Refurbished room opens on children's cancer unit

Emily JohnsSouth West
News imageRoyal Cornwall Hospitals Charity A hospital room with a bright coloured mural of a beach/palm tree scene, a blue bean bag, a pink chair and a patterned, multicoloured blanket over the hospital bed.Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity
"This is our first room. It's been a big success," said Play specialist Deborah Charles

The first of four newly refurbished rooms on the Children's Cancer Unit, Royal Cornwall Hospital, was officially opened following a major fundraising effort.

The efforts have been led by Paul Ainsworth supported by Sasha Would've Loved It Charity Shop and Cafe. The celebrity chef recently raised more than £60,000 by completing an Ironman Challenge.

Hospital staff said the refurbished space was designed to provide a brighter, calmer and more comfortable environment for children and families spending long periods in hospital.

Hospital health play specialist Deborah Charles said: "It's little things that make a huge difference to the parents' stay, as well as the children's."

She said: "Some of these children could be in the rooms for days, we need to give them the right environment to help them feel calm, relaxed; being able to manage their treatment in the best possible way."

The hospital said work on further rooms was continuing as part of the Children's Cancer Unit team's longer-term plans to create spaces that support wellbeing and recovery.

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