Did you know that cancer survival outcomes are 20-30 per cent worse for patients in regional areas compared to those living in metropolitan areas.
Due to the limited availability of treatment centres in regional Western Australia, many patients must travel to Perth to seek lifesaving treatment for their diagnosis. This lengthy journey can distance them from their homes and support networks, often leading to added financial stress due to the need for temporary accommodation. Our Lodges aim to alleviate some of these challenges that regional West Australians face when dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
A home away from home for regional cancer patients
We have two accommodation facilities located in Perth that are available for regional cancer patients – our Crawford and Milroy Lodge. These have been running for over 20 years and collectively record around 5000 check-ins per year. Our Lodges play a vital role in easing the burden for regional patients and their carers visiting Perth for treatment.
Our guests often share how the Lodges helped them during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Cancer Council WA's Crawford Lodge
Cancer Council WA's Milroy Lodge
How can you help?
One of the ways you or your organisation can support our Lodges to continue running is through our Adopt a Room program. This is a wonderful opportunity for individuals, organisations or clubs to make a meaningful impact by adopting one of the 88 guest rooms at Crawford or Milroy Lodge for a year.
In addition to providing a safe place to stay, adopting a room also grants regional cancer patients access to valuable services, including:
- Transport to treatment
- Referrals to complementary therapies
- Ongoing guidance from a qualified Cancer Support Coordinator
- Access to our free wig service
This ensures that those impacted by cancer can receive the emotional and physical support they need during a challenging time.
How much does it cost to Adopt a Room?
Donations to the Adopt a Room program begin at $5000, which covers the annual costs of operating, maintaining, and cleaning a single room. This contribution guarantees that our regional guests have access to a safe, clean, and comfortable environment, along with essential support during their time of need.
A message from the Geraldton Volunteers Group
Having had volunteers and members from their group stay at Crawford Lodge whilst undergoing cancer treatment, the Geraldton Voluntary Tour Guides adopted room 116 in July 2023 and have continued their support by annually renewing this adoption.
When we learnt about the Adopt a Room program, we wanted to be part of this worthwhile cause as cancer has affected so many people from our region.
spokesperson for the Geraldton Voluntary Tour Guides
This room held special significance to the group, as it was a place where their fellow members had previously stayed during their treatment.
Their generous gift went beyond providing a place to stay. It ensured that regional cancer patients and their carers could access vital accommodation and support services at a time when they needed it most.
The adoption of room 116 has made a lasting impact on the lives of those navigating their cancer journey.
The Geraldton Voluntary Tour Guides’ thoughtful gesture continues to provide comfort, care, and hope for many others in need.
For more information
- Find out more about how to Adopt a Room at our Lodges.
- Learn more about how Regional Services and Accommodation.
- Donate today.