A joyful and deeply meaningful milestone was reached at Khayelitsha District Hospital (KDH) with the official launch of the revamped Male Mental Health Unit on 20 November 2025.

​

This transformation was more than a renovation—it was the realisation of a vision that began over a year ago: to bring dignity, hope, and moments of happiness to mental health patients by creating a space that actively supports healing and well-being.

​

The Need for Change

Before the refurbishment, the unit was overcrowded and under-resourced. Patients spent long days with very little to occupy or uplift them. Poor lighting and visual monotony offered minimal stimulation, contributing to an environment that did little to support recovery—for patients or for the clinical teams working tirelessly within it.

​

Our goal was to change this entirely: to create a welcoming, calming, and stimulating environment that would benefit both patients and staff.

​

Small Steps, Big Impact

The first step came in December 2024, when the unit received a karaoke speaker, microphone, and television—simple additions that immediately brought moments of connection, expression, and joy.

​

By September 2025, the full renovation was underway. A once barren room was transformed using the colours and rhythms of nature. Renowned mural artist Chris Auret brought the walls to life with striking visual imagery. One of the most meaningful elements, Circles of Intention, emerged from a collaborative process between Chris and patients in the Mental Health Unit—ensuring that the space truly reflects the voices and experiences of those who use it.

​

Designed for Care, Privacy, and Connection

The renovated unit now includes a dedicated space for staff meetings, family conferences, patient groups, and therapeutic activities. Additional practical enhancements include water dispensers and a PA system to call patients when it is their turn to see the doctor—small changes that significantly improve daily flow and comfort.

​

Gratitude and Celebration

This project would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of Truworths, whose partnership helped turn this vision into reality. We are also deeply grateful to volunteer Helen Drabbe, who managed the entire process with dedication, care, and determination from start to finish.

At the celebratory lunch following the launch, a member of the clinical team spoke movingly about the impact of the transformation:

“From the clinical team—you don’t realise what you have done. This is more than a renovated space; it is a complete change in our patients’ outlook. We are so grateful.”

​

In a moment of warmth and humour, it was even suggested that Friends of KDH might more accurately be called Angels of KDH.

​

This revitalised Male Mental Health Unit stands as a powerful reminder that environment matters—that thoughtful, human-centred spaces can restore dignity, uplift spirits, and support healing. We are proud to have played a part in creating a place where care is felt not only through treatment, but through the space itself.