Trust Charity funds transformative cooling machine for cancer patients
Cancer patients at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) are now benefiting from a new Hilotherm ChemoCare CIPN machine, installed in the Macmillan Brook Unit thanks to a £20,000 donation from the Trust Charity, made possible by the generosity of our local community.
The machine helps reduce Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) a common side effect of chemotherapy that causes numbness, tingling and pain in the hands and feet. Using advanced cooling technology, the device keeps hands and feet at a constant temperature during treatment, helping to prevent nerve damage and improve patient comfort, enhancing the overall patient experience.
Although widely used in the private sector, Hilotherapy is currently available in only a small number of NHS hospitals.
Garry Cavender, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer in August 2025, said: “I came to QEH specifically for this machine after researching ways to manage chemotherapy side effects. It's really helped with the pain and numbness, and as a saxophone player in a band, it means I can start playing again, which is fantastic. If sharing my experience helps other patients know that it works, then that's great.”
Sarah Phillips, Chemotherapy Day Unit Manager, explained: “We are very pleased to introduce this new technology to the Macmillan Brook Unit. The Hilotherm machine will significantly enhance the patient experience and provide vital support throughout treatment. It's wonderful to already hear such positive feedback from our patients. Introducing Hilotherm is a perfect example of how we can make a cancer patient's journey more comfortable and better tolerated. We are also very grateful for the support we've received from the Trust Charity, which has made this possible.”
The Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust Charity makes a difference by funding projects and initiatives that enhance care and improve patient, visitor and staff experience. If you wish to find out more about how to support our patients and colleagues at LGT, please contact at lg.charity@nhs.net
