An actor and author from Enniskillen has visited a site that is set to house a cancer support centre.
Ciaran McMenamin visited Enniskillen High Street to see the site of Cancer Focus Northern Ireland’s first cancer support centre, which is set to open later this year.
The transformation of the two-floor, 4,125 square foot, vacant property located in a prominent position in the town centre will see the leading local cancer charity deliver a first-of-its-kind facility.
It will provide cancer support, advice, and services away from clinical settings.
It aims to alleviate social isolation experienced by cancer patients and their families by offering them a range of services under one roof, including counselling, family support, bra fitting, social groups and art therapy.
Mr McMenamin said: "I am amazed at Cancer Focus Northern Ireland’s plans to create a sanctuary for the people of Enniskillen and Fermanagh.
"Seeing the property, which is right on the High Street, has cemented my belief in how important spaces like this are for people going through a cancer journey.
"This cancer support centre will be life-changing, delivering services such as counselling, family support, and patient driving and I look forward to see how local businesses and people rally to support this absolute gem for the town and wider region."
The centre aims to help visitors detach from the clinical hospital atmosphere or the hustle of daily life.
Almost £7 million will be invested over the next two decades, and it is anticipated an additional £300,000 will be needed each year to cover running costs.
Aside from personal support, the centre will also deliver cancer prevention initiatives such as wellness checks, stop smoking support, and sun awareness programmes.
Richard Spratt, chief executive at Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, said: "Our charity currently provides cancer support and awareness to thousands of people each year across Northern Ireland.
"However, most of this work is carried out in hospitals or community settings.
"Our commitment to providing state-of-the-art and carefully designed sanctuaries in locations where need is greatest is the driving force behind this work.
"I am incredibly proud that our charity has chosen Enniskillen’s town centre as our first location and delighted that Ciaran McMenamin has chosen to see the value in our work and endorse our ambitious plans."
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