The Irish Cancer Society was founded in 1963 and is the national charity dedicated to preventing cancer, saving lives from cancer and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer through patient, care, research and education.

The Society sees itself as a gap filler. It does this in two ways – by seeking to identify and fill the gaps in existing services and by complementing services provided by statutory and other voluntary services.

One of our most significant services is the Cancer Freefone Helpline. The Helpline is available Monday-Friday from 9.30 am – 4.30 pm. It is staffed by fully trained nurses with a particular interest in cancer and support. Nurses are available to talk to patients, families, friends or anyone concerned about cancer. They provide information and a listening ear.

All of the Society’s Cancer Support Groups use the Cancer Freefone Helpline (1 800 200 700) to manage calls coming in to them from patients and those concerned about cancer.

The Support Group Services within the Society is a valuable resource for all groups affiliated to the Irish Cancer Society. For most people a diagnosis of cancer is an overwhelming experience. Fear and worry can make people feel isolated at a time when they are most in need of other people. Finding someone to talk to who has had a similar experience can ease feelings of stress and isolation.

Our support groups are based on a simple principle: that of one person who has experienced cancer, giving freely of their time and experience to assist and support another person with cancer. We do this through one to one support, group meetings and education days.

The Support Groups Department provides volunteers with training. The aim of training is to give the volunteer the necessary knowledge and skills to provide an effective support to a newly diagnosed patient and/or family and friends. Our training is ongoing as we see this as a way to support volunteers, further their personal development and extend their skills.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with LSI why not contact either Isobel or myself at the address below. Volunteers must be three years post surgery and treatment. If you meet the criteria and would like to help please call.

Don’t forget the National Conference of Cancer Support Groups, which takes place each year in the spring. This conference provides a forum for networking with others who share our goals; it is about making friends, sharing experience and taking care of ourselves.

The Irish Cancer Society is here to support you and I would encourage you to use the Cancer Helpline.

The Irish Cancer Society may be contacted at;

Irish Cancer Society

43/45 Northumberland Road

Dublin 4

Tel: 01-2310500. Fax: 01-2310555.

Email: support@irishcancer.ie

Web site: www.cancer.ie