Easing the fear that comes with cancer (From This Is Cheshire)

Easing the fear that comes with cancer

HAS your life been touched by cancer?

Well now with the opening of the Macmillan Information and Support Centre at St Helens Hospital there’s a place with a relaxed, friendly and confidential environment to talk to the experts.

Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Terry Shields opened the centre which has been launched by Macmillan Cancer Support, in partnership with the St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Centre staff Christine Taylor and Jane Coyne hosted the official launch. Jane said: “The service offers emotional, practical and financial support and can make a real difference in improving the quality of life for patients and carers affected by cancer.

“We have a wealth of information people can take away with them to read, as well as the knowledge to point people in the right direction for further help. Our service is confidential and free to anyone. Our message is, if you have questions about cancer or would simply like some one to listen, then call in and see us.”

At the official launch, speeches were given by the Trust’s Chief Executive Ann Marr, Macmillan Director Maureen Rutter, Senior Macmillan Development Manager Sandra Clarkson and the Mayor of St Helens, who also cut a ribbon to officially open the centre.

Sandra Clarkson, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the Trust to provide this service and I would like to thank all the people involved for their hard work and effort in making the new centre a reality at St Helens.

“When someone is told they have cancer it can be a frightening and isolating time and often the information given just doesn’t sink in. It is important that there is somewhere people affected by cancer can go to find out – in their own time - more about their cancer and its treatment, or perhaps for a family member or carer to be able to ask questions and be offered support.”

If you feel you need to access this service please do not hesitate to call in anytime, no appointment necessary or phone 01744 64 6985 / 7000 or email jane.coyne@sthk.nhs.uk