The Solas Centre, the South East’s cancer support service, is calling on all runners, joggers and walkers to get in shape for the Solas Centre South East Run for Life which takes place on Sunday October 16th in Waterford City. Sponsorship cards are available from the Solas Centre, Sam McCauley stores and AIB branches through out the region. The organisers are hoping 1,000 people take part in support of the 1,000 who will avail of the Solas Centre in 2012.
The Republic of Ireland and Wolves star Stephen Hunt was delighted to launch the 2011 event, “It is great to be involved with such a good cause that helps so many people through out the South East”.
The Solas Centre, which last year moved from its premises in a small estate house in Waterford to its new state of the art facility in Ardkeen, is now regarded as one of the finest cancer support facilities in the country today.
Built entirely from community fundraising and the generosity of the people of the South East, over €1.5million was raised over three years. The building was designed with ambiance and comfort in mind. There are relaxing therapy rooms and quiet comfortable sitting rooms for a confidential chat or for counselling. The art room is bright and airy and perfect for kids to splash paint or for adults to express themselves through art. The Centre’s assembly room is great for groups to meet and chat.
Iain Munro, SECF Chairman, said “The Solas Centre would not be here if it wasn’t for the generosity and goodwill 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 the South East.”
“Today 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.”
However the need for fundraising goes on. The event now in its fourth year is changing emphasis from building the Centre to maintaining quality cancer services. It is also expanding its appeal for participants not just from Waterford City but from the whole South East.
Each year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny, 2000 people are diagnosed with cancer. While last year cancer support was provided to 250 the Solas Centre anticipates that it will be able to provide support to 1,000 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. The 2011 South East Run for Life 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.”
For further information contact the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the ‘Solas Centre South East Run for Life’ Facebook page.
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