New radiotherapy fund launched to enhance local cancer care

What's happening: Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity created the Radiotherapy Fund to enhance care for cancer patients at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT).

Why it matters: This initiative will directly benefit local cancer patients and their families, potentially improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for members of the Ipswich community.

Key details:

• The fund honours Suzanne Isherwood, who is retiring after 41 years in the NHS, including nearly four decades at Ipswich Hospital.

• Isherwood has been instrumental in modernising ESNEFT's radiotherapy services.

• The trust was an early adopter of intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) under her leadership.

What they're saying: "Half our job focuses on the technical side of radiotherapy while the other half is supporting patients in their journey," Isherwood said. "If improving the environment and having the right support in place can make it easier for the patients, then I want to try and do it."

How it works: The fund will support projects to improve the radiotherapy experience, building on previous charity-funded initiatives including:

• Purchasing specialist equipment

• Installing sky windows in waiting rooms

• Providing water bottles, washbags and gowns for patients

What's next: The charity aims to continue enhancing radiotherapy services as Isherwood retires, making treatment less daunting for patients and their families in the Ipswich area.

The bottom line: Residents interested in supporting improved cancer care can find more information or donate to the Radiotherapy Fund at the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity website.