Harry Redknapp opens newly refurbished cancer ward
Harry Redknapp took the time to look round the newly refurbished Sandbanks Ward and met Roger Cookson, the first patient to be cared for on the new ward
Football legend Harry Redknapp officially opened the newly refurbished Sandbanks Ward at Poole Hospital on Friday 9 October.
The Tottenham Hotspur Manager and Sandbanks resident joined staff and visitors to celebrate the opening of the 22-bed ward, following a £400,000 refurbishment.
The new ward – formerly called Tyneham Ward – now includes more single rooms to improve patient privacy, as well as a greater range of equipment to enhance the care that staff can provide to patients with cancer. New furnishings and décor also mean a brighter, more modern environment for people who have to undergo a hospital stay.
The much-needed refurbishment of the ward was funded through generous donations to the Hospital, including a large legacy and fundraising activities amongst local businesses and individuals. The ward is part of the Dorset Cancer Centre, and is one of two wards providing care for patients with cancer.
Harry said at the opening: "It's great to be here - the nurses on these wards are angels, I know what these people do. " Describing the new ward as "lovely and bright", he added: "Cancer affects every family at some stage, and it's so important to do what we can to support these things."
Jackie Spendlowe, Ward Sister on Sandbanks Ward, said: “We were delighted to welcome Harry to Poole Hospital. The work that has taken place to refurbish Sandbanks Ward will make a real difference to patients coming to the Hospital for cancer treatment. It will improve patient privacy and offer a more modern environment that is better equipped to support our doctors and nurses in providing the highest quality patient care.”
Date: 15 October 2009