Appeal reaches £2 million landmark – but still more to do
Fundraisers are celebrating after the appeal to build the new NGS Macmillan Unit at Chesterfield Royal Hospital today passed £2 million. With the centre expected to be completed in Spring 2017, Macmillan is appealing for local people to help raise the remaining amount.
Currently cancer care and treatment is given from different clinics across the Chesterfield Royal hospital site, and the chemotherapy unit is no longer large enough for the number of patients it sees. There is also only a limited information service.
The new state of the art centre will provide all cancer services and treatment in one place, delivered by a team of specialists. There will be an increase from 8 to 25 chemotherapy chairs / beds, plus a specialist Macmillan information and support service which will offer cancer information, benefits advice, emotional support and also signpost patients to other local services such as support groups.
Steve Loane, Area Fundraising Manager for Macmillan in Derbyshire, said:-
“Being diagnosed with cancer is the toughest fight many people will ever face, so I am absolutely delighted that we have hit the £2 million mark.
“The response from the local community has been incredible. We’ve had local companies, groups, clubs and individuals organise events and take on personal challenges to help us raise the money. We just need one final push to help us raise the remaining amount, so if you can get involved please get in touch with us.
“The National Garden Scheme donated £1.5 million towards the new centre. There are 70 gardens in the Derbyshire area and a portion of the money raised locally from all of these gardens openings has contributed to this donation to help the people of Derbyshire.”
Dr Roger Start, Lead Cancer Clinician at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital, said:-
“This is a really exciting development for the hospital, our patients and the local community. By working in partnership with Macmillan we will create a really special cancer centre that will absolutely enhance the fantastic work our cancer teams do. It’s a massive ask but I’m convinced people will be behind the plans and fundraising campaign.”
