Patients who must undergo a bone marrow biopsy at Heartland Cancer Center (HCC) can now be much more comfortable during the procedure, thanks to the generosity of private donors.
“In the past, our patients had these tests on an exam table,” said Jamie Hutchinson, R.N. and HCC director. “Of course, they are anxious about the procedure and then they had to be in an uncomfortable position. But this new stretcher allows them to be more at ease – emotionally and physically.”
Other patients, including those who are too weak to sit in a chemotherapy-treatment chair or become acutely ill, also have access to the new hydraulic, height-adjustable stretcher.
Dr. Mark Fesen, HCC oncologist, had requested this equipment for some time, and the Golden Belt Community Foundation (GBCF), HCC Patient Care Fund and patients’ families came through. The GBCF grant came from its HCC Patient Enrichment Fund; the HCC fund is supported by the St. Rose Ambulatory & Surgery Center’s annual Golf Classic & Auction.
HCC is part of the St. Rose family.
“We are blessed to be in such a supportive and generous community,” Hutchinson said. “There was a substantial donation from the Golden Belt Community Foundation and patients’ families also donated.
“Families always request that we enhance patients’ lives with their donations,” Hutchinson said. “I specifically asked them if they liked the idea of the stretcher and all were excited about it; they like knowing exactly where their money will go and we are happy to oblige.”