On Thursday, August 20, members of the community joined the Shore Regional Cancer Program staff at Dorchester General Hospital to celebrate the grand opening of the renovated chemotherapy suite. The event hosted by Brian Leutner, director of oncology services for Shore Health System, and Kathy Hurley, RN, OCN, chemotherapy nurse coordinator, was an opportunity to acknowledge everyone who contributed to the renovation of the water view unit.

In his comments to the guests, Leutner applauded the dedication of Hurley and oncology nurses Susan Breeding, RN, OCN, and Kim Weinhold, RN, OCN, for the care they provide to patients who receive chemotherapy in the outpatient units at Dorchester General Hospital and The Memorial Hospital at Easton. He also thanked medical oncologists Mary DeShields, MD, David Smith, MD, and David Halverson, MD, for partnering with the cancer program to bring excellent clinical services to people across the Mid-Shore region. Retired oncologist Craig Caldwell, MD, was also remembered for the role he played in establishing the chemotherapy program during his years of practice in Cambridge.

“We offer all types of chemotherapy services close to home,” Leutner said. “What I am most proud of, though, is the quality of patient care available to the people who turn to us during a cancer crisis.”

The Dorchester General Hospital chemotherapy unit renovation converted two small treatment areas into one larger suite. The open space makes it easier for patients and nurses to communicate.

Ida Jane Baker, President of the Dorchester General Hospital Foundation, was a guest of honor at the event. The DGH Foundation donated over $9,000 to purchase four new treatment chairs for the chemotherapy suite. The chairs have built-in heaters and tilt to recline so that patients can comfortably watch television and rest during treatment. The arms of the chairs are easily removed to assist with transferring patients into and out of wheelchairs.

“This is an exciting time at Shore Health System and in the field of cancer care,” Hurley said. “We are lucky to work with progressive physicians and we are so excited to have this beautiful space in which to treat our patients.”