Cancer Care West funds new Family Room at University Hospital Galway

Cancer Care West recently funded the furnishing of a new family room for the Corrib Ward in University Hospital Galway. The Corrib Ward is the dedicated oncology ward which opened in the new hospital block last year and the family room provides a peaceful haven where families of patients with cancer can rest, relax, meet with friends and medical staff and if necessary, stay overnight.

The furnishings, which were tailor-made for the room, include leather reclining seats, tables, a pull-out couch along with a fridge, microwave and tea\coffee making facilities.

Commenting on the new development, Chris Kane, General Manager said, “This is the second family room which has been funded by Cancer Care West in our new 75-bed ward block; earlier this year, the family room for the Claddagh Ward was opened. Based on the positive feedback from families and with support from the staff on the Ward, an approach was made to Cancer Care West regarding a similar family room for the Corrib Ward. This new family room makes a huge difference to families, particularly those who have to travel distances or whose loved ones are facing a long hospital stay. We are very appreciative of the on-going support from Cancer Care West”.

Mrs Carmel Kelly, from Gort, whose son is a patient on the Corrib Ward said, “I have been using the Family Room for the last 8 weeks since my 21 year old son was admitted. The minute I was shown the room, I was overwhelmed with emotions. I have used this room every day and night where we have sat, talked, cried, had the tea and coffee, heated food and even slept. It’s my safe haven. It’s my home from home.”

Speaking at the official opening of the new family room, Cancer Care West CEO Richie Flaherty said, “Last year we identified the need for a family room in the Claddagh Ward in the new hospital wing and this year we are delighted to be able to help open an additional family room in the Corrib Ward.

“The family room will provide a place of comfort and restfulness for those coping with the stresses and trauma of seeing a family member being treated for cancer in a hospital that might be many miles away from home. We know that in the past relatives of cancer patients, especially parents of young children who were receiving treatment, had to sit on chairs in crowded wards or in corridors for days and nights at a time which was far from ideal. We have long recognised the need for such a space and the feedback already from staff in the ward is that it is being heavily used and a vital addition to the facilities offered to families.”