Trust unveils new teenage and young adults cancer care room

Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust recently opened a newly refurbished Teenage and Young Adults (TYA) Cancer Care room in the Cancer Care and Haematology Unit at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, dedicated to the memory of Courtney, a former patient.

Courtney was a kind, caring, and loving individual with a great sense of humour and a passion for travel. Despite his battle with cancer, he remained positive and upbeat, always planning for the future. His family and friends remember him fondly and have worked tirelessly to create a space that reflects his adventurous spirit and love for life.

The room features vibrant graphics and illustrations inspired by Courtney's travels around Europe. Each illustration includes icons related to different countries and cities, creating an engaging and uplifting environment for young patients. There is also a new TV, a PlayStation and comfortable recliner chairs to provide a relaxing and enjoyable space for patients undergoing treatment.

One wall features a map of Europe with a key of icons that correlate to images, many taken by Courtney, on the surrounding walls in the room.

Courtney's family set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for this project, and the response was overwhelming. Friends, colleagues, and even strangers who were inspired by Courtney's story contributed to the fund, allowing the family to create a room that Courtney would have loved. The design incorporates some of Courtney's own photos, making the room a true reflection of his adventures and personality.

The project was a collaborative effort with Courtney’s family and significant contributions from his colleagues at SignX, who provided materials, printing, and installation and also Tank2create who worked with Kim on the design. The nurses at the unit also played a crucial role, giving up their own time to help with the refurbishment.

Kim, Courtney’s mother said: "We wanted to do something to inspire others, just as Courtney inspired us. The travel theme truly reflects Courtney, and we hope that the encouraging phrases and colourful landmarks will inspire young people undergoing treatment to keep dreaming, stay positive, and have hope. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this room a reality. This room is a great legacy and a wonderful reflection of Courtney's adventures for others to enjoy."

Michelle Pearsall, Matron for Oncology and Haematology at the Trust said: “We are very grateful to Kim, her family and the companies who have funded and dedicated their time to completing this project. We now have a much needed, thought provoking and vibrant space for our Teenage and Young Adult patients.”

The family hopes to continue raising money to help redecorate other areas of the cancer ward. Donations can be made at via the GoFundMe page: Courtneys Legacy. (external site)