Helping people affected by cancer

The ‘why’ behind Marrack’s Dry July

Marrack's journey began unexpectedly with a fishing injury. While fishing 25km east of Kangaroo Island, Marrack had a fall that injured his rib. A CT scan revealed not only an intact rib but also a thickening at the base of his oesophagus, leading to a diagnosis of oesophageal cancer.

Despite the initial prognosis of a 20% survival rate to 5 years, further tests showed the cancer was localised, increasing his chances to 60%. After chemotherapy and radiation, Marrack is now preparing for major surgery, thanks to the expert care at Flinders.

Marrack faces the challenges of treatment with courage, even overcoming his fear of needles. He finds inspiration in the positive atmosphere at the Flinders Infusion Suite, where staff and fellow...

Harnessing knowledge to tackle huge challenges

Kashi Thiris’s cancer journey started with a dream in which she heard the words, 'I am metastatic'. When she woke up, she thought it was strange that she had been dreaming about a word related to cancer.

A few days later, Kashi developed a rash on her breast. This wasn’t particularly unusual because she was breastfeeding her daughter at the time. “I just thought it was mastitis, an inflammation in the breast caused by an infection. I was in the bush doing work at my farm, so I didn’t see a doctor.”

The rash cleared up, and everything seemed fine until she noticed a large lump that had started to grow on her breast. “It grew really fast. Within days, I could see it in the mirror. It was at this point I thought I should see a doctor.”

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Comfort and support for breast cancer patients

With help from Dry July funding, the Surgical Outpatient Services McGrath Breast Care Nurses have been able to purchase post-operative surgical bras.

McGrath Breast Care Nurse, Rebecca Chenery, explained the bras are designed specifically for women undergoing surgery for breast cancer and breast reconstructive surgery.

“An important aspect of breast cancer survivorship for women is wearing a comfortable bra that provides comfort and support for their post-treatment bodies,” she said.

“There are many physical changes that occur with breast cancer treatment such as painful surgical scars, swelling and sensitivity after radiation therapy treatment. A correctly fitted post-surgical bra can help to reduce the incidence of complications as...

Chantelle's story

At just 12 years old, Chantelle's world changed forever when her father was diagnosed with stage 3 brain cancer. Initially, Chantelle didn't grasp the gravity of cancer. She believed her dad, who had always been healthy and strong, would quickly recover. Sadly, he passed away in May 2014, leaving a huge void in her life.

Struggling with grief, Chantelle found hope through Canteen. She joined in 2012 after her mum discovered a brochure at the hospital. Canteen’s Good Grief Program became her lifeline, offering a safe space to share her feelings and connect with others who understood her experience.

"I really valued my experience at the Good Grief Program because it helped me process and understand a lot of feelings and confusion I had...

Experts stumped as head and neck cancer cases surge among Australian women

Head and neck cancer cases among Australian women have increased significantly over the past 30 years, affecting even those who have never smoked or consumed alcohol heavily.

Experts, like RMH Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Professor David Wiesenfeld, are stumped.

“Every week, women with mouth cancers come into the clinic looking for answers.” said Prof Wiesenfeld.

“It’s really tough to have to say, ‘I’m sorry, I don’t know,’ because we don’t understand why this is happening.”

This alarming spike shows how important further research into the underlying causes is.

In response, David, along with the RMH head and neck staff members and female oral cancer patients, have joined forces to form the RMH Head and Neck's Dry July team.

“While the...

The power of rehabilitation

At The Wesley Hospital, we understand that the journey through cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally demanding. That's why we offer specialised physical rehabilitation programs tailored to the unique needs of cancer patients. Our dedicated team of experts works closely with individuals to restore strength, mobility, and overall wellbeing, empowering them to regain control and confidence in their bodies.

Beyond the physical benefits, our rehabilitation programs also play a crucial role in improving mental wellbeing. By addressing the physical challenges associated with cancer treatment, patients often experience a profound sense of accomplishment and resilience, as well as camaraderie through participation in group...

Teresa’s journey with the RMH’s Head and Neck cancer team

Meet Teresa: a mother of two and former accountant turned massage therapist, whose journey at RMH began just under a year ago.

"I noticed an ulcer that wouldn’t heal. By July, I was in Japan with my kids, in constant pain and with an earache. I wasn’t my usual joyful self."

After a late July biopsy, Teresa received a cancer diagnosis and was scheduled in for surgery at the RMH.

Before undergoing surgery, to remove a quarter of her tongue and a tracheostomy to prevent its spread, Teresa describes the level of support and preparation at RMH.

"In just 15 minutes of the initial multi-disciplinary routine meeting, there were close to 20 specialists from various teams across the RMH were by my side. From oral maxillofacial experts, speech...

Bridging the gaps in the patient journey

Grampians Health was delighted to welcome a new dedicated Bowel Care Nurse at Ballarat Base Hospital and St John of God Hospital Ballarat to support bowel cancer patients across the region and assist them in their treatment journey.

Providing care coordination, while identifying and bridging gaps in the patient journey, which has the potential to change outcomes within the region.

“During their treatment, local patients often meet with several different teams along the way, and navigating the information and appointments can be overwhelming at times. Having a centralised point of contact to provide clarity and reassurance has been warmly welcomed here at the service,” said Jaymee, specialist Bowel Care Nurse.

The funding for the...

Love & staying positive conquers all

Ruth South and her husband Neville have endured way more than any couple should have to face together, yet their love is stronger than ever.

They met at a young age. When Ruth was just 16, they bought a property in the picturesque township of Cockatoo in Dandenong's Eastern Ranges. Seven years later, their home was razed to the ground in the Ash Wednesday fires. The couple chose to rebuild and are still in the same house today.

They married in 1978 and had four sons. When their third-born son, Matthew, was just 19, they were dealt another massive blow. Matthew was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma and Osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. He underwent aggressive treatment at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and had several surgeries at St...