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Murcia thinking smart
More than 200 attended the meeting under the theme: “Smart Cities: Opportunities for Environmental Innovation”, which brings together people involved in the task of “making life easier” for local citizens through new technologies p8
Crash course in car accidents
THE SCHOOL of Public Safety for the City of Cartagena ESPAC, is offering a new course dealing with car accident investigations p20
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Three days in Torremolinos EXCLUSIVE HOLIDAY deals brought to you by RTN Gandia Tours
Showbiz Goss FIND OUT all the celebrity news on p44
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Issue 84
6 - 12 3-9june Jan 2014
Hospice dream comes true by Jack Troughton VITAL HOSPICE and respite care on the Costa Blanca became a reality on Monday when the Santolina Suite was officially opened at Fontilles’ Ferris Hospital. A spirit of international cooperation between the MABS Cancer Support Group, Jalon Valley HELP, and the management of the Fontilles complex achieved a long-standing goal. The cancer charity has a room in the annex to offer the terminally ill a tranquil place and access to the care and attention needed during their final days and weeks, as well as a place to offer respite care if needed. HELP has a room for those recovering from serious operations, injuries and illnesses, offering respite to their carers. And the suite also has a third room to offer relatives travelling long distances accommodation – or to act as an overspill for the two charities. After an opening ceremony attended by volunteers of both charities, hospital management and staff, British Vice Consul Lloyd Milen cut the ribbon to declare the suite open. With Consul Paul Rodwell called to Madrid after the abdication, Mr Milen paid tribute to the “magnificent work” of both charities helping the British and international community in Spain. “This facility has been a dream for many years – a dream that has now become a reality,” he said. COMMUNITY He said the work Fontilles was doing in providing medical assistance and research was “absolutely fantastic” and the new suite was a huge example “of how the British community here has
(from left) Elaine Horton, Ramon Trenor, Jacqui Phillips, Fontilles Manager Jose Manuel Amoros, Lloyd Milen
contributed to the work they are doing for the wider international community.” The President of Fontilles Ramon Trenor said the hospital had a long standing relationship with the British community. “Obviously these links have been reinforced with the agreement we are celebrating today. “And we will do our best to fulfil our part in your belief that our services are of the highest level and quality. We are proud of your trust in Fontilles to take care of your people.”
Elaine Horton, President of Jalon Valley HELP, said the project showed “what can be achieved when three agencies come together to face difficult issues.” She said the charities were “acutely aware” of the problems associated with an aging population and the difficulties that could arise with a serious illness – people living on their own without family support, with elderly carers overwhelmed by nursing a sick partner. “People tell me how frightening that is and how alone they feel.” Continued on page 8