A charity appeal from County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust is raising funds to extend and improve the facilities in the Chemotherapy day unit at University Hospital of North Durham.
Beth Gibson, manager of the chemotherapy unit, explains, “Cancer screening, increased public awareness alongside advancements in investigations, such as MRI scans and CT scans, means many patients are diagnosed earlier. As developments in medicine continue, treatment options become more readily available on the NHS and with the introduction of immunotherapy and targeted treatments; more patients are able to receive additional treatment options than they were 10 years ago for example. Patients are living longer with a cancer diagnosis and whilst this is fantastic news for those diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment, the rising demand and availability of treatment comes with a growing pressure on available facilities, especially in small day units like ours at University Hospital of North Durham. This mounting demand on capacity has now reached saturation and unfortunately our unit is now too small to be able to cope with ever-increasing number of patients requiring treatment, without compromising on their privacy and dignity”.
“Our aim is to give patients and their families’ treatment in a purpose built centre, focussed on providing a relaxing and calm environment whilst preserving their privacy and dignity, welcoming and warm surroundings that our patients deserve”.
“Provisional plans for the purpose built unit will include a dedicated area with 16 treatment chairs and ample space to allow relatives and friends to be with the patient for the duration of the treatment. Currently due to space being so limited relatives are only able to come along to the first treatment session, so under our new plans loved ones will be able to be with our patients during often lengthy treatment sessions. Draft plans also include a dedicated reception area, three outpatient clinic rooms, an quiet room, a phlebotomy room, a triage bay, a large procedure room and greatly improved staff facilities”.
Charity manager at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, Pat Chambers, said, “We’re delighted with the enthusiasm and support our Appeal is receiving from people who’ve been affected by cancer and wish to give something back and from people generally of all ages and backgrounds who recognise the need for our facilities to be extended. I’d urge anyone looking to support this worthwhile cause to get in touch. You could help out at one of our events or run a fundraising event of your own. We can help with suggestions and advice.”
To contact the Charity Team: email: cddft.charity@nhs.net or phone: 01325 743781.
