Another amazing milestone for a government hospital that has a reputation for delivering incredible care.
Cape Town, South Africa (22 September 2025) – Groote Schuur Hospital has opened an upgraded chemotherapy room and pharmacy, giving cancer patients a space that’s calmer, safer, and more comfortable while they undergo treatment.
The Oncology Department welcomes around 3,000 new patients every year, and overcrowding has long been a challenge. Now, thanks to an R5.2 million project funded by a mix of donors, staff, and community partners, patients will have more room and an improved environment as they face their treatment journeys.
The news is celebrated by patients like 36-year-old patient Duane Minder, who was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma after what he thought was simple back pain turned out to be far more serious. At one point, a tumour pressing on his spine left him unable to walk.
Emergency care and chemotherapy at Groote Schuur helped him get his mobility back.
“The doctors, nurses, and therapists here gave me my life back. I am so grateful for their care and for this new chemotherapy room, which will make the journey a little easier for every patient who comes here. It shows us that we are not alone, and that people care about what we are going through,” he says.
The upgrades also include a pharmacy that now has modern systems to safely prepare chemotherapy drugs, making treatment smoother and safer for both staff and patients.
Support to make this happen came from many corners.
Wheel2Heal contributed R1 million and further backing was received from the Radiation Oncology Facilities Board Fund, the Groote Schuur Trust, hospital staff, and community donors.
“These contributions do not just build facilities – they open doors of hope and possibility for thousands of families across the Western Cape. Together, we are enhancing access to healthcare,” says Dr Shaheem De Vries, CEO of Groote Schuur Hospital.
Groote Schuur has a history of medical milestones, and this adds to that incredible list of good things. Next, the hospital is focused on its brand-new emergency centre expected to launch next year!
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