The $8.3 million centre will move cancer and dialysis treatment out of an outdated part of the hospital into a purpose-built, modern building and provide more capacity for locals to receive treatment closer to home.
Construction of the building is under way but ERH needs to raise $1.3 million for the fitout and completion of the wellness part of the centre.
So far, with the help of the community and local organisations, almost $1 million has been raised.
“If people feel they are able to donate at this time it will help us deliver holistic, high-quality cancer care all in one place,” ERH medical day treatment manager Lyn Jeffreson said.
“It might be an alternative Christmas present or for someone who’s hard to buy for consider a donation in someone’s honour or memory.
“It’s good to see the project continue to progress in a tough year right across all sectors, for individuals and organisations.
“To see the project coming along so quickly is fantastic but we do need to achieve our fundraising goal to finish it.”
Fundraising co-ordinator Shari Butcher said they could not thank the community enough for the generous contributions to date — ensuring ERH could bring the new space to life for cancer and dialysis patients and their families.
“Throughout the month of December, we will share stories, project updates and the different ways you can donate or raise funds to support our new centre which will support our community now and into the future,” she said.
“After what has been a challenging two years for functions and events due to COVID-19, we have some wonderful events being held in the first half of 2022 and thank the local community for hosting these events to help us reach our fundraising goal.”
Ms Jeffreson also thanked June Dyson, ERH’s executive director of nursing, who retired at the end of November.
“June has been integral to this project being successful in attracting funding,” she said.
“She was part of the design team, and her energy, enthusiasm and ability to think ahead and be so community-minded has seen this project come through.”
To donate to the ERH Cancer and Wellness Centre, visit www.erh.org.au/cancerandwellness or contact the Cancer and Wellness Fundraising Co-ordinator on (03) 5485 5087 or cancerandwellness@erh.org.au
