Our History

Where it all started

ARC is a registered, independent Irish charity founded in 1994. It was the brainchild of Professor Des Carney, a leading oncologist in the Mater Hospital who identified a gap in cancer service provision for patients and their loved ones. He recognised a need for complementary, holistic and psychological support during and after hospital treatment that worked in tandem with patients' medical treatment. A small group of caring and committed volunteers worked tirelessly to open the first ARC Cancer Support Centre near the Mater Hospital in Dublin.

A home-from-home

Much time and attention was spent in making ARC a home-from-home, a sanctuary for those affected by cancer, providing a safe space where the individual is cared for according to their needs. The supportive atmosphere and incredible warmth radiates from the instant a person walks through the door.

Moving forward

Over the years, the service has developed significantly and the range of supports offered has increased. A second centre was opened in November 2009 in close proximity to St. James’s Hospital in Dublin 8. Based on client demand, a new service opened in early 2020 in a third location close to St. Vincent’s Hospital which will continue ARC’s Cancer Support Services in close proximity to the hospital’s Cancer Centre of Excellence.