Somerset Freemasons donate specialist cushions to cancer treatment centre

Supporting Comfort and Care at The Beacon Centre, Musgrove Park Hospital

Representatives from Somerset Freemasons recently visited The Beacon Centre, the cancer treatment centre at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, to see first-hand how a meaningful community donation is helping improve comfort for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Rob Hughes, Barrie Palmer and Chris Perry met with the hospital team to deliver five specialist medical inflatable cushions, purchased through a £1,500 donation. Of this, £1,200 was donated by Somerset Freemasons, with a further £300 generously contributed personally by Chris Perry to meet the full cost of the cushions. The payment was facilitated through SURE – The Somerset Unit for Radiotherapy Equipment.

Designed to reduce pressure and discomfort, the cushions support patients who may be sitting for long periods during radiotherapy sessions or travelling to and from treatment. They can be used both at The Beacon Centre and taken home, offering continued comfort beyond the hospital environment.

While simple in design, the cushions make a real difference to day-to-day wellbeing – something clinical equipment alone cannot always provide.

Rob Hughes, along with Barrie Palmer and Chris Perry said:
“We’re proud to support The Beacon Centre in a practical way that directly benefits patients. Sometimes it’s the small things, comfort, dignity and ease of travel, that matter most during treatment. If we can help make even one person’s day a little easier, that’s exactly what Freemasonry is about.”

During the visit, the group also learned more about the hospital’s wider fundraising efforts, including support for new linear accelerator (LINAC) cancer treatment machines and the refurbishment and development of modern ward and treatment facilities.

Kate Cooper and her team warmly welcomed the visitors and explained how community donations help fund items that fall outside NHS budgets but significantly improve patient experience.

Kate Cooper added:
“These cushions may seem simple, but they make a huge difference for patients who are often uncomfortable or fatigued during treatment. Support from local groups like the Freemasons allows us to provide those extra touches of care that really matter. We’re incredibly grateful for their kindness and ongoing support.”

Somerset Freemasons are committed to helping local needs where targeted donations can have an immediate and visible impact. Projects like this reflect Freemasonry’s core values of charity, care and community service – supporting people where it matters most, close to home.

Somerset Freemasons look forward to continuing its relationship with The Beacon Centre and supporting future initiatives that enhance patient comfort and care.