
To have all of this provided for free and with it to be shown such kindness and support was really marvellous.
Eugene’s Story
Home Away From Home
Eugene Mullen from Easkey in County Mayo was delighted to finish his eight week course of radiotherapy for prostate cancer. Thankfully it all went to plan and Eugene is doing well with little or no side effects. As Eugene’s treatment was delivered every day from Monday to Friday he needed to stay near University Hospital in Galway where he would receive his treatment. He and his wife Ruby were delighted therefore when we were able to offer them accommodation at Inis Aoibhinn, our lodge run by Cancer Care West on the grounds of the hospital.
Ruby was especially happy to be able to stay over with Eugene throughout the eight weeks. She describes the accommodation in Inis Aoibhinn as “beyond expectations” going on to say “the food was first class, the beds so comfortable and the staff couldn’t do enough for us.”
To avoid having to ask family or friends to bring them to and from Inis Aoibhinn every week Eugene and Ruby travelled on the Cancer Care West bus from Ballina to the lodge on Monday mornings and back to Ballina on Friday afternoon. Ruby tells how delighted they were with this service also “It was a straight run to and from, with no stops, and we could be home in two hours on a Friday evening without disturbing anyone. To have all of this provided for free and with it to be shown such kindness and support was really marvellous.”
Here at Inis Aoibhinn we were glad to be able to help this lovely couple and thrilled that Eugene is now finished his treatment and doing good. We wish them well as they board the Mayo bus for one last journey home but hope to see them again for a catch-up chat in the not too distant future.
More Inspiring Stories
Dónal’s Story
Cancer is not necessarily a death sentence and many of those unlucky enough to experience it go on to survive and thrive.
Sean’s Story
I had no major symptoms, I was very active and healthy, and I looked after my diet and general fitness. So this was a real shock for me.
Christina’s Story
To be able to relieve the stress of the day with a lovely sing along in the evening was a real joy
Sean’s Story
Cancer Care West has made a difficult period in my life so much easier and even on occasion, with the chat and banter it’s been fun
Edward’s Story
Do not underestimate the psychological aspects of this disease and the power of counselling to help
Terence’s Story
Sometimes you need a stranger to talk to. Someone who listens as you work through the enormous impact this disease has on your life.
Peter’s Story
Peter Biddulph was a reasonably fit and healthy man in his 60’s when his world turned upside down.
Kathleen’s Story
The cancer diagnosis and treatment changed everything for me. I look on life quite differently now and treasure every minute I have.
Maureen’s Story
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
Lorraine’s Story
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
Vera’s Story
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
Sharon’s Story
Having a place where you can name your worst fears out loud and not scare someone to death
Anna’s Story
No matter who you are and what your lifestyle, know the symptoms and check yourself regularly.
Eugene’s Story
To have all of this provided for free and with it to be shown such kindness and support was really marvellous.
Terry’s Story
I was so comfortable at the lodge and everything was done for me so I didn’t have to worry about a single thing.
Philip’s Story
'I’m coming to see you grandad on my bike! It might take a while but I will get there.’
Vanessa’s Story
I can relax and just concentrate on myself and my needs because literally everything else is done for me
Cedric’s Story
The Cancer Care West Support Centre therefore has been an integral part of my cancer journey
Ronan’s Story
Organising the event has helped me to deal with Mags’ diagnosis and gave me a purpose during a difficult time.
Seamus’ Story
My lights have raised over €30,000 for Cancer Care West and I know that this is helping other families