More room for CAN
Close to N$1.3 million is being invested by the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) to accommodate cancer patients receiving treatment.
Construction work commenced this week on a new patient accommodation wing at the House Acacia Interim Home in Windhoek.
According to CAN chief executive Rolf Hansen, there is an urgent need for cancer patient accommodation.
The new wing consists of three twin rooms and one ward unit, sleeping ten additional patients.
The nine-bed House Acacia was established in 1986 to accommodate out-of-town cancer patients, mainly from rural areas, undergoing treatment at the Dr AB May Cancer Centre at Windhoek Central Hospital.
A serious lack of space developed and the residence was extended to accommodate 21 beds.
In 2017 the matron’s unit was converted to accommodate two additional patients.
The centre provides three meals, linen and towels for free to cancer patients receiving treatment.
Patients are also transported free of charge to and from treatment centres daily.
According to Hansen the operational cost of the residence during the past financial year was more than N$640 000.
CAN covers House Acacia’s running costs by way of fundraising projects, donations and the support of the public.
“House Acacia offers sufficient space and quiet areas for privacy, reading and meditation. A pleasant lounge, with television, is available where patients can stay updated with current affairs or watch their favourite programmes.
“Patients often stay in Windhoek for up to six consecutive weeks for their treatment. Every effort is made to create a tranquil atmosphere, conducive to healing,” he said.
The acacia tree, which is able to grow a new branch if an old one is injured or removed, was chosen as a symbol that there is always hope after a cancer diagnosis.
STAFF REPORTER
Construction work commenced this week on a new patient accommodation wing at the House Acacia Interim Home in Windhoek.
According to CAN chief executive Rolf Hansen, there is an urgent need for cancer patient accommodation.
The new wing consists of three twin rooms and one ward unit, sleeping ten additional patients.
The nine-bed House Acacia was established in 1986 to accommodate out-of-town cancer patients, mainly from rural areas, undergoing treatment at the Dr AB May Cancer Centre at Windhoek Central Hospital.
A serious lack of space developed and the residence was extended to accommodate 21 beds.
In 2017 the matron’s unit was converted to accommodate two additional patients.
The centre provides three meals, linen and towels for free to cancer patients receiving treatment.
Patients are also transported free of charge to and from treatment centres daily.
According to Hansen the operational cost of the residence during the past financial year was more than N$640 000.
CAN covers House Acacia’s running costs by way of fundraising projects, donations and the support of the public.
“House Acacia offers sufficient space and quiet areas for privacy, reading and meditation. A pleasant lounge, with television, is available where patients can stay updated with current affairs or watch their favourite programmes.
“Patients often stay in Windhoek for up to six consecutive weeks for their treatment. Every effort is made to create a tranquil atmosphere, conducive to healing,” he said.
The acacia tree, which is able to grow a new branch if an old one is injured or removed, was chosen as a symbol that there is always hope after a cancer diagnosis.
STAFF REPORTER
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article