As the region’s only public oncology hospital, Calvary Mater Newcastle diagnoses and treats thousands of patients every year, many of whom travel a great distance to receive their treatment.

From Monday to Friday, the Day Treatment Centre is a hive of activity as on average 40 patients per day are administered chemotherapy.

For anyone who has undergone cancer treatments, or has been close to someone who has, you will appreciate how gruelling the experience can be.

Kelly Randall, Day Treatment Centre Nursing Unit Manager, says, “Thanks to Dry July supporters, Calvary Mater Newcastle was able to purchase 10 iPads to help entertain patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. The iPads help alleviate our patient’s boredom and helps to refocus their attention while undergoing treatment. The iPads are extremely popular and bring comfort to our patients when they need it most.”

The Day Treatment Centre’s Patient Waiting Room and Education Room also underwent a makeover to make it more homely and comfortable for patients and their family members. Gone is the room’s previously sterile walls and clinical feel and in its place is a bright, welcoming, comfortable environment.

The Education Room, used by nurses to consult with patients, has also benefitted from a makeover. It now provides a comfortable and practical environment for these conversations to take place.

Kelly says, “The refurbishment of this room is a fantastic addition to our department. We now have comfortable furniture and great storage, all with that homely feel.

“We want our patients to feel as comfortable as possible and with these refurbishments; we are able to provide that environment. Thank you Dry Julyers.”