I was completely unprepared for the wonderful kindness and warmth that I experienced
Marie’s Story
Cancer stops you in your tracks and makes you take time out to think about your whole life. Before I got cancer I had never had a day’s sickness and I think the night before I got my results was the worst night of my life.
I had heard about Inis Aoibhinn before my stay, but I was completely unprepared for the wonderful kindness and warmth that I experienced from the moment I first walked through the door. At Inis Aoibhinn people have time, the staff have time to talk to you; the people staying here have time to support each other, and as a patient, you can take the time for yourself that is needed to recover. It was a huge support for my husband and children to see me so happy at Inis Aoibhinn and helped them not to worry when I was away from home.
I feel that I have learned so much from my cancer experience. I am more positive, I embrace each day and I have no fear about saying the word cancer anymore. It has made me appreciate that life can change at any time and that I have no control over a lot of what happens anyway.
There are really no words to describe Inis Aoibhinn and no amount of money that could ever pay for the kindness and caring that I received there.
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
