New cancer scanning suite opened thanks to Manor member
A new cancer scanning suite has been reopened at Ilkeston Community Hospital thanks to fundraising efforts of a Manor member, Ian Jackson.
Ian’s dad, Keith Jackson, and his family raised more than £73,000 in order to provide a second scanner for the Val Jackson suite, which was facing closure due to the low standard of the room and equipment.
In 1988 Keith’s wife, Val, passed away after suffering from Ovarian Cancer. It was one of her last wishes that Ilkeston Hospital could have facilities for treatment, to prevent patients having to travel to Nottingham or Derby to get the care they need.
Only six weeks after her death, her husband started fundraising to make her wish come true. Following his death in 2007, Keith’s family have continued to support the work of their father and the local community.
September 17th saw the launch of the scanner, which helps detects early signs of cancer.
The Val Jackson Scanner Suite was reopened by the High Sheriff of Derbyshire David Coleman, with family members and local fundraisers invited for a tour of the refurbished facilities. David Coleman said: “We are in debt to what Val’s legacy has left to us.”
The scanner, which is expected to help over 150 people per week, has been funded by events hosted by the Rotary Club and the League of Friends, who put on fashion shows, race nights, raffles and quiz nights.
Prem Singh, Chairman of Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trusts, which controls Ilkeston Hospital, also paid tribute to the work of the family. He said: “The refurbished facilities are excellent and provide brilliant private areas for patients, for care that is dignified and respects their privacy. Facilities make it a nice environment for staff and patients, and happy staff make happy patients.”
After years of fundraising, the family are proud of what the community has achieved, and what they have been able to provide for those that find themselves battling cancer.
The couple’s son, Ian Jackson, said: “We are so thankful for the support that the League of Friends and the Rotary Club have given us to keep my mother’s legacy alive. We are so proud of the work that Keith did to fulfil his wife’s wishes.”