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roundtownnews.com
6-12 June 2014
Issue 764
Hospice dream comes true 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. by Jack Troughton
More than 800 runners took to the streets for Torrevieja’s food bank
Children for Solidarity ON TUESDAY morning the streets around the Virgen del Carmen primary school were closed to traffic as hundreds of school children took to the streets to run for charity. Read the full story on page 18.
See page 66
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 re-
search was “absolutely fantastic” and the new suite was a huge example “of how the British community here has 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 meSee howpage frightening that is 34 and how alone they feel.” Elaine said HELP and colleagues at MABS appreciated extra services were needed and as they individually embarked on a journey to provide these “were brought together today in the spirit of cooperation.” Continued on page 8