CLAN Cancer Support and Keith Cancer Link celebrate 30th Annivesaries
Two North-east cancer support groups came together to mark a significant shared anniversary.
Members of Keith Cancer Link (KCL) travelled to the Aberdeen headquarters of CLAN Cancer Support on Friday (February 15) in a visit scheduled as part of each group’s 30th anniversary programme.
More than 25 members of the Keith support group made the journey to CLAN House and were treated to a tour of the facilities and presentation on the work of the charity and the plans for continued growth.
KCL was founded in 1983 by chairwoman Adeline Reid in response to a gap in provision in the area. CLAN was established in the same year and the two groups have worked together since then by ensuring a flow of information and directing clients to relevant services and support.
Adeline said: “With so many shared aims and the same caring philosophy, there are many bonds between our own group and CLAN. We work closely to support those affected by cancer and look forward to building that relationship over the course of many years to come.
“We started with monthly support group meetings, not envisaging the way in which we would grow in the years ahead. To be celebrating our 30th anniversary is a tremendous achievement and to be sharing it with CLAN is fitting as there has been a great relationship between us over the past three decades.”
Both CLAN and KCL have been awarded the Queen’s Award for volunteering, recognising the community involvement in each charity. The Keith charity runs regular support groups as well as providing transport and the offer of support for those attending hospital and doctor’s appointments. Fundraising is also an important part of the group’s work and proceeds have been used for a number of projects in the past 30 years.
CLAN Cancer Support is an independent charity which provides comfort support and information, free of charge, for anyone, of any age, affected by any type of cancer. CLAN aims to support people to reduce anxiety, stress and to increase their ability to cope with the effects of a serious illness. Based in Aberdeen, the charity covers the whole of Grampian, Orkney and Shetland. CLAN has a presence in Ballater, Inverurie, Peterhead, Stonehaven, Kirkwall and Lerwick.
CLAN chief executive, Debbie Thomson, said: “We were delighted to welcome so many friends from Keith, a visit which has helped to strengthen the strong relationship we already had. Working in partnership with other groups is a major part of what we do at CLAN, never losing sight of our aim to provide the best comfort and support possible.”
For further information about CLAN Cancer Support please call (01224) 647 000 or visit www.clanhouse.org . Further information about KCL is available at www.keithcancerlink.org.uk .
