Entrance to the shop - totally wheelchair accessible

What a simply "MABulous" day it was today! This afternoon marked a milestone for MABS - a support group in Spain for those affected by cancer, with the grand opening of a brand new centre located in La Cala - officially in Finestrat, although most refer to it as Benidorm.

MABS are one of the leading charities in Spain dedicated to the support of all who are affected by cancer. It was founded by Jacqui Phillips MBE in 1999 after experiencing cancer first hand and she is President of the charity.

Consul Paul Rodwell with all the volunteers

Often those diagnosed with cancer feel overwhelmed and isolated, particularly ex-pats who have no family here to offer support, which is the primary aim of the new centre. Sue Reula is Director of the Benidorm branch and she found the premises back in July last year. Many hours of sweat, tears and dedication were spent by the volunteers to transform it into the centre it is.

Jacqui Phillips, Paul Rodwell & Sue Reula

The centre was officially opened by British Consul Paul Rodwell, who came up from Alicante for the ceremony.

Before cutting the ribbon Paul made a speech to the 200 or so gathered, emphasizing the superb work carried out by all the volunteers, without whom it would not be possible.

He used 3 adjectives which superbly described MABS:
Dedicated - all the volunteers who give their time and energy.
Immediate - from the first phone call  every person will be immediately supported no matter what time of the day they call.
Caring - the volunteers all show great empathy, understanding and knowledge.

Spacious shop

The new centre is run by an army of 20 volunteers, some who help run the shop and professional nursing and therapy staff who run the adjoining care centre.
The shop is open 5 days a week - Monday to Friday from 10am until 2pm. Sue is appealing to anyone who has a few spare hours and would like to become part of the team to contact her, which would then enable them to extend the opening hours.

The glam Jenny Renn manning the till

They are always looking for donations - not only the usual clothing and bric-a-brac, but also furniture and household items which they have on display. They can arrange collection of heavy items from you so consider them if you are replacing any furniture.
One person who you may recognise in the shop is Benidorm funny lady Jenny Renn, who feels passionately about the charity and always puts a smile on any visitors faces.


Currently there is a nurse available every Wednesday at the care centre, but over time their goal is to have one available every day. The care centre has treatment rooms, an equipment store room and a relaxing lounge area where you can have a coffee and chat.

"Lilley´s Treatment Room" was entirely kitted out by a very special local lady by the name of Deborah Lilley, who raised 2000 euros from various fundraising events which enabled the purchase of equipment for it.

Deborah Lilley

Deborah tragically lost her beloved husband William to stomach cancer 9 weeks after being diagnosed. She told me if it wasn´t for the help and support of MABS she would never have got through. From the moment she called them they provided everything and so she wanted to give something back. William ran a pub, Lill´s Lounge in Albir (near the cricket ground) which Deborah still has, but is now run by someone for her as she is a full time teacher at a local International school. They hold regular quiz and fun nights in support of MABS, so pop along if you are in the area.

You can borrow any equipment free of charge from the centre - but a donation would be gratefully accepted. The new MABS centre is located on the main road, almost diagonally opposite the Mesalina Club in La Cala where the Friday market is held. If you would like directions, more information or to volunteer please call Sue on 664 266 991.