The Leukaemia Foundation has bought a new unit at Westmead to help accommodate patients with blood cancer while they are seeking treatment.
It is one of 10 the organisation provides free to patients and their families while they receive treatment for blood cancer at nearby Westmead Hospital and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.
Leukaemia Foundation NSW general manager, Chris McMillan, said patients from rural and remote areas often needed to relocate for several months to receive treatment.
‘‘Many people have to leave work for treatment or to care for a loved one and, coupled with costly medical bills, families can suddenly find themselves in financially crippling circumstances while coping with shock and emotional turmoil,’’ Mr McMillan said.
‘‘A diagnosis for those in rural or regional areas can be a double blow as acute cases means relocating to the nearest capital city instantly for life-saving treatment.’’
The two-bedroom unit is located in an apartment block on Jessie Street. The first tenant moved in in January.
Details: leukaemia.org.au.