In a clinic that sees over 150 patients a day, radiation therapists in the Radiation Oncology department rarely have down time. But, even though their shifts are long and busy, these specialists still create lasting bonds with their patients. “Our patients become like friends to us,” says radiation therapist Lisa Wadden. “Depending on their treatment plans, patients sometimes can be here for 30 days straight. We really get to know them and we look forward to hearing about their life and seeing photos of their family.”

Family is a key word for Lisa, who shares her work space with her identical twin sister Lori Wadden, also a radiation therapist. The pair has been working together in the radiation department since 2004. “Patients get a big kick out of the fact that we are twins,” laughs Lori. While patients are often anxious to start treatment, it’s no surprise that the pair, along with colleague Kerry Hanlon and the approximate 40 other radiation therapists in the department, can help ease a patient’s mind. “We want their experience to be as cheery as possible, not dreary,” says Lori.

A definite boost in cheeriness, as well as functionality for the department, is in the works. The QEII Foundation, in partnership with government, is committing to improving radiation wait times and improving treatment options. This commitment, labeled Cancer Never Waits, includes upgrading equipment called linear accelerators (LINACs) which deliver radiation to a targeted cancerous tumour, while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy, normal tissue. The equipment is instrumental in treating just about every form of cancer including brain, head and neck, lung, prostate, and colon, to name a few.

“There are so many benefits that the new equipment offers, for both the patient and staff,” explains Kerry. “It is incredibly accurate and the image quality is greatly improved. And since the new equipment automates previously manual tasks, treatment appointments are shorter meaning our patients are spending less time laying on the bed.”

In addition to replacing and upgrading aging equipment, Cancer Never Waits will help further advance the radiation program by expanding existing space and creating new facilities. This additional space will allow for optimal patient flow which is crucial to shortening patient wait times. “We focus on the overall patient experience and comfort. People are so grateful for their care; we often hear ‘we won’t miss treatment but will we miss you guys’. They are just so sweet,” says Lisa.      

For more information on how you can get involved with Cancer Never Waits, please visit www.qefoundation.ca.  

Photo:(left to right): Lisa Wadden, Kerry Hanlon, and Lori Wadden.