Double your money is the message of an appeal launched to transform the look and feel of a cancer ward.
Anyone who donates to the Cancer and Haematology Day Treatment Unit at Oxford’s Churchill Cancer Centre between December 5 and 9 will have their money match-funded under the Big Give charity scheme.
Marianne Julebin, of the hospital’s charity, said: “The fantastic thing about it is that if someone donates £10, under this scheme, it automatically doubles to become £20, while £50 becomes £100.
“But it’s essential to act quickly as the Big Give scheme only lasts for one week, starting from 10am on Monday, December 5 and ending at 5pm on Friday, December 9. And the earlier in the day, the earlier in the week the better, as matched funds are on a first-come, first-served basis.”
Ward sister Elizabeth Flanagan and manager of the Day Treatment Unit, Jane Skelly, are two of those leading the drive to create a more welcoming and positive feel to the Cancer and Haematology Day Treatment Unit by adding colourful artwork to provide comfort and distraction for patients.
Ms Julebin said: “The unit consists of one long horseshoe-shaped room accommodating 30 chairs and 12 beds. There is little artwork or distractions, the windows are very high so patients can't look out and the furniture is not ideal.
“The feedback is that the room could be more welcoming. When patients are coming for quite distressing treatment it is hugely important to improve their experience as much as we can. The aim is to make the area more sensitive to patients and those working and visiting there to create a more pleasant, restful space that lifts spirits and promotes healing.”
To donate, visit www.ouh.nhs.uk/charity and click the button to donate online via The Big Give, or call 01865 231523.
