As preparations continue for this year’s Run and Walk for Solas, some of those familiar with the service have been sharing their personal stories.

The Run and Walk for Solas takes place in Dungarvan on Saturday October 10th and in Waterford City on Sunday October 11th.

This year marks a particularly important year for the Dungarvan service as it marks ten years in existence.

Jamie Hallahan

As a pharmacist and former Trustee of the Solas Cancer Support Centre, Jamie Hallahan from Dungarvan has experienced many aspects of the service.

“Sometimes the pharmacy is the first port of call and it’s great to be able to share information about the Solas Cancer Support Centre-  I think it’s very important to explain the services and the supports that are available on our doorstep.”

Collette Ryan

Collette is a past client and a Patient Advocate for ‘You Can Ireland’ which is a support service for young people in their 20s, 30s and 40s with current or previous cancer diagosis.

Colette also had her own battle with cancer in her 30s and she spoke frankly about her experience.

“Solas are everything and have been so good to me: the support, the friendship, the love. I have been supported by a range of treatments; reflexology was what got me through chemotherapy.  I found counselling very beneficial and enjoyed classes for relaxation. Most importantly I found the links to others with a shared experience was so helpful and Solas helps with all of that.”

Richard Power

Richard is Volunteer Coordinator of the Solas Choir.

“The Solas choir meets every Monday evening and it’s a therapy choir not a competitive choir with 30 plus people attending weekly. It’s hugely valuable in fact,  the music and singing lifts the spirit and people enjoy the camaraderie and friendship of the choir.”

WLR is once again proud media partner of this year’s event.

Find out more here