Rotary Club lend support to Recovery Haven

A KERRY cancer support organisation received the perfect Christmas boost when they benefitted from a fund-raiser hosted by the Killarney Rotary Club.

Representatives of Recovery Haven Kerry – Cancer Support House, Siobhan MacSweeney and Marian Barnes were on hand during Christmas to receive the proceeds of the Rotary Club’s fourth annual ‘Afternoon Tea’, which was held in The Malton Hotel in September.

The presentation of the cheque was made by Rotary President Katie O’Connell to Recovery Haven founders Siobhan and Marian, in the company of Grace O’Neill, James Tarrant, Angela O’Connor and Ciara Irwin Foley.

“A friend of mine died of breast cancer about eight years ago and I thought Recovery Haven Kerry - Cancer Support House would be a really good charity to support through the Afternoon Tea,” said Katie O’Connell.

The funds raised will ensure that the organisation can offer services including a room in which cancer sufferers can try on wigs, have their hair done, enjoy beauty treatments and avail of a bra-fitting area – all in a safe environment.

The afternoon tea in September included a Champagne reception after which guests feasted truly delicious afternoon tea, with all the trimmings, in The Malton’s Garden Room Restaurant.

The day was also a wonderful opportunity to check out the latest trends, with a fashion blitz while exciting raffle prizes abounded, including a holiday in Kenmare, kindly donated for the event, along with paintings by Carmel Madigan, and other sought-after goodies.

Volunteer Mary O’Regan told the afternoon tea gathering: “I know from personal experience how valuable the service is as several years ago I went through Marian’s hands myself and I am alive and kicking. I am very grateful for the support.”

“You have to dispel everything you think about a cancer house. It’s a haven when you walk in, you are greeted by listeners and, if you need them, other therapies are available. Recovery Haven Kerry – Cancer Support House is a magical place, full of hope and wonderful, wonderful volunteers,” added Mary.

Recovery Haven Kerry – Cancer Support House is located at 5 Haig’s Terrace, Tralee. It opened in September 2010 and is affiliated to the Irish Cancer Society.

The organisation offers psychological and social support for those living with cancer, their families and carers.

Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin ■ Katie O'Connell, President KIllarney Rotary Club (front second from left), presenting the Siobhan McSweeney and Marian Barnes, of Recovery Haven, with (front) Barry Murphy, Ciara Irwin Foley (second row from left) Paul Sherry, Paul Adams, Grace...