Chemo unit refresh provides sanctuary for cancer patients

A hospital unit in Gateshead has had a full makeover and refurbishment – offering a sanctuary for cancer patients on their treatment journey.

The team who work on the chemotherapy day unit
Michele Hughes and the staff who work on the chemotherapy day unit

The chemotherapy day unit, which is based inside the Tranwell unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, has had a complete refurbishment to make it more comfortable for patients and staff.

Patients can now undertake their chemotherapy sessions in a brand-new treatment area, which provides comfortable seating in a modern, bright environment.

Chemotherapy often involves several treatment sessions, typically spread over a few months.

Michele Hughes, chemotherapy services manager, said: “I’m thrilled that we have this beautiful new space in which to provide excellent care to our patients. We’re a local site for local people and we’re proud to offer such a high-quality service from a relatively small hospital site.

“We carry out roughly 9500 treatments every year – so having a comfortable, modern environment is a key part of making sure our patients feel comfortable and supported every step of the way. Post-covid we’re also looking into bringing back our holistic therapies and art projects to make patients much more comfortable.”

The unit’s outdoor space has also had a complete transformation which was funded by the hospital’s charity, QE Charitable Funds, and completed using kind donations from local businesses and people.

The chemo unit garden has seating, as well as flower-filled planters and landscaped areas for patients to enjoy.

Clare King, charitable funds manager, says: “The garden looks beautiful and we’re so happy that patients have a nice outdoor area to use. We would like to thank Dale Carver, Prudhoe Timber and Jack & Jo’s Plant Nursery for their kind donations of garden furniture, flowers and plants, and their time in helping to make the garden look amazing.”