A further step towards providing higher standards of care for cancer patients in the south-east has been taken with the official launch of the South Eastern Cancer Foundation.
Until last July patients from the south-east had to travel to Dublin or Cork for treatment of most cancers. Since then a new service has been provided by a team, led by a consultant oncologist Dr Seamus O'Reilly, at Waterford Regional Hospital. Cancer units have also been set up in hospitals in Wexford, Kilkenny and Cashel/Clonmel.
The foundation has already raised more than £100,000 since it started in January and it is committed to raising funds for a range of back-up services for patients.
"While the Government and the health board are committed to providing as much funding as possible for these services, the money available will be committed to the central resources and equipment needed," said a spokesman for the foundation, Mr Jonathan Oakes.
"There is always a need for extra money to help with new equipment, accommodation, assistance, research and the many other things that can help patients and their families fight the disease."
Dr O'Reilly, who chairs the charity, told guests at Friday's announcement that one in four people will develop cancer by the age of 75. Most of these people would be cured, but the diagnosis of cancer still had a huge impact on the lives of patients and those around them.
Plans to refurbish the day patient and inpatient cancer units in the region are at an advanced stage, while education programmes for staff and patients are also being developed as a result of the foundation's efforts. The first support meeting for patients with breast cancer took place in Dooley's Hotel in Waterford on Monday evening.
A number of further fund-raising events are planned, including a midsummer ball at Jury's Hotel in Waterford on June 25th.