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In the six months since Jersey’s first brain tumour conference brought experts from the UK and health professionals from around the Island together to talk about issues with brain tumour diagnosis and treatment, the charity that organised the event says that they have seen more and more clients come forward and more co-operation and a stronger relationship with the Health and Social Services departments.
The last fortnight has seen two very high profile cases of Islanders talking about brain tumour issues – and Islanders have once again shown generous support both financially and emotionally to the families who have shared their stories with the community.
Sue May, who founded the Jersey Brain Tumour Charity in 2011 to support brain tumour patients and their loved ones, practically, emotionally and financially, says that the conference had helped further co-operation and dialogue – and that the charity was busier than ever in supporting people affected by brain tumours and their families.
The conference was held at the Royal Yacht Hotel on 30 September, and featured London-based Neurosurgeon Mr Neil Kitchen as its keynote speaker – both he and Jersey-based Consultant Neurologist Dr Howard Gibson, who also spoke at the event, deal with the vast majority of local brain tumour cases.
“We have certainly received referrals much earlier since last September, and a huge part of that has been the fantastic coverage from the local media,” said Sue, who founded the charity after her own diagnosis with a brain tumour in 2010 and was inspired to set up the charity to offer support to people diagnosed with brain tumours and their families and loved ones.
"But what has also been hugely important has been the opportunity to have brought everyone together to talk about how we as a society help those affected, directly or indirectly, by brain tumours.
"Before the conference, we were averaging around one or two people getting in touch with us every month to talk about rehabilitation, counselling and support for brain tumour patients – that number has now roughly doubled.
“There is also now a better relationship with the health authorities and a more open dialogue, aided enormously by the appointments of Dr Rubin Soomal, Consultant Clinical Oncologist and the new Neuroscience Clinical Nurse Specialist, Sarah Jemson.”
The charity is not States-funded and relies purely on grants, donations and its own fundraising efforts to ensure that its' support services can continue year-on-year.
Anyone wishing to donate or volunteer their services is asked to contact 01534 510867 or email admin@jerseybraintumour.com.
