Daffodil Centre blooms in Rathgar

THE Irish Cancer Society launched its Daffodil Centre at St Luke’s Hospital, Rathgar, last week, bringing to 13 the number of centres in hospitals across the country supporting cancer patients at their time of need.

The Daffodil Centre is the result of a successful partnership between the Irish Cancer Society and St Luke’s Hospital.

The construction and running costs for the centre have been entirely funded by generous donations from the general public.

This is raised through campaigns such as Daffodil Day and other initiatives.

Since it opened in May 2015 the Daffodil Centre at St Luke’s has provided advice, support and information to over 3,077 people at the point where they need it most – the hospital.

This service is open to all with no referral or appointment necessary.

Those visiting the centre include cancer patients, partners, family and friends.

People who are concerned about cancer or who want to reduce their risk of getting cancer and healthcare professionals also visit the centre.

John McCormack, CEO of the Irish Cancer Society, said: “We are delighted to bring our cancer information and support service to the point of treatment and care.

“This is a service not just for the patient – it is for their families and friends and anyone else who has a concern or question about cancer.

“St Luke’s Hospital is synonymous with cancer treatment and care here in Ireland and when we first developed the Daffodil Centre concept, it was always an ambition of ours to have one in St Luke’s. We are delighted that we are here today, realising that ambition.”

Richard Lodge, Network Manager, St Luke’s Radiation Oncology Network, added: “We are delighted to continue to work with the Irish Cancer Society and to host a Daffodil Centre here at St Luke’s, Rathgar.

“We share its vision to transform the patient experience in relation to cancer information and support.

“The centre also supports St Luke’s staff, as they can be assured they are directing their patients to a trusted source of support and information, delivered by a professional and expert organisation.”

The Irish Cancer Society has been developing information and support services for over 50 years and is the leading provider of cancer information in Ireland.

The Daffodil Centres are part of the society’s cancer support services which offer advice, information and support to anyone worried about any aspect of cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment and care.

This service incorporates the Cancer Nurseline (Freephone 1800200700) email and a ‘walk-in’ caller service.