The Macarthur community is invited to have its say on the proposal of the new Macarthur Cancer Wellness Centre, designed to help support local cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones.
The Community Information Forum, to be held on Tuesday, March 3, at Campbelltown Catholic Club, is an opportunity for the public to learn more about the centre proposed to be built on Menangle Road.
Fundraising has been underway for the centre so that it can be built to support patients, survivors and their families with information, advice, psychological support and tailored programs following cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Camden and Campbelltown Hospital’s Director of Macarthur Cancer Therapy Centre, associate professor Stephen Della-Fiorentina, said the number of patients surviving their cancer is growing and they need to be supported.
“Currently, approximately 65 per cent of patients will live longer than five years after their cancer diagnosis and the vast proportion of these patients are cured from their cancer,” Mr Della-Fiorentina said.
“Facilities such as these are vital in ensuring their recovery is as smooth as possible.
“Cancer survivors, and those who have completed treatment, have specific ongoing needs that are best addressed in a comprehensive cancer wellness centre.
“A purpose-built wellness centre provides a greater focus on additional support services in a more comfortable setting, away from the hospital environment where patients underwent their acute treatment.
“As well as supporting people living with cancer, we hope that this facility will also be responsible for undertaking research to improve understanding of cancer survivorship problems and help to find solutions
“Coordinating services under one roof for patients and families after a cancer diagnosis will improve quality of life and recovery for the patients of Macarthur, Wollondilly and Wingecarribbee,” he said.
The proposed design for the Camden Centre includes:
Reception and Waiting Area
Resource Centre
Kitchen
Large multi-purpose media rooms
Gymnasium
Therapy rooms
Large clinic/treatment rooms
Shower/change rooms with disabled access
Relaxation gardens and outdoor areas
To donate call 9616 4471 or visit www.swslhd.nsw.gov.au/cancer/support.html
Forum details:
The Community Forum will be held on Tuesday, March 3 between 6:30pm and 8:30pm at Campbelltown Catholic Club.
