Patients in the palliative care unit at Wellington Cancer and Blood Service now have access to video and camera equipment to record their stories for and with loved ones. The equipment was purchased with funds from Dry July 2013.

Wellington Blood and Cancer Centre is now able to offer care packs to inpatients who may find themselves suddenly admitted without bringing along any personal hygeine items. The packs contain: toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, soap, shampoo, etc.

Packs are also available to relatives who are called in unexpectedly to stay overnight with cancer patients.

Previously, patients at the cancer centre had access to tea and coffee using only polystyrene cups. Patient feedback showed that the taste of polystyrene can be unpleasant while on chemotherapy/radiation therapy. The centre has used Dry July funds to produce ceramic mugs for patients to use instead.

The service also used funds to develop colouring books / workbooks for use during family counselling meetings where adults diagnosed with cancer have young children.

Patients receiving chemotherapy at Christchurch Hospital will now be able to borrow iPads to use while sitting and having their treatment. The iPads offer patients some entertainment and distraction to help pass the time.

Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Service will purchase 12 new chemotherapy chairs with funds from Dry July 2013.

The existing chairs were donated to the oncology day ward and not purpose built. The new chairs will greatly improve patient comfort. Patients spend up to 6 hours at a time sitting in these chairs while receiving treatment.