Isle of Man charity aims for dedicated breast clinic

A charity appeal will be launched in the Isle of Man to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for a dedicated breast cancer care clinic.

The new facility is expected to cost about £600,000 and will be built as an extension to Noble's hospital.

The campaign is led by the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group and has received support from the health department.

Charity president Brenda Cannell said non-profit organisations played a vital role during an economic downturn.

She added: "There is an urgent need for the government to work with the third sector in new and different ways if we are to maintain and improve vital public services.

"If we are successful, this would pave the way for similar initiatives to come to fruition. This is groundbreaking for the Isle of Man."

Difficult news

The idea for a dedicated clinic at the island's hospital in Braddan was first put forward by the Isle of Man's breast surgeon, Millie Bello, earlier this year.

The facility would provide an ultrasound room and a number of consultancy spaces where patients can be mentored about how to share difficult news with family and friends.

The extension would involve moving the current audiology department to the first floor of the hospital.

Health minister David Anderson said: "I have given my commitment to cover the cost of the relocation to free up space for a breast unit.

"Government is unfortunately not able to cover the cost of the unit but we are delighted that the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group is prepared to take on the task of delivering this new facility."

The charity campaign, which has already raised in the region of £10,000, will be officially launched on 8 November.