Dry July funds have provided equipment to assist patient comfort at Nelson Tasman Hospice. The purchases included an Electric Lifter Chair for use in the in-patient unit and two oxygen concentrator units to go out to the community.

The oxygen concentrators are compact units used to deliver oxygen to those who require it. Whereas a tank has a set amount of oxygen that it dispenses, a concentrator filters in air, compresses it, and delivers air continuously. The air supply will never run out.

This allows patients to breathe easier and sleep better as they are not fighting for every breath. While symptoms such as shortness of breath are being effectively managed in patient's home, they can remain in their homes for longer, often right through to end of life, if that is their wish.