Kidsgrove grandfather helping improve care for future patients through UHNM research

A grandfather from Kidsgrove is encouraging other patients to consider getting involved in research after taking part in several studies at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM).

Ian Holland, 75, has been receiving care from UHNM's renal team for eight years after developing kidney disease and needing dialysis treatment.

Ian, a retired precision sheet metal worker, has taken part in five studies whilst under the care of UHNM, and ahead of #Red4Research day on Friday 19 June is encouraging other patients to take part if given the opportunity.

Ian said: "In 2016 I was about to retire when I had a heart attack. I was able to get over that, but then I was told I had kidney failure.

“It runs in the family, my mum had it and my sister's got it too, but I’m the only one who’s ended up on dialysis.

"Since then I’ve been under the care of the renal team at the Royal Stoke University Hospital who have looked after really well.”

"I've taken part in several studies over the years and I've always been well looked after, the staff explain everything and support you throughout. If it helps other people in the future then I’m happy to take part.”

A research-active Trust, UHNM supports a wide range of studies across specialties including cancer, heart disease, stroke and children’s services.

Judy Lee, research practitioner, said: “Teams within renal research work with patients at different stages of chronic kidney disease, including those receiving dialysis treatment, helping to improve understanding of conditions and identify better ways to care for patients.

"Patients like Ian are incredibly important to us as their willingness to take part helps us answer important questions that could improve care for futures patients.

Anu Noble, research practitioner, said: "Many of the treatments and advances we have today only exist because patients before us chose to take part in research.

"Some people can be unsure about getting involved, but we're there to support patients every step of the way and answer any questions they may have. Research helps us learn more about conditions and treatments, and every participant plays an important role in helping improve care for future patients."

Ian added: "If you're fit enough and able to take part in research, I'd say consider it. Everything we have in healthcare today is because somebody, somewhere, agreed to take part."