Cancer support app is a '˜first' for Northern Ireland

Cancer sufferers in east Antrim can now access a range of support services on their smartphone or tablet with the launch of a new app.
By The Newsroom
Published 10th Jun 2016, 07:00 BST
1in3's Karen McMeekan (kneeling, middle) with instructors John Davis and Kelly Nugent and other participants at the fundraising Zumbathon. INCT 23-722-CON1in3's Karen McMeekan (kneeling, middle) with instructors John Davis and Kelly Nugent and other participants at the fundraising Zumbathon. INCT 23-722-CON
1in3's Karen McMeekan (kneeling, middle) with instructors John Davis and Kelly Nugent and other participants at the fundraising Zumbathon. INCT 23-722-CON

1 in 3 Cancer Support are celebrating the release of “Northern Ireland’s first ever cancer support app”, developed with the help of Origin Digital.

The software was created as a method of providing cancer patients in the area with a useful list of contacts that they might need, all in one helpful app.

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It includes contact details, location and directions for hospitals, information organisations, support services, counsellors, activity centres and more.

Karen McMeekan (far left) with Elaine Hamilton and other participants at the Zumbathon. INCT 22-720-CONKaren McMeekan (far left) with Elaine Hamilton and other participants at the Zumbathon. INCT 22-720-CON
Karen McMeekan (far left) with Elaine Hamilton and other participants at the Zumbathon. INCT 22-720-CON

The app is free to download by searching 1in3 Cancer Support on the Google Play Store or from the Apple store.

Karen McMeekan from 1in3 said: “At the moment it’s a bit like a directory, but we’ll be expanding on it in the future depending on the feedback we get.

“If someone identifies a need it will be added.”

A locally-based charity, 1in3 offers practical, non-means tested support for people in the east Antrim area.

John Davis from JD Zumba with Kerry Newell. INCT 23-721-CONJohn Davis from JD Zumba with Kerry Newell. INCT 23-721-CON
John Davis from JD Zumba with Kerry Newell. INCT 23-721-CON
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In 2015, the group spent almost £10,000 supporting local people affected by cancer.

Meanwhile, over £1500 was raised for the charity during an annual Zumbathon on Friday, May 20 at Carrickfergus Amphitheatre.

“Thanks to all who supported us; this will go such a long way in our local East Antrim Area in helping those of us affected by this awful disease we call cancer and its treatments,” said Karen.

“The night was amazing success with an electric atmosphere, the laughs and the smiles were in abundance. Everyone really enjoyed the Zumba workouts lead by JD Zumba & Kelly Nugent and their friends.

Karen McMeekan (far left) with Elaine Hamilton and other participants at the Zumbathon. INCT 22-720-CONKaren McMeekan (far left) with Elaine Hamilton and other participants at the Zumbathon. INCT 22-720-CON
Karen McMeekan (far left) with Elaine Hamilton and other participants at the Zumbathon. INCT 22-720-CON
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“Special thanks to Vikki Bell and Elaine Hamilton for their cupcakes stand; if you have survived two hours of Zumba you have earned the right to eat the cupcakes!”

The total was also boosted thanks to the efforts of Julie Weir and Kerry Newell, who raised sponsorship in advance of the event.

“Thanks also to Dorothy Wilson who made and sold cupcakes where she works, and to all our sponsors: The Little Flower Shack, Victoriana, Colin Metcalfe Photography, Lynda Graham Counselling, Origin Digital, and Simply Hair and Beauty,” Karen added.

Related topics:AntrimNorthern Ireland