Family of Southport Hospital patient present £1,000 cheque to medical day unit

The family of a patient treated regularly at Southport Hospital’s medical day unit has presented a cheque for £1,000 towards its refurbishment and extension.



Barbara McKeown, 64, was a regular patient at the unit until her death from bone marrow cancer in September.

Her family, who received 175 sympathy cards from well-wishers, raised the money in lieu of flowers for her funeral. Her daughter, Janet, said: “She always said it was a pleasure coming for treatment at Southport and she would be delighted to know so much money had been raised for a good cause.”

Last month the Marina Dalglish Appeal and West Lancashire Community Hospice Association pledged £500,000 each towards the £1.3m refurbishment.

Sister Julie Marshall, from the medical day unit, said: “This gift in Barbara’s memory complements around £50,000 raised by the many fundraising events held by friends and families of patients, from legacies left by them and other donations given in their memory.”

The refurbishment will see the unit significantly expanded to create a light, airy treatment space for patients. There will also be new consulting rooms and a more comfortable waiting area for patients. Work will start in spring. Barbara was from Skelmersdale and her family are organising a memorial service at St Richard’s Church, Skelmersdale, on November 22 at 6.30pm.