Refurbished apheresis unit opens at Hammersmith Hospital
Refurbished apheresis unit opens at Hammersmith Hospital
21 August 2026
Apheresis is used to treat a variety of blood disorders including sickle cell disease and blood cancer.
During the procedure, patients’ blood passes through a machine that separates out a specific component, such as red blood cells or plasma, before returning the remainder to the body, sometimes with a new component added. Treatments take several hours to complete and are often needed regularly.
In August, we invited Professor Choudhury’s son and grandson (pictured above) to visit the new unit, designed by Lucentia Design and Ansell & Bailey architects in consultation with patients and staff.
Many patients described having restricted movement during treatment. In response, the redesigned space aims to help patients dream of places beyond the hospital walls, with nature-inspired patterns and colours for the eye to rest on.
The designers told us: "The collaborative influence throughout this project has made it a huge success. Staff say it is both calming and inspiring, providing reassurance and helping reduce patient anxiety. It conveys; ‘You matter, you have individual needs, it is all going to be alright.’ Patients reflect they have the opportunity to connect with nature, to see the beauty in everyday, to give you hope, to let you dream.”
Patients can adjust new tuneable LED ceiling lights, fitted to simulate daylight at different times of day, choosing cooler or warmer tones to suit their mood.
Grass, leaves and bird imagery throughout the unit also give the impression of being immersed in nature.
Photographs of the unit by Richard Washbrooke.
Commenting on the impact of his father's gift, Professor Choudhury's son, Pasha, said: “Observing in person the direct outcome of my father’s gift to the Imperial College Healthcare Trust has meant the world to both my son and me. More significantly it has made his legacy feel completely worthwhile.”
Professor Choudhury’s donation has also supported research into blood cancer treatments and funded life-saving equipment for the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.
We are extremely grateful to his family for their support.
