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Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr’s Breast cancer ‘Centre of Excellence’ has opened to patients for the first time. 

On February 5 the unit welcomed its first-ever patients, marking the conclusion of an idea that was first green-lit in 2016. 

The centre will bring all of Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (ABUHB)’s breast care services under one roof. 

ABUHB chief operating officer, Leanne Watkins, said: “The breast care unit project has been in our plans for a number of years, and so it’s fantastic to see it finally come into fruition. 

“The clinical teams have worked incredibly hard to ensure that this purpose-built facility will provide the best possible treatment for our patients, and we’re so proud to now be able to offer our patients the breast care experience that they deserve.” 

Clinical teams and equipment from Nevill Hall and Royal Gwent Hospitals have moved to the new unit to provide outpatient care, diagnostics, and surgery.

By the end of 2024, the facility will also aim to introduce a gold-standard one-stop diagnostic service, which will allow patients to undergo investigative procedures in one visit.

The unit has been funded by the Welsh Government for £11 million.

Health minister Eluned Morgan, said: “This centre will provide people in Gwent with better access to high-quality care and will mean more people can be managed on a day case basis and thereby avoid a hospital admission.

“This centre is part of the Welsh Government’s unwavering commitment to improve cancer services and outcomes for those affected by cancer, and ultimately saving more lives.”

“Better experience”

Along with the investment from the Welsh Government, communities have fundraised towards the new centre, including groups like Pontllanfraith’s Inner Wheel.

In total, communities have secured more than £260,000 to give the unit a more homely feel – with artwork, furniture and feature lighting being bought as a result. 

Rhiannon Foulkes, consultant breast surgeon and clinical lead for the breast unit, said: “As a team, we are very excited to be able to provide a gold-standard diagnostic centre for breast care in our health board area.

“We have also been overwhelmed by the fundraising efforts and continued support of our local communities – their contributions will make a significant difference to the experience of our patients and we can’t thank them enough.”

Patient representative for the breast unit, Glenda Lewis, said: “When I walked into this building today, I noticed what a calming effect it has on you, even just walking around.

“I know for the future women and men who are diagnosed with breast cancer, it will be a better experience prior to the building being built.”

Pupils from Pengam Primary School also designed and created a piece of artwork to be displayed in the unit’s main waiting area.

Donations to the unit’s ongoing fundraising efforts can be made on JustGiving.

“Wonderful”

Caerphilly’s Senedd Member Hefin David has also commented on the centre’s opening.

Labour MS Dr David said:  “It is wonderful to see the new centre finally opening – something which got the green light when I was first elected.

“I would like to take this opportunity to remember Dawn Wilson from Cwm Calon, who passed away from breast cancer in 2020. While going through what must have been the most challenging time for her personally, Dawn shifted her attention towards helping others to avoid being in her position in future.”

He continued: “Her chosen campaign was the Know Your Lemons campaign created by designer and charity founder Corrine Beaumont. It shows twelve lemons in an egg box, which each have a different indicator of breast cancer.

“As a result of Dawn’s commitment to this cause, the Know your Lemons Campaign was officially endorsed by NHS Wales. Posters were sent to over 400 GP practices and schools began to share the importance of self-checking for symptoms. Dawn’s campaign was also launched by the Welsh Government.

“The opening of the new breast care centre in Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr will always be a reminder of Dawn’s selflessness and her work in supporting earlier diagnosis of Breast Cancer across Wales”.