Life is precious: Cancer Society
When dealing with cancer, having a place for support, advice and information is paramount.
“More precious” is the catchphrase for the Cancer Society’s campaign to raise the $3.5 million required to complete its new cancer centre in Papanui.
“Over a decade after losing our old premises in the earthquakes, our new centre is due to open its doors in May next year,” says Nicola Coom, Chief Executive of the Cancer Society’s Canterbury-West Coast Division.
“It aims to be the first of its kind, providing integrated support for patients from across the South Island.” she says.
The building will include the largest accommodation facility available for South Island cancer patients. Up to 50 families can stay while their one of their loved ones are having treatment. There will also be a new cancer hub providing a range of support services – from nutrition and counselling to massage and financial advice – and a ‘Park and Ride’ shuttle service will transport patients to their hospital appointments and back again.”
Nicola says that one of the big drivers for the centre has been the increased rate of cancer diagnoses. This year alone, 26,000 New Zealanders will learn they have cancer, and this number is set to double in the next decade.
“So we are preparing for the future with the new centre and taking a collaborative approach where everyone involved in the cancer sector can work together.”
