A gym has recently opened at University Hospital Llandough to help those having treatment for breast cancer feel fitter, stronger and improve their confidence
On 4th December Cardiff and Vale University Health Board Chief Executive Len Richards, and Chair 
Maria Battle visited the McCarthy Suite at the Breast Centre in University Hospital Llandough to meet Victoria Collins Senior Physiotherapist, Mr Sumit Goyal Consultant Oncoplastic Surgeon at University Hospital Llandough and some of the breast cancer patients using the facility.
The McCarthy Suite is a gym facility which was equipped with monies raised for the Breast Centre Appeal by Irene Hicks BCAv in memory of her three sons. The purpose of this gym is to provide prehabilitation and rehabilitation for those having treatment at the Breast Centre. This service is proving so popular for patients that Victoria now needs a Physiotherapy Assistant who is funded through the Breast Centre Appeal to meet demand and to ensure that all patients having treatment for breast cancer can benefit from this incredibly valuable service.
Victoria said: “The uptake for this service has been really positive, with patients engaging from the very beginning, at the point of diagnosis.
“We are promoting exercise as a recognised treatment with significant benefits, both in the short and long term. We have seen patients getting fitter, stronger and more confident to be active, with the benefits being both physical and psychological.”
If you would like more information about how you can help Cardiff & Vale Health Charity Breast Centre Appeal call Sue Dickson-Davies on 029 20 715978 (Ext. 25978) or email Sue.dickson-davies2@wales.nhs.uk