Care coordinator | AVA Support Group | Beinke Bequest Fund
Care Coordinator
We have a Care Coordinator who can help those affected by asbestos and silica-related diseases navigate their illness and treatment
This can be either individual support or via a group setting.
AVA Support Groups
Belonging to an AVA SA support group gives South Australian residents a friendly environment to interact with others. Support groups help you to feel less isolated, gain empowerment and recapture hope. The diagnosis of an asbestos related disease can be devastating. At first you may feel unable to cope, have a sense of disbelief, or fear that you are suffering alone. You are not alone. We care.
AVA SA support groups are for those affected by asbestos-related disease and their families and friends – all are welcome.
How a support group can help:
If you are a South Australian resident, AVA SA volunteers can put you in touch with others who are going through similar experiences, or who have already walked in your shoes, and can provide understanding and support.
You may be able to connect with others who are dealing with similar issues and learn how they manage their condition. Talking with others about your treatment, fears and concerns helps to reduce stress levels.
Many people put on a brave face in front of friends and family. A support group offers a safe environment to talk about your issues and feelings without needing to protect those around you.
Social mornings
Contact us, so we can connect you with a social group near you
Monthly social mornings are held at AVA SA for people affected by asbestos related disease, and their family members. Here you can share stories and make friends in a relaxed environment. Our team can help you understand the situation, which can help to reduce fear and anxiety, and are happy to visit you, at home or in hospital, where practicable. You can also learn about current medical research, information about drugs used in treatment and possible side effects
Beinke Bequest Fund
If you have an asbestos disease and live outside the metropolitan area, AVA may be able assist you and your family with the costs of travel and accommodation. This could include overnight stays, petrol, taxi fares or similar.
These funds are available due to the generosity of Peter Beinke, who made a bequest to AVA in his will to help with expenses for people diagnosed with an asbestos related disease who had to travel to access medical treatment or legal advice. Peter was an Adelaide man who undertook an electrical apprenticeship in the 1970s. While working as an electrician he was exposed to asbestos, which eventually lead to his death from mesothelioma in 2014.
Peter loved to crochet and often brought his latest project into the AVA office so he could keep his hands busy while chatting to others. He was always happy to teach others how to wield a crochet hook too! AVA volunteers attended his funeral service where family members and friends joined in celebrating his life. There was a big tub of beanies at his funeral, all crocheted by Peter, as mementos for people to take away.
Peter understood the added expense for patients who had to travel to Adelaide for treatment, in particular the cost of travel and accommodation. His bequest to AVA was intended to help in such circumstances. If you think you could be eligible for financial assistance from the Beinke Bequest, please contact us.
Download the Beinke bequest fund brochure here . . .