We were extremely proud to mark the occasion with a celebration event attended by Waitematā DHB staff, donors, members of parliament and our principal supporter Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. The centre was opened by Waitematā DHB CEO Dr Dale Bramley, Waitematā DHB Board Chair Professor Judy McGregor and Breast Cancer Foundation NZ Board Chair Justine Smyth (pictured above with Kia Ū Ora Breast Surgeon, Dr Susan Gerred).

The new service brings all diagnostic breast cancer services under one roof, aiming to reduce waiting times, reduce anxiety and improve outcomes for the over 100 patients referred each week from across North Shore, Waitākere and Rodney.

Waitematā DHB relocated staff to the newly refurbished area at North Shore Hospital, bringing current off-site procedures under one roof making “triple testing” (imaging, assessment, biopsy) on the same day possible if and when appropriate. The new unit also provides additional mammography and ultrasound capacity and benefits from more consultation rooms and enhanced patient waiting, reception and change areas.

Another beneficial addition is the introduction of the Wā Mārie – ‘Quiet Room’, a calm and restful space away from the main operation of the department, for use by patients and their families. This new room was proudly sponsored by Ryman Healthcare.

The journey to upgrade and enhance this service has not been one we have travelled alone. We are especially grateful to our amazing family of major donors whose generosity and support has been instrumental in achieving this goal. Am enormous thank you to The Lion Foundation, Greg & Felicity Smale, Russell and Jenny Coutts, Pub Charity, Ryman Healthcare, Rotary East Coast Bays and The Kelliher Trust for your incredible support and to our Principal Supporter Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, whose $1 million contribution was the catalyst for getting this project off the ground.