The Patient Network Group (PNG) is pleased to publish Paul Phillips’ story of his experiences with parenteral nutrition, the first in a series from people living with home artificial nutrition (HAN). The release coincides with the start of HAN Week, an annual milestone dedicated to raising awareness about essential nutritional treatments.

Paul Phillips, based in Wales, kindly shared his story – from first receiving total parenteral nutrition in hospital after surgery, to how the treatment has enabled him to live life independently. His story is available to read here.

Carolyn Wheatley, Chair of the PNG SIG and PINNT – the charity that runs HAN Week – commented,

“I’m delighted to have BAPEN’s support of Home Artificial Nutrition Week, and it’s been a privilege to work with Paul on sharing his story and experiences of parenteral nutrition. It’s so important that we raise awareness of these essential treatments that can be both lifesaving and life transforming – helping people to live their lives outside of a hospital setting. I encourage you to get involved with HAN Week, help spread our message, and take the time to read Paul’s story.“

The PNG is a special interest group made up of representatives from BAPEN, and each of the Core Groups. By sharing this initial story, along with those to follow, we aim to communicate the experiences of people who receive artificial nutrition; oral nutritional supplements, parenteral nutrition, or enteral nutrition. In doing so, we can help to show others who may be embarking on these treatments how they can adjust and adapt, as well as encouraging open conversations about artificial nutrition.

If you or someone you know may be interested in sharing their story as part of this PNG-led activity, please contact bapen@mandfhealth.com to find out more.