New cancer support offer

The Haven’s help for patients

West Lothian people are set to benefit from a new charity service.

The Haven, which provides support to people affected by a range of life limiting illnesses and to their family members and carers, has launched a brand new support service for those affected by or at risk of cancer-related Lymphoedema.

Lymphoedema is a relatively unheard of condition, however it occurs in around one in five people who have had breast cancer treatment and is also associated with a variety of other cancers including gynaecological, prostate and skin cancer. Lymphoedema is a type of swelling that occurs when the lymphatic system does not easily drain fluid from areas of the body.

The Haven has been delivering innovative lymphoedema selfmanagement support activities in their Blantyre and Wishaw centres since 2010 and has a unique programme of support from an experienced team of nurses and therapists. The service has now expanded into the centre in Forth to support the people of Clydesdale and West Lothian.

Louise Gardner, service development co- ordinator at The Haven, said: “Lymphoedema can be challenging but with the right advice and support, at an early stage it can be well managed.”

“We are delighted that our cancer related Lymphoedema programme of support has now been launched in our centre in Forth which will see us offering advice, support and hope for people in the Clydesdale area and West Lothian living with lymphoedema and those at risk of lymphoedema, through our welcoming individual and group support activities. All our Haven services are free to our clients, and clients can self- refer. Early identification of lymphoedema can help reduce the risk of complications such as infection, which may require hospital admission, so it is incredibly important that anyone who thinks they are at risk of developing lymphoedema or are already experiencing the symptoms gets in touch so we can help and support them.”

Over summer and autumn, The Haven will be offering a programme of support which includes, Healthy Lymphatics after Cancer Treatment sessions for people at risk of lymphoedema, their family and friends; Lymphoedema selfmanagement courses for people who are living with cancer- related lympheodema and individual selfmanagement support sessions with a lymphoedema nurse/ therapist available to clients who require additional support. The charity operates as a drop- in centre with no need for medical referral and all services are provided free of charge. For details visit www.thehavencentre. com, call 01555 811 846 or email forth@thehavencentre.com

All our Haven services are free to our clients