The Linc Edward Jenner Unit

The Linc Edward Jenner Unit

In February 2009, the Churchdown Male voice choir launched the LINC Jenner Appeal at a concert in Gloucester Cathedral. At that time, we thought the cost of extending and refurbishing the unit to create a state of art countywide haematology day unit facility would be in the region of £450K.

With huge local support and a very generous grant of £250K from the Kay Kendall Leukaemia Fund the target was reached in early 2011. Work commenced in June 2011 and was completed by the beginning of November with the first patients being treated on 7 November.

Along the way, several additions were made to the original plans including a complete revamp of the phlebotomy rooms, rebuilding the reception area and replacement of much of the original equipment. This resulted in a total spend of just under £700,000.

The end result is a wonderful, open plan, purpose built unit which is being used for the administration of chemotherapy, blood transfusion and supportive treatment. Comments from the staff indicate it is now a pleasure to come to work and for patients, it is a comfortable airy place to receive treatment.

Within this new build is a small tranquillity garden which will form a focal point for some of the patients. Work on this area will start in March 2012 by Graduate Gardeners and should be completed by 17 April when Laurence & Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen – both Patrons of LINC – have very kindly agreed to perform the official opening.

On Friday 9 March 2012 the Churchdown Male Voice Choir, with soprano Sue Black as soloist, will perform again in Gloucester Cathedral to mark the completion and success of this project.

I would like to thank everyone who contributed or helped in any way to make this unit possible and to the LINC team who worked so hard and tirelessly fundraising to ensure we could cover the extra costs involved. A very big thank you to everyone.

Dr Gill Rouse, LINC Director, 6 February 2012