'Ring the bell' end of treatment party raises £2,440 for Breast Care Unit

Pictured above: Karen Howarth, Senior Nurse Manager; Jolene Saunders; Elis; Gwion; Aled; Kirsty Deias, Breast Care Specialist Nurse and Dr Huws, Associate Specialist – Breast Care.

Jolene Saunders held a ‘ring the bell’ end of treatment party and raised £2,440 for the Breast Care Unit at Prince Philip Hospital.

Jolene is a 37-year-old farmer from Alltwalis who lives with her husband, Aled, and two sons, Elis and Gwion.

Jolene held the party in Neath Rugby Club in April to raise the funds as a thanks for the care she received on the unit.

Jolene said: “In June 2024, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. I had surgery in July, followed by 13 sessions of chemotherapy and then ten sessions of radiotherapy. I will now be in a chemical menopause to try and prevent recurrence.

“From finding the lump, to biopsy, surgery, treatments and aftercare, I cannot fault our services. We are so very lucky to have access to not only cancer care, but some of the most special people you will ever meet.

“Dr Huws has been so supportive and kind. Nothing is too much trouble for her, she goes out of her way for everyone. She made our family feel so safe and had all the time in the world to go over all our questions and worries.

“The party was incredible. We had two different singers, there was lots of drinking and dancing. I’m sure there were a lot of sore heads the next day.

“We were thrilled with the amount raised. It’s just something to show our appreciation to the unit. Also, in September we raised £4,710 for the Little Princess Trust. I did a ‘Brave the Shave’ party before I lost my hair to the chemo, my hair was also donated. To raise over £7,500 in six months is amazing.

“I’m so thankful for all the support and donations. We would like to thank Dr Huws, Kirsty and Helen at the Breast Care Unit and all the amazing angels that work at Carmarthen Chemotherapy Unit. They are unbelievably amazing and supportive. To go through such an awful time but be looked after by the best people you’ll ever meet is so reassuring.”

Dr Huws, Associate Specialist – Breast Care, said: “On behalf of the team, we would like to thank Jolene, family and friends for the very generous donation. We are extremely grateful to you all."

Claire Rumble, Fundraising Officer, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are very grateful for every donation we receive. Diolch yn fawr to Jolene and her supporters!”