta. Not only is that a huge expense but the travel also consumes a great deal of her time.
“Basing chairs at Benalla Health will be life-changing to anyone needing dialysis.”
Mr Hearn said the Victorian Government had neglected regional healthcare in Benalla.
“I have been a strong advocate for further investment in healthcare in Benalla, and this announcement today is a major step forward to supporting the health of our community,” Mr Hearn said.
“Both my grandfathers passed away in this hospital. I have worked these wards and supported families in these halls.
“Committing $1.5 million into improving Benalla Health is a great first step to increasing access to health(care) in the country.
“The Liberals will invest in regional healthcare to address the health crisis and provide a well-rounded service that can be used by every local.”