The chemotherapy unit at the Russell Health Centre will expand with construction slated to begin this summer.

Once completed, the CancerCare site will have an additional 2,300 square feet – four times the size of the current unit.

The Expanding Community Cancer Committee (ECCC), a local fundraising group, raised $1.8-million for the expansion through various fundraisers over the last 7 years, and it was announced by Deputy Premier Cliff Cullen today (Tues) in Russell, that the remaining amount will be covered by the province. Total cost of the expansion is $2.5-million.

“Cancer touches the lives of nearly every Manitoban, either through a diagnosis of our own or for a loved one, so it is fitting the community has come together in Russell to support people on that journey,” said Cullen in a news release. “This community-driven project means more people will be able to access the care they need, closer to home, for many years to come. Our government would like to recognize the leadership of the Expanding Community Cancer Care committee, the regional health authority and all of the people from Russell and nearby communities who have worked together to make this project a reality.”

“We are delighted that this project, which will serve clients from 15 communities in our surrounding area, has received the green light,” president of ECCC Gloria Tibbatts said in the same release. “This is a testament to all the hard work and persistence by the committee, and all the support and financial contributions from our area to date. We thank everyone for their continued support because we could not have arrived at this stage without you.”

CEO of Prairie Mountain Health Region Brian Schoonbaert said today the next steps, from PMH’s perspective, include continued collaboration with ECCC, CancerCare Manitoba, staff, and local stakeholders to plan the necessary building parameters, construction costs and associated timelines for the project. PMH will also absorb additional operating costs related to the project.