City cancer support centre
nets award

Kate Ibbeson, from Walkley, put forward Weston Park Cancer Information and Support Centre for a “Caring for Carers” award to recognise the help they gave her.

The 41-year-old’s father died in June 2009 at the age of 68, while her mother died on her 69th birthday in May 2010.

During her parents’ treatment and after their deaths, Mrs Ibbeson received support from the cancer centre, which is part-funded by Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity.

She said: “When both my parents were diagnosed with cancer I knew I had to keep going as I wanted to do the best for them.

“Losing a parent is life-changing but to lose both, and in such a short space of time, was something else.”

Mrs Ibbeson attended both a carers’ course, which allowed her to spend time with others who were looking after family members with cancer, and a bereavement course for those who had lost parents to the disease.

She added: “What was also great about the courses is that they have since held several events, which has strengthened the support network available and allowed us to get together to share our experiences.”

As a result of the help she received, Mrs Ibbeson nominated the Weston Park Cancer Information and Support Centre for the award, which is given by the Sheffield Carers’ Centre.

The awards are designed to “recognise the support, commitment and care of local voluntary, community and health and social care organisations and individuals working in the health and social care sector.”

Celia Robinson, chief executive of Sheffield Carers Centre, said: “The awards recognise the very valuable support and understanding some professionals have shown to carers.”