Services for cancer patients treble

Services for cancer patients treble - Prime Minister opens Daffodil House today

For Immediate Release

Accommodation services for cancer patients from North and South Canterbury, West Coast, Nelson and Marlborough regions are trebling, with the opening of the Cancer Society's new Daffodil House by Prime Minister John Key today.

The Tudor-style motels in Christchurch purchased by the Society last month, have begun a new life as supported accommodation for patients who need a home in Christchurch while undergoing cancer treatment.

The Canterbury West Coast division of the Cancer Society purchased the 23-unit motel complex 11 years after opening its Davidson House accommodation which has been 'home' to 3970 patients in the past 10 years, while the Society has needed to find motel accommodation for a further 3038 patients during that time.

'The rising costs of placing patients in nearby motels, was a key factor in our decision to purchase additional accommodation,' says Elizabeth Chesterman, Chief Executive of the Society's Canterbury West Coast division.

'Daffodil House trebles our capacity to provide a warm and welcoming environment for patients who need to stay in the city for extended periods during the course of their treatment.'

'We knew that these 23 self-contained units, with minor renovations, would be perfect for the needs of visiting patients, and feedback from patients who have begun their stay here has been most encouraging,' she says.

Daffodil House comprises 21 one-bedroom units, one two-bedroom and one studio unit, each with its own kitchen and bathroom. Minor modifications have seen the old hotel laundry become a reception area and guest lounge – a space where patients can mingle and share experiences.

Peter Davidson, Chairman of the Society's Canterbury West Coast division says the Society has been in a position to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity because of the generosity of people in Canterbury and West Coast regions.

'Whether it has been through outstanding support for Relay for Life, a donation in a bucket on Daffodil Day or a bequest to the Cancer Society in a will, prudent management of the Division's finances over the years has ensured that funds donated to the Society have been used wisely, and were available when the opportunity arose and market conditions were suitable to purchase the property.'

'Thanks to the advances in medical treatment, many patients require shorter-stay accommodation. It is exciting to be able to offer this accommodation with appropriate support in an almost purpose-designed facility,' he says.

'We thank the people of Canterbury and the West Coast for their generosity in allowing this to happen,' says Peter Davidson.

John Key, Prime Minister of New Zealand formally opened the new Daffodil House in Christchurch today.

ENDS

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