Organising the event has helped me to deal with Mags’ diagnosis and gave me a purpose during a difficult time.

No matter who you are and what your lifestyle, know the symptoms and check yourself regularly.

I made up my mind very early on that I would take this head-on and work my way through it in as positive and confident a manner as possible

I can relax and just concentrate on myself and my needs because literally everything else is done for me

The rug was well and truly pulled from under me

There were times I really felt lost, it would have been so much worse if I didn’t have the support of Cancer Care West though

It is wonderful that I have been able to stay with Mary during her treatment

The relief of the emotional and financial support was huge

To have all of this provided for free and with it to be shown such kindness and support was really marvellous.

From the beginning CCW have supported my psychological needs while also helping me deal with the physical side of my illness.

Having a place where you can name your worst fears out loud and not scare someone to death

I was completely unprepared for the wonderful kindness and warmth that I experienced

My lights have raised over €30,000 for Cancer Care West and I know that this is helping other families

I was so comfortable at the lodge and everything was done for me so I didn’t have to worry about a single thing.

When we heard about the CCW bus, which takes patients to and from Mayo to CCW, it was like another gift from Heaven for me and my family

Cancer Care West was there for me when I didn’t know what to expect

I would have been totally lost without the support of Cancer Care West

Peter Biddulph was a reasonably fit and healthy man in his 60’s when his world turned upside down.

The cancer diagnosis and treatment changed everything for me. I look on life quite differently now and treasure every minute I have.

Sometimes you need a stranger to talk to. Someone who listens as you work through the enormous impact this disease has on your life.

'I’m coming to see you grandad on my bike! It might take a while but I will get there.’

The care I received at Inis Aoibhinn was so important to me. Everything was provided and if I did need anything I only had to ask

It was fantastic to be around other people who had had similar experiences, especially after being isolated for so long.

Suddenly I could breathe. I felt lighter, calmer and more able to cope

I had a good network of family and friend’s but sessions with the counsellor helped me deal with everything at my own pace

I simply wouldn’t have had access to any of these support services if I had had to pay for them myself.

At Inis Aoibhinn people are kind and understanding, no-one intrudes but yet you know they are there for you.

I was made feel welcome from the moment I arrived at Inis Aoibhinn.

We get great support from the local community.

We get great support from the local community.

 I will never forget the love and support I received during my treatment and afterwards.

The Cancer Care West Support Centre therefore has been an integral part of my cancer journey

You think about saving for retirement or holidays, but you don’t think about saving for being sick

Do not underestimate the psychological aspects of this disease and the power of counselling to help