The Solas Centre, the South East’s cancer support service, is expanding its portfolio of services to cancer patients and their families in the South East.
Whilst the journey for the Solas Centre began in 2008, in 2010 support was provided to 250 patients from the South Eastern Cancer Foundation’s small house in Earlscourt. With 2,000 people diagnosed with cancer across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny, the state-of-the-art Solas Centre provided support for over 500 cancer patients in 2011 and anticipates that it will be able to provide support services, such as counselling, relaxation therapies and group support services to over 1,000 people affected by cancer in 2012.
According to Iain Munro, Chairman South Eastern Cancer Foundation, every effort is being made to ensure that the best cancer support services are provided across the region.
“Cancer affects us all and with more and more people being diagnosed with cancer each year, we are working hard to ensure the Solas Centre has a range of the best possible support services for cancer patients and their families.”
“We couldn’t have done this without the phenomenal generosity of the people of Waterford and the South East. The monies raised from a host of events such as the South East Run For Life, the Boobs ‘n’ Balls Bike Ride, the Vintage Tractor rally and so many more group and individual donations will allow us to provide further services that will enable cancer patients to receive the optimum support”, Mr. Munro added.
One such initiative recently launched is the Centre’s Art programme for people affected by cancer. This therapeutic programme, under the tutelage of artist Philip Cullen, provides participants with the opportunity to explore their creative sides. With a focus on nature, people, textures, landscapes and colour the programme aims to create an evocative and relaxed atmosphere that heightens the senses.
The Solas Centre has also expanded its counselling and therapy services and has introduced new programmes for groups including stress management, yoga, and a new support programme for men.
The philosophy of the Solas Centre is manifold; to provide cancer patients and their families with a safe place to talk things over and to help them cope with living with cancer. It also will work closely with the hospitals of the region in promoting and supporting patient-focused, cutting-edge cancer research and continues not only to educate people about cancer prevention, but also to change our mindset around cancer.
For more information about the cancer support services at the Solas Centre call 051 304604, visit www.solascentre.ie or check out the Facebook page Solas Centre – South Eastern Cancer Foundation.
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