Renal cancer treatment boost for hospital

GRAMPIANS Health Ballarat has welcomed its first microwave ablation device thanks to the efforts of local cyclists, the Velorats.

Patients will now be able to access the latest renal cancer treatment without the need to travel to Melbourne.

The device uses microwave energy to heat and destroy cancer cells, treating tumours without surgery.

Radiology nurse unit manager Bronwyn Bentley said the device is life-changing for local patients.

“Thanks to the efforts of the Velorats, we have now been able to purchase our own microwave ablation device,” she said. “This means our eligible renal cancer patients can have treatment that is less invasive, quicker and gentler, which means less time in hospital and more time with their families.

“The whole Radiology team are proud to have brought this treatment to Grampians Health.

“In a first for Ballarat, this treatment replaces technology that had slower recovery times and higher risks of complications.

“It also provides significant improvements and flexibility in managing treatment for patients, and a more cost-effective solution for Grampians Health.”

The Velorats raised money for the device during their annual Murray to Moyne charity ride, which took place in April.

Each rider was sponsored by a local business and the team also received more than 200 donations from their networks.

Velorats captain Ross Huntington said the group’s efforts are always about more than just cycling.

“We’re all locals, with family, friends and neighbours who rely on Grampians Health Ballarat,” he said.

“Funding the new microwave ablation device means our loved ones facing cancer can access world-class treatment close to home.

“We’re proud that doing something we love can deliver equipment to support local cancer patients and their families right here in our community.”

Grampians Health chief people officer Claire Woods said the Velorats’ donation showed the power of local community support.

“Our health service relies on the generosity of people in our region to help us bring new treatments and technologies to Ballarat,” she said.

“The Velorats and their supporters have made this possible, giving our public hospital the chance to offer cutting-edge care locally.

“It’s incredible to see what can be achieved when a community comes together to support its own.”