An afternoon of Fun for Life !

Last year's winner of the T-Shirt design competition -  Eoin Moran

The South East Fun for Life takes place on Sunday, October 5^th in the People’s Park, Waterford.  It’s guaranteed to be a jam-packed family fun day and all for a great cause, the South East Cancer Foundation.

There is a full programme of events on the day including bouncy castles, climbing walls, rodeo bull, balloon modeling, kids races, Waterford United Penalty Shoot Out, along with a farmer’s market and much more.  The People’s Park will also be home to the finish line of the Solas Centre South East Run for Life and Beat 102 103 will be broadcasting live from the event.

All volunteers in the Park on the day will be wearing the winning design of this years T-Shirt competition sponsored by Datapac. The competition was open to 5^th and 6^th Class students throughout Waterford and Wexford with the winning design chosen by Sean Corcoran of The Art Hand.  Not only will the winner see their design being worn throughout the Park on the Day but they will also receive a Sporthouse School Bag full of goodies along with a trip to Hasbro Toy Factory for their entire class.  Two runners up will also receive Sporthouse School Bags.  All entries will be displayed in the Park so come along and see these fabulous fun designs.  

The Fun for Life is the family-centric part of the day as the Solas Centre South  Run for Life gets under way that day on the Quay at 12.30.  Thousands of runners, walkers and joggers are expected to complete the 10 mile course and finish in the People’s Park.

According to Clair Moriarty, South East Run for Life Committee Chair, the Fun for Life was created to ensure the participants in the South East Run for Life, their families and friends can all enjoy a great day for a great cause.

“We are hoping to increase on last years numbers with participants coming from all over the South East, so we want to ensure that their families and friends are well looked after and entertained while the runners undertake the more taxing 10 mile run.”

However, Clair added the Fun for Life is for everyone and wants to encourage as many people to come along and enjoy the teeming fun line up.

“The entertainment is guaranteed to appeal to all ages.  Beat 102-103 will be broadcasting live from the People’s Park, there will be face painters, bouncy castles and a rodeo bull.  The Farmers Market will also be there with a wide and tasty selection of fresh artisan treats and refreshments.”

The event is organised by Ian Power of Sporthouse, who were thrilled to be involved with the Solas Centre Fun for Life in aid of the South East Cancer Foundation, which is such a deserving cause.

So this weekend, whether you’re participating in the Solas Centre South East Run for Life or you just want to enjoy a few hours of great family fun you won’t want to miss the Fun for Life Day at the People’s Park, Waterford on Sunday, October 5th from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

For more information on the Fun for Life Day call the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the Facebook page “Solas Centre South East Run for Life”.

Solas Centre South East Run for Life – looking for fundraising inspiration?

September is here, the kids are back to school and the South East Run for Life is less than a month away.

The annual 10 mile run, which takes place on Sunday, October 5^th,  is a week earlier this year, so that means a week less for training and a week less for fundraising.

The South East Run for Life differs from other events because, while it does not have a registration fee, it is a fundraising event for the South East Cancer Foundation and the more money raised, the more people and families affected by cancer can avail of the cancer support services at the Solas Centre.

As a registered charity, 100% reliant on donations, it is the generosity and commitment of the people of the South East that enables the South Eastern Cancer Foundation to continue and further improve the services it provides to those affected by cancer.

Claire Moriarty, Chair of the SERFL committee, is urging those who intend to partake in the 10 mile run to pick up sponsorship cards and start fundraising today.  “While the run does not have a registration fee, there is a cost to organise this event and that is why the fundraising effort is critical to the Centre’s continued success.”

“We are looking forward to seeing some fun, quirky, and just plain mad fundraising events over the coming weeks.”

“There are loads of tried and tested fundraising ideas that work so well for charities, but we have been warmly encouraged by many of our supporters who are raising funds through fun events.”

According to Claire, “Bank of Ireland Lisduggan will hold a Solas Centre Orange Day this month.  The branch will be decorated in a sea of orange, the staff will wear orange on the day and will be selling orange cupcakes in an attempt to fundraise for the Solas Centre.”
“The Sportif Cycling Club has organised a 200km cycle in the aid of the Solas Centre and we have been told that Book Clubs throughout the South East will hold fundraising events to raise money for the event.”

If you are taking part in the South East Run for Life on Sunday, October 5^th and are looking for some fundraising inspiration, you could try some of these:

·         Offer to walk neighbours/friends dog for a fee while training!

·         Organise lunch time walks – pay as you go!

·         Raise money by organising a training group with friends

·         Host a South East Run For Life pre event; BBQ/Lunch/Coffee Morning

·         Organise fun events with family and friends before the event e.g. egg and spoon race,         mini-  mini marathon around the estate/local area etc. 

·         Talks and demonstrations – e.g. book readings, cookery demonstrations

·         Sell unwanted gifts or clutter

Every year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny 2,000 people are diagnosed with cancer.  This year the Solas Centre aims to have 2,000 sponsored participants run, jog or walk the 10 mile route; that’s one runner, to match every person diagnosed.

The centre is a haven for those affected by cancer, where they can avail of confidential, informal and free support services such as counselling, psychotherapy therapy, massage, reflexology and support groups provided by highly trained individuals in a professional manner.

Sponsorship cards are available to download at www.solascentre.ie, or can be collected from the Solas Centre at Williamstown, Waterford.  Alternatively you can visit Beat 102 103 studios or AIB branches.

For further information contact the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the ‘Solas Centre South East Run for Life’ Facebook page or Twitter @solascentre

Solas Centre launches 2014 South East Run for Life in partnership with Datapac

The South East Cancer Foundation / Solas Centre is proud to announce a partnership with Datapac for the 2014 South East Run for Life. 

Speaking at the launch Karen O’Connor, General Manager of Datapac said, “The South East Run for Life is a truly inspiring event to be involved with and it will be a privilege to work with the Solas Centre to ensure the events success.”

The Solas Centre is delighted to partner with Datapac for this year’s event and also acknowledged the continuing support of Beat 102-103.

Now in its seventh year, The Solas Centre South East Run for Life is the highlight of the

South East’s sporting calendar. Almost 2,000 participants and spectators are expected to

participate in this year’s event which takes place on Sunday, October 5^th.

Every year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny 2,000 people

are diagnosed with cancer. This year the Solas Centre aims to have 2,000 sponsored

participants run, jog or walk the 10 mile route; that’s one runner, to represent the 2,000

people diagnosed with cancer across the south east region.

The South Eastern Cancer Foundation’s Solas Centre is a charity 100% reliant on income

raised through fundraising to support its services. Based in a state of the art facility, the

Solas Centre is regarded as one of the leading cancer support facilities in the country. The

centre is a haven for those affected by cancer, where they can avail of confidential, informal and free support services such as counselling, psychotherapy therapy, massage, reflexology and support groups provided by highly trained individuals in a professional manner.

According to Dr. Brian Creedon, Chairman South Eastern Cancer Foundation, the success of the Solas Centre is down to the generosity and support of all communities across the South East.

“Our goal is to provide the very best cancer support services to those who have been

diagnosed with cancer. In order to do so we must fundraise. The South East Run for Life

is a wonderful way for participants to get out, get fit, have fun and raise money for a good

cause.”

If you want to take part in the South East Run for Life 2014 which takes place on Sunday, October 5th, sponsorship cards are available to download at www.solascentre.ie, or can be collected from the Solas Centre at Williamstown, Waterford. Alternatively you can visit Beat 102 103 studios or AIB branches.

For further information contact the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the ‘Solas

Centre South East Run for Life’ Facebook page or Twitter @solascentre

Solas Centre Run for Life raises €250,000

The Art Therapy Room at the Solas Centre

2013 saw almost 1,700 participants raise a staggering €250,000 for the Solas Centre which will go towards providing the best cancer support services to those affected by cancer across the South East.

The sixth annual South East Run for Life, which took place on October 13th was one of the highlights of the region’s sporting calendar.  The 10 mile route was awash with the Solas Centre’s trademark orange T- shirts as runners, joggers and walkers took to the streets of Waterford to support this worthy cause.

The Solas Centre moved to its state of the art facility at Williamstown almost three years ago and is now regarded as the leading cancer support facility in the country. The centre is a haven for those affected by cancer who can avail of confidential, informal and free support services such as counselling, art therapy psychotherapy, message, reflexology and support groups provided by highly trained individuals in a professional manner.

Dr.  Brian Creedon, Chairman, South Eastern Cancer Foundation, was delighted with the support of the people of the South East.  “Each year we try to improve the access to and the services provided by the Solas Centre.”

“In 2013 we will conduct over 6,000 individual client sessions and we will see 540 clients utilise the services, representing an increase of 15% since 2012.  That is why the funds raised from the Run for Life are crucial in enabling us to do so.  The running costs for the centre are just over €425,000 each year and without the fantastic generosity, support and goodwill of the public there would be no Solas Centre.”

The Solas Centre employs 4 staff, has 30 counsellors and therapists, 5 individuals from community employment / work placement schemes and is supported by 42 volunteers, providing a wide range of cancer support services including a series of health and education initiatives, client programmes, art programmes, support groups, and counselling for cancer patients and their families.  The Solas Centre is currently focusing on nurturing partnerships with national and international institutions in order to ensure our clients in the South East have access to and choice of services.

Dr, Creedon added “We are indebted to the people of the South East for showing the Centre such unwavering support and we are determined to continue to ensure the Solas Centre is the finest cancer support facility in the country.”

Mr. Jonathan Earl, Chair of the Run for Life committee also thanked the participants, sponsors and volunteers.  “The Run for Life and the family event which followed, the Fun for Life, would not have been a success without the support of the huge team of volunteers who ensured it went without a hitch, the generosity of our sponsors and media partners and, of course, every single person who took part in the Run for Life.  Every cent raised will go towards ensuring that the Solas Centre can continue to provide its support services to those affected by cancer, their families and their carers.”

 If you want to find out more about the services of the Solas Centre visit www.solascentre.ie or on 051 304604.

6th South East Run for Life brings out the crowds!

The 6^th Solas Centre South East Run for Life drew almost 1,700 joggers, walkers and runners from all over the South East.

With the participants setting out from the Quay for the 10 mile route, the fun culminated in the People’s Park with the South East Fun for Life event.

Families of the runners, walkers and joggers were able to enjoy plenty of family entertainment in the People’s Park where there were bouncy castles, children’s races, penalty shoot outs with Waterford United FC, go–karting, a climbing wall, live broadcasts from Beat 102-103 and much more.

The total monies raised for the Solas Centre and the South East Cancer Foundation have yet to be tallied, but the organisers will announce the details in full next week.

Mr. Jonathan Earl, Chairman of the Run for Life committee was delighted with the event, “The annual South East Run for Life has become the highlight of the region’s sporting calendar and 2013 was no exception.” 

“The level of participation and involvement from the runners and walkers was fantastic.  The atmosphere around the route was invigorating and the work and dedication from the massive volunteer crew was wonderful, with everyone so  giving of their time, energy and ideas.”

Mr. Earl added, “All funds raised will go towards the Solas Centre.  It goes without saying that the generosity and goodwill of all those who participated will go towards ensuring that the Solas Centre can continue to provide the best cancer support services for those affected by cancer, their families and their carers.”

For further information about the Solas Centre and the cancer support services it provides check out www.solascentre.ie or call 051 304604.

Wexford’s Janet urges everyone to Run for Life

Janet Whitney from Adamstown, Co. Wexford was diagnosed with cancer three days before Christmas in 2006.  What followed was a lumpectomy, then forty sessions of radiotherapy at Waterford Regional Hospital.  It was a nurse at the hospital who referred Janet to the Solas Centre which gave her “a lifeline.”

In an interview with Beat 102-103’s Zara King, Janet recalls how cancer affected her life.  “After I was diagnosed with cancer I discovered two things; prayer and the Solas Centre.”

“At the time, I was in a state, as anyone would be who had just been diagnosed with cancer, but when the nurse at WRH put me in touch with the Solas Centre, it became my lifeline and helped me so much.”

Of the Solas Centre, Janet says “The Solas Centre was a place where I could be by myself. Obviously when your family and friends hear you are diagnosed with cancer they are devastated for you and for themselves, so the Solas Centre was somewhere I could get the space I needed.”

“When I was travelling daily from Wexford to Waterford for radiotherapy I was desperately lonely, but when I went to the Solas Centre there was someone there to talk to, or not if that’s what I wanted.”

“Whilst the medical system is good and the cancer services are really good, there is nothing in place to help you mentally cope with cancer and that’s where the Solas Centre helped me so much.”

Janet is encouraging anyone who can to take part in the Solas Centre Run for Life which takes place on Sunday, October 13^th.  “By taking part in the Run for Life this year you are going to help someone in a way you may not have thought of before.  For me it provided a neutral space, but it also provided so many great services such as massage and art therapy and I made so many friends there.”

Every year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny 2,000 people are diagnosed with cancer. That is why the organisers are hoping to garner the support of at least 2,000 participants to take part in aid of the Solas Centre.

“Cancer has changed my life.  I have reprioritised so many things. I am no longer complacent about the things in my life and I value my family, my work, everything I have and no longer sweat the small stuff anymore” said Janet.

According to Dr. Brian Creedon, Chairman South Eastern Cancer Foundation, people like Janet have made the Solas Centre the haven it is today.

“We are delighted to be in a position to provide the crucial services that make living with cancer easier.  Janet, by availing of the support services at the Solas Centre has discovered that there is a place to go, a place to talk, a place to just be and that’s vital to anyone affected by cancer.”

“However, without the continuing support and generosity of the people from Wexford and the South East, the Solas Centre would not be in a position to provide the best cancer support services to those who have been diagnosed with cancer.”

“So please dust off your runners and if you can run, jog or walk the Run for Life.

All monies raised go directly to the Solas Centre and provide support, counselling and therapy to the 2,000 people who are diagnosed across the region each and every year.”

The Solas Centre is delighted to welcome new sponsors, Eishtec and acknowledged the continuing support of Beat 102-103.

If you want to take part in this year’s South East Run For Life, which takes place on Sunday, October 13th, sponsorship cards are available from the Solas Centre at Williamstown, Waterford or you can visit www.solascentre.ie, Beat 102 103 studios and AIB branches.

For further information contact the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the ‘Solas Centre South East Run for Life’ Facebook page.

Clonmel’s Aisling sets her Run for Life goal!

Aisling Fiuza is an extraordinary 18 year old girl from Clonmel who has set her sights on completing the Solas Centre South East Run for Life on Sunday, October 13^th.

Her knowledge of the Solas Centre and the cancer services it provides comes from her dad, who has connections with the support centre.

According to Aisling, in an interview with Beat 102-103’s Gail Conway, she has always been amazed by the positivity at the Solas Centre.  “From the stories I have heard from people who use the services at the centre there is inspiration and hope in all of them.  You can only be amazed when you hear about how strong those affected by cancer are and how they cope so positively.”

“Everybody has been affected by cancer and I’ve learned that support is crucial to help anyone through it…the support of family, friends and places like the Solas Centre seem to make it easier to cope.”

Every year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny 2,000 people are diagnosed with cancer. That is why the organisers are hoping to garner the support of at least 2,000 participants to take part in aid of the Solas Centre.

Last year, Aisling took part in the 10 mile race and, with her school, raised over €750 for the Solas Centre.  “The atmosphere on the day was amazing and really influenced my decision to do the race again this year. In fact, you couldn’t stop me, even if you tried”, said Aisling.

Aisling is happy to offer advice to anyone who is considering taking part in this October’s Run for Life.  “The ten mile run is not too bad.  I’m fairly active anyway, but this year I have been training more actively than ever.  I’d suggest anyone interested in taking part should keep motivated, stick with it, don’t give up and keep the end goal in sight.  It will be worth it in the end!”

  

According to Dr. Brian Creedon, Chairman South Eastern Cancer Foundation, the success of the Solas Centre is down to the generosity and support of people like Aisling.

“Aisling, through her Dad’s involvement in the Solas Centre, is very aware of the breadth of services we provide to those affected by cancer in the South East.  We will continue to promote the development of the region’s cancer support services, by rolling out a series of health and education initiatives, client programmes, art programmes, support groups, and counselling for cancer patients and their families.  This can only be done with the continuing support of those in Tipperary and the South East.”

The Solas Centre is delighted to welcome on board this year’s new race sponsors, Eishtec and acknowledge the continuing support of Beat 102-103.

If you want to take part in this year’s South East Run For Life, which takes place on Sunday, October 13th, sponsorship cards are available from the Solas Centre at Williamstown, Waterford or you can visit www.solascentre.ie, Beat 102 103 studios and AIB branches.

For further information contact the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the ‘Solas Centre South East Run for Life’ Facebook page.

Niamh sets herself Solas goal!

Whatever people’s reasons for taking part in the 2013 Solas Centre South East Run for Life, Waterford’s Niamh Doherty is urging everyone to get running, jogging or walking to simply celebrate life.

According to Niamh, in an interview with Beat 102-103’s Gail Conway, it was her experience at last year’s Run for Life that encouraged her to do it again this year.

“I did the run last year as I was stuck around the 5km mark and wanted to increase my distance and set myself some goals.  I chose the Solas Run for Life as I had heard so much about it in previous years and knew it was a really good cause, so I signed up with some friends.”

“Thankfully none of my immediate family has had to use the services of the Solas Centre, but you don’t know what’s around the corner in six days, six weeks or six months time…cancer is so prevalent,” she added.

Of the run itself, Niamh said it was an amazing experience.  “Everybody was cheering us on; the stewards, the people at the water stations, there were even kids handing out sweets around the course.  There was music outside the Solas Centre and a crowd of people clapping and cheering us on.  It was unbelievable and gave us such a lift when we needed it.”

“However, the defining moment for me was coming past St. Benilda’s Church on the home strait and an elderly gentleman was giving all the participants ‘high fives’ as they passed.  It summed up the whole spirit of the race and the generosity of spirit that is out there on the streets of Waterford.”

Many of the participants of this year’s Solas Centre South East Run for Life have been, in some way, affected by cancer.  Every year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny 2,000 people are diagnosed with cancer. That is why the organisers are hoping to garner the support of at least 2,000 participants to take part in aid of the Solas Centre.

Niamh added, "A friend of mine had battled cancer, and she was less than 50 years of age when she passed away about six weeks before the run.  She was in my thoughts throughout the run and at times when it got difficult I thought of her and asked her to get me through it.  She did!”

“I wasn’t the only one running that day who had someone to think about and it goes to show how many people get such great use out of the Solas Centre and what an amazing resource it is for those who need it.”

According to Dr. Brian Creedon, Chairman South Eastern Cancer Foundation, the public’s continuing support of the Solas Centre is vital in providing the best regional cancer support services.

“Niamh did so much last year to ensure that we can continue to provide cancer support services to the 2,000 people who are diagnosed across the region each and every year.  I would urge everyone to think about getting out, getting fit and running, jogging or walking October’s Run for Life.  It’s a fun family day out and the vital funds will allow us to continue our fight against cancer.”

The Solas Centre is delighted to welcome new sponsors, Eishtec and acknowledged the continuing support of Beat 102-103.

If you want to take part in this year’s South East Run For Life, which takes place on Sunday, October 13th sponsorship cards are available from the Solas Centre at Williamstown, Waterford or you can visit www.solascentre.ie, Beat 102 103 studios and AIB branches

Carlow’s Liam counting down to Run for Life!

Carlow man recounts impact of cancer on family 

When Liam’s brother, Joe, died at the age of 46 from cancer, the impact was devastating. At the time, Liam was living in England and after Joe’s death, he felt adrift with nowhere to go for support.

14 years later Liam will participate in the Solas Centre’s South East Run for Life in order to ensure that any family touched by cancer as he was can avail of the cancer support services from the Solas Centre.

According to Liam, in an interview with Beat 102-103’s Gail Conway, the funds raised from the sixth annual South East Run for Life will go a long way to benefit those who are affected by cancer and their immediate families.

“After we lost Joe I felt as if I had lost my right arm”, Liam said.  “When he was diagnosed with cancer it came as a complete bolt out of the blue.  Up to that point, cancer was always someone else’s problem, but now it was ours, deeply affecting the family as a whole and Joe’s children in particular.”

“It’s not just someone else’s problem, it affects so many families every day.  My initial reaction when Joe was ill was to pedal like mad to find out as much about cancer as I could.  But sometimes your initial reaction is just too late.  There is no getting away from the fact that so many people are affected by cancer and I just want to try to do as much as I can to help the Solas Centre cancer support services for those with cancer and their families”, Liam added.

Every year across Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Kilkenny 2,000 people are diagnosed with cancer. That is why the organisers are hoping to garner the support of at least 2,000 participants to take part in aid of the Solas Centre.

Last year Liam raised over €1,500 for the Solas Centre’s South East Run for Life with great support from his colleagues at Lisduggan Credit Union, friends and family and this year he is as determined to take part in the 10 mile road race.

“Running and exercise, in general are of great benefit to relieve stress, which I feel was a prime cause of cancer in Joe’s case. That is why I would urge as many people as possible to run, jog or walk the Solas Centre Run for Life in October.”

According to Dr. Brian Creedon, Chairman South Eastern Cancer Foundation, the success of the Solas Centre is down to the generosity and support of people like Liam.

“Liam was a great contributer last year raising over €1,500 for the Solas Centre, which goes a long way to ensuring we provide the best cancer support services to those who have been diagnosed with cancer.”

“I would urge everyone to think about getting out, getting fit and running, jogging or walking October’s Run for Life.  Funds are vital in order for the Solas Centre to provide the best support services for the 2,000 people who are diagnosed across the region each and every year.”

The Solas Centre is delighted to welcome new sponsors, Eishtec and acknowledged the continuing support of Beat 102-103.

If you want to take part in this year’s South East Run For Life, which takes place on Sunday, October 13th, sponsorship cards are available from the Solas Centre at Williamstown, Waterford or you can visit www.solascentre.ie, Beat 102 103 studios and AIB branches.

For further information contact the Solas Centre on 051 304604 or check out the ‘Solas Centre South East Run for Life’ Facebook page.