This Sunday marks the fifth anniversary of the Gweedore based Cancer Support Group, Scaoil Saor Ó Ailse.
The groups name translates to English meaning “break free from cancer”, embodying the main aim of the group.
Founded by friends Freddie O’Donnell and Aodan Gallagher in June 2012, the group became affiliated with the Irish Cancer Society later that year; with Freddie and Aodan going on to represent Donegal on the Irish Cancer Society network group.
Freddie was elected chairman, and Aodan was elected secretary – both still hold these positions today.
Two years after its establishment, Mr O’Donnell secured a deal with the Irish Cancer Society for travel aid for Donegal cancer patients traveling to hospitals in Dublin, Galway, and Cork.
Ionad Naomh Pádraig Dobhair, the group’s main sponsor also provide cancer information nights, pampering days for cancer patients and their carers, and provides counselling for cancer patients and their carers.
Since it was set up, the group has gone from strength to strength, becoming involved with Letterkenny based Relay for Life, entering the event each year.
Along with the HSE, the group has organised plane flights from Donegal Airport for cancer patients traveling to Dublin.
Chairman Mr O’Donnell says he would like to thank past and new members alike who have helped to make the group a success.
He would also like to pay tribute to a past member who is no longer with us, Noreen Coyle Diver, who Mr O’Donnell says will never be forgotten.
He also extends gratitude to Ionad Naomh Pádraig Dobhair, the management, and the staff for their kindness and support throughout their journey, and concludes by saying “here’s to the next five years!”
If you would like to learn more about Scaoil Saor Ó Ailse you can find them on Facebook by clicking here.
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