Cancer patients and their family members have one less thing to worry about thanks to the Southern Interior Rotary Lodge.

Located next to the BC Cancer Care, patients can walk over for appointments and return to the lodge where they also find comfort in having nourishing meals. The facility is home to 19 rooms and can accommodate 36 clients who are in town for treatments.

Rita McCreary travelled to the lodge from Creston and has been staying there since Nov. 5, along with her sister, daughter and husband. It鈥檚 not just patients who find comfort in the lodge.

鈥淚t takes a lot of worry off family members, just knowing that you鈥檙e here and knowing that you have good care and everything is provided,鈥� said McCreary.

McCreary is excited to head home Dec.18 following six weeks of treatment. She鈥檒l have to wait until the new year until her immune system has strengthened to join her extended family in Alberta, but she鈥檚 grateful to be headed home with her husband for Christmas.

This comforting atmosphere was intentional.

Lodge manager Chris Woodburn explained that the lodge was designed to be a non-medical facility.

The goal was to create a home away from home. From healthy meals to entertainment and connecting with others going through the same battle, the lodge has become a place of comfort to the hundreds of people who stay there every year.

Clients often contact Woodburn to request roommates and others鈥� contact information because they want to stay in touch.

鈥淭he resounding message that we were helpful and filled a void when they were staying here.鈥�

When it comes to extra touches of comfort during the holiday season, Woodburn and his team are preparing a special dinner along with presents for those staying at the lodge on the 21st in celebration of the holiday season and all that they鈥檝e overcome.

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