Solas Centre to open its doors to fundraisers

The Solas Centre, the South East’s cancer support service, will open its doors to those whose generosity helped to make the dream a reality.

On Saturday, May 14^th, the Solas Centre is inviting all those who have contributed to the fundraising that enabled the South Eastern Cancer Foundation to move from their premises in Earlscourt to the new state of the art facility in Ardkeen.

The Open Day will give contributors, volunteers and fundraisers the opportunity to see and experience the facilities that are now at the disposal of cancer patients and their families.

Iain Munro, SECF Chairman, said “The Solas Centre would not be here if it wasn’t for the generosity and good will of the people of the south east. Since April 2008, we have been campaigning to build and fund state of the art cancer support centre that offers excellent services to cancer patients and their families. Frankly, none of this would have been achieved if it wasn’t for the groundswell of support and kindness from the people of Waterford and the South East.”

“Today the Solas Centre is the finest cancer support building in the country and the people of the south east can be proud in the knowledge that it is due to their support. Every single cent towards the design, build and running costs came from the endeavours of the Centre’s supporters.”

“We began fundraising in 2008 and over the last three the number of charity events has skyrocketed. Initially the Run for Life attracted 500 participants, however three years later that number has doubled. Our innovative supporters have organised everything from fashion shows to charity balls, from kayaking across the Irish Sea to Santa Dashes and skipathons to Pink Days.”

Each year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny, 2000 people are diagnosed with cancer. Last year cancer support was provided to 250 patients from the South East Cancer Foundation’s small house in Earlscourt. The Solas Centre anticipates that it will be able to provide support to 1000 patients in 2012.

In order to provide the best support services to these cancer patients and their families fundraising continues to be crucial. Iain Munro added “Unfortunately, we can’t afford to rest on our laurels. The need to continue fundraising to support cancer patients is paramount. We will be announcing details of our main fundraising event, the 2011 Run for Life, at our Open Day. It is a great event that not only supports the work of the Solas Centre but is a great opportunity to get fit and have some fun.”

The Open Day will take place in the Solas Centre, Ardkeen, Waterford (opposite WLRfm) on Saturday, May 14^th from 12pm to 7pm. All are welcome to call in and see the facilities that are available and to find out more about the work of the South Eastern Cancer Foundation.

For further information the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the Facebook page “Solas Centre South Eastern Cancer Foundation”.