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Ulster Cancer Foundation Hold Annual Laryngectomy Conference
By Derval Keenan, 11/29/2004 10:33:59 AM
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The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) will be holding their annual Laryngectomy Conference for patients, carers and health professionals on Wednesday 17th November 2004 at the Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast from 10am ? 3.30pm.
There are approximately 62 people (53 men / 9 women) diagnosed with Laryngeal Cancer (cancer of the throat) in Northern Ireland every year.
Ruth Campbell, Head of Care Services, Ulster Cancer Foundation said, ?If detected early this type of cancer can be treated successfully with radiotherapy treatment however some people may have to have surgery ? a Laryngectomy. This surgical procedure removes the voice box, which means that the patient has to breathe through a small opening in their neck (stoma). Cancer patients who have a laryngectomy loose the ability to speak normally for the rest of their lives.
?There is however several options available to help patients with a Laryngectomy regain a form of speech. UCF provides a comprehensive range of support, information and services for over 200 people who are living with this condition in Northern Ireland. These include:
· Training - UCF works closely with speech and language therapists to train and equip patient volunteers (those who have had a laryngectomy themselves) to visit and support those who are newly diagnosed and facing surgery.
· Support - A UCF Support group for patients and their families with Laryngectomy provides an opportunity for gaining information, sharing experiences and giving and receiving support from each other.
· Freefone Helpline ? UCF?s freefone helpline is staffed by a team of specialist cancer nurses who provide information and support to anyone concerned about cancer and its symptoms. The service also helps people cope with a diagnosis of cancer by enabling them to discuss their concerns and anxieties and providing relevant information in an accurate and easily understood way. The Freefone Helpline number is 0800 783 33 39, available 9am ? 5pm, Monday ? Friday.
· Counselling ? UCF?s specially trained counsellors offer a confidential and free service for patients and their families.?
This years Laryngectomy Conference will cover a wide range of relevant and interesting topics with a presentation by keynote speaker Anne Hurren, Chief Speech and Language Therapist, Sunderland Royal Hospital. Bert Culling MBE, President of National Association of Laryngectomy Clubs will provide an update on the role of N.A.L.C., while Sr. Barbara Hamilton will focus on the ?aftercare of a laryngectee?. Alex McGuiggan will reflect on the reality of living with a laryngectomy focusing on the issues faced by people who have had this surgery and Barbara Preston will speak on the benefits of UCF?s Patient Volunteer Service.
There are a number of places still available and anyone wishing to attend should contact Eileen Creery, Ulster Cancer Foundation on 028 9049 2007 / eileencreery@ulstercancer.org
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For further information please contact Ruth Campbell, Head of Care Services, UCF on 028 9049 2007 / 07881 945147 or Derval Keenan, PR & Events Officer Tel: 028 9049 2007 / dervalkeenan@ulstercancer.org
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