Corporate News

Jockey Club helps set up first resource centre for arthritis patients

10/20/2012

People suffering from arthritis and rheumatism now have new hope for relief with the opening of the Hong Kong Arthritis & Rheumatism Foundation (HKARF) Jockey Club Patient Resource and Training Centre at Nam Shan Estate in Sham Shui Po.  The Club’s Charities Trust donated HK$1.65 million to HKARF to renovate and fit out the Centre, the first of its kind in the city.

The Centre was officially opened today (20 October) by the Club’s Executive Director, Charities, Douglas So, Secretary for Food and Health Dr Ko Wing-man, HKARF Hon Presidents Dr Tam Wah-ching and Lee Man-ban as well as Chairman David Yau.

Noting the Foundation’s pioneering efforts to enhance public understanding of arthritis and rheumatism and improve the physical and mental health of patients, Mr So said, “We understand the importance of mutual support for patients, that’s why the Club backs such self-help organisations.  While there is currently no cure for arthritis and rheumatism, we believe the Centre can make a huge difference to the well-being of these patients through their comprehensive services including physical and psychological support.”

HKARF Chairman David Yau expressed his heartfelt thanks for the Trust’s donation, enabling HKARF to provide better support to patients.

With an area of 1,400 sq ft, the Jockey Club Resource and Training Centre is able to provide comprehensive services to patients through the offices of HKARF and three self-help organisations of people with chronic illnesses, namely Hong Kong Rheumatoid Arthritis Association, Hong Kong Ankylosing Spondylitis Association and Hong Kong Psoriatic Arthritis Association. 

The renovated centre is equipped with a resource library containing educational materials and a reading area for patients.  It also provides meeting rooms and activity rooms for volunteer training, pain management workshops, programmes for physiotherapy as well as occupational therapy training and exercise classes.  Educational talks and promotional events will be organised to enhance public awareness of arthritis and rheumatism.  It is expected to benefit over 12,000 patients and their family members as well as the public through various programmes.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club

Founded in 1884, The Hong Kong Jockey Club is not only one of the world's leading horse racing organisations but also a world top 15 charitable organisation and Hong Kong’s largest community contributor, donating HK$1.7 billion in 2012. It is also a major taxpayer, Hong Kong's single largest by far, generating over HK$16 billion a year for public funds. The Club pioneers technology applications for sporting and betting entertainment, striving for the highest levels of customer service. As a membership club, it is recognised as one of Asia’s most prestigious, with more than 23,000 members. These multifaceted roles make it a well-respected and remarkable organisation, dedicated to its mission of enhancing the quality of life for all Hong Kong people.

The Cluba£į?s Executive Director, Charities, Douglas So believes that while there is no cure for arthritis and rheumatism, the Centre can provide comprehensive services to patients including physical and psychological support.
The Cluba£į?s Executive Director, Charities, Douglas So believes that while there is no cure for arthritis and rheumatism, the Centre can provide comprehensive services to patients including physical and psychological support.

The Cluba£į?s Executive Director, Charities, Douglas So (centre), Secretary for Food and Health Dr Ko Wing-man (3rd right), HKARF Hon Presidents Dr Tam Wah-ching (2nd right) and Lee Man-ban (3rd left) as well as Chairman David Yau (2nd left) attend the opening ceremony of the Jockey Club Patient Resource and Training Centre.
The Cluba£į?s Executive Director, Charities, Douglas So (centre), Secretary for Food and Health Dr Ko Wing-man (3rd right), HKARF Hon Presidents Dr Tam Wah-ching (2nd right) and Lee Man-ban (3rd left) as well as Chairman David Yau (2nd left) attend the opening ceremony of the Jockey Club Patient Resource and Training Centre.

Photos 3, 4<br>
Officiating guests perform the traditional roast pig cutting (photo 3) and eye-dotting ceremonies (photo 4).
Photos 3, 4
Officiating guests perform the traditional roast pig cutting (photo 3) and eye-dotting ceremonies (photo 4).


The Cluba£į?s Executive Director, Charities, Douglas So (centre) receives a souvenir from HKARF ambassadors Carol Chan (left) and John Sin (right). They also share their experiences with the guests.
The Cluba£į?s Executive Director, Charities, Douglas So (centre) receives a souvenir from HKARF ambassadors Carol Chan (left) and John Sin (right). They also share their experiences with the guests.

Photos 6, 7<br>
Patients receive physiotherapy training at the Jockey Club Patient Resource and Training Centre.
Photos 6, 7
Patients receive physiotherapy training at the Jockey Club Patient Resource and Training Centre.


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