City Friends of Marie Curie appeal for help

Chairman Fiona Wallace, secretary Rhona Gallagher, treasurer Joan Doherty and committee member Sharon Doherty started the group after Fiona’s mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and wished to remain at home.

“I was the only girl in the family and when my mother was diagnosed,” said Fiona.

“I had no nursing experience so the district nurse organised a Marie Curie nurse to come in from 11pm to 7am.

“It allowed me to get some sleep and I also wanted my mother to be pain-free and relaxed,” she said.

Joan stressed that the service is free: “The fact that the service is free to anyone is something that is not widely known,” said Joan.

“Anyone with an end of life illness can access these services through their GP or district nurse.”

To raise money to help local people stay in their own homes the group now need to expand their number of members and anyone interested in helping out can telephone Joan on 02871 347598 (or email [email protected]) or Fiona on 07745976321 ([email protected])