Two local families have donated $2.4 million to help expand access to advanced cancer treatment at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC). The gift from the Combe and MacMaster families will fund the purchase of a second Varian Ethos therapy system, an artificial intelligence-driven linear accelerator, and support the introduction of AlignRT radiation therapy and HyperSight imaging technology across LHSC’s fleet of linear accelerators. The families said their decision was shaped by seeing the impact cancer has had on friends and loved ones. “I took it in my heart to help people if I could,” said Ken MacMaster, a longtime supporter of London Health Sciences Foundation (LHSF) and former owner of MacMaster Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC. “If we can eliminate some suffering or grief for families, then it’ll be worth it.” Craig Combe said the investment will help ensure cancer patients in the region have access to leading-edge treatment close to home. “I wanted to see this advanced way of treating people brought to London,” Combe said. “Our physicians already have the expertise, but this helps ensure they have the tools to match. If we can help give patients even greater peace of mind during one of the most difficult times in their lives, that’s worth investing in.” The donation is aimed at helping the hospital deliver faster, more precise and personalized radiation treatment as demand for cancer care continues to grow. Linear accelerators, commonly known as LINACs, are used to treat a wide range of cancers, including prostate, bladder and lung cancers, as well as some blood cancers. LHSC currently treats about 300 patients each day using nine linear accelerators. Hospital officials say the new technology will improve both precision and efficiency in radiation treatment. AlignRT continuously monitors a patient’s position during treatment, helping clinicians maintain accuracy and, in some cases, eliminating the need for the small permanent tattoos traditionally used to guide radiation therapy. HyperSight imaging provides clearer and faster imaging of tumours and surrounding organs, allowing clinicians to better visualize treatment areas before delivering radiation. According to LHSC, the upgrades will enable clinical teams to adapt treatment plans in real time, improve targeting of tumours and reduce radiation exposure to healthy tissue. “This remarkable gift will help ensure our patients continue to benefit from some of the most advanced radiation technologies available,” said Dr. Michael Ott, LHSC’s department head of oncology. “By giving our clinical teams greater precision and flexibility in how we plan and deliver treatment, this investment will enhance the care experience for thousands of patients in the years ahead.”
