A NEW breast cancer support centre in Olton has been officially opened.
Breast Cancer Havan opened its sixth regional centre to support some of the 12,500 breast cancer patients in the West Midlands on Wednesday, October 25.
West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, was joined by Anna Bartle, vice president of The Estée Lauder Companies UK & Ireland’s Breast Cancer Campaign, and Solihull Council leader Bob Sleigh to open the facility.
The former Edwardian guest house has been transformed by Coventry-based Chiel Construction.
It now boasts specialist therapy rooms and the chance for patients to gain free counselling, acupuncture, and massage.
Andy Street said he was delighted to open what he described as a ‘much-needed’ facility for women living in the region.
He said: “Our area has one of the highest incidence of breast cancer in the UK as well as a lower awareness of the disease and participation in screening programmes.
“Breast Cancer Haven will not only help to raise this awareness in the region but will also provide free, supportive therapies to women during their breast cancer hospital treatment.”
This year also marks the 25th anniversary of The Breast Cancer Campaign.
To mark the occasion, the Estèe Lauder Companies UK & Ireland has made a grant to create a garden in honour of Evelyn H. Lauder, who in 1992 co-created the pink ribbon.
Anna Bartle added: “In the UK alone, nearly £10 million has been raised to support Breast Cancer Research Foundation-funded research and our UK & Ireland business has been collaborating with the Breast Cancer Haven over a number of years.
“Our hope is that the new garden will provide a tranquil haven for the visitors and their families to relax in and enjoy.”
Pamela Healy, Breast Cancer Haven’s chief executive, said: “We know that we have a service that is so often life changing for people who are going through the toughest time of their lives.
“With 2,500 people within a 35-mile radius of Solihull told every year that they have breast cancer, we can now offer them our vital support services from this stunning new centre.”
Though the purchase, refurbishment, and redevelopment has been fully funded, Breast Cancer Haven must raise £600,000 each year to sustain its running costs.
To donate, call fundraising manager Amanda Elliott on 07497 354428 or email [email protected].
