One Riverina cancer sufferer and his wife say Lillier Lodge was their home away from home.
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A fortnight on from an eight-week stay at the 13-year-old facility, the couple celebrated the official unveiling of a cosmetic refurbishment, two-years in the making.
Opened in May 2004, the lodge – a joint venture between Can-Assist and the NSW Cancer Council – has accommodated hundreds of patients undergoing cancer treatment every year.
Griffith retirees Keith and Margaret Bryce said staying at the lodge had eased their burdens and their stress.
“It’s a home away from home… it’s wonderful,” Mrs Bryce said.
“Everyone was so wonderful and there’s a real sense of community and support here.”
In addition to improvements made to the grounds, Lillier Lodge now boasts new curtains, furniture, lighting, linen, painting, shade cloths and signage as well as a new Serenity Garden.
The community-funded refit received high praise at a morning tea on Wednesday.
Can-Assist chief executive Janice Scelzo said the lodge was one of a kind.
“Other places that I’ve been to are kind of cold and a little motel-ish,” Ms Scelzo said. “When I see this, I think ‘home away from home’ is really how it feels.”