The Cross Cancer Institute (CCI) opened a new facility on Tuesday morning, giving cancer care workers a space to relax and take a break, thanks to an anonymous donor.
The Staff Wellness Centre cost $1.4 million and is one of many projects stemming from the We Cross Cancer campaign helmed by the Alberta Cancer Foundation (ACF).
According to a media release by ACF, the campaign raised nearly $30 million for research and patient care at the CCI.
WalterFedy, an architectural firm based out of Toronto, collaborated with Cross Cancer staff to ensure the wellness centre met the needs of everyone using the facilities.
“We know that what makes the Cross so special is the people,” said ACF CEO Wendy Beauchesne. “They work tirelessly to provide exceptional care and deserve a space all their own which recognizes the difficult work they do and the invaluable contributions they make to the care of those facing cancer.”
ACF said the new 1,600 square foot space was designed to “promote wellness and rejuvenation,” while incorporating greenery, natural light and materials to promote “calmness and tranquility.”
“The Cross Cancer Institute has always provided excellent care and ground-breaking medical research,” says Dr. Randeep Sangha, the director of the Cross Cancer Institute’s clinical trials unit.
“The reality is, without donors, projects like this one simply wouldn’t be possible. We are deeply grateful to have this space, allowing our team to rest, rejuvenate, and give our very best to patients,” Dr. Sangha added.
The wellness centre comes equipped with a kitchen, individual space for rest, a yoga and meditation spot as well as a common area for socializing.
Other work currently underway at the facility includes plans to extend pharmacy support by creating a purpose-built clinical trial unit and virtual care unit and relocating existing chemotherapy and day-treatment spaces to improve on patients’ comfort and privacy.