18 August 2018
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
A new service for those affected by cancer in East Cork and West Waterford was officially opened today by well-known and much-loved Irish celebrity, Majella O’Donnell, earlier this week. Located at 29 Friar Street Youghal, and run by the Cork ARC Cancer Support House, the centre provides free drop-in and telephone support services, counselling, therapeutic massage, reflexology, yoga, pilates and art therapy for cancer patients and their families.
While the centre has been operational for a number of months, Majella O’Donnell was delighted to perform the official ribbon cutting ceremony in Youghal Wednesday, and to meet with the team and those who avail of the centre services, which are all provided completely free of charge.
From left: Helen Murphy, cancer patient; Majella O’Donnell; Aileen O’Neill, CEO, Cork ARC Cancer Support House; Colette Cahill, Community Cancer Support Co-ordinator and Catherine Harrington, Cork ARC Cancer support service user.
Pic: Brian Lougheed
“In supporting, helping and listening to those affected by cancer, the work of Cork ARC Cancer Support House in this area is absolutely vital. Their discretion, professionalism and experience make an enormous difference to men, women, children and families who are dealing with cancer,” said Majella O’Donnell.
More than 86 people have already availed of the Cork ARC Cancer Support House in East Cork, which is supported the Trustees of Cuan House, Emer Casey Foundation, Alcon Laboratories and a wide range of donors, suppliers, visitors and community partners.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Cork ARC Cancer Support House Chief Executive Aileen O’Neill said, “Cork ARC Cancer Support House Youghal is a special place where those affected by cancer can receive valuable support, through a diverse range of services. It is of paramount importance to us that our services are free of charge, confidential and absolutely discreet. We are always hugely grateful to the volunteer support team here led by Colette Cahill for their commitment and dedication, and to our supporters for their compassion and understanding.”
With a team of more than 12 volunteers and professionals, Cork ARC Cancer Support House in Youghal is open every Wednesday from 10am to 4pm.
Cork ARC Cancer Support House continue to raise funds to provide their vital services, which are designed to complement the medical model and aim to alleviate the stress associated with a cancer diagnosis. For more information, please visit www.corkcancersupport.ie
