Construction on an addition to Spencer Hospital's Abben Cancer Center continues to progress, but current work will require those receiving services at the center to modify their arrival a bit.

"The project is right on schedule and we're excited as we move closer to completion; however, many times the progress of construction creates a little inconvenience," said Doug Doorn, Spencer Hospital president and CEO. "Starting Monday, Sept. 22 and for two weeks, work will commence near the front entrance of the cancer center, requiring us to reroute all patients, visitors and staff to use the back door of Abben located on the east side of the facility."

Kris Van Kleek, Abben Cancer Center director, said, "While it will be a little inconvenient during that two week period, we have put plans in place to make everything go as smoothly as possible.

"All of our current patients with scheduled appointments have been notified that we will be using our back entrance to the facility and our plant operations staff has helped with signage and reserved parking in that area."

She continued, "We have additional staff and volunteers available to help with any needs that arise. Also, anyone in need of valet service should pull up to the usual valet parking area at the front entrance of the hospital where a valet will greet them, provide directions and then meet the driver at the east entrance."

When the addition is completed this fall, a new state-of-the-art linear acceleration will be installed, continuing the center's tradition of providing high-tech radiation equipment to those utilizing the center.

"We anticipate having the new accelerator in operation at the beginning of 2009," Van Kleek said. "We have been fortunate to continue to upgrade our equipment to have the latest technology over the years. While construction brings a little inconvenience for all of us, we're confident the end results will definitely be worth it."