CF clinic goes for planning

Specialised CF clinic goes for planning


Anton McNulty

THE DEVELOPMENT of a state-of-the-art Respiratory Clinic for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, on the grounds of Mayo General Hospital, moved a step closer yesterday (Monday) after planning permission for the project was sought by the hospital.
The project is being developed by Mayo General Hospital and Friends of Cystic Fibrosis, who have been working closely together over the last year to raise the required funding. It is hoped that the construction of the purpose-built facility, which will have isolated wards designed especially for CF patients, will begin early next year and will be in place by autumn 2009.
Martina Jennings, co-founder of Friends of Cystic Fibrosis, who has campaigned and fundraised for the clinic to get the go-ahead, said it would be a dream come true to see the clinic up and running.
“We set up Friends of Cystic Fibrosis 18 months ago to give financial aid to cystic fibrosis patients and their families. We have a member of our own family with cystic fibrosis so it is very close to our own hearts. We decided to build this clinic to improve services to patients in the west of Ireland and we’re very grateful to Dr Michael O’Neill, Consultant Paediatrician, Lorna O’Connor, CF Nurse, and Tony Canavan, General Manager, Mayo General Hospital, who advised us and showed us great support in implementing this project and for allocating a site on the grounds of Mayo General Hospital for the new unit,” she said.
Mr Tony Canavan, General Manager of Mayo General Hospital, said the new clinic will provide a range of day-care treatments to patients, including assessment, antibiotic therapy and physiotherapy.
“We are delighted to be working with the Friends of CF on this much-needed project. CF patients have very defined medical needs and we look forward to being able to meet these needs in a purpose-built unit on the grounds of the hospital. This unit will be accessed through the Out-Patients Department and will provide a range of day-care treatments to patients including assessment, antibiotic therapy and physiotherapy. The unit will provide a service to CF patients from all parts of Mayo,” he said.
The Friends of CF are hosting a Black Tie ball in the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris, on October 17. Special guest on the night is Gráinne Seoige, and tickets for the event can be obtained through Martina Jennings on 086 2623435 or Caroline Murphy on 086 1704989.