Hello, my name is Lyn Neville and I am the co-ordinator for the local cancer charity, Pembrokeshire Cancer Support.

We have a support centre which is based at 91 Queen Street, Pembroke Dock (above the charity shop).

In my time with the charity, I have made it my job to speak to lots of people about us and what we do.

It worried me that many people have not used the support centre because they do not want to be with people who are upset, crying and depressed. They also do not want to be seen as unable to cope, to be weak, or to be embarrassed.

Our support centre encourages self-help with support from our support workers when needed. If you want to talk about your illness and problems, we are happy to do that, and this is always done in private, and is confidential.

Some people do not want to talk about illness and would rather talk about anything else... and that's fine as well.

We want people to feel at ease and use the support centre as they want. We have relaxation classes, a card making group, reflexology and more.

We have outreach services to other parts of Pembrokeshire, and can do home visits for those unable to come in, and can visit in hospital.

We have an extensive library of information on all aspects of cancer from the illness itself to where to turn for help and advice on benefits and how to explain your problems to your loved ones.

The support centre is open to cancer sufferers, carers and family members.

Cancer affects the whole family and hopefully we can help to support you all. We do not give medical advice but we can help you find the professionals you need to help with health, benefits, financial issues, transport etc.

Cancer is a very difficult illness to get to grips with. Cancer affects all the family and puts a strain on people.

I know this because I have had cancer myself and had a bone marrow transplant. My wife was my carer, so I appreciate how the family is affected under these trying circumstances.

At Pembrokeshire Cancer Support, we want to help you to get through this cruel illness.

We would be very pleased for you to come along and just have a look around and a cup of tea.

If you have a family member or friend with cancer, come along and see if you think we could help them.

Just call in anytime between 9.30 am and 3.45 pm, Monday to Friday or ring 01646 683078 and ask for Lyn, Gill, Barbara or Geraldine.

We also have a website which you can look at to get more information, it is at http://www.pembrokeshirecancersupport.org.uk">www.pembrokeshirecancersupport.org.uk or e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]

Coffee Morning

On Friday, October 21, between 10.30 am and 1 pm, we are having a coffee morning at our support centre in Queen Street, Pembroke Dock. This may be the ideal chance for you to come along for a look round and to ask any questions. All are welcome to the coffee morning.....oh, and we do tea as well!

DO YOU WORK FOR A CHARITY OR ORGANISATION?

Do you work for a charity or organisation in the Pembroke and Pembroke Dock area and would like to be featured in the Observer? If so, please send us an email detailing the work of the group and contact details. Please also send a photograph, too, if possible. Email submissions to [email protected]">[email protected]