Richard Parker, Chief Executive, and I were fortunate to be visited this week by key fundraisers from the Doncaster Cancer Detection Trust (DCDT).
This crucial charity has supported Team DBTH since the 1970s, raising more than £10 million over the years. Starting in 1972 by donating a ‘bronchoscope’, which is used to look inside lungs and allows health professionals to take samples for further analysis, the DCDT have since purchased around a 100 pieces of specialist medical equipment for Doncaster Royal Infirmary (DRI). It is no understatement to say that we, as well as local residents, owe an enormous debt of gratitude to the charity.
Most recently, DCDT have almost raised £500,000 in order to purchase an additional CT Scanner for DRI. I am pleased to announce that they are nearly at the finish line, with just £50,000 left to go. As you may be aware, we are currently at capacity with our current CT Scanner, and therefore this additional machine would hugely benefit the Trust, as well as patients in our care.
This is a very exciting time for the Trust and it is anticipated that the Cancer Detection Trust Scanner will be one of two new machines to be housed in an enhanced suite close to the Emergency Department at DRI.
We are expecting to hear soon whether the Department of Health will agree to these plans. If they do, our new-look scanning service could be up and running by Spring next year. In addition to cancer detection, it will support our stroke care, which will be particularly important as part of the work we’re involved in with the Integrated Care System (ICS).
In the coming weeks we will be working closely with the DCDT in order to help them raise the final £50,000 and I hope you’ll help us in these efforts. Whether you’re thinking of a sponsored walk, a tasty bake sale or something equally enticing, you can donate by heading to www.dcdt.co.uk
Suzy Brain England
Chair of the Board