Cancer Care West supported over 2,800 cancer patients and their families throughout 2023, with more than half of these patients being newly diagnosed. As the charity marked its 30th anniversary, the numbers supported reflect both a rising need and the essential role Cancer Care West plays in the lives of thousands of people across the West and Northwest of Ireland.
Inis Aoibhinn, the charity’s residential lodge at Galway University Hospital for patients undergoing radiotherapy, saw a 10% increase in service users, accommodating 371 individuals who relied on its warm and supportive environment during treatment. Additionally, over 100 individuals benefited from Cancer Care West’s free transport service, ensuring safe and reliable travel to and from Inis Aoibhinn.
Meanwhile, the charity’s Cancer Support centres in Galway and Letterkenny also saw extraordinary levels of engagement, providing support to over 1,486 people affected by cancer. During 2023, the centres provided nearly 10,000 therapeutic sessions for patients and their loved ones. To meet growing demand, Cancer Care West expanded its online support groups and talks, striving to reach those in need across a wider area. Notably, the “Grief Talks” program saw strong participation, offering comfort and guidance to those grappling with loss.
Reflecting on the year, Richard Flaherty, CEO of Cancer Care West, said 2023 was another year of both challenges and rewards for the organisation.
“As we see more people in our community reaching out for support each year, it remains essential that we continuously expand and evolve our services to meet this increasing demand.
“Thanks to our team’s tireless efforts and our supporters’ generosity, we provided critical care to all who turned to us throughout 2023. As always, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone whose contributions make the provision of our services possible,” he said.
The dedication and impact of Cancer Care West’s work received national recognition in 2023 when the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF ) honoured the organisation as the All-Ireland Charity of the Year. This prestigious award underscores Cancer Care West’s unwavering commitment over three decades to supporting cancer patients and their families along Ireland’s West Coast.
