Current Needs

The Foundation acts as the "fundraising arm" of the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre and receives advice from their senior management team with regard to the current and future needs of the cancer program.

None of the items listed below qualify for government funding.

Presently on our Current Needs List:

	The Faxitron Digital Specimen Radiography System ($80,000) Used to produce high-resolution digital images of a target lesion to ensure complete removal during surgery. The image can then be shared with an entire medial team electronically. The Faxitron reduces the amount of time required under anesthesia and also potentially reduces the need for re-excision.

	ArcCheck Radiation Detector Array ($64,500) The ArcCHECK is an accessory device for the new Varian machines used in radiation therapy treatment at the Cancer Centre. Used together, this machinery can deliver RapidArc treatment, a type of radiation therapy that greatly i,proves the dosage consistency radiation patients receive. The device has the potential of decreasing treatment delivery times for prostate IMRT* patients by almost 50%. Shortening treatment times translates into greater access for patients. The device is being touted as a significant technological advancement for the Cancer Centre's Radiation Treatment program. (Intensity Modulated Radiaiton Therapy is an advanced technology that delivers more focused radiation treatment to patients and reduces their treatment side effects.)* To view a demonstration of RapidArc treatment delivery, visit the website below and click on the "RapidArc in Motion" link. http://www.varian.com/us/oncology/treatments/treatment_techniques/rapidarc/resources.html

	Triple Channel I.V. Pumps (Five at $8,200 each) Infusion pumps are used to administer fluids, medication or nutrients to patients intravenously. The chemotherapy suite here at our Cancer Centre is currently using a mixture of antiquated single channel and newer triple channel pumps. Triple channel pumps allow up to three different fluids to be infused using the same pump, speeding up treatment times for patients. They also significantly reduce the risk of medication error with built-in programmable safety features. The pumps are light weght, allowing patients to move freely about the chemo suite during treatments that can last up to several hours.

	Vital Sign Machines (Six at $2,300 each) Patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy or blood products require close monitoring of vital signs throughout the infusion process due to the probability of reactions. Replacing 10-year old machines and adding to the inventory of new monitors will help to support the growing needs of oncology patients and enhance the overall care of patients within the chemotherapy suite as well as benefit radiation out-patients. Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, the Foundation is able to purchase not (6), but (7) vital sign machines! Thank-you!

	Radiation Patient Education DVD (Up to $17,000) Following on the heels of a very successful implementation of the Patient Orientation video, available to patients of the Cancer Centre in DVD format or online, the development of a Radiation Patient Education video will enhance patient education and awareness for this form of cancer treatment. In addition to formal education classes available at the Centre, brochures and one-on-one education available throughout treatment, the DVD will provide another option for patients and their families to better meet their needs and learning style preferences. For some patients, having a DVD to view in their home may prevent an additional trip to the Centre, which is especially important if they are feeling tired or unwell.

	Community Prevention Forum ($10,000) Building Upon the success of the Prostate Cancer Forum held in the Fall of 2009, plans are underway to hold a forum this Fall focusing on Colorectal cancer. 50% of cancers can be prevented or detected early, before they become a serious health concern, and events such as this are key to reducing the overall burden of the disease. The Foundation will be the sponsor of this year's keynote speaker.

	Replacement Chairs for the Ontario Breast Screening Program's Waiting Room The existing 19-year old chairs currently being used at the OBSP Hub on Walker Road have been refurbished as much as possible and now require replacement. The current fabric chairs will be replaced, allowing for greater infection control cleaning techniques. Providing a non-clinical environment has also proven to be an encouraging factor in getting women to aprticipate in life saving breast screening. The program has been highly successful within our community with close to 70% of eligible women regularly participating in breast screening. 650 women from the Windsor and Essex County community are cared for each month at the OBSP Hub.

	Seeds4Hope Fund - On-going The Foundation has committed to a $250,000 / year fundraising endeavour in order to provide funding for successful research recipients locally. As a Foundation, we believe that all progress in cancer begins with research, and strongly support this program right here in our community.

	Patient Assistance Fund - On-going This fund is available to patients and families of the Centre during difficult times. Money has been provided to patients for everything from purchasing groceries, to paying utility bills or medication that is not covered. The Foundation does not deal with the patients directly but relies on the excellent social workers at the Cancer Centre who counsel and screen the patients. The patients are anonymous except when they send “thank-you” cards.