Bluewater Health is kicking off its cancer clinic redevelopment project, and growing its team of oncologists, the hospital says.
The large-scale renovation coincides with the addition of Dr. Justin Tong, who recently joined the hospital’s oncology team, working alongside Dr. Kenneth Yoshida, Dr. Julie Lebert and numerous staff and volunteers in the cancer clinic.
Dr. Tong completed his medical degree in Internal Medicine postgraduate training at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, and his Medical Oncology postgraduate training at Queen’s University. Dr. Tong also has a Ph.D. in neuroscience.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Tong, who has joined Bluewater Health’s incredible team of Medical Oncologists,” said chief of staff Dr. Michel Haddad. “We have seen an increased need for cancer care among the growing Sarnia-Lambton community – and this expansion in cancer care capacity will facilitate serving more of our patients and families closer to home.”
Since opening its doors nearly 15 years ago, the cancer clinic has helped numerous people living with cancer and their families, providing exceptional care close to home, the hospital said in a news release.
The Bluewater Health Foundation is currently focusing efforts on fundraising for the upcoming $3.7 million redevelopment. Proceeds from last year’s gala, a portion from the Dream Home Lottery and other community donations are being used to support the project.
“We know how supportive our community is, and we are so grateful to all who have contributed to the cancer clinic’s redevelopment thus far, including a very successful matching donation campaign late last year led by a generous donor,” said Bluewater Health Foundation executive director Kathy Alexander. “It is truly thanks to community investment that we are continuously able to fund these vital and life-saving upgrades for Sarnia-Lambton.”
The Foundation is currently approaching $2 million in commitments towards the cancer clinic
redevelopment, but still need the public’s help.
Anyone interested in making a donation can go online at www.bwhf.ca/donate, or call 519-464-4408 or by visiting the Foundation office in person during business hours.
The cancer clinic redevelopment will occur over five phases throughout 2024, with plans to open the newly renovated space in early 2025.