A new patient-led support initiative, Brum Buddies, has launched to help people aged 50 and over recover after major chest or lung surgery.
A new patient-led support initiative, Brum Buddies, has launched to help people aged 50 and over recover after major chest or lung surgery. The group - developed through a collaboration between the University of Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham, and Age UK Birmingham - provides a welcoming space for conversation, connection, and mutual support.
Meeting both online and in person, Brum Buddies offers a friendly environment where patients can share their stories, exchange recovery tips, and find encouragement from others who have experienced similar challenges. Sessions are free of charge, with fortnightly in-person meet-ups complete with tea, coffee, and conversation.
The idea was born out of a Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) meeting, where researchers noticed the power of peer connection during recovery discussions.
During one of our PPIE meetings, I overheard older patients exchanging recovery tips - practical, heartfelt advice you’d never find in a leaflet. That moment inspired a support group where lived experience leads the conversation. As a researcher focused on the neurobiology of patient recovery, it’s impossible to ignore the social side. I have no doubt that peer support and shared experience can be just as transformative as any biomarker.
The group aims to complement clinical care by offering social and emotional support beyond the hospital environment.
We are so pleased that the Brum Buddies group is up and running for chest and lung surgery patients. It’s very much needed. How wonderful that there is now somewhere for this patient group to meet new people, chat, and improve their wellbeing. We are so very grateful to Age UK Birmingham for supporting this opportunity
For clinicians involved in patient care, the initiative represents an important step toward holistic recovery - recognising that wellbeing extends beyond physical healing.
Getting better after chest or lung surgery takes time. While our doctors and nurses look after you very well, it really helps to talk to people who have gone through the exact same thing. I really want all our patients to join Birmingham Buddies. It's more than just a group; it's a friendly place where you can share your story, get support, and find helpful tips from others who truly understand. Joining your ‘Buddies’ can help you feel stronger and happier as you get back to normal.
Age UK Birmingham are delighted to be partnering with The University of Birmingham on the Brum Buddies project. Supporting people whilst they recover post operatively to maintain social connections is part vital part of recovery and we are proud to be connected to this project
When: Every Wednesday, 1–2:30 PM
Who: Anyone aged 50+ who has undergone major trauma, chest, or lung surgery
Format: Online and in-person (fortnightly meet-ups)
Cost: Free of charge
To register or find out more, contact Age UK Birmingham:
wellbeing@ageukbirmingham.org.uk
0121 437 0033
Professor of Translational Neuroscience
Professor Mazaheri's research primarily focuses on elderly patients diagnosed with cancer and undergoing major surgery.
