A SPECIALIST support centre to help patients deal with the physical and emotional side-effects of breast cancer is looking to welcome more visitors from the Abergavenny, Monmouth and Chepstow areas.
The Haven, based in Hereford, opened in 2004 and has supported almost 1,500 people, with a large percentage coming from neighbouring Monmouthshire. Staffed by a specialist team, Havens are warm and friendly day centres providing completely free of charge support, information and complementary therapies before, during and after medical treatment.
Because the centre is based in Hereford, many people from Monmouthshire are unaware they would be welcome. So last week, the Haven invited local MP David Davies to tour the facility in St Owen Street and meet with the new Haven CEO, Pam Healy. He was accompanied by his colleague Jesse Norman, MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire, and Haven Manager Frankie Devereux.
Speaking afterwards, Mr Davies said: “I was immediately struck by the tranquillity of the Haven and I was extremely impressed with what I saw.
“It was a pleasure to meet some of the staff and therapists and, most importantly, those who have benefited from the care and treatment the charity provides.
“Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and affects a patient both physically and emotionally. Anyone who needs help and support in the Abergavenny, Monmouth or Chepstow area is more than welcome to visit the Haven and I would certainly encourage them to make use of this wonderful service”.
The Hereford Haven is currently working towards becoming self-funding and needs to raise £230,000 in the next financial year. It costs approximately £1,000 to provide the Haven programme of care for one visitor.
For more information on how to get involved in fundraising, visit www.thehaven.org.uk or telephone 01432 361061.
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