The Oncohematology Unit at Doctor José Molina Orosa Hospital has treated 7,607 patients since opening in 2006, bringing specialised cancer care closer to Lanzarote residents.
The Oncohematology Unit at Doctor José Molina Orosa University Hospital celebrated its 20th anniversary with a gala at the Monument to the Peasant last Friday, October 16th.
The event brought together patients, family members, representatives of patient associations and healthcare professionals who have contributed to the unit over the past two decades.
The celebration provided an opportunity to look back at the service’s beginnings, reflect on developments in cancer care on Lanzarote and hear from the people whose experiences have shaped its history.
Among those sharing their memories were Orlando Olivares, the unit’s first supervisor, and nurses Fatma Wade and Shaila Romero. They spoke about the launch of the service and the work carried out over the past 20 years.
Several of the first doctors to lead the unit also took part via video, including haematologist José Manuel Calvo, who reflected on the early days and the evolution of cancer care on the island.
20 years of treatment
The Oncohematology Unit began operating in 2006, marking a significant development in cancer care on Lanzarote.
Before its creation, patients had to travel to other islands, particularly Gran Canaria, to receive treatments such as chemotherapy.
The opening of the unit allowed more specialised care to be delivered locally, reducing the need for patients to leave Lanzarote for treatment.
Since it was established, the service has treated 7,607 patients, while its resources, staffing and capacity to provide care have developed over the years.
Another significant step came three years ago, when radiation therapy was introduced at Molina Orosa Hospital, expanding the range of cancer treatments available on the island.
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