A LOCAL cancer centre is continuing its expansion with the launch of two new services.
Actress Aoibhinn Garrihy was on hand last Friday to officially open a new hair and beauty salon at Sláinte an Chláir, Kilnamona and was impressed with the free services that are available to cancer patients at the centre.
A spokeswoman for Clare Cancer Support explained they encourage patients to shave their hair once it starts falling out, as it can be distressing to see it happen in stages.
Once their hair starts to grow back, patients are invited back to the centre where they will get a free style or colour. Women can also have their make-up done or a nail manicure.
“It can be traumatic for anyone who starts to lose their after chemotherapy. Getting their hair and make-up done in a relaxing environment at the centre provides a great boost to women who have cancer.
“It gives them a chance to put their best foot forward while they are receiving cancer treatment,” the spokeswoman explained.
Meanwhile, a nurse will visit the centre this Saturday to provide treatment for patients who have lymph drainage issues following surgery.
This new service, which will be offered every six weeks, will reduce the need for patients to travel for this treatment.
The centre is trying to raise much-needed funds for the services it provides from its premises in Kilnamona and is asking people to text the words ‘Face Up’ to 50300. This simple text will donate €2 to Sláinte an Chláir.
Set up over six years ago, the centre relies on all its own fundraising to run its services.
By Dan Danaher