Celebrating the Courage of Long-Term Survivors

Issue 24 Spring 2003

Breast Cancer Network Australia newsletter

Celebrating the courage of long-term survivors

n the last issue, we featured an out some of our usual features, in order article from Eleanor McDonald, to fit in as many of these inspiring I a breast cancer survivor of stories as possible. 27 years, and we asked other long-term Even so, we can only reproduce a survivors to contact us. smattering of stories. You will find Since then, we have been many more on our BCNA website at overwhelmed by the most marvellous www.bcna.org.au stories of courage, We thank you all for taking the persistence and survival. trouble to record your wonderful The really tricky bit has been trying to journeys, for sharing them with us, and fit all these articles in The Beacon! for giving us hope and inspiration. We have, therefore, decided to leave – Lyn Swinburne

INSIDE... STATE REPORTS 2 Second breast cancer conference for women MINI-FIELDS OF WOMEN 4 The weather might be cold, but our We are thrilled to announce two FIELD OF WOMEN 2003 5 spirits will be warm! major sponsors: LONG-TERM SURVIVORS 6 Be in Melbourne on August 27-29, • Commonwealth Department of LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 12 2004, for a not-to-be-missed chance Health and Ageing; and to join with fellow breast cancer • BreastCare Victoria. INSPIRED BY FLOWERS 13 survivors from around Australia at Make sure it’s in your 2004 diary DRAGONS ABREAST 14 BCNA’s second National Breast and start planning NOW! MESSAGES FOR 15 Cancer Conference for Women at the Look out for further details in the TOMORROW’S DOCTORS Melbourne Convention Centre. December issue of The Beacon. UPCOMING EVENTS 16

1 State Reports State Reports

confidence and enhanced skills to VICTORIA These reports are extracts of work. comprehensive quarterly reports Contact: Sally Russell, (08) 8223 7106 There will be several Mini- written by our state representatives. or [email protected], or Deb Martin, Field of Women events from The complete reports can be found (08) 8241 1804 or Saturday, October 25 until Monday, on our website, www.bcna.org.au [email protected] October 27. The State Library Victoria on the Our state representatives are always happy to hear from readers, corner of Swanston and La Trobe streets, NORTHERN TERRITORY Melbourne, is the setting for one event or to promote activities within the and we would love to see lots of local and state. Just give them a call! August will see several of our rural people there on Monday, October members visiting Katherine for 27, between 11am and 3pm. a catch-up with the local women, as This could also be a great opportunity well as participating in the Flying Fox to visit the reopened domed reading University of British Columbia in Festival races on the world famous room at the library. Canada, who will address the topic of Katherine Gorge. This is a special BreaCan, the drop-in resource centre exercise following surgery. event, as the traditional owners only in Melbourne, continues to offer If you are in Canberra at this time allow dragon boats in the gorge once a support and information, and has a host we’d love to hear from you. You might year. of interesting speakers and activities like to participate in the dragon boat In September, Jill Burgoyne, our Alice coming up. breast cancer challenge race, on Springs liaison will be participating in a Contact: Gerda Evans, (03) 9805 2500 Saturday, November 8, if you are national acceptability survey of the or [email protected] already registered for the Masters’ breast care nurse position. It is running Games in other events. under the auspices of Strengthening Should you wish to receive a Support for Women with Breast Cancer in THE ACT newsletter, or participate in the Rural and Remote Areas. Games, contact: Elspeth Humphries, Members of Northern Territory Breast The first big Breast Cancer [email protected], or Cancer Voice (NTBCV) and the Cancer month event is on Sunday, Anna Wellings Booth, (02) 6247 8470 Council are working together on joint October 26, with the season’s first or [email protected] promotional efforts in October, with the Dragons Abreast Regatta. Teams will aim of making this the best breast cancer compete for the Pink Lady Perpetual awareness campaign the Territory has Trophy donated by Brendan Smyth, SOUTH AUSTRALIA seen to date. MLA. Activities planned include the Big Girls Following the regatta, the Mini-Field of The women in Port Lincoln PJ Party, a Mini-Field of Women, various Women will be held. The venue for the continue to be busy! displays in shopping centres, a visit by field is Peace Park, adjacent to the Sandra Sinclair and Maxine Barker the Caring for You team and a National Library. The Silent Walk will travelled to Ceduna and Wudinna to talk fundraising dinner. begin at the Japanese Gardens behind to local women’s groups and regional For more details, or to become the Hyatt Hotel at 1.30pm. doctors about their information kits for involved, contact either of us – we’d be We are fortunate that Claire Dennis women who are newly diagnosed with delighted to hear from you! (daughter of Megan, a BCNA consumer breast cancer. Contact: Susan Tulley, (08) 8927 3327 or representative) is using this task as her Sandra and Maxine also spoke about [email protected], or Michelle final assignment for her communications the Lending Library that has been set up Hanton, (08) 8941 8923 or degree. through the Port Lincoln Caring Cancer [email protected] We hope to bring the Warrior Women Support Group. Both the information Exhibition to the ACT for Breast kits and the lending library are projects Cancer Week and the Masters’ Games. funded by BCNA’s Community Grants An exhibition of photographs of local Program. NEW SOUTH WALES women for Bosom Buddies by Brigitte It was Adelaide’s turn recently for the Seiger will also be featured. public speaking course facilitated by Sue The Breast Cancer Directory We particularly welcome women who Watson and Gil Paulsen of BCNA. Jo of Treatment and Services for will be competing at the Masters’ Games Gemmell, Maxine Barker and Sylvia NSW Women is on-line and can be in all events to attend a Breast Cancer Thompson attended, along with reached via www.bcagnsw.org.au or Forum on Friday, November 7, ourselves. www.bci.org.au. Breast cancer specialists sponsored by the National Breast Participants benefited from the will be invited to update or enter their Cancer Centre and BCNA. information provided and the peer details on-line from now on. The keynote speaker will be critique of their presentations. Some BCAG NSW, through Cancer Voices Professor Don McKenzie from the have already put their greater NSW, has been active in shaping the 2 legislation for the Cancer Institute line) or phone 0408 933 667. (NSW), which is patient-focused. Queensland workshop Two specialist breast care nurses were We also welcome the new Framework funded by AOBC last year. Our for Optimising Cancer Care in NSW, in September members feel strongly that specialist which sets standards derived from the Here’s your chance to hear the breast care nurses are essential to the various breast cancer guidelines. These optimum care of women diagnosed latest on breast cancer clinical trials standards mean that best practice care with breast cancer, therefore AOBC is should be more accessible to all. and learn about the issues working towards continuing this NSW is also developing a surrounding genetic research. sponsorship. lymphoedema directory (just for NSW BCNA is sponsoring a workshop The women of AOBC WA would like to start with). This will be added to the for women to be run by the to invite all those affected by breast main directory. Australasian Society of Breast cancer and the general WA community Breast Cancer Action Group NSW Diseases at its conference on the to join us at 11am on October 26 at the celebrates its sixth birthday in October Gold Coast. Perth Art and Cultural Centre for our and now has 650 members across NSW. Mini Field of Women. The workshop will be held on BCNA members are most welcome to One hundred silhouettes will be attend any of BCAG’s quarterly Saturday, September 20 from planted on the grassed area, adjacent information sessions. 9.30am to 1.15pm. It will feature the Art Gallery Café. Contact: Pam Bell, (02) 9955 9313 or presentations from experts, as well BCNA resources will be available, [email protected], or Megan James as an opportunity to ask questions. along with merchandise for sale. 0418 454 953. The cost is $7, which includes Contact: Carol Bishop, (08) 9489 7312 refreshments. or [email protected], or Maria QUEENSLAND To register, phone BCNA on Waters (08) 9344 7362 or [email protected] 1800 500 258 by Wednesday, Our Queensland BCNA September 17. fundraiser at Gail Wiltshire’s Twelfth Night Theatre was great fun! TASMANIA The comedy, Bedside Manners, with John Inman of Are You Being Served? and An important innovation in Jon English as the pirate king, gave us media and bravely spoke about their recent months has been a trial lots of laughs. personal experiences with waiting times. of regional Network meetings. We have formed a Queensland Contact: Veronica Macaulay-Cross, The meetings in Launceston are held in Committee to support BCNA and to (07) 3269 8083 or [email protected], members’ homes, while the southern advocate on State-based issues. or Lyn Moore (07) 3822 5468 or meetings utilise the Bakers Delight Our first meeting, on June 14, at the [email protected] facilities. Twelfth Night Theatre, Bowen Hills, was These meetings have enabled many well attended, and included BCNA women to attend a shorter meeting when Board member, Dr Cherrell Hirst. WESTERN AUSTRALIA they may not have had the time to At our second meeting, on July 26, attend a full-day meeting at Campbell radiaton oncologist, Dr Liz Kenny, from Action On Breast Cancer WA Town. the Royal Brisbane Hospital, spoke to us. (AOBC WA) held its annual It is hoped that these meetings will We are keen to form links via e-mail or general meeting in June. continue and will help boost member mail with BCNA supporters in rural and Carol Bishop, the founder of AOBC numbers. regional areas. Anyone interested in WA, has resigned as Chair. Carol is an Melinda Minstrell, the project officer attending or joining by e-mail/mail inspiration to women with breast cancer for the Strengthening Support project, should contact us. and will continue as a valuable has spoken at two regional Network Recently, Lyn Moore and Veronica committee member and a driving force meetings, in the south and north, about Macaulay-Cross, met with Queensland’s on advocacy issues affecting women the outcomes from the project. Minister for Health, Wendy Edmond, to with breast cancer. Maria Waters is our Particularly significant has been the lobby for the on-going funding of the newly elected chair. appointment of four breast care nurses. newly appointed breast care nurse AOBC WA is presently active in The two in the north are hospital-based, positions in public hospitals. They are advocacy relating to the issue of while the two southern nurses are currently in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, radiotherapy delays in the treatment community health-based. Gold Coast, Toowoomba and Princess of breast cancer. Many members attended the 10th Alexandra Hospitals. The radiotherapy issue is becoming anniversary celebrations of the We also supported the Queensland worse in WA, with waiting periods of Tasmanian BreastScreen service in Cancer Fund’s campaign about the 20+ weeks in the public sector. Clearly, Hobart during July. unacceptable waiting times for radiation this is unacceptable. We have all been busy preparing for therapy by writing letters to politicians AOBC WA would like to hear from the Field of Women in October. and raising the matter with the Minister. WA women who are experiencing these Contact: Joan Williams, (03) 6424 5886 Special thanks to Lyn Clarke of delays. Contact Maria via e-mail at or [email protected], or Karen Mackay and Donna McPherson of [email protected] (please state Forster, (03) 6273 4422 or Kenmore, who featured in television ‘Radiotherapy Delays’ in the subject [email protected]

3 Bakers Delight turns pink for a day to help us

Our wonderful corporate partners and bakers even shaved their heads in friends at Bakers Delight will again be support! holding their promotional and Bakeries have told us how excited fundraising block loaf initiative. they are about this year and we hope In 2001 and 2002, this initiative that it will be bigger than ever. Buy a $2.60 loaf from any Bakers raised an amazing total of $256,000 for Spread the word and encourage family Delight bakery BCNA, which has helped us fund a and friends to visit their local Bakers WHEN: Saturday, October 25, 2003 number of our projects for women and Delight on Saturday, October 25. WHY: Bakers Delight will donate their families. Make sure you introduce yourself as 50¢ to BCNA from every $2.60 Many bakeries went all out last year. a Network member and let them know loaf sold There were pink jelly beans, pink fairy what a fabulous job we think they are SPREAD THE WORD! floss and pink bread. A number of doing for us. ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ BCNA would like Mini-Fields of Women 2003 to thank ... n 2003, BCNA will ‘plant’ its • Le Rêve for funds raised from largest number of Mini-Fields of sales of Le Rêve’s Charity I Women around Australia. perfume. These community-based events • Pacific Brands for continuing are becoming increasingly meaningful to sell our BCNA merchandise to the groups involved, as they give kits. people a chance to remember and • The RACV Foundation for its honour those affected by breast grant to develop, edit and print cancer. Reducing Your Risk of Lymphoedema All the Mini-Field convenors have brochures. passionately embraced the role, • Arthur Yates & Co. for the funds ensuring that their Mini-Fields reflect The locations of the 2003 Mini-Fields of Women. raised by sales of Dianthus Pink their group and community. They Blush seeds and Field of Women would love to have as many people as tulip bulbs. possible attending their events. Tasmania: Devonport, Launceston, • Heinz for Baby for covering If you would like more information Wynyard. the postage costs for this issue of about a Mini-Field near you, check our Victoria: Belgrave, Berwick, Brighton, The Beacon. website at www.bcna.org.au, where you Castlemaine, Geelong, Hamilton, will find details such as meeting times Heidelberg, Kew, Victorian State and venues. Library, Mornington, Munro The Beacon on tape? Mini-Fields will occur in: (between Sale and Bairnsdale), San Remo, Traralgon, Warrnambool. We have been contacted by one of ACT: City centre. Western Australia: Perth. our regular readers, Jim Tilley, from Northern Territory: Darwin. Adelaide. NSW: Albury/Wodonga, Bega, His wife, Wanda, who had breast Clarence Valley, Cooma, cancer five years ago, is vision impaired, Cootamundra, Forbes, Goulburn, so he reads The Beacon to her. Illawarra, Merimbula, Tweed/ Congratulations Jim told us there was little available Brunswick, Wagga Wagga. • Gloria Swift is the Illawarra’s on tape about breast cancer and Queensland: Ayr, Boonah, Bulimba, inaugural Nurse of the Year. suggested putting The Beacon on tape. ○○○○○○○○○○ Caboolture, Caloundra, Cleveland, • Lynn Hill (a member of the SA After hearing from Jim, we wondered Esk, Laidley, Moranbah, Noosa, Dragons Abreast crew) has been if other readers would be interested in Prosperine, Toowoomba, Toowong. named the Adelaide Zonta Club’s receiving The Beacon on audio tape. South Australia: Berri, Henley Beach, 2003 Woman of the Year for her If so, please let us know and we will see Kingston SE, Mt Gambier, Port volunteer work. what can be arranged. Lincoln, Robe, Yorketown. 4 ○○○○○○○ Join us in Tassie for the ‘Must read’ books on breast cancer

2003 Field of Women ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ In October, BCNA plans to launch our library list of ‘must read’ books. Sunday October 26, Hobart We developed the list based on input from many of our members, very year our members travel who suggested the books they had great distances to pay tribute found most helpful during the E to the women and men who journey with breast cancer. have been touched by breast cancer. We plan to send this list to every If you have never witnessed a Field of public library across Australia and Women why not come along and join ask them to stock these books for us this year in Hobart? women and their families. Tasmania is ‘tickled pink’ to be the We will include a copy of this list host of this distinct and moving event. in the next issue of The Beacon. Project officer Karen Forster says, “We would love to see you! Our pink lady silhouettes will be popping up all over Tasmania in the lead-up to the The Field of Women would not be Ensuring insurance Field of Women”. possible without the generous The response to our survey in June On the morning of the Field of Women support of our national sponsors – about getting insurance coverage was there will be a free Breast Cancer Bakers Delight, Australia Post and wonderful. More than 800 responses Forum at The Old Woolstore, New Idea. have been received and your help is 1 Macquarie Street, Hobart, from greatly appreciated. 10.30am to 1.30pm. We have started calling those readers The keynote speakers will include who provided contact details, to Remember, once a message is Professor Chris Ewan, Lyn Swinburne discuss their difficulties in obtaining recorded, the silhouette remains in the and Jocelyn Newman. insurance, but the number of people Field of Women as it travels around the People will then gather at 1.30pm at means it may take some time to country. Franklin Square to commence the complete these calls. Silent Walk at 2pm to the Hobart Extra sponsorship brochures The information we have obtained Cenotaph. Sponsorship brochures will be from members has greatly helped our Breast cancer survivor, Raelene Boyle, available during October from: work on insurance. will lead the walk to the Field of • Bakers Delight bakeries; We will update you on with the Women, where the launch will take • Spotlight stores; results of the survey and our insurance place at 2.30pm. • Holeproof clearance centres; and investigations in future issues of For further information or to register • Bonds and Berlei factory outlets. The Beacon. for the Breast Cancer Forum, phone Karen Forster on (03) 6273 4422 or 0439 734 422 Pink silhouettes on Ramsay Street! Sponsor a silhouette Planting a silhouette with a Keep an eye out for our pink Field Dodds, tells us that Neighbours is personalised, sponsored message is an of Women silhouettes on the Channel shown in more than 57 countries unforgettable experience. 10 serial, Neighbours world-wide. This will be a wonderful Finding their silhouette each year has We can’t give too much away just way to promote not only our special become a significant part of the yet, but there will be episodes event but the personal effect that pilgrimage for many people. involving a cast member with breast breast cancer has on women and their With this issue of The Beacon you cancer, culminating in a Mini-Field of families. will receive a Field of Women silhouette Women. The Neighbours cast and crew sponsorship form. These episodes will be seen in members are also helping us through You can record your own silhouette Australia about December 15 and their involvement in a community message or pass the brochure on to sometime during February in the UK. service announcement to be seen on someone who might want to record a The program’s producer, Peter Channel 10 during October. message for you. 5 Long-term survivors

triangular bag of rice or birdseed, with clips at the corners to attach to 30 Bettina appropriate ones on the bra. Other oil-filled pink breast forms expanded years Woodburn in aeroplanes and threatened to burst. In time they were replaced by silicone exterior prostheses (I still hate anything In early October 1973 I attended the tight around my chest and a bra-less day Montmorency Country Women’s is a dream!). Association, where a speaker from the My scars faded, my numb back Anti-Cancer Council spoke about the became sensitive again. I put on a warning signs of cancer. He concluded brave front, but hated myself. with, “Go home and find your lumps”. Bettina Woodburn has overcome a diagnosis of The push-pull action of a double- I had never thought about cancer, but breast cancer to become a record-breaking athlete. ended kayak paddle was my greatest there, in my left breast, was a pea-size help towards normality. lump that was unattached, moveable – as that would be a waste of money. During that time, I joined canoe just as had been described. Gradually I accepted my misfortune clubs. I trained, raced and held records In my GP’s estimations, cancer was and bought a special bra and prosthesis for the Barmah to Echuca, Yarramarra unlikely, as I looked so healthy. Hadn’t to replace the ball of cotton wool. and the Barwon River long distance I just spent my youngest daughter’s One kind was a lambswool-covered races. I did summer and winter second term at secondary school with triathlons, with kayaking instead of her on a romp around Europe? today’s swimming leg. My surgeon couldn’t take a biopsy, Joy Kelly To match my new arm and shoulder but arranged for a lumpectomy. and her daughter, muscles, I grew some in my legs by After the lump and a section of my Catherine, bicycling and I learnt about track and left breast were cut out, I was stitched who was field veteran athletics. I held 15 born while and plastered, and spent several days Joy was Australian athletics records in the waiting for the pathology report that receiving Veterans and Masters Games, and won recommended removing the surrounds treatment. medals in Rome (1985), Melbourne of the malignancy. Off I went for a (1987) and Adelaide (1989). radical mastectomy. Forced to become self-reliant, I The morning my husband left me at 23 Joy became confident, healthy, and fit – the hospital there was the longest and years both physically and mentally. most miserable of my life. I whimpered Kelly Between the ages of 50 and 60 years, I for hours about losing my femininity. gained three degrees and a diploma of How I needed a breast care nurse! I found my lump in April 1980, education. When I woke, I was propped up, the at the age of 31, when I was five In 1998, I paddled my single touring left side of my chest plastered, with a months pregnant with my third child. kayak from Tocumwal to Mildura – On April 10, 1980, when six drainage tube leading to a bottle fixed 1000km along the Murray River – to months pregnant, I had a radical to my bed. All of my breast, and sweat mastectomy followed by 12 months raise awareness and money for breast and lymph glands were gone. of chemotherapy. cancer research. I spent many miserable, lonely days, My beautiful daughter was born on For two seasons I have also been a trying not to look at the site of the August 8, 1980, while I was receiving member of a Dragons Abreast racing operation. I would listen to the trains chemotherapy and this year she will team at Melbourne’s Moomba Festival. outside and wanted to throw myself be 23. I will be 55 in November. Against national competition, I won under them. I have had many ups and downs in the inaugural Get Up & Go Award in my life, but I am a survivor. I returned to the ‘duties’ of wife, 2001. In about 1983 I had a breast mother of four, house and garden, reconstruction and have had a I am now active in a retirement but I was shattered, in shock and felt silicone implant for about 20 years. village with a bike path outside the that my life was ruined. I grieved for So far, I have had no problems. fence for my ‘Eddie Merckx’ and me! my lost part and felt sure I would die – Joy Kelly, ACT – Bettina Woodburn, within a year. I wouldn’t buy clothes, Williamstown, Victoria 6 to see my children happy and grow with their families on their own. 32 I have been happily remarried for 15 Heather years and am now a grandmother of years seven. Rutherford Three years ago, secondary cancer was found in my bones and lung, but In March 1971, with the help of my oncologist my at the age of 32, secondaries are now in remission. with a husband I am 70 now and still golfing! My and two boys, aged message for cancer sufferers is to keep five and seven the faith and a strong heart. I have kept years, I discovered it at bay for 25 years and have no a lump while intention of giving away my positive showering and 40 June attitude to life just yet. immediately years – Marlis Minns, SA looked for a woman doctor to visit. Prior A radical mastectomy was performed, 37 followed by radiation treatment. Gwen I am 75 years old and was diagnosed My first prosthesis was a pocket years with breast cancer 40 years ago, Jenkins stuffed with enough wool to fill the resulting in a radical mastectomy. shape and balance my remaining breast. Halstead surgery was performed and This pocket was also weighted with In June 1966, I it was more severe that anything little pellets, again to simulate the was diagnosed carried out today. remaining breast. with cancer in the In the past, I spent eight years It was no comparison to our modern right breast. I was working in a voluntary capacity with prostheses. I am so thankful for the 39 years old and the Cancer Council. During that time improvements that have been made married with two I visited 400 mastectomy patients in and for the continuing research. children (aged 9 hospital. I found this work most Now, 32 years later (half my life), I and 7). rewarding, as my years of survival have seen my children grow up, marry I had a radical gave inspiration and hope to many and produce four grandchildren to mastectomy and a ladies. enjoy and be involved with. month later 15 sessions of radiotherapy – June Prior, Lane Cove, NSW Church fellowship, golf, walking, at the Peter McCallum Hospital. Two patchwork and quilting bring me much years later, I had a simple mastectomy pleasure and companionship. of the left breast. My 50th birthday was celebrated by In those days there was no such thing climbing Uluru (Ayers Rock) and 25 Marlis as reconstructive surgery, and the riding in a hot air balloon over the years prostheses were filled with bird seed. McPherson Ranges. Minns What a change to today! Last year I walked and climbed in the Since then, I have led an active life, Lake District in England. All the deep playing lawn bowls four times a week. breathing and gasping for breath sure I lost my husband at the age of 40 to In February, I was diagnosed with helped the lymphoedema! melanoma. At the time our children radiation necrosis and spent 30 sessions Due to the excessive surgery and the were 14, 10 and eight years, and the in the Alfred Hospital’s hyperbaric unit passing years, postural changes have road ahead looked daunting. However, before being operated on by a plastic appeared, but with specialised advice with love and help from the children, surgeon. and guidance this is being attended to. we got through. My employment as a Because of the radiation damage to I am thankful for the 32 years since nurse was a source of stability. my skin I have had to have skin grafts the surgery. I had prayed to be with my Five years on, in 1978, and aged and a further 10 sessions in the children and see them grow up. Life is 45 years, I was diagnosed with breast hyperbaric unit. full, and there are never enough hours cancer and had a radical mastectomy. Now I am looking forward to in the day for commitments and I was devastated, but resumed nursing returning to my active lifestyle again relaxation. after three months of radiotherapy. and will be back on the bowling green – Heather Rutherford, At this time, I dismissed my personal as soon as I can. East Bundaberg, Queensland health problems. My commitment was – Gwen Jenkins, Victoria

7 asked the surgeon about a prosthesis. His reply was “I haven’t a clue”. 29 Barbara Perhaps I could stuff my bras with panty hose was the suggestion! The physician years Dowling said he would talk to his mother who lived in another State. A sister at the hospital brought a Mid-winter 1974 I was 51 years old prothesis filled with bird seed that and living on a beef cattle property in someone said might be suitable. That the bush. lady had a much larger boob than mine Of my four children, my eldest son and it weighed a ton! was planning a wedding, my only My lifesaver was a patient having daughter was studying for her higher some other treatment, who made me school certificate and my youngest son laugh with stories about her was also in high school. experiences using sanitary pads for By chance, I felt a small, hard lump in filler. I got myself back into perspective Barbara Dowling had a mastectomy at the age my left breast. My heart dropped. It will of 51 years, but that has not stopped her living a and can honestly say I then began to go away I assured myself, but all the time full life. feel more positive about my future. I kept putting my hand on the spot. At home, the isolation was not nice. Ten days later, I saw a physician in the After two weeks in hospital, I was as nearest town, a 1½ hour drive away. I would have a radical mastectomy, weak as a kitten and my husband was A cyst? Better see the surgeon straight which would include removing several out in the paddocks most days. away. My heart dropped again. lymph nodes, the next day. I don’t Exercises and good friends seemed to “I am sure this is cancer,” the surgeon recall much discussion about this work the magic. I restarted pottery pronounced. I could barely talk to my procedure. classes, had art lessons, joined a group, husband. I could not ask a single This was probably one of the most got back into the cattle yards, restarted question of the surgeon. I was in shock. horrific times I have experienced. I felt in the garden, learned to judge gardens Everything happened so quickly. zonked out and tried to swallow lots of and floral art, got involved in pony A lumpectomy was scheduled for water. I didn’t know anyone who had club. I never gave up the thought that Wednesday and the results were to be been through this. life would improve. tested in another town. If malignant, My desolation was complete when I Such an experience gives one a different prospective and in many ways I think one becomes a better person. Since then, my husband, Ian, and I but the hospital Pauline Sutherland have travelled the world. staff were In my seventies, I learned to use a marvellous and 23 When I was computer and wrote my memoirs, talked me into years 48 years old, I which I successfully self-published. having the rest of found a lump These days, I do tai chi regularly and the treatment. in my breast. still garden with a passion. On my 70th The nurse gave me a tablet to calm Immediately, birthday I had a hot air balloon ride me, but it knocked me out and my I went to the and last year, for my 79th birthday, I did husband had to come and get me. doctor, who a tandem sky dive. I wanted to be sure I slept all the way home with my sent me to it happened in case I ‘fell off the twig’ mouth wide open. My husband was hospital to before my 80th! driving and trying to push my mouth have the lump I am fortunate my family is close knit closed at the same time. What a sight removed. I and my old boy is one in a million. we must have been! asked them Early detection cannot be too heavily I am now 71 years old and a not to take my breast off, but the emphasised and now, with so much grandmother of six, so it seems long results weren’t good, so it had to come support and knowledge, and the skilled ago. off. I was devastated. treatments available, the dreaded ‘C’ I will always regret losing my breast, But having a good husband and word can be faced with so much more but you do the best you can, and keep family helped me through the trauma certainty that it is not a death sentence. positive and active. of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The Beacon is indeed a beacon of –Pauline Sutherland, Half way through chemotherapy, I positive light. Well done. felt I couldn’t go through any more, Croydon North, Victoria – Barbara Dowling, Dorrigo, NSW 8 Then I graduated to an oil filled- prosthesis (don’t stick the nappy pins in 33 Janelle that side!), and finally, I got the silicone type. years Campbell Reconstruction was not ever discussed as an option. Yes I am a survivor. I live and act as I did before the I live in a rural area, 65km from surgery. Breast cancer is something we Young, NSW. I am a farmer’s wife, a can live beyond. We can live life as full mother and grandmother. Thirty-three Ruth Melva Layton and husband, Don. and complete women. This surgery years ago I had a radical mastectomy, does not make us less of a woman. at the age of 28 years. I was young, I now have more of an understanding healthy and pursuing a teaching career. Ruth and compassion for others, because I After finding a lump the size of a 17 know how much anxiety that ‘sinking Melva walnut in my right breast I visited my years feeling’ can cause. We can find good in GP. His diagnosis was “it’s just fatty every experience, if we just can see it Layton tissue”, and I was dismissed. through. The same day, without appointment My husband was supportive and or referral, I went to see a visiting My name is Ruth Melva Layton caring, and my family gave me all the surgeon who came to Young from and I have been married to my encouragement I needed. Cowra. It was his consultation day and second husband, Don, for 26 years. Two years after the surgery we adopted he operated in Young every week. In 1986, while we were leasing a lovely daughter and then later a All the necessary phone calls were and working long hours in a country loved son. I have never regretted the made to my GP and I was admitted to hotel, I found a lump in my left choice we made to adopt a family. Young District Hospital the next day. I breast. I have been blessed – I have a full life, had a lumpectomy and remained in It was Easter Monday, so the next a wonderful family and a future to look hospital for five days. When the results day I drove to Adelaide for an forward to. returned it was a big shock to hear the examination by my family doctor. I do enjoy reading The Beacon. There word ‘cancer’! (‘that sinking feeling’ I told no one of my discovery, in is so much support and encouragement and then the shakes). case it was a false alarm. Unhappily, now for fellow sufferers. I hope my story The next day we went (stitches and it wasn’t and within a week I had will help others to remember that ‘a all) to the Prince of Wales Hospital in had a complete mastectomy. quitter never wins and a winner never Sydney. I had six weeks of radiotherapy, There was no choice back then, so quits’. two doses each day. I don’t know if a partial would have – Janelle Campbell, Galong, NSW been sufficient. However, I was We rented a flat at Coogee and made thankful to be still alive, and in a our stay a holiday. I must say we have matter of three or four weeks plunged had better ones since! back into the hospitality industry. Returning home, I waited six weeks Nowadays, we are retired, but for the burns to heal. This period both of us are volunteers at the allowed my imagination to run riot. It Community Health Service. was ‘mental hell’. I am also a survivor in a support I then entered the Young District group and do my best to cheer and Hospital for my mastectomy and was encourage women who are treated as a VIP patient. My family and experiencing the trauma that I went friends were able to visit at will. I was through. We meet once a month certainly looked after and cared for, but and travel to other areas to meet there was no welfare or support system. with other groups. I went home. What do you do with an I’m sure that we all await the day empty bra? Some suggested to fill it when a cure can be found. In the with bird seed. No way! meantime, good luck to all readers My surgeon recommended a and hopefully the number of cases lambswool form, weighted with sand. will diminish soon. The wool helped the healing and – Ruth Melva Layton, scaring and absorbed perspiration, and Murray Bridge, SA while it was comfortable, it did tend to go flat and ride over my shoulder. Janelle Campbell with her husband, Roy.

9 conducting his yearly examination, found a lump deeper inside my left 38 Shirley breast. Thirty years later, I was off to the years McInytre specialist again, where a needle biopsy, mammogram and ultrasound were performed. The result was positive. My name is Shirley Isabel McIntyre. In March 1995, at the same hospital, I am 77 years old and have been but with a different specialist and the widowed for 11½ years. same GP assisting, I lost my left breast. In 1965, when I was 39, I felt a I decided on a full mastectomy, as I Yvonne Bell with her son, Professor Richard lump, the size of a pea on my sternum. had survived the first one. Bell, who is a medical oncologist, Director of the My mother insisted I see my GP. He This time I only had to wait a week Andrew Love Cancer Centre in Geelong and a member of BCNA’s Medical & Scientific rang the specialist, who advised a for the positive result, whereas I had Reference Group. frozen section and, depending on the had to wait three weeks in 1965. I was diagnosis, a full mastectomy. The frozen put on Tamoxifen for five years. section was positive. My husband took me to the US in the I lost my right breast, but fortunately 1970s to buy some decent breast forms, 33 Yvonne the cancer hadn’t entered the lymph (I had been using bird seed) and for years Bell glands. However, because the lump years I bought them by mail order from had been sitting on my sternum the America. Today, I can buy natural specialist advised radiotherapy. forms from David Jones. In 1970, when I was 42, I found a In 1995, the same GP, while – Shirley McIntyre, Warrawee, NSW thickening in my breast. It is important to highlight that breast cancer can appear in a variety of ways other than as a ‘lump’. I underwent a mastectomy and had one lymph node removed. It proved 35 Gwen to be clear of cancer, so no further years Coulter treatment was required. This was an incredibly difficult time for me. I knew nothing about breast My name is Gwen Coulter. I have cancer, as it was not openly talked been married for almost 52 years to a about then as it is today. I did meet wonderful man, Lloyd. We have two four other women with breast cancer, daughters, who are 45 and 43 years, and but they all went on to die, so I Gwen Coulter, a 35-year breast cancer survivor, seven grandchildren – four girls and with her husband, Lloyd. assumed this might be my fate. three boys. We feel fortunate. I am confident that, had it happened When I was 37 years old, I was today, I would have been able to save I have never looked back and am soaking in the bath after a busy day my breast. However, this physical loss involved in various organisations as a when I felt a lump in my left breast. was not a big deal for me at the time, volunteer. My main role is with the I knew it shouldn’t be there, but as as my husband assured me that he Breast Cancer Support Service – I was I was well, and it wasn’t sore, I would not see me as disfigured in any trained in 1976 to give support to convinced myself it was not serious. way. In fact, I never felt that. ladies diagnosed with breast cancer and The next morning, my husband, a I did feel a wave of support from the have been involved with more than retired pharmacist, was quick to tell me many people who prayed for my good 700 ladies. I would have to visit our doctor. health, and my Christian faith helped The hours I have spent on the phone The doctor gave me a thorough me to get through this difficult time. and at the hospitals are my way of check-up and felt it was an innocent On a more practical level, I have saying ‘thank you’. In September I will little lump, but he said it would have found the 18-hour bra to be very celebrate 35 years since I lost my left to come out. How fortunate I am that comfortable because of its under breast and I haven’t missed it a bit! he used the word ‘but’. padded shoulder straps. I hope and pray that many of the A couple of weeks later, when I My message to women diagnosed is ladies I have supported, along with all went into hospital to have the lump You need courage and a great deal of those others who have been through removed, the news was bad. Two days support to get you through. breast cancer surgery, will live on and later I had a radical mastectomy, enjoy a happy and healthy life. – Yvonne Bell, Melbourne, Victoria followed by ray treatment. – Gwen Coulter, Orange, NSW 10 That’s a little of my story and I hope others may be encouraged. We do not 33 Joan do this alone, many others help along years the way – country neighbours, families, Rowe friends, etc – but there are nine little words which often help when the ‘chips are down’ – if it is to be, it’s up to me. – Joan Rowe, Hamilton, Victoria I discovered a lump in my left breast in mid-June 1970. My husband, who was away camping that weekend, was soon due for investigations about extreme My Journey update oesophageal problems and knowing he Thirty-three years after a breast cancer diagnosis, Regular readers of The Beacon know would cancel this if I told him of my Joan Rowe is helping raise funds for cancer support we’ve been working hard on the discovery, I kept my secret until plans and research. My Journey Kit for more than a year. were made for his surgery. We are delighted to report that I waited about six weeks (and had married, so you can guess how I the pilot kits are being tested by worried), until his surgery plans were encourage nurses today to stay on the 80 women from around Australia made, before I went to my local doctor register no matter what! who have recently been diagnosed in Coleraine in early August. I sew everyday, always have some with breast cancer. We are aiming I was sent to our Hamilton specialist, knitting on the needles and have been to launch the kit nationally in who immediately expressed his fears; holding stalls to raise funds for the April 2004. x-rays, mammograms, etc., followed. Cancer Council for the past six years. We had four school-aged children aged 10½, 12, 13 and 14½ years living at home and travelling daily by buses at the time, plus our youngest daughter 50 Three years and 3 who was not yet 10 months old. years We were on a farm 10 miles from the years 50 years nearest town, but I did not, and still don’t, drive a car. We had very basic ‘mod-cons’ by today’s standards. I was diagnosed with breast cancer long time afterwards (I wonder what?), I had my 45th birthday in mid-August two days after my 50th birthday in and the cancer never came back. and I went to hospital in Hamilton on March 2000. She went home with her daughter September 1, 1970. Treatment was a partial mastectomy that day. I was in the hospital for 11 days and and partial axillary clearance, I see many sad cases, too, but I hold this was followed by chemotherapy, followed by chemotherapy and onto my memory of Mary. If she can radiotherapy, etc. radiotherapy. I lost all my hair and do it, so can I. For about seven years, I received was off work for seven months. Best wishes to you all for a long and weekly injections of hormone therapy, However, I have a wonderful family healthy future. until a new oncologist came to and the best husband, who always has – Jan van den Heuvel, Hamilton hospital and on checking the the answers to dissolve my fears. Tewantin, Queensland records told my surgeon that the Since my recovery, I have regained treatment was not necessary! my shoulder length hair and enjoy life My surgeon was not happy about the to the fullest. suggested change, but agreed and kept As a registered nurse, I work at a busy a close check on me for a long time. public hospital and a few months ago I still have quite strong daily side- I was privileged to meet a delightful effects, but I am alive after 33 years, 88-year-old lady who had been and have received three total hip admitted with chest pain. replacements. I noted that Mary had had a Having nursed for 10+ years before mastectomy. I asked her about it and my marriage, I now enjoy being a she said she was diagnosed with breast volunteer in a local nursing home for cancer when she was 38, when she had 3-5 hours every Tuesday. quite a few young children and a In the early days, young women were ‘wonderful husband’. She had the Jan van den Heuvel with her 3½-year-old granddaughter, Tahlia. not allowed to keep nursing once they mastectomy and awful medicine for a

11 Letters to the Editor

Support is available didn’t know about it. It is called ‘In exceptional circumstances’ and is given I read your newsletter this week for for a 12-month period, while you assess the first time and thought it was your new situation. informative, refreshing and real. The simplest way to access assistance I was diagnosed with breast cancer is to find a council-run day care centre 14 months ago and had a mastectomy. you want to use and then discuss it with I was 26 weeks pregnant at the time them. They apply to Centrelink. with our fourth baby. Robert was born Imagine how different our family life at 34 weeks and I began eight months would have been had the boys been of chemo/radiation the day after he was there, even for just two days a week. born. I do intend to put down some Our other children were aged one, six thoughts on my experience, and 11 so we had our hands full. particularly with the pregnancy Our family live overseas and Shane element, but it’s a matter of finding the works in Melbourne, a three hours Anne Marie Glanford with her family. energy and time. round trip away, so I had to attend – Anne Marie Glanford, most medical visits with the babies, keep on a single wage and were Drysdale, Victoria including my daily radiation financially strapped. treatments! Sleep didn’t happen as After six months of hell, I found I was Memory loss you’d expect with a newborn and a entitled to full-time/free childcare for It was with interest that I read one-year-old. both my babies. The lady at Centrelink your article about memory loss and So I have a tip I want to share with chemotherapy. your readers. I know that my concentration and My first enquiry was to Centrelink New book release memory definitely deteriorated during about childcare. Were we entitled to Hey Jude – A Family’s Journey with my chemotherapy. any help in these circumstances? Cancer is a new book by and about I finished chemotherapy mid last year After a fraught meeting with a Judy Costello, a former Melbourne and both have since improved. pleasant, but useless lady, myself and Dragons Abreast paddler who died in When I asked my oncologist about the babies left, having been told there April 2002. memory problems during treatment, I was absolutely no help available. It is made up of her diaries, with a was told that it can sometimes happen. If I’d been on a pension card, or old commentary from her husband and A friend recently had chemotherapy and frail, the world would have been three children. for bowel cancer and Ann reported The next issue of The Beacon will my oyster – cleaner, home help, similar problems. contain a review of the book. childcare, meals on wheels. But we It is good that some research is being The book will be launched in missed out because my husband earns undertaken and that people are being October. To order your copy, phone more than the Centrelink limit – it did BCNA on 1800 500 258 made aware of this side effect. not matter that we had four children to – Eileen Bunney, Peregian Beach, Qld

Celebrating a Dutch-Australian friendship

My name is Lieke and I am from wonderful experience. I was touched. Holland. I was diagnosed with breast There are a lot of pictures on your cancer at age 26 in June 2001. site from October 27 in Sydney, do In October 2002, I flew to Sydney you think you can add one more? I’d for the Field of Women, after an love to see the picture of Shannon Australian friend of mine, Shannon, (left) and me (right) there as a told me about it. She wanted to plant a surprise for her. I think our Dutch- lady for me as support, but I decided to Australian friendship is special. fly over to be there with her. It was a – Lieke, Holland

12 Inspired by flowers ○○○○○ Warrior Women in Parliament ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ everal BCNA member groups WARATAHS The Victorian tour of the Warrior have taken inspiration from Women exhibition culminated in a The Waratah floral symbols. showing in the Queens Hall of the S Breast Cancer State Parliament House, launched by FORGET ME NOTS Group was the Minister for Health, Bronwyn Pike. established in The Forget Me The newly 1994 for women Nots is a support completed living in the group for Warrior East Gippsland women who Women and Wellington have been CD-Rom Shires of Victoria. touched by was also The flyer advertising our first meeting breast cancer. launched in February 1994 included a Roman These on the goddess holding aloft a flower. This was women are of night by Bernice Gerrand from the later refined to a picture of the waratah varying ages and Australia Council for the Arts. bloom, when we gave ourselves the stages of their disease, from those The Warrior Women CD features most name Waratah Breast Cancer Group. recently diagnosed and still undergoing of the moving imagery and text from Later we were told of a waratah native treatment, to women who have been the Warrior Women exhibition. to our area and we changed to this well for many years, to those whose It is presented in an attractive booklet flower, the Gippsland Waratah, disease has returned. that features black and white photos ‘Telopea Oreades’. As a group, the women do not forget and writing created by women who – Marlene Parsons, Gippsland, Vic. those who are unable to attend have experienced breast cancer. meetings, for whatever reason, they do WILD ORCHIDS In addition to the writing and the not forget those who are going through imagery, the CD features information, difficult times and they do not forget The Echuca- advice, animations, a list of resources those who are no longer with the group. Moama Breast and helpful contacts. They care for each other, they support Cancer Support The CD costs $15 (incl. postage) and those in need, and they share the good group is named can be ordered by phoning BCNA on times and the bad. Wild Orchids 1800 500 258 (free call). – Elischka Sageman, Rosanna, Vic. in honour of one of our DAFFODILS members, Kaye Stress management for Edwards, who The concept we lost in those with secondary daffodil signified April 2002. cancer at the breast cancer For a long time the group Sydney women diagnosed with while, we had no name and our was formed. secondary breast cancer or ovarian newsletter went out called No-name Above the cancer are invited to participate in a Newsletter. daffodils on our group stress management program based We finally decided to call ourselves leaflet we have on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Wild Orchids in honour of Kaye, who the words “we Participants will learn a number of had suggested it. The last time I spoke care how you feel”. coping strategies and discuss issues of to her, I told her of our decision and We give support to the cancer patient, concern. that she would be with our women knowing how they feel and, in doing The program is eight weekly sessions always through the name. We sent her a that, hopefully making them stronger to at the Health Psychology Unit, UTS, most beautiful bouquet of purple and then go home and tackle the needs of Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney. yellow orchids. the family. It is a free program. Our name symbolises Kaye’s strength, Daffodil bulbs regenerate each spring The session topics are: taking charge; courage and spirit. It also allows us to and with their beautiful blooms we beating the blues; managing anxiety; honour all those women who journey likened it to the resurgence of a new, self-esteem; balanced lifestyle; dealing the road of breast cancer – and we are a stronger and more understanding with anger; effective communication; little ‘wild’ and proud of it too! person. and setting goals. – Judy Shepherdson, Echuca,Vic. – Noel Sumner, Richmond, Vic. For information, phone (02) 9514 4309. 13 September 13. For information, phone Dragons Abreast report Margot Case on (02) 9542 1704. The Sydney team has also welcomed ragons Abreast Australia Australia’s first ‘baby dragon’. Caroline Inc.’s National Co-ordinator, Frommer, the first Sydney co-ordinator, D Michelle Hanton, has much recently gave birth to son Joshua. to report. In Newcastle, a fantastic bunch of The most exciting news is that Don girls are joining the paddlers at the McKenzie from Vancouver, Canada, Newcastle/Hunter Dragon Boat Club will be in Canberra in November for for a public/social paddle on Sunday the Australian Masters Games. He is the mornings. It starts at 8.15 am on man who founded the breast cancer Throsby Creek, from the boat ramp at survivor dragon boat movement and he The Cowper Street Bridge, Carrington. will address the Breast Cancer Forum The atmosphere is fun and frivolous, during the games. and the cost is $5 – to cover insurance. In Darwin, the recent high point was Phone Martine Boughton on the launch of Moontime, the dragon 0418 626 790 or (02) 4961 3343. boat built for Dragons Abreast NT by WA would love to hear from people prisoners of NT Correctional Services, South Australia team in Adelaide. It interested in taking up paddling, as with the assistance of local businesses, will be for those interested in paddling Perth will be hosting the 2004 Ullrich Metals & Fingers Aluminium. socially in a non-competitive team. National Titles. Phone Yvette Libregts Madeleine Luck again generously Although the team won’t be on the on (08) 9246 0739 and help fly the provided the funds to bring Moontime water until the season begins, there will flag for WA! to life. be informal get-togethers. Other reports have reached the BCNA Phone Sally on (08) 8223 7106 (AH) The launch was at the Darwin Sailing desk and include news updates from or e-mail [email protected] Club and attracted 280 invited guests, Victoria and South Australia: including the NT Administrator, John Port Lincoln members hope to have a The Melbourne International Anictomatis, and his wife, Jeanette, dragon boat feature as part of the Dragon Boat Festival will be on Chief Minister Clare Martin and Lord Tunarama Festival. Anyone interested Sunday, March 14, 2004. Mayor Peter Adamson. in joining in this event should contact Training on the Yarra begins in early The Brisbane team’s season began Maxine Barker (08) 8682 6519. December, with time trials on Sunday, again late in August, so that they would The eager paddlers from Tasmania February 22, 2004. be ready to paddle at South Bank on have received some grants enabling A dinner was organised to thank the first Sunday of September. them to order a boat and they hope to Pamela Williams for her invaluable All interested survivors and supporters be paddling the Derwent soon. role in establishing Dragons Abreast in are welcome to join training at the 18' A membership drive is underway and Victoria and recognise her huge sailing club on the Bulimba reach of Moira Connell wants to assure ‘would contribution as state co-ordinator for the river. Phone Janelle 0412 734 718 be’ paddlers that “we are all in the same the past two years. Pru Menzies has for more information. boat, as none of us has seriously held a now taken on this role, with valued Deb Martin and Sally Russell paddle!” support from several helpers. New Sydney has an open day planned for welcome members to join the new members are welcome! Phone Pru on (03) 9570 4896 (h) All around or (03)5996 2511(w), or e-mail Australia, dragon [email protected] boaters are Lynn Hill reports that their Adelaide wanted. Club has welcomed its first male breast cancer survivor, Steve. Both he and his wife are paddling and the team is sure he will make a great contribution to breast cancer awareness. Those who would like to have fun and get fit can join as a survivor or supporter in a social or a sports team. Phone Lynn Hill on (08) 8358 4117 or 0419 324 569, or e-mail [email protected], or Ginny Bullock at [email protected]. 14 ○○○○○ Messages for tomorrow’s doctors Seeking

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Shelter n May, I made a presentation to They proved to be great listeners and 280 third-year medical students at asked many interesting and thoughtful The Network welcomes these new I Melbourne University. questions at the end of the session. groups under its national umbrella: They were in the midst of a Professor Paul Waring, who had • Yamba Breast Cancer Support four-week lecture series about cancer invited me to speak, later said the Group, NSW and I was asked to speak about the feedback from the session was very • Box Hill Hospital Cancer patient’s perspective and a little about positive, and he has asked me to repeat Support Group, Victoria my work in breast cancer advocacy. the performance next year. • Wangaratta Breast Cancer Support I thought a great deal about what Following, is a list of key points I had Group, Victoria This brings our total to 104 member to say, as this was a wonderful printed onto a page to leave with the groups and 6 associate member opportunity to make contact with our students. I thought they might be of groups. doctors of the future. I had an hour, so interest to you. If you have some other the challenge was to make some key suggestions, I would be pleased to points that would stay with the consider them for next year. students long after the lecture. – Lyn Swinburne

Introduction: The cancer world is a foreign experience for most people. You may be dealing with this on a regular basis, but this may be the first time your patients had had to face, not only this alien world, but their own BCNA would like to gratefully mortality. You have the power to make an incredible difference merely acknowledge the sponsorship of Heinz through your approach to their management and care. for Baby for the postage costs for this Point 1: Focus on the woman, not merely the tumour. Each patient will have issue of The Beacon. individual needs and these may change with time. The woman’s social and Visit www.heinzbaby.com.au for psychological needs must be addressed, as well as the physical aspects. information and advice for new Point 2: Consider your relationship as a partnership. Offer your expertise and mothers on how to feed their babies. experience to guide her, but encourage her to speak up, ask questions, raise concerns and make decisions. Point 3: Work within a team. You cannot be everything to her, so make sure she is offered the services and contacts she needs to help her on the cancer journey. Point 4: Offer useful information (oral and written), be prepared to repeat this and give her time to digest it. Don’t rush her! Point 5: Show your patient that you care. Be kind. Let her know you are on her side. Sometimes relatively small gestures can mean the world. Offer hope at The Beacon is printed with all times, but no false reassurances. the generous support of Point 6: Consumer advocates are powerful stakeholders in the breast cancer Mercedes Waratah Press and arena, capable of and passionate about influencing government, the media, K.W. Doggett Fine Paper. scientific and medical worlds to improve outcomes for people affected by breast cancer.

YOU’RE NOT YET ON OUR MAILING LIST? THE BEACON Phone (03) 9805 2500 or 1800 500 258 (free call), or fax (03) 9805 2599, The Beacon is the newsletter of e-mail [email protected] or fill in this coupon and send it to: Breast Cancer Network Australia. Breast Cancer Network Australia, PO Box 4082, Auburn South, Vic 3122 Editor: Lyn Swinburne, free call Name: ...... 1800 500 258, (03) 9805 2500 or [email protected] Address: ...... Layout: Substitution ...... State: ...... Postcode: ...... Your comments and items for the next newsletter are welcome. Phone: ( ) ...... E-mail: ...... Send them to PO Box 4082, Auburn South, Victoria 3122. Have you had a diagnosis of breast cancer? ❑ Yes ❑ No

15 UPCOMING EVENTS

September 6: Kids Space Indoor Play Centre BCNA October 24: ACT Cancer Council’s Pink Ribbon Day fundraiser, 56 Keys Rd, Moorabbin, 7-10.30pm. Family ticket Breakfast, Hotel Kurrajong, Barton, 7.30am. $25 (2 adults & 2 children), extra child $5 and adults $10. Contact: Nicole Stone, Cancer Council, (02) 6262 2222. Contact: Linda, (03) 9706 2280. October 25: Bakers Delight Field of Women promotion – September 17: Tesselaar’s 2003 Tulip Festival. All funds raised Bakers Delight store will donate 50¢ to BCNA for every on ‘Ladies Day’ to be donated to BCNA. Tesselaar Tulip Farm, $2.60 loaf sold at any of its stores. 357 Monbulk Road, Silvan, Victoria. October 26: Annual church service, St George’s Cathederal, Contact: (03) 9737 9811. Perth, midday. Speaker: Maria Walters. September 20: Consumer workshop at the 4th Scientific October 26: Field of Women, Hobart Cenotaph, Tasmania. Meeting of the Australasian Society for Breast Disease, Marriott Contact: Michelle Rule, 1800 500 258. Resort, Surfers’ Paradise, 9.30am-1.15pm. Cost $7. Mini-Fields of Women will occur around Australia during the month of Contact: BCNA, 1800 500 258 (free call). October. Visit our website for location details – www.bcna.org.au September 20: Breast Cancer Action Group general meeting, October 26: Dragon’s Abreast Regatta Southern Cross Yacht Level 7, Storey Hall, RMIT Melbourne, 7-9pm – Judy Club, Canberra. Shepherdson and Marlene Parsons on rural women’s issues. Contact: Jan on [email protected] Contact: Sue Lockwood, (03) 9878 0736. October 26: Sunshine Coast ‘Bums on Bikes’ BCNA fundraiser September 21: Breast Cancer Action Group NSW meeting, – $50 for 1½ hour coastal ride on Harley Davidson or $10 YWCA Sydney – Diet and breast cancer: before and after; myths motor bike rides available. and certainties. Contact: Narelle, (07) 4152 7723. Contact: Sally Crossing, (02) 9436 1755. October 27: Australia’s Breast Cancer Day. October 1: Gympie ‘Bosom Buddies’ Support Group (meets October 27: NBCC’s Pink Ribbon breakfast, Westin Hotel, first Wednesday of month). Sydney. Contact: Lou Beresford, (07) 5484 8913 Contact: (02) 9036 3030. October 4: Glitter Ball, Plaza Ballroom, Regent Theatre, October 27: ACT Cancer Council’s breakfast. Canberra. Collins Street, Melbourne, 7pm. Tickets $150. All proceeds to Contact: 131 120. BCNA’s My Journey project. Contact: Leanne Bradford, (03) 9844 5446 or October 27: Bosom Buddies Cocktail Party, Boathouse by the [email protected] Lake, 6-7.30pm, $35. Contact: Pam Robertson, (02) 6281 0957 or [email protected] October 4: Tasmanian Breast Cancer Network meeting, Campbell Town Fire Station, 10am-3pm. October 29: Young Women’s Network of QCF (Brisbane) – Contact: Karen Forster, (03) 6273 4422, or Joan Williams (03) 6424 Practical Supports. Guest speaker: Kathy Kuipers. 5886. Contact: 131 120. October 6: Bundaberg B’r’est Friends Support Group, CWA, October 30: More Choices, Wesley Gala Fashion Parade, 9.30am (meets 1st Monday of month). The Greek Club, South Brisbane. Contact: Bev Cross, (07) 4155 6016. Contact: (07) 3232 7596. October 6: Fit and Healthy Women’s Breakfast, Melbourne November 5-9: 9th Australian Masters Games (inc. Dragons Sofitel Hotel, 7-9am. Cost $49.50. Proceeds to BCNA. Abreast Australian Survivors Challenge and Flowers on the Contact: (03) 9572 3334 or [email protected] Water ceremony). Contact: Elspeth, (02) 6239 6344 or visit www.dragonsabreast.com.au October 8: Fit and Healthy Women’s Breakfast, Sydney Westin for full calendar of events. Hotel. 7-9am. Cost $49.50. Proceeds to BCNA. Contact: (03) 9572 3334 or [email protected] November 7: NBCC/BCNA Breast Cancer Forum, Calvary Hospital, Canberra. Keynote speaker: Prof. Don McKenzie, October 11: Bundaberg’s B’r’est Friends Support Group University of British Columbia, Vancouver. (working girls) meeting, Signatures, 10am (meets 2nd Saturday Contact: Anna, (02) 6247 8470. of month). Contact: Bev Cross, (07) 4155 6016. November 14: Pink Ladies Open Garden Day and Lunch (four gardens on Mornington Peninsula, Victoria). October 17: Fit and Healthy Women’s Breakfast, Brisbane Contact: BCNA, 1800 500 258. Hilton, 7-9am. Cost $49.50. Proceeds to BCNA. Contact: (03) 9572 3334 or [email protected] November 20: Lymphoedema Victoria’s Christmas Lunch, Box Hill Golf Course, Melbourne, 12.30pm. October 19: ‘Days of Spiritual Renewal & Encouragement – Contact: Maree O’Connor, (03) 9890 3778. A Loving Way of Life’ with Stephanie Dowrick, Naamaroo Conference Centre, Chatswood West, NSW. November 27: Breast Cancer Association of Queensland’s Contact: Alexandra Gorman, (02) 9958 4402. Annual Big Christmas Lunch, Hilton Hotel, Brisbane. Contact: (07) 3839 6630. October 24: Advanced Breast Cancer Forum, Park Hyatt, Melbourne, 9.30am-4pm. December 7: Breast Cancer Action Group NSW AGM, Contact: Inner & Eastern BSEP, (03) 9276 3890 or YWCA Sydney – ‘Laughter is good medicine’. [email protected] Contact: Sally Crossing, (02) 9436 1755.