We have been able to purchase two brand new dual scalp cooling machines for the chemotherapy unit at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre thanks to backing from two local families.

The Kelly family from Northwood raised an incredible £14,751 in memory of Kim, to thank the centre for the care she received in 2023. Dave, Kim’s husband and Maia, her daughter presented their cheque to unit managers, Dean and Aolat.  

In addition, £4,368 was raised by the Parrott family in memory of Jackie, who also received care at the centre. Jackie’s husband, Garry, went along to the centre to see one of the scalp cooling units which have been purchased.

Scalp cooling caps are worn during chemotherapy to reduce the risk of hair loss, one of the side effects of the treatment that can cause a lot of distress.

Beth McNeil, head of fundraising said: “We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the Kelly family and the Parrott family and to everyone else who helped raise funds for this appeal. We have now raised a total of £40,000 which will pay for two dual scalp cooling machines and a range of cold caps for the chemotherapy suite at the centre.

“The machines are used by hundreds of patients each month as scalp cooling can help reduce the likelihood of hair loss. We know hair loss can be a devastating side effect of treatment so having this equipment available to more patients is incredibly important and will make such a difference to patients having to going through this difficult time.

“It has been wonderful to show these families around the centre to see how the funds they raised in memory of their loved ones are being spent and the real difference they are making for local people every day.

“We simply couldn’t make projects like this happen without the generous support of the local community so thank you to everyone who helps us go above and beyond for patients who are facing treatment for at Mounty Vernon Cancer Centre."