Breast Friends Sutton Coldfield has given a huge boost to cancer patients at Good Hope Hospital by donating an Accuvein machine, which helps to cannulate patients prior to treatment.

Cannulation is where a small needle and tube is placed inside a vein to provide venous access, allowing staff to take blood and administer medication. The £4,000 Accuvein machine helps identify delicate blood vessels in the arm and wrist, reducing the need to cannulate more than once and reducing pain and stress for patients. This is especially important for those being treated for cancer, who might need several cannulations over the course of their treatment.

Breast Friends Sutton Coldfield is a charity that’s celebrating its 20^th birthday this year. It’s run by volunteers who have all been diagnosed with breast cancer and they help local women by offering emotional and practical support and raising awareness of breast cancer in the community. They raised the money from donations, collections, coffee mornings, marathons and support from local businesses.

Jacqueline Benzecry, Chairman of Breast Friends Sutton Coldfield, presented the machines to members of the Radiology team, who were delighted with the new addition.

Jacqueline said: “This year is a very special one as it is our 20^th anniversary. For this reason we wanted to focus our fundraising efforts on medical equipment that can make patients’ stay a better experience as well as direct support for breast cancer patients.

“Thanks to the great contributions we received from local community and local businesses, we were able to buy two Accuvein machines, one for Oncology last July and now this one for Radiology.”

Philippa Willis, site lead radiographer, said:  “The light projected by the device allows us to see delicate blood vessels straight away, without the need to cannulate more than once. This means reducing time for cannulation and reducing pain and stress for patients. It’s portable too, which allows us to use it all throughout the department.”

Breast Friends have more fundraising activities planned for the year, including a Fashion Show on 6 June and the Big Pink Ball on 7 October, both being held at Moor Hall Hotel. They’re also looking for supporters to take part in the Great Midlands Fun Run on 5 June.

For more information about Breast Friends, email enquiries@breastfriends.org.uk or call Jackie on 0121 378 3037.