Big Red Kidney Bus stops in Torquay

THE Big Red Kidney Bus (BRKB) holiday dialysis project – a joint venture between Monash Health and Kidney Health Australia – has stopped off in Torquay and will remain on Bell Street until early next month.

Now in its fifth year of operation, the bus program has been designed to provide a mobile haemodialysis service so people with kidney disease can enjoy a holiday while still receiving treatment.

The BRKB hosted a morning tea on Tuesday May 7 to welcome patients, families and staff to see the second bus in action.

Since its arrival on April 29, the bus has been quite popular, with many patients paying visit to make use of the transporting facility.

The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee attended the morning tea event as well as patients who were dialysing on the day, and other patients who will be dialysing before the bus hits the road for Swan Hill.

Shepparton resident Victor used the bus for the first time last week and was very hesitant about jumping on board.

Victor has been on dialysis for the last 12 months and ended up booking in to BRKB after his wife, Karen, heard about its services.

After giving the bus a go, Victor said he would happily use it again.

He is considering booking in for the Warrnambool bus when it is there in November.

The BRKB is touring Victoria this year and has so far spent time in Melbourne, Lakes Entrance and Torquay. It will be located at 35 Bell Street until Saturday June 1.