Raising awareness of pituitary is an ongoing task for us all. Through most people’s experiences who are involved with pituitary, it is a known fact that knowledge in both medical circles and the public at large has little understanding of pituitary disorders, or even where the Pituitary gland is, and what it does.

Raising awareness is vital for two reasons:

1. For those seeking a diagnosis. At this stage, your GP might not be aware that you could have a pituitary problem; by raising awareness at primary care level it can help to shorten diagnosis time. It isn't unusual for a person to suffer symptoms for up to (or even in excess of) 10 years without pituitary being considered.
2. For those pituitary patients on their journey. For better understanding of a person having a pituitary condition: their psychological well-being; relationship issues; employment issues; appropriate long-term care; education for clinicians treating you in emergency situations.

You might think that your effort would be seen as too small? You might not feel well enough to offer your help? You might not know what you can do to help?

Raising Awareness can be valuable by simply sending one letter to your GP. Here are some ideas that you might want to do, or, if you don’t feel able - you might have a family member, friend or colleague who would be happy to do them on your behalf:

• Take one of our GP Fact Files to your GP and hand-deliver it to him/her during your next appointment. 
  • Invite them to read it and let them know about our website which has a section for Medical Professionals.
• Have a good look at your endocrine clinic the next time you go. 
  • Does it have easily accessible Pituitary Foundation literature for pituitary patients? 
  • Are there Foundation posters up for patients to see so they know of our services? 
  • If not, tell your endocrine nurse that s/he can order posters and leaflets from The Foundation. They are free of charge (except postage and packing will be invoiced) and can be ordered online (include link) or they can email helpline@pituitary.org.uk or phone 0845 450 0376 to place their orders.
• Take part in our Awareness Week Walk " contact The Foundation for more details (helpline@pituitary.org.uk).
• Hold a coffee morning/afternoon tea for friends and neighbours " let us know you're doing it and we can send you general information brochures that you can give to your family and friends.
• Host a dinner party and charge guests £10 each to come and eat.
• Take part in a local run, marathon, bike ride, etc. and contact us before you do so you can wear a Pituitary Foundation t-shirt.
• Hold a quiz in your local club or pub.

This may all seem very simple but raising awareness for The Foundation, by simply holding local gatherings and telling friends and family about us, along with much-needed funds, goes a long way to getting the word "pituitary" on people’s minds!

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