06 December 2013

Macmillan Cancer Support has praised two brand new S4C programmes looking at the reality of a cancer diagnosis which will be broadcast on the Welsh Channel this week.

Real life documentary O'r Galon: Stori Meinir (From the Heart: Meinir's Story) to be broadcast on Sunday 8 December at 8.30pm and fictional film Reit Tu Ôl i Ti (Right Behind You) on Sunday 15 December at 9.00pm both take an unflinching look at the reality of cancer; the treatment, the side effects and the effect the disease has not only on the patient but also his or her family and friends. Both programmes will have English Subtitles.

Susan Morris, General Manager for Wales, Macmillan Cancer Support said:

“Programmes like S4C’s Stori Meinir and Reit Tu Ôl i Ti are paramount in raising awareness about the reality of a cancer diagnosis. Every year 18,000 people in Wales hear the devastating news that they have cancer. This news will then affect everyone who loves them. Cancer is the toughest fight most of us will ever face. And the feelings of loneliness and isolation that so many people experience make it even harder.

"Many people affected by cancer often don’t realise that they need support to manage what can be complex physical, psychological and social needs and may not know who to go to in order to address them. We want to make sure no-one faces cancer alone. Macmillan Wales is here to help and support cancer patients and their loved ones with the practical, financial, psychological and emotional problems that can arise from a cancer diagnosis.”

O'r Galon: Stori Meinir is a unique programme which follows Meinir Siencyn from Llanberis from the day she is diagnosed with breast cancer in May; to the day she receives those all-important final results in November.

Reit Tu Ôl i Ti is written by Welsh playwright Meic Povey. The film is an emotional story about a difficult subject as a husband and wife, Dewi and Megan, come face to face with cancer. Through Dewi's eyes we'll see Megan's battle with the illness and the effect it has on their relationship and their family – with sad and challenging times, as well as some funny and heart-warming moments.

Dafydd Rhys, Director of Content at S4C said:

"As a broadcaster we feel it’s important that we don't shy away from challenging subjects such as cancer. O'r Galon: Stori Meinir and Reit Tu Ôl i Ti show the effects of cancer on the patient and their families, reflecting the reality of his cruel disease. Hopefully the programmes will help others who have or are still going through a similar experience."

O'r Galon: Stori Meinir – Sunday 8 December, 8.30pm.

Reit Tu Ôl i Ti – Sunday 15 December, 9.00pm.

Ends