DONATIONS from across the Loddon are helping Bendigo’s St John of God Hospital install cutting-edge robot surgical technology for cancer treatment.
Inglewood and District Community Bank has given $50,000 to the appeal and Lions clubs in Inglewood, Wedderburn and Charlton have also chipped in with donations to the hospital’s second-only appeal in almost 60 years that has seen more than $2 million raised.
Bank director Tim Birthisel and manager Michael Prowse visited the hospital on Monday as the robot was about to be unpacked.
The da Vinci Xi is a breakthrough in surgical technology that will enable high-precision cancer surgery for patients in Bendigo and the region without the need to travel to Melbourne, says hospital chief executive Michael Hogan.
Mr Birthisel said the donation was spurred by the need for Loddon residents for more convenient access to treatment and the robot’s key in attracting specialists to the region to provide surgery and treatment.
The da Vinci Xi will enhance St John of God Hospital’s capabilities for prostate surgery, colorectal surgery and thoracic surgery.
Mr Hogan said St John of God Bendigo Hospital was committed to the best clinical outcomes for patients.
“Robotic surgery significantly aids this commitment and will assist in reducing the health care disadvantage suffered by rural and regional patients,” he said.
“Specialists and patients will be very grateful for the help of our generous community to bring this trail-blazing technology to our hospital.”
Major donors to the appeal have included the Hazeldene family. The hospital says da Vinci robot will be ready to use early next year.