Colourful caps, bags and ear savers, to relieve pressure from masks, have been donated to Royal North Shore Hospital’s cancer centre and operating theatre as part of Mental Health Awareness Month. 

Non-profit Buddhist charity Tzu Chi Foundation donated the range of handmade items for patients and staff to help try and lift their spirits and raise awareness of mental health.  

Cansupport Coordinator Tamara Doria said the donation was much appreciated by patients and staff. 

“Staff at the cancer centre are most grateful for the ear savers – they certainly relieve pressure from masks in these difficult working times,” she said. 

“The chemo or drain carry bags support patients to continue their treatment outside of the hospital whilst ensuring their dignity and privacy by having the choice of such lovely designs. 

“Both our outpatients and inpatients love them – we can’t thank the Tzu Chi Foundation enough for their generous donations.”

Clinical nurse consultant at RNSH’s operating suite Rebecca Fox said: “ When the beautiful and colourful caps were donated to RNSH’s Operating Theatres during busy COVID-19 times, there was much excitement.”

“The nurses were thrilled to have been gifted new cloth theatre caps – thank you so much.”