Construction is now underway on an expanded CancerCare Manitoba program space at Russell Health Centre that will improve access to chemotherapy in Russell and the surrounding region, Health Minister Audrey Gordon announced today.
In a media release Gordon said, “The new Community Cancer Care Centre will ensure more people in Russell and the surrounding region will be able to access the care they need, closer to home. Our government is healing health care and is pleased to support this community-driven project and we commend the efforts of everyone who worked to make this project a reality.”
The Expanding Community Cancer Care (ECCC) committee includes membership from the communities of Angusville, Beulah, Binscarth, Birtle, Foxwarren, Inglis, Langenburg, Sask., Roblin, Rossburn, Russell, St. Lazare, Shellmouth, Silverton, Solsgirth and Waywayseecappo that has collectively raised $1.8 million toward construction and equipment costs related to the expansion. The total project cost is estimated at $2.5 million. Last spring, the Manitoba government confirmed its commitment of $700,000 to support the remaining costs of this project.
“After more than eight years of fundraising for a new chemotherapy unit at the Russell Health Centre, we are delighted that our long-awaited project is now happening,” said Gloria Tibbatts, co-chair, ECCC committee. “Our dream is now a reality that will benefit many. We would like to thank the people from all around our region who have supported us. The power of community and of our donors has made this possible.”
Once complete, the project will add another 2,300 sq.-ft. to the health centre’s existing CancerCare Manitoba chemotherapy treatment space and include:
– replacement of the existing nursing station and medication storage area;
– creation of a dedicated patient washroom, nourishment area, and a small waiting area;
– improved patient privacy; and
– space for future expansion of treatment areas, if needed.
“CancerCare Manitoba is committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based care to all Manitobans where they live,” said Dr. Sri Navaratnam, president and CEO, CancerCare Manitoba. “This includes cancer prevention and early detection, cancer treatment, and patient support through our Hope and Healing Program. Providing this care locally can only be achieved by working together with our health partners, government and local communities. This expansion is a testament to this collaboration and the ongoing and generous support this community has provided to make this possible.”
Prairie Mountain Health has collaborated with health partners and stakeholders to plan for the necessary building planning, construction costs and associated timelines for this important capital project. The regional health authority will contribute annual operating costs for the expansion, including staffing and supplies.
“We are very grateful to the Expanding Community Cancer Care committee for their vision, hard work and dedication in fundraising for this cancer unit expansion,” said Brian Schoonbaert, chief executive officer, Prairie Mountain Health. “This is a true example of success when people and communities come together and contribute to such a worthy project. Cancer is a journey, and this new addition will better serve patients travelling for care in a more comfortable setting. We thank patients and the general public for their patience as we go through the construction phase and look forward to the opening of this new addition.”
Construction is expected to be completed in December, the minister said.
