Maggie's Centre, Dundee

Dull, overcast day but a little milder than of late.

Another, final, visit to the hospital concerning the Drug Trial I was on earlier this year. The Professor in charge of the Research Centre is a delightful chap who also happens to be the husband of my Consultant Cardiologist. Much of the time was spent talking about spiritual matters and Church.

Afterwards, we visited Maggie's Centre, which is in the grounds of the Hospital. It is a Centre where patients who are suffering from cancer can go just to meet and to talk with other sufferers. There are specialists on hand who can provide more professional support if needed. It is based on the simple premise that sometimes people who are facing difficult times just need to talk to someone who understands what they are going through.

The building was designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry, and built in 2003, Maggie’s Dundee was the first new-build Maggie’s Centre. The white, cottage-like building with a wavy silver roof is modelled on a traditional Scottish “butt n’ ben” dwelling, and offers a welcoming sense of calm and sanctuary. The building is set in beautiful grounds which overlook views of the River Tay.

We then had lunch in our Church Cafe where again a few folk just needed someone to talk to who understood how difficult it is to get by in these tough economic times.