THE local community is once again rallying around to help ensure the future of Cardigan Oxygen Therapy Centre.

The charitable-run centre based at the town’s Pentood Industrial Estate is one of many organisations that have been hard hit by the drop-off in donations during the coronavirus pandemic.

Towards the end of last year, the centre revealed that it needed to raise a minimum of £40,000 a year to carry on operating and the town rallied around to ensure its survival.

But the effects of the coronavirus pandemic has meant it has still been a struggle for the centre and manager Gina Fox said she is so grateful to the fundraising efforts of both groups and individuals.

At the height of the lockdown, one couple donated £1,000.

“I could not believe their generosity,” said Gina. “Already well-known and well respected in our community, they wished to remain anonymous. Their comment, when I asked them if they wanted recognition, was no but that they hoped it it would encourage others to give if they can.

“Such a huge amount makes a massive difference. It could pay a month’s rent for the Centre, or pay for nine weeks of oxygen. All money raised goes directly into running the centre which is staffed mainly by volunteers.

“We don't qualify for council grants as, even though we pay over £1,000 a month in rent and service charges, we don't pay rates.

“We also don't qualify for Welsh Government help as we don't charge for our service, only donations if the person can afford to do so.”

And another fund-raising effort has seen Emyr Wyn Rees recently complete 39 half marathons in 39 days, finishing on the day which would have been his father’s 100th birthday.

He said: “Every Sunday, I run/jog/limp to my parents’ grave, which is about seven to 10 miles, depending on the route.

“On Fathers’ Day, while at the graveside, an idea came to my mind - why don't I challenge myself and do something that would be completed on what would have been my father's 100th birthday (39 days).

“As my sister has just completed cancer treatment, I decided to ask her which charity she'd like me to raise for. She will be attending the centre in the future to help her healing process.”

He has raised more than £4,000.

Fraser McMillan completed an ultramarathon in Aberporth and Laura Winter and friends have taken on various fitness challenges.

The centre is currently operating on a pared-back basis for single person-only sessions, with strict safety and cleaning protocols in place. Previously, up to five people at any one time could make use of the facility.

“The most important thing is keeping people safe as we are dealing with some of the most vulnerable people and we have to be doubly careful,” added Gina.

“We cannot take on any new clients but we are managing to treat those who need to be treated.”

Anyone who can help or would like to carry out fund-raising activities, can go to https://www.justgiving.com/oxygentherapy

For further information about the centre, contact Gina on 01239 613210.