The community has dug deep and donated more than $50,000 to the oncology department at the Kyneton Health campus.
Central Highlands Rural Health put the call out for help to purchase a scalp cooler for patients and the target was reached when members of the Kyneton Uniting Church Community Op Shop asked how much was needed and gave an incredible $17,847.55!
Susan Whitfield, CHRH’s acting director of clinical operations, said they were thrilled to have received so much support.
“Our oncology team will undertake training in the use of the scalp cooler and then it will be introduced to our patients,” Ms Whitfield said.
“We know that locals have been travelling to other health services to gain access to a scalp cooler and we are grateful that we can now enhance our care at Kyneton Health.”
Oncology nurses at the health service requested the ‘scalp cooling machine’ to minimise the impact of cancer treatment and support patient wellbeing. Patients receiving chemotherapy treatment often experience hair loss, which can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally distressing.
Kathleen Wyatt, Kyneton Uniting Church Community Op Shop, said the Op Shop volunteers prided themselves on supporting their local community.
“Christine Stephenson, one of our volunteers, has been a patient at the Oncology Unit. She has shared that the loss of your hair during treatment impacts your dignity,” Ms Wyatt said.
“For country people to have the same opportunities as city people, taking the travel out of treatment eases the financial burden as well as easing the physical impact on the patient, their family and friends.”
CHRH’s The Best Care Project welcomes donations to enhance healthcare for rural Victorians. If you can make a one-off or regular donation, visit Kyneton Health’s reception, contact Kathryn Kosloff, engagement and fundraising manager on 0439 705 039, email giving@chrh.org.au or visit www.chrh.org.au/donate
