I was diagnosed with throat cancer on my vocal cords in April 2016. Following the diagnosis I was immediately referred to Professor Sidney Davis and his team at Alfred Health Radiation Oncology (AHRO) for assessment and my treatment program.

Prof. Davis and his team quickly mapped out my treatment program, consisting of 28 treatments over 6 weeks. These began on the 9th May 2016 and completed on the 15th June, as scheduled.  

During my daily visits to AHRO, my treatment was made easier by the staff who were always welcoming and friendly. This wonderful team who included nurses, speech therapists, dieticians, doctors, radiologists and administration staff, were all encouraging and supportive; treating me with compassion and warmth. Having all services available in the same location also makes treatment that much easier on patients and their supporters. 

I also noticed the same compassion and consideration shown to other patients undergoing their treatments during the same period. Family members and friends who accompanied patients also received the same consideration. It is just as important for patient supporters to understand the process and feel comfortable during these difficult times to come to terms with the prognosis and treatment programs. 

The facility at The Alfred is continually in need of upgrades and improvements to ensure that all patients who suffer from this horrible disease, cancer, feel comfortable, supported and have the best treatment possible. The Alfred is a major Melbourne medical facility and patients come from far and wide to receive the best care, with the latest equipment and treatments. Making patients feel comfortable during their treatment program and having the various health services and program available to support them, eases the stress of treatment as well as provides the best opportunity to return to good health again.      

Dry July for The Alfred is a chance to support this facility to raise funds to provide improved treatment facilities, improve support programs, create improved environments and surroundings and generally brighten the outlook for the growing number of cancer patients and their families and friends. No-one expects to need these services but the reality is that one day either you or a member of your family will need to go through treatment and you will want it to be as comfortable as possible. It’s not until you need the services and expertise of this world class medical facility that you realise how much difference the little things can make to your treatment. Please support Dry July for health with your financial donations and donate now!!! 

I urge and encourage you to spread the word and encourage your family, friends, colleagues and network to support Dry July and donate generously to The Alfred.      

Thank you  

Michael George - “2016 patient”