Testimonials

Testimonial No.1

No one could possibly know the devastating effects of cancer on a person unless they are personally affected- so thank God for good health. In1984 I was treated with radiotherapy after surgery for breast cancer (Lumpectomy) also the glands were affected.

During the following years the absence of a local support centre did slow down recovery for me until two wonderful nurses gave their time and energy starting with monthly meetings beginning at the GAA centre- then on to the old Bank of Ireland house- Old Parochial House- No.1 Harpers Lane and now this modern, bright, excellent Cuisle Centre with its lovely tranquil gardens. It’s a joy to be there- like a second home. Everyone enjoys the Wednesday coffee mornings.

There is so much happening every week with yoga, art, flower arranging and many more "happenings" of interest. In my experience the caring staff are always accommodating in every way.

A special thanks to Olive, Anne Marie, Stella Ann and Cathriona and all involved from day one, their dedication and hard work also helped to make this centre happen.

With so much fundraising already achieved from the generous public supporting events such as overseas trekking- marathons- walks etc. to get the project this far. Hopefully the funding will continue.

Yours

Eileen Forrister

Stadbally

Testimonial No.2

The Cuisle Centre? — I wonder who uses that, they must be very ill.

Cancer? — That happens to other people, not me.

On the 15t April 2008 I was diagnosed with throat cancer and my attitude to cancer changed in an instance. It was me the consultant was talking to but it still seems like I’m living someone else’s dream. My life had changed forever but in a strange way and maybe for the better - although I did not see that in the early days.

I had surgery in done hospital and then 35 sessions of radiotherapy treatment in St Luke’s Hospital, Dublin in the summer of 2008 and I am glad to be a survivor today. Even before I went into St Luke’s Hospital I had started planning in my head the future. I would take some time off after treatment and then get back to work before Christmas 2008. Some weeks later in the morning of my first job interview I looked in the mirror and saw a “Desperate Dan” figure. My neck was swollen and it was difficult to button up my shirt, what was going on? Oh and I should mention pale and very ill looking, and I won’t mention the morphine.

A frantic search on the internet did not give me the single magic answer — instead I posted a question up on the Mouth Cancer Foundation (MCF) website forum and waited for a possible explanation. Over the next few days and weeks Lymph nodes and drainage became new seeds of knowledge along with possible damage and side effects from radiotherapy to the head and neck.

Soon it became apparent that I should try Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) treatment. My next problem was where to find a qualified MLD nurse to carry out the procedure? As luck would have it I was attending a cancer support group meeting in St Luke’s Hospital and was talking to a fellow survivor who mentioned to me a place called the Cuisle Centre — you know the place we think about as we are passing for a second or two.

I called the centre and made an appointment. From the moment of that call being answered I have been treated with the utmost care, kindness and respect. During the first few visits I did feel a bit strange as most patients were ladies but they all made me welcome and although they tried, I still don’t knit. Seriously the treatment, activities and support available are second to none. Having the MLD massage really helped me get through the early cancer post treatment days and it worked — after several sessions my neck returned to normal and still is today.

The professional, skill and most importantly friendly staff made me feel that I was in a very special, warm, safe and secure place. The centre has a wonderful “feeling” about it and that comes from the good people within. The weekly visits soon became part of my routine and kept me going through some very dark times. I can only speak from my experience. Having the physical cancer treatment is very painful but after treatment I hit an emotional wall and along with losing my mother while in hospital - I stood on the edge of that cliff and was close to jumping. I did not realise at the time but meeting and talking with the patients and staff carried me through those very dark days. In particular the calm and gentle nature of the MLD staff who were so patient and understanding with me.

Well it’s now Autumn 2009 and I don’t have a swollen neck and my skin has not gone all lumpy and hard in the neck region. I did not get offered that job I interviewed for in 2008, that hurt. Today I have found some acceptance of my situation. I am alive and well and I owe a great deal of thanks and gratitude to the staff, patients and supporters of the Cuisle Centre- you all helped to save my life- some of you probably did not even know it- thank you for your love and care.

Warm wishes to you all and take care.

Ken

Testimonial No.3

4 Erkindale Drive, Durrow, Co.Laois, 12th Oct. ’09

As a couple who both have had the misfortune of suffering from Cancer, We would like to make public our appreciation of the service and support we have received from the Cuisle over the past few years.

Breda developed breast cancer in 2001, and bone cancer in 2007, and John, having had a serious heart condition developed colon cancer in 2008. After our respective treatments we have found great comfort in our visits to the Cuisle, which we do at least twice weekly.

We have partaken of many of the services, Massage, Reflexology, and other Therapies. Breda also attends Art classes, Swimming, Aqua aerobics, Flower Arranging and Crafts.

However we find that one of the best therapies of all is sitting and relaxing, while enjoying our tea and coffee, with others who have had like cancer experiences. The social atmosphere is a pleasure to savour, and the friendliness, care, and counselling of Cathriona, Ann, and the rest the girls is wonderful.

At the present time, with so much doom and gloom about it is great to have such a caring service and all involved in the establishment and running of the Cuisle deserve our thanks and praise. We heartily recommend that anyone affected by cancer should visit and enjoy this great facility.

Again our heartfelt thanks and appreciation,

Breda & John Kelly