Best selling author to open Macmillan Information Centre
Issued by: Macmillan Cancer Support
Best selling author Alexander McCall Smith is to officially open a new drop-in service that offers support and information to people affected by cancer in Fort William.
The author of more than 60 books, including the award-winning No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, will open the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service tomorrow (Wednesday 26 May 2010).
Based at Fort William Library on the town’s High Street, the service is aimed at anyone who has questions or concerns about cancer.
The service is a partnership between Macmillan Cancer Support, NHS Highland and Highland Council.
Professor McCall Smith, who is a regular visitor to the area, said: "I am delighted to be present at the opening of this service. The work that the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service does is magnificent."
Almost 9000 people are diagnosed with cancer in the NHS Highland region every year. In the Lochaber area, there are almost 600 people living with a cancer diagnosis.
Information and support manager Anna Strachan, an experienced Macmillan cancer nurse, explained that the service offers visitors a comfortable environment to talk about their experiences with people who understand.
Anna said: "A cancer diagnosis brings with it all kinds of questions and uncertainties and being able to find the right information is vital at this stressful time.
"This new service will mean that people affected by cancer in Lochaber will be able to get the information and support they need from trained cancer specialists, right on their doorstep."
Anna, together with a team of trained volunteers, will also be on hand to guide visitors through the comprehensive range of leaflets and books on cancer topics. They can also offer stress management tips, dietary and nutritional advice. Access to a benefits and financial advice service for people affected by cancer is also on offer.
Heather MacLean, 62, of Ardgour, was diagnosed with cancer 18 months ago. Now a volunteer at the service, she believes it will make a huge difference to people.
Heather said: "When I was diagnosed with cancer, nothing like this existed in this area.
"The time after I was diagnosed was one of the most difficult in my life and, while I could have telephoned someone in Inverness for support, I didn’t have the confidence to do that. However, I think it would have helped me a great deal to talk to someone had I had the opportunity to do that face-to-face.
"This service bridges a real gap and I think it will make a big difference to people affected by cancer in this area."
Chrissie Lane, Macmillan cancer nurse consultant, added: "People across Highland told us they wanted access to information and support closer to where they live.
"Whilst praising the information and support they received from medical and nursing staff, they asked for a more informal place, where there was time to talk, ask all sorts of questions, particularly issues about living with cancer, and meet other people.
"The library seemed like an obvious choice to base this service as it is a hub within the community, has ready access to computers and a wide range of written and oral literature with staff always available to help and guide people."
Councillor Michael Foxley, Highland Council leader, is also supporting the new service. He said: "We are delighted to provide a location for the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service in Fort William Library. Macmillan provides a terrific service in the area.
"It’s important that people can seek accurate information and support close to home if they, or those close to them, are affected by cancer.
"Libraries have always been a traditional source of information and we welcome this partnership arrangement with Macmillan Cancer Support and NHS Highland to provide this local service."
The centre is open on Monday and Friday, 10am to 1pm and 1.30pm to 4.30 pm. On Wednesdays it is open between 10am and 1pm. Further information is available by calling 01397 703 553.
Cancer information and support is also available by contacting Macmillan on 0808 808 0000 or at www.macmillan.org.uk.