Record Staff
Following the outpouring of support from the community, St. Joseph’s General Hospital is now moving forward with an expansion to their Cancer Care Unit.
The expansion will involve securing a small area from the rehabilitation services department to allow more space to comfortably accommodate five treatment areas, a patient centre and room for additional equipment necessary to care for patients efficiently.
“We continue to be amazed and extremely grateful for the generosity shown by the community to our local hospital,” said Jane Murphy, president/CEO of the hospital.
Last week, RBC Foundation donated $20,000 to purchase new equipment for the unit. It has contributed more than $595,000 since 1996 to the hospital.
“Cancer affects everyone, our families, friends and co-workers,” explained Colleen Sawyer, Courtenay Royal Bank branch manager.
“Expanding the Cancer Care Unit will ensure the exceptional level of care can continue at St. Joseph’s.”
In 2007 when the unit opened, the hospital had more than 1,400 cancer care patient visits. Now, approximately 4,700 patient visits will be supported annually.
The renovation will provide the space needed to help ensure cancer patients can be treated in a comfortable environment, free from overcrowding.
The budget for the renovation and equipment is $130,000, with work underway; it is expected to be complete by late-spring.