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A new L-Dex Body Composition Analyser at Toowoomba Hospital is helping in the early detection of lymphoedema in patients diagnosed with breast cancer thanks to a generous donation by the Hi-Tec OilsToowoomba Speedway who raised over $22,000 at their Ultimate Pink Night in 2022.
Cancer-related lymphoedema is a condition that can be caused by cancer or cancer treatments, including breast cancer, melanoma and pelvic area cancers, and occurs when fluid builds up and blocks the lymphatic system causing swelling in the limbs.
If untreated, lymphoedema can cause painful swelling, lead to infection, and become a life-long condition.
Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO Alison Kennedy said the new L-Dex Machine at Toowoomba Hospital was an equipment first for the Darling Downs Health Cancer Care Services.
“This new machine is providing our Physiotherapists with state-of-the-art technology in helping local women and patients from across the Darling Downs diagnosed with breast cancer,” she said.
“Receiving a cancer diagnosis is already so overwhelming and then having to worry about something else like lymphoedema is a lot, so being able to fund equipment that is helping to diagnose and provide better health outcomes for patients is very exciting.
“The new L-Dex machine is helping to give patients the reassurance and relief they need with early detection, meaning their medical team can help treat the lymphoedema more effectively and reduce life-long impacts.
“A massive thank you to Toowoomba Speedway, their supporters, drivers and race teams, and everyone who got behind the Ultimate Pink Night – it’s truly helping to make a difference in the lives of so many not only within Toowoomba but across the Darling Downs who access cancer care services.”
Hi-Tec Oils Toowoomba Speedway Events Manager Ryan Harris said it was incredibly rewarding and fulfilling to see and understand how their fundraising efforts are aiding in the care of breast cancer patients.
“It’s pretty amazing to see that the funds that the Speedway fraternity raised at Ultimate Pink Night has purchased such an important piece of equipment that’s now being used right here at the Toowoomba Hospital,” he said.
“I was surprised to hear that the Physiotherapy team can see up to five women every week for new or routine appointments, so it’s a real feel-good moment for all of us at the Speedway to know our event is now helping women diagnosed with breast cancer from the entire region.”
In 2023, the Toowoomba Speedway’s Ultimate Pink Night raised $31,044 for Darling Downs Health Breast Care Services and Breast Screen Queensland Toowoomba.
