The second phase of Bluewater Health's multi-year redevelopment of the Norman Building's second floor is complete.
Patients were welcomed into Sarnia's newly renovated cancer clinic space on Monday.
President and CEO says Paula Reaume-Zimmer said they were proud to open the revitalized space and move one step closer to a comprehensive cancer care hub.
“By improving comfort, privacy, and efficiency for patients undergoing cancer treatment, this milestone helps bring our long-term vision to life," Reaume-Zimmer said in a news release.
The reception and waiting zones, infusion space, exam rooms, and washroom facilities were redeveloped -- creating a more modern, comfortable, and private environment for patients and families.
Oncologist Dr. Julie Lebert said the space will have an immediate and positive impact on the care they deliver.
"It’s designed around the needs of patients and care teams, and it reflects the kind of forward-thinking cancer care we strive to provide every day," said Lebert.
Doug Fisher was one of the first patients to receive care in the newly renovated clinic.
“The space is beautiful, they did a nice job... it’s a lot more connected,” Fisher said. "I’ve been coming to Bluewater Health for treatment for two years, and everything will be easier to navigate now.”
Once completed oncology, pharmacy, and laboratory services will be fully integrated -- which the hospital said will streamline care, reduce wait times, and allow for more coordinated and patient-centred service delivery.
A state-of-the-art lab was completed in 2022, and the expansion of an outpatient pharmacy in the final phase will ensure timely access to critical medications and chemotherapy treatments.
Construction of the final phase is underway, and the project is expected to be fully completed by early 2026.
The redevelopment -- originally announced in May 2023 -- is being fully funded through philanthropy.
The original $3.7 million fundraising campaign goal increased to $5 million after the project was first announced.
Bluewater Health Foundation Executive Director Kathy Alexander said 80 per cent of those funds have been raised.
“We are deeply moved by the outpouring of support from our community,” Alexander said. "Every gift makes a difference and brings us closer to ensuring patients can receive high-quality cancer care right here at home, in a space designed to support healing and comfort.”
Major donors -- including representatives from the Lockwood Foundation, NOVA Chemicals, the Sarnia Construction Association and the Rotary Club of Sarnia Bluewaterland -- joined hospital officials to mark the occasion Monday morning.
Funds raised from the foundation's gala next month will also be directed to the redevelopment.
Canadian media personality, television host, and podcaster, George Stroumboulopoulos, will be the keynote speaker at the May 8 event.