A year ago now I made a thread that hopefully raised awareness about cancer. If you missed it or need reminding then it's here:

http://www.funkypool.com/thread/14985/cancer-awareness/1

I try to explain what Cancer actually is and why it's different to all other diseases, we had some interesting discussions. This one I want to focus on care and in particular hospices, hopefully to dispell some myths in the process.

Sadly another member of our family has recently been diagnosed with this disease, it has reminded me of this thread I made last year and I want to share some information to you all you may find intresting. I have had 2 experiences of hospices and have volunteered at our local one for a large amount of time and think I am informed enough to write this.

Hospices

Many "clam up" on the word, they think of cancer and people dying and to a certain extent that is true. But hospices care for other conditions and offer so much more than just a "peaceful place to die". Here is a small extract from our local hospices website.

"Prospect Hospice is the only provider of dedicated end of life care in our community, and has brought confidence, comfort and care to our patients and their families for thirty years. The scope of our care is broader than you might expect: you will find us supporting patients in the purpose-built Hospice, in the Great Western Hospital, and more than ever in people's own homes."

Those three words "Confidence, comfort and care" are achieved by the loving care that the nurses and doctors offer to patients.

They go beyond the call of duty, small things like adjusting beds, stopping for chats and therapy sessions to going out to buy a patients favourite tipple or there local chippy. They really are wonderful the nurses, the chefs, the staffs, the receptionists and thats why our local hospice is my number one charity. The hospice costs just under 6 million to run a year and its worth every penny!

It is also important to note that the hospice will send out nurses and provide transport for patients that prefer to stay at home yet another example of the lengths this organisation will stretch too. I was also unaware untill a few months ago of the care they offer to families, the hospice will provide food, massages and one to one therapy sessions for anyone that wishes which really helps in the bereavement process. I hope to add more on this thread but I have to go for now!

Making this sticky, since the same consideration was given to the last thread. Is the donation link still applicable?

http://uk.movember.com/?home

I think this is a valid link for this as it is about prostate cancer that affects men, so maybe people should get involved and grow a moustache for November. If you have shaved since 1st November, maybe just start a little later and finish in December, all for a good course

i raised nearly £250 for The Men Matter Appeal at the Christie in Manchester, it targets the male cancers that are less publicised such as testicular, penile and prostate.....a damn good cause, so all you blokes out there dont be afraid to have 'a rummage' it may save your life