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
Michelle’s Story
My son Sean received his second cancer diagnosis just before Easter. He was treated in Castlebar Hospital and was then transferred to Galway. We live two and a half hours from Galway, it’s just me and Sean at home and I don’t drive. I found it very difficult to ask people to keep bringing me up and down to Galway and so for the first few weeks I stayed with friends who live near Galway city. However when it became clear that Sean would need extensive treatment I felt I couldn’t impose on my friends any longer and knew that I needed to look for somewhere more long term.
I phoned Cancer Care West and was very relieved when they offered to pay for a bed and breakfast across from the hospital.
Sean was very sick at that stage and it made such a difference to be able to walk across the road and visit him whenever he needed.
There were times I really felt lost, being so far from home with all the stress and worrying about Sean on my own. It would have been so much worse if I didn’t have the support of Cancer Care West though, I don’t know what I would have done without their help.
I stayed at the bed and breakfast in Galway for four weeks, which Cancer Care West paid for. Sean is back at home now and is recovering well. We are both very grateful to Cancer Care West for their kindness and support at a time we needed it most.
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