Mayor urges cancer patients to speak of experiences

CLARE cancer patients have been urged to speak publicly about their treatment to give hope and support to other sufferers in the county.
This plea was made last weekend by Mayor of Clare, Councillor Pat Hayes,  at the presentation of a €8,700 cheque raised through a sponsored cycle by Clare gardaí, to a cancer daycare centre in Kilnamona.
Speaking at the presentation, Councillor Hayes, who had successful bowel surgery in May 2010 thanks to an early diagnosis, said the centre’s hospitality ensured clients received support in a very homely environment.
“When people heard the word cancer before, it was viewed as a death sentence. However, a lot of people who have received great support from the centre have been successfully treated.
“It is great to see cancer patients, who have been through the centre coming back to support others. It is important that cancer sufferers speak out about their experience to provide hope and assistance for others,” he said.
Thanks to the latest donation, Tai Chi will be extended to Thursday and Saturday after Christmas in the centre. It cost about €24,500 to provide a variety of services including counselling and a 24-hour emergency phone line this year and it is expected this will increase to about €27,000 when extra services are provided in 2012.
Teresa Murrihy presented a sketch of hands to Garda Micheál O’Halloran, who is retiring shortly, in recognition of his 28-year involvement in fund raising garda cycles. Interestingly, his first one was in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.
Garda Declan Keavey, who praised the work carried out by volunteers at the centre, stressed that local gardaí were delighted to complete the cycle on September 17 last.
A Christmas Day Swim in aid of the centre is being organised by Angela Crotty in Lahinch. Tickets are available at Ennis Leisure Centre, the Surf shop, Lahinch and Ungert’s Bakery, Ennistymon.
Clare Cancer Support provides access to information about diagnosis, treatment and care for Clare cancer sufferers. This new organisation can also put people in touch with practical, emotional and social support.
It provides a drop-in service at a centre in Kilnamona providing help and support to anyone who is affected by or concerned about cancer, including families, friends and carers.
People can drop in from Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, while evenings and weekends are available on request.