Tuesday 15th June 2010
A care service that supports cancer patients in their homes has helped around 850 people in West Dunbartonshire since its launch.
The Macmillan Carers Service in partnership with West Dunbartonshire Council was established seven years ago to help people affected by cancer.
Funded by Macmillan Cancer Support, the service provides a range of support to enable someone with cancer to stay in their own home. Those who are caring for a relative or a friend are also offered support and respite by the highly trained Macmillan carers.
The service is under the spotlight this week as part of Carers’ Week (14-18 June 2010) which aims to highlight the vital work done by those who look after someone with cancer.
There are currently 12 highly skilled Macmillan Carers who are dedicated, caring and empathetic and provide social and psychological support to those living with cancer. Sometimes this can mean the difference between allowing someone to continue living at home rather than be admitted to hospital or long term care.
Local resident, Susanna Gallacher, 53, of Old Kilpatrick who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in February this year, really looks forward to her weekly visit from her carer.
She said: “Margaret, my carer is a great help, not only to me but also my husband Joe.
Due to my brain tumour, I lost the sight in both my eyes, so I had to rely on my husband and also Margaret for most day to day tasks.”
She continued: “The service been absolutely terrific and the support I have received has been marvellous.
Cllr Ronnie McColl, Leader of the Council and Spokesperson for Social Work and Health said: “Macmillan carers do a tremendous job and to have assisted over 850 residents in West Dunbartonshire since the beginning of the partnership is exceptional.”
Cllr McColl added: “Having a service that enables people with cancer to stay at home with familiar surroundings during their illness can play a major role in their quality of life and comfort and I am delighted to have this service in West Dunbartonshire.”
During Carers Week – June 14th to 18th information stands will be at local health centres in Clydebank, Alexandria, Dumbarton & Old Kilpatrick where staff will be available to answer any questions.
Referrals to the service can be made directly by those living with cancer or their families as well as district nurses, Macmillan nurses
For further information about the Macmillan Carers Service in West Dunbartonshire, telephone 01389 608010 or 608128.
