Barbara Collins, Kathy Torley, Virginia Stewart, and Jo Stennett from the Wauchope Patchwork Quilters recently presented a generous cheque for $2,127 to Lynne Frances of the Friends of the Hastings Cancer Trust.

Since 2008, the group has dedicated their efforts every October to raise funds for a cancer charity, and this year, their kindness has benefitted the Hastings Cancer Trust. Their donation is contributing directly to a grant awarded to the Wauchope District Hospital's operating theatre. This funding will be used to purchase a vital piece of medical equipment—a Colposcope, which is essential for performing LLETZ procedures.

Melissa Court, the NUM of Surgical Services at Wauchope Hospital, explained the significance of this contribution. She highlighted that the LLETZ procedure is a minimally invasive technique that is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer. Currently, the absence of a colposcope in the hospital has resulted in patients being referred to the Port Macquarie Base Hospital for treatment.

With the Quilters' donation, Wauchope Hospital will be able to provide the LLETZ procedure locally, thereby reducing waiting times for women in need and addressing the backlog of patients awaiting treatment. This equipment will enhance the hospital's capacity to deliver essential health services to the community.