TWO major new support centres at Derriford Hospital are set to open, thanks to the fundraising efforts of supporters in West Devon and further afield.
The Primrose Breast Care Centre has come to fruition after £500,000 was raised following the launch of an appeal in October 1987.
The centre co-locates all aspects of breast care at Derriford Hospital, including outpatient consultation, breast-imaging and counselling.
It also provides facilities for patient support groups, teaching, training and research facilities.
Russ Mitchell, chairman of Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust which contributed £1-million to the centre, said: 'I am proud to have been associated with this project, which is a tribute to the people of the region who worked long and hard to achieve this new centre.'
Richard Benham, appeals co-ordinator, said: 'The centre is a one-stop facility, designed to relieve the stress and worry of their patients and families.
'In the past, patients have had to make several appointments over a number of weeks. In the new centre, one appointment only is usually all that will be needed.'
Some 7,000 women will benefit from the new Primrose Centre every year.
And broadcasting personality Judi Spiers will perform the topping out ceremony at another purpose-built centre at Derriford this Saturday — this one for carers and relatives of heart patients.
The HeartSWell Lodge at Blunts Lane, Derriford, was paid for by donations and fundraising events organised by HeartSWell supporters throughout West Devon and the South West.
Siw Wysome, charity treasurer, said: 'HeartSWell South West would like to thank all those individuals, groups and organisations whose donations and events have played an important part in making the lodge a reality.'
The Lodge provides 16 twin bedded rooms and 11 single rooms — fitting out will be completed this summer.