Inside Issue of concern 6 Ask the Expert 8 Review 12 Member group profile 13 the BEACON Thank you 14 Breast Cancer Network ’s Magazine Issue 51 Winter 2010 ISSN 1834-5921 Focus on: Rural and remote issues

Our Pink Lady sparkles on the MCG

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The Herald Sun

Photo courtesy of www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010  Thank you to photographer Jeremy Heffernan and his team at Conception Design.

 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010  Our Pink Lady comes alive on the MCG

As the ‘Pink army’ arrived by its size. Down on the ground, image, seen by hundreds of certainly stopped the public at the MCG, the excitement faces showed how breast cancer thousands around Australia in their tracks and ensured the was palpable. Flights from affects every Australian. – once again our Field of Women community understands that interstate had arrived and Once the initial excitement had LIVE linked us together and behind the statistics, there is buses and trains from regional dissipated, it was time to reflect, helped to ensure no-one would a ‘real’ woman and a whole and metropolitan celebrate and honour all those feel alone. support team around her. had brought thousands of us affected by breast cancer. Event Ambassador Deputy Prime Thanks to the generous support together – our friends, family, No-one could have expected Minister , along of those who joined us on the colleagues and the community the spectacular view as the MCG with Federal Health Minister night, our sponsors and the who wanted to show lights were turned off and 14,000 Nicola Roxon (below right) community we have raised they cared. women and men switched on and Victorian Health Minister significant funds. With this we From the air our Pink Lady their individual pink flashing Daniel Andrews, said they felt can continue to provide quality symbol, made up of 14,000 lights. Our Pink Lady sparkled honoured to be part of this programs and support to you women and men representing to the words of You’ll never walk powerful symbol that sent a and those who will be diagnosed the number of Australians who alone, sung so poignantly by message of support to so many in the future. will be diagnosed with breast Kate Ceberano (below left). in the community. Our website has a complete cancer in 2010, was taking shape. Connected through a shared Thank you to everyone who coverage of the event and It was hard not to be blown away experience, united in a powerful joined us. We hope this was a many moving testimonials. memorable event for you. We Visit www.bcna.org.au

To mark the Field of Women LIVE purchase. The A4 photograph is Field of Women, PO Box 14730, 2010, the Herald Sun newspaper $15 plus $3 postage. , Vic 8001. BCNA is offering this beautiful For credit card orders, visit appreciates the Herald Sun’s commemorative photograph www.heraldsun.com.au/shop or assistance in making the photo (featured on our front cover) for call 1300 306 107. For mail order, available. sale to our Beacon readers, with post a cheque/money order to $5 donated to BCNA from each

 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia Many women and men from rural and remote Australia joined us at the MCG to take part in the Field of Women LIVE. This issue of The Beacon explores the particular challenges faced by them during and after their breast cancer diagnosis.

Major sponsors

Event partners

www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010  Issue of concern Keeping families Challenges of distance in touch A pilot project funded by ‘My breast cancer diagnosis Other women choose to travel to home can also be daunting. Polo Ralph Lauren Pink Pony meant several trips away from cities or regional centres where Breast care nurses and hospital Campaign, helping women in my family. I had to find someone they can access expert care and social workers may be able to regional Victoria stay in touch to look after the kids and my a full range of treatments, but suggest ways to help manage with their families while away husband, and to help around the they then feel isolated and lonely the household while women from home for treatment, has property, all in the middle of a without a support network are away. Local councils will been a huge success. drought!’ nearby. sometimes provide practical The Barwon South Western Living in rural and remote parts ‘Six to seven weeks away from assistance, such as child care Regional Integrated Cancer of Australia often presents extra family is a long time. If at all or home help. We encourage Service, based in Geelong, challenges for women with possible, have a family member or women not to be afraid to ask provided seven laptop breast cancer, particularly around friend with you. I would also say: those around them for help. computers to women with access to treatment, but also in thank goodness for the phone.’ We often hear stories about the benefits of living in a small breast cancer and their managing the daily routine of We know from many women community, where friends, families, allowing them to family life. We often hear from that being away from home family and support groups make free video calls using rural women about the particular for long periods, especially for pitch in to support others in the internet program Skype. issues that affect them. weeks of daily radiotherapy times of need. While the women were away Access to cancer services in rural treatment, is a major challenge, from home for radiotherapy, There may also be added areas is often limited, with most both emotionally and logistically. they were able to keep in financial implications for rural medical facilities and specialists While some may be able to touch with their families with a women. On top of the cost of located in cities and large arrange to have family with nightly chat over the Internet. travel, accommodation and regional centres. This means them, many women have to living expenses while away from ‘Some women told us that women’s treatment options leave them at home. Finding home, they may have to take they didn’t think the video are restricted, or that they are ways to stay in touch is time off work for treatment and connection would be so required to travel long distances important: phone calls, letters, appointments, or even give up important and that a phone for treatment. emails and the computer work altogether. For those with call would do,’ project Difficult decisions often need to program Skype, which allows young children, the cost and coordinator Maggie Stowers be made about treatment plans. families to talk over the internet availability of child care can be said. ‘However, they found Some women choose treatments and to see each other if the an issue. that being able to see their they can access locally, even computers have cameras, can all children’s faces and know they There are some financial if it means not having other play a role. were okay was a great relief to assistance programs available treatments recommended to The National Breast and Ovarian them.’ to help people in rural areas, them by their medical team, so Cancer Centre (NBOCC) is including Patient Assisted Travel Another benefit was that that they can stay close to family currently exploring ways to Schemes (PATS). We know, children could see gradual and support networks. connect women from rural however, that the financial changes in their mother’s We know, for instance, that areas with their families assistance available through appearance. some women elect to have a through regular online video PATS is often inadequate. We ‘The children were so excited mastectomy rather than breast- communication when significant suggest women talk to a health to see their mums,’ Maggie conserving surgery so they periods of time away from home professional, such as a breast said. ‘One mother had to have can eliminate their need for are required for radiotherapy care nurse or social worker, or them line up and take turns to radiotherapy and the need to treatment. The project is part of the Cancer Helpline (phone stop them all speaking at once.’ be away from home for a long the Supporting Women in Rural 13 11 20) to find out what is period. A difficult decision such as Areas Diagnosed with Breast The program will now be available in their area. this reflects the stoicism of many Cancer Program, funded by the expanded to four towns in rural women – that attitude of Australian Government and A list of resources for women Barwon south-western Victoria. doing what has to be done and delivered by NBOCC and BCNA. living in rural areas is ‘We found the program to be available on our website at then ‘getting on with life’. The logistics of setting up a great support to families,’ www.bcna.org.au. support for families staying at Maggie said.

 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia Rural and remote issues

Living on a cattle station

I was diagnosed with breast property. We were lucky a friend cancer in November 2008, from town came out every time at age 43. we had to go to . We While in Brisbane for our couldn’t have done it without him. eldest daughter’s end of Year Living on a fairly remote 12 celebrations I had my property, with my closest mammogram, which came back neighbour about 20 km away clear, and an ultrasound that meant I didn’t have the regular picked up a tumour. face-to-face support of family or I was lucky; I was referred to a friends dropping in during my good surgeon who fitted me treatment. However, I had lots into his busy operating schedule of support over the phone and for a mastectomy of my right by email, and my husband was breast the following week. My absolutely wonderful. chemotherapy started at the end I have to travel to Brisbane for of December and consisted of check-ups every six months, six trips of about 2300 km return, which I try to coincide with at three-weekly intervals, to other trips, such as picking up Brisbane for treatment. Maureen (right) and her friend Bub at a cancer fundraiser. or dropping off our daughters at My oncologist tried to organise boarding school or university. treatments around our air services. complications meant we had husband accompanied me to Fifteen months and thousands of I think we only managed to to drive to either Charleville, all my treatments and surgery, kilometres later, I’m feeling great catch the plane from our nearest 410 km away, or Longreach, which required us having to get and looking forward to a very town once. Floods and other 320 km, to catch a plane. My someone to look after our cattle bright and long future. Maureen, QLD BCNA out of the ‘big smoke’ About 30% of women information, including material diagnosed with breast specifically for women living in cancer live outside a major rural and regional areas. metropolitan city. This can limit Our new social networking site . their access to information and allows women around Australia support services. to connect with others and

In 2009, the Australian participate in online discussions. Advocate The Government gave BCNA and Others affected by breast cancer, the National Breast and Ovarian including family members and Cancer Centre funding over friends, are also encouraged to

three years to develop projects join our online network. of courtesy Photo to better support women in rural We are also taking our Anne Cameron and her daughters Kellie Walker (left) and Australia. information forums to the Katie Dudman at the BCNA Forum in Burnie, Tasmania. We are using this funding for a country, hosting 15 forums in number of projects, including regional areas over two years. They are a great opportunity to on behalf of all from rural areas our recently relaunched website Open to all affected by breast meet other women with breast when I say it was lovely and a rare and our new online network. cancer, our forums provide cancer from within the area. treat for us to be included.’ The website (www.bcna.org.au) information about the latest ‘I would like to thank all who were For information about our has had a makeover, with a fresh advances in breast cancer involved in the Tamworth Forum. Forums, visit www.bcna.org.au look and improved navigation treatment and care, and ways to It was a very informative and or see our ‘Dates for your diary’ for easier access to quality enhance emotional wellbeing. enjoyable day. I know that I speak on page 16.

www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010  Rural and remote issues Ask the Expert

Amanda Finlay BCN

Amanda Finlay is a McGrath important part of my role. If a BCN who feel isolated and Breast Care Nurse (BCN) they’re having a bad day, they unsupported. I would like to see based in Dalby, south-east can come to me for a chat and every woman diagnosed with . McGrath BCNs a cry. breast cancer have access to a are funded by the McGrath BCN. Foundation, which uses Do you provide support to Australian Government funds families as well as women? How can women find out if and public donations to place I work with families to help them there is a breast care nurse BCNs in hospitals across rural understand what is happening in their area? and regional Australia. Amanda to Mum. For instance, I had a The McGrath Foundation’s website is one of 55 BCNs funded by the couple who were having a lot (www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au) McGrath Foundation. There of trouble telling their young has a map showing the location are also hundreds of other children about the diagnosis. of McGrath BCNs. Any woman Amanda Finlay specialist BCNs in hospitals We got a copy of Cancer Council can contact a McGrath BCN at around the country. Queensland’s book “What is any stage of her breast cancer Happening to My Mummy?” experience, even if her treatment informed decision about what’s What are the main aspects and discussed it with the has finished, through the hospital best for her. of your role as a breast children. Everyone was happier or community health centre I explain the treatments women care nurse? afterwards, especially the where she is based. are receiving – often you can’t There are no specialist cancer children who had been scared Where there is no McGrath BCN absorb everything the surgeon treatment centres in Dalby, so because they knew something nearby, women can ring the or oncologist tells you, so women from this area have to was happening to their mother Cancer Helpline (13 11 20) or when women get home they, travel to larger centres such as but nobody was explaining what their local hospital to ask the and their families, can come Toowoomba and Brisbane for it was. location of their nearest BCN. to me with their questions. I their surgery, chemotherapy and also help manage side effects Is there anything you would radiotherapy. How would you sum up your of chemotherapy and treat like to see done differently in role as a breast care nurse? My role is to support them when radiotherapy burns. the way we care for women in they are at home. I coordinate I can provide you and your family Often women come to me rural areas? their care from diagnosis, with one consistent source looking for information. I I think having the support of a through treatment to follow- of information and support can give them advice about BCN close to home makes a big up. Continuous support from throughout your breast cancer prostheses – where and how to difference. There are probably one person can help reduce the experience. purchase them and how to claim a lot of rural women without stress and trauma of their breast the cost under the Medicare cancer experience. program – and about breast What are some of the ways you reconstruction. I always ask if * The My Care Kit is distributed Additional post-surgery help women? they’ve received their My Journey to women undergoing breast bras can be bought from Kit and My Care Kit* and can I can help women with cancer surgery. participating retail outlets information about their order these if they haven’t. It contains important across Australia for $49.95, with treatment by linking them to I can also arrange their information on services $5 from each sale going directly support services in their local physiotherapy in their home provided by BCNA, as well as a to BCNA. area and by providing emotional town and, sometimes, someone specially designed post-surgery To find a local stockist, phone support. to come in to help with bra, provided with compliments Berlei Customer Service on housework. A woman may have questions of Berlei, in partnership with 1800 645 045 and quote bra Providing emotional support after seeing her specialist, so BCNA. style number Y130W, or find throughout a woman’s breast I try to answer those and get the style at www.berlei.com.au information so she can make an cancer experience is another

 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia Rural and remote issues

A round trip of 1400 km

I live in a small town in Six weeks of radiation treatment Queensland’s central west, followed. We decided to have 600 km west of Rockhampton. this in Brisbane (2100 km from It’s a great, friendly community, home) as we would have the one of the reasons I am so support of extended family and happy living here. friends there. I needed that friendship and For most of my chemo doses, support when I was diagnosed we decided it was best for our with breast cancer in 2008, children to stay with friends out especially as my family lives here and keep to their usual 700 km away in Mackay. routine. Each time we left them Living out here, it’s a given behind it was a wrench. that people have to go away Every three weeks we would for medical treatment. I had an organise for them to stay with ultrasound in Emerald, 300 km someone, let the school know Sue and her husband Eric. away; then a mammogram and what was happening, and get biopsy in Rockhampton. I chose someone to feed the cat and been outstanding and she is My story is not unique; there to have my treatment in Mackay collect the mail. the driving force behind our are many others who have so I could have the support of I felt quite concerned when I first fledgling support group, which been through the same. I love my family. I had surgery, went came home after surgery, being covers the entire central west living in this part of the country; home to recover, then drove in so far away from my doctors, region. We meet quarterly the benefits outweigh the six times for chemotherapy, a but when I found out that there because of the distances disadvantages every time. round trip of 1400 km each time. was a breast care nurse nearby, involved in getting together. Sue I felt better. Her support has Barcaldine, QLD

The beautiful, good, bad and ugly

Since then I have worked with Living in rural South Australia I my oncologist so that my am lucky we live only 1½ hours local GP can now administer from Adelaide. After I found a chemotherapy. lump my doctor sent me to have a mammogram and ultrasound. I then had six weeks of The results didn’t show anything radiotherapy. Luckily this was at sinister, but luckily I was sent a new unit at a hospital only to have further checks. As I was 40 minutes away, so I didn’t have low risk I was put on a six-week to travel to Adelaide every day. waiting list, and after three trips Breast cancer has certainly to Adelaide, and finally a biopsy, shown me the beautiful, the I was diagnosed with breast good, the bad and the ugly sides cancer and had a mastectomy of this disease. and lymph node clearance. I am keeping positive. With a It was such a shock as I was a Mandy with her husband Stuart and their children. holiday planned at the end of my healthy, active person. treatment, I have something to The travelling was bearable chemotherapy and had to travel well as sick during the treatment, look forward to. until my last visit, when I for intravenous treatment. On and then had to endure the trip Mandy suffered from the side effects of this occasion I was carsick, as home. Kapunda, SA

www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010  Rural and remote issues

Delays and challenges

Four years ago, when I was 24 I had to travel to Adelaide every and pregnant with our first child, three weeks for six rounds of I found a lump in my left breast. chemo. I am lucky that my family I live in Mount Gambier, SA. My was able to drop everything and GP thought it was probably a cyst, help me financially, emotionally but wanted me to get it checked and physically. and have an ultrasound and fine Luckily my surgeon comes to needle biopsy. When she went to our area once a month so I make my appointments I could don’t have to travel to Adelaide only get in for an ultrasound in whenever I need to see him, but two weeks time. There was an I do have to travel to Adelaide extra wait for the biopsy. to have MRIs as the service isn’t The ultrasound result was available here yet. We get a inconclusive so I had to wait Bonnie and her husband Luke, with their boys Bailey and Tyler. reimbursement from PATS, but another couple of weeks for a it is only a percentage. I am fine now and we have two beautiful biopsy. The biopsy news wasn’t have been diagnosed earlier from the community and friends boys. I will do any travelling I good and I saw a surgeon in as I wouldn’t have had to wait that I did if I lived in the city. have to do to ensure I stay that Adelaide the following day. so long for appointments. The When I returned home from way; however I know that not All up, it was about six to eight health system here is crazy – not hospital our house was full of everybody is in the financial weeks between discovering the enough services! flowers and cards. I was induced position to do so. lump and being diagnosed. I two weeks early so I could start Mind you, I wouldn’t have Bonnie think if I lived in the city it would received the amazing support chemo a week after giving birth. Mt Gambier, SA Exercise motivation by phone

Our Summer 2009 issue of program, recruited women the program, the women who If you are interested in getting The Beacon investigated the living in regional Queensland received exercise counselling into some physical activity, your role of exercise during and who were newly diagnosed with by telephone showed higher breast care nurse or doctor may after breast cancer treatment. breast cancer. levels of physical activity, and be able to advise you on any Many studies have shown that The women were put in touch a greater increase in quality suitable programs available in regular, moderate-intensity with an exercise physiologist, of life (including less fatigue) your community or recommend physical activity can help who designed an exercise than those who did not receive some exercise DVDs you can use reduce the symptoms and program to suit each woman telephone counselling. at home. side effects of treatment, and and telephoned them at regular ‘Being rural, it was great to talk The YWCA also runs the Encore improve quality of life. intervals over an eight-month to someone who was prepared to exercise program specifically for For women living in rural and period to provide advice and listen and offer some advice.’ women who have experienced remote communities, it can support. The women undertook ‘I felt that this program was a sort breast cancer. Phone Encore on be difficult to find someone to activities such as walking, of lifeline for helping me keep 1800 305 150 (freecall) to find provide guidance on a safe and swimming and cycling that were positive and implementing the out if there is a program near appropriate physical activity appropriate for them and easily exercises.’ you. program. accessible in their area. Strength BCNA hopes this research may For a list of exercise programs training that could be done at Queensland researchers recently encourage the establishment of around Australia, see our home was also included. completed a study investigating ongoing telephone-delivered resource sheet, Living well after the effectiveness of delivering The results of the study are physical activity programs for breast cancer, from Issue 49 in exercise programs to women currently being analysed, and women in rural and remote The Beacon archive section of in rural areas by telephone. early findings suggest it was areas. our website, www.bcna.org.au. The study, the Exercise for Health successful. After six months on

10 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia Rural and remote issues

Alice Springs … and decisions Activity keeps me going I had just moved to Alice In 2007, at age 73, I discovered Springs and was looking for a lump in my breast. I travelled work when I was diagnosed 43 km to my GP, who promptly with breast cancer. sent me to Shepparton What options does one have in 100 km away for a a remote area? One, stay and be mammogram, ultrasound, treated by the public system with and biopsy. From there I minimal exposure to specialists, was referred to a specialist or go interstate to find specialist in Melbourne, 350 km from care. I used both private and Mathoura where I live. public services. I am pleased with I was operated on in the choices I made, but the final Melbourne and had chemo outcome of follow-up care I feel in Echuca. After a few weeks has been compromised. Mary and her husband Marcus. break I commenced radiation As soon as my GP gave me my 143 km away in Bendigo. I On arriving home I contacted After chemo it was off to diagnosis, the local hospital stayed there during the week the hospital to arrange an Adelaide again for six weeks for organised mammograms, and went home on weekends. appointment for my first radiotherapy in the public sector. biopsies and day surgery for That went on for six weeks. a lumpectomy. I hadn’t really treatment. It took three phone Some follow-ups were arranged While I was in Bendigo I considered specialist care, calls to find anyone who would with my private breast care attended a gym to increase my however, a friend of mine took help me. specialist, as well as my oncologist fitness and strengthen my arm. the initiative to arrange an What other option did I have? who visits Alice Springs regularly It was a great help and I joined appointment with her specialist Go back to Adelaide and spend in the public sector. a similar group in Echuca when surgeon in Adelaide, my home up to six months receiving Travel is an issue. The risk of I came home. town, 1300 km away. chemo and radiotherapy, lymphoedema during travel I play golf, bowls and I had a sentinel node biopsy and staying in government-provided either by air or road is worrying. volunteer, walk most days and surgery to remove more nodes accommodation, or remain Travelling when one is unwell like gardening. Being involved all through the private hospital at home with the support and recovering from surgery in a small community and the system in Adelaide. Three weeks of family? Also, if I went to is not desirable. Living in a wonderful support from family later I returned home to Alice Adelaide, my husband would remote area limits one’s choice and friends helped me to get Springs, where I was to start accompany me and have to considerably and has an back to doing most things. chemo immediately. The option take time off work without pay. enormous influence on one’s Elaine of receiving this treatment where Others I know of have chosen to emotional wellbeing. Mathoura, NSW friends and family were was fly to their place of treatment for Mary just what I wanted, but it was a each chemo session and return Alice Springs, NT horrendous two-day journey. home as soon as they are feeling well enough to fly.

Visit our new website www.bcna.org.au where you will find a link to a new section ‘Supporting rural women’ , which includes tips and hints for women living in rural and remote areas.

Elaine

www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010 11 Review

Eric the Echidna friends help him regain them friends all help him along Has Lost His Spikes bit by bit. This scenario clearly the way. What a positive and can be related to a cancer valuable message this is to a Author Debrah Pacholke, experience in many ways. It young child. It reinforces that all Illustrator Mick Grace. Published provides a sensitive and simple their friends, family, doctors and by Harbed Inc., Qld, Australia. introduction to a difficult topic. people they meet along their RRP: $20. For a young child with cancer journey are there to help them I found this book, written by there is firstly the simple get through the tough times. It breast cancer survivor Debrah message that although they can also be used to explain how Pacholke, delightful and may have lost their hair, like they can help someone who is inspirational. It is ideal for young alone could provide a lot of Eric’s spikes, it will come back! close to them and has cancer, cancer patients or the young interaction between the reader Even as an adult cancer survivor just like Eric’s friends helped him. children of cancer patients. and the child. It has simple, large I certainly found myself relating With an Australian bush theme, text and not too many words, so Captivating illustrations by Mick this to when I lost my hair. It and written by Debrah to help is an ‘easy to read’ book. Grace make this picture book all fell out in big clumps over a raise awareness and funds to appealing. The pictures are large, Through a charming and simple day, and at the end of treatment assist rural women, I highly colourful, and amusing, and will story, the message of hope and came back little by little, until it recommend this enchanting certainly hold a young child’s support is clearly conveyed by was a head full of radiant curls. book for pre-school children. attention. I found myself smiling Debrah. Eric the Echidna loses There is also the message of Rosie Bambery, VIC as I looked at them. The pictures his spikes in a storm and his friendship and support. Eric’s BCNA Review and Survey Group Member Finding ways to tackle the problem of social isolation

‘Loss of face-to-face contact can be one way to help avoid call us on 1800 500 258 for your on the ‘Join our network’ link. with work colleagues meant a feeling isolated. closest group. There will be more information degree of social isolation. Initially ‘I returned to my tennis group, Some women won’t want to about BCNA’s social networking (there were) lots of friends, visits, although I no longer play. Just share news of their diagnosis site in the next issue of The phone calls, etc., and then a because you give up something, and may struggle to protect their Beacon. In the meantime, we gradual tapering off to almost doesn’t mean you have to give privacy in a small community. But would love you to join and have being excluded from events and up the people around you.’ it’s important to have someone a look around. Please let us know friendships.’ what you think. Local breast cancer support to talk to such as a breast care Many women find that groups are an excellent way to nurse or doctor who can refer If you don’t have a computer at friendships can be affected by meet people and provide an them to a local counsellor. home, you may like to visit the their breast cancer diagnosis. opportunity to share common The Cancer Helpline (13 11 20) local library, which will have Sadly, friends and colleagues experiences. provides free, confidential computers available for use by sometimes don’t know how to emotional support to people the public and offer free training Some rural support groups cope with the news and respond living with cancer and their in basic computing and Internet rotate their meetings around by stepping back. families. skills. towns in their area, allowing For women in small communities, more women an opportunity to Online social networking sites Another useful resource is this can be especially difficult, as join. Others, such as the groups can also provide an opportunity BCNA’s free brochure, Helping there may be fewer opportunities in the Profiling Our Member to ‘meet’ people outside your a friend or colleague with breast to meet new people. Groups story on page 13, link usual community. BCNA is cancer, which includes practical Staying involved with the together to support women excited to have launched our tips on how to help someone relationships and activities that when they are away from home own online networking site for who has been diagnosed with are important, such as family, for treatment. A list of support women with breast cancer and breast cancer. You can order work, friends, sport and hobbies, groups can be found on our their families. You can find it at copies to give to friends at website, www.bcna.org.au, or www.bcna.org.au and clicking www.bcna.org.au or by calling us

12 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia Profiling our Member Groups A real hand of support Linking together Our Townsville group, Livin’ Over the past 10 years a Laughin’ Lovin’ It, was formed key part of BCNA’s mission in October 2008. Like many has been to link together groups we meet regularly Australians personally affected to support people whose by breast cancer. lives have been affected by breast cancer by providing We welcome the following information and sharing our new groups to make a total breast cancer journeys. of 255 BCNA Member Groups around Australia: Townsville is a major treatment • Busting With Life!, Pendle centre for northern Queensland. Hill, NSW Many women have to travel Margaret, Thelma and Natalie link up at the here from rural and remote • Jacaranda Lodge Breast BCNA Member Group Summit in 2009. areas when they are thrown Cancer Support Group, into the tumultuous world of Wahroonga, NSW breast cancer. Our group was on a shopping tour of Townsville. contact with her. We have • Breast Friends BC Support determined to offer support to Ondine returned to Townsville also been able to help Natalie Group – QLD, Charters these women who are dealing on several occasions and we with her group’s petition to Towers, QLD with not just a diagnosis but involved her in group meetings, government about the Patient • Sunraysia Cancer Resources multiple appointments, surgery our Christmas party and other Assistance Travel Subsidy Mildura, VIC and ongoing treatments – all social outings. Scheme (PATS). • Bella Donna’s Social Group, while isolated from family, Ondine thanked us, saying Two of our members have Darwin, NT friends and home. ‘The additional burdens carried attended Shirley Gilmore’s • Warrnambool Social I made contact with the North when you have to travel away Burdekin Breast Cancer Support Breast Cancer Group, West Breast Cancer Support from home for treatments can Group meetings and some of us Warrnambool, VIC Group Mt Isa about our group’s push you to the boundaries of had the opportunity to support • Cessnock Breast Cancer desire to help in any way we your endurance. I will be forever an Australian, now living in Group, Cessnock, NSW could. As a result, Linda from grateful to the remarkable Spain, who was in Townsville for the Mt Isa group called me women of the Livin’ Laughin’ her treatment. You can visit our website about the possibility of our to find a Member Group, Lovin’ It group for their practical All this would not have group providing support to a including support groups, support over many months. The been possible without the woman named Ondine. Ondine in your state or territory at numerous outings we went on group members offering from Mt Isa had no family or www.bcna.org.au. relieved my sense of isolation’. their unconditional support. connections in Townsville where We sought more opportunities I encourage other member BCNA also now has more than she needed to be for a surgical for reciprocal support between groups to link together to access 43,000 individual members review. I sent an email to our groups. When a close friend of the wider support a reciprocal across Australia. group members and I soon mine living further north was arrangement can offer and Our members are women, had offers of assistance. Andy diagnosed with breast cancer let BCNA know about your men, their family members picked her up from the airport, I was able to contact Natalie connections. and friends who subscribe to I visited her at the motel that Halse from the group Pink in Margaret McKenzie our magazine, The Beacon. afternoon, and Jan drove her to The Tropics to ask her to make her appointments and took her

www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010 13 Thank you

We appreciate the financial support given to us by individuals, clubs, organisations and companies around Australia. We would especially like to acknowledge the recent help of these outstanding supporters: • AFL Canberra, the Victorian Country Football League, Netball Victoria and all the clubs that participated in Pink Footy and Netball Day Eve Chapman (holding the pink drink) celebrated her birthday with a girls-only lunch • Pamela and Guy Agutter, VIC and raised $2000 by asking her friends to make a donation to BCNA in lieu of gifts. • Bell Charitable Fund, VIC • Margaret Browne, NSW • Marnie Wadsworth, VIC Memorials where employees generously donate salary contributions to • Bunnings Moorabbin, VIC • Simon Watts, NT We pay tribute to the lives of BCNA. Our thanks go to: • Sophie Clarke, VIC • Lorraine Banks Celebrations • Aviva Australia • Concert for the Cure, NSW • Christine Coward Thank you to those who • Colonial First State • BHP Billiton celebrated a special occasion • Noela Rogers Morning Herald Half Marathon • Coles Group and asked for donations to BCNA • Jennifer Schmidt organisers, participants and • Collins Foods Group in lieu of gifts. We are grateful for the donations donors • Macquarie Group • eve Chapman we received in their memory. • Wayne Crase, QLD • National Australia Bank • Vivienne Harkness • Trish Frick, QLD Workplace giving • Target Australia • Irene Hemsworth • Laurieton Haven Craft, NSW BCNA is delighted to be part of • The Westpac Group • Trish Roberts • debrah Pacholke, QLD the workplace giving programs • Josef and Helga Ziegler of a number of organisations

Local football and netball clubs score goals for BCNA

More than 200 football clubs and BCNA members were also you to everyone who contributed; 300 netball clubs across Victoria, involved in the special day, the players, coaches, umpires, ACT, SA and NSW turned ‘Pink’ in motivating their local team spectators! You have certainly May to show support for women with stories of their breast made a difference to BCNA and their families who are cancer journey, or tossing the members like myself and those on affected by breast cancer. coin for the start of the game. their breast cancer journey.’ Participating clubs bought a This was also an excellent Susan, Community Liaison ACT BCNA pink football or netball to way for us to promote our Pink Footy and Netball Day 2010 use on game day. Many umpires My Journey Kit within the was supported by the Victorian wore a touch of pink, and teams grassroots community. Country Football League, Netball held sausage sizzles with the ‘What a sensational day! The Victoria and AFL Canberra. support of their local Bakers show of strength and support We would like to thank every Delight, hosted fundraising from the sporting community participating club for your dinners, and auctioned their pink has been overwhelming. Thank outstanding support! Mail-Times. Wimmera Carracher, courtesyPhoto of Paul ball to raise funds for BCNA.

14 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia Working hand in hand with Bakers Delight

This year marks the 10th year BCNA extends a huge vote of of Bakers Delight and BCNA thanks and congratulations to all working ‘hand in hand’. Bakers Delight staff throughout Bakeries from all around Australia. Australia participated in the Pink At the time The Beacon went to Bun campaign by decorating print the money was still pouring their stores pink and selling in. Keep an eye on the website to delicious pink buns and see the final result. tarts, as well as providing an ‘It was so humbling to go into my opportunity for breast cancer local pink Bakers Delight bakery survivors to educate and inform and know that all of this work and the community on such an energy is for me and everyone important cause. in the BCNA Network. It brought Thanks go to all our BCNA Campaign bakeries across the – as well as selling pink products, tears to my eyes. Congratulations members who were involved in country formed a pink force as bakeries and their staff are dressed to all.’ this linkup. they united with survivors and in pink and collection tins are on Mary, BCNA member, VIC ‘Bakers Delight is extremely proud communities to raise dough for counters.’ Visit the BCNA website at of its association with BCNA Australians affected by breast Roger Gillespie, Executive www.bcna.org.au to see all the – this year marks 10 years of our cancer. Bakers Delight staff go all Chairman, Bakers Delight fantastic photos. partnership. During the Pink Bun out for the Pink Bun fundraiser

Couldn’t be at the MCG? Hold your own Mini-Field instead!

Many of you stood with us their families affected by breast on the MCG on 7 May in a cancer. Also they are an excellent night to remember. Wasn’t it way to let everyone know about MARVELLOUS! the local support that is available Now you can recreate a little for them. of that magic in your own ‘We had a great day. There was community by holding a laughter and tears, but most of all Mini-Field of Women event there was friendship.’ during October. Sarah, NSW We know that Mini-Fields of If you would like to host a Women are a regular fixture Mini-Field of Women, visit the on the calendar in many website at www.bcna.org.au and Mini-Field at Cruden Farm, Victoria, in 2009. communities around Australia. register online. We will supply These displays of silhouettes you with an event kit which For further information, email case studies on our website at are a great opportunity for contains Pink Lady Silhouettes [email protected] www.bcna.org.au communities to come together and other items to pink up Don’t delay – register your to pay tribute to women and your day. Be inspired by what others have done in the past. Check out the Mini-Field today.

BCNA gratefully acknowledges our partnership with Bakers Delight.

‘Promonesque’ by Barbara Fahey www.bcna.org.au Winter 2010 15 PaperlinX proudly supports women with breast cancer by Dates for your diary generously donating the paper for The Beacon and The Inside Story. Printing kindly supported by Vega Press.

June 9 (Wednesday): BCNA Rockhampton Forum, Walter Reid Cultural Centre, cnr Derby and East Streets, Rockhampton, QLD, 10.30am to 3.00pm. The topic will be ‘Living Well after Breast Cancer’. The Forum is free and everyone is welcome but you must register either on our website www.bcna.org.au>Events>BCNA forums or phone 1800 500 258 (freecall). June 10 (Thursday): BCNA Townsville Forum, Riverway Arts Centre, Village Blvd, Thuringowa, QLD, Seeking 10.30am to 3.00pm. The topic will be ‘Living Well after Breast Cancer’. The Forum is free and everyone is welcome but you must register either on our website www.bcna.org.au>Events>BCNA forums or phone stories 1800 500 258 (freecall). The Summer 2010 issue of June 15 – September 9: Well for Life: Cancer, Healing and Wellbeing Program, Suite2/35 Hume Street, The Beacon will highlight Crows Nest, NSW. Tuesdays 5.30pm to 8.30pm. For more details www.wellforlife.net.au or phone Sabina issues associated with breast Rabold 0419 980 923. reconstruction. June 24 (Thursday): BreaCan will present a free workshop ‘Focusing on the Long Term: Living Well in the Have you had a breast Middle Years’, 12 -1.30pm, Ground Floor, Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, 210 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. reconstruction? What did For information or bookings, phone 1300 781 500. it mean to you? Did you July: BCNA will hold forums in southern Western Australia in Bunbury and Geraldton. The topic will be encounter problems in getting ‘Living Well after Breast Cancer’. There is no cost to attend but please visit our website closer to the time a reconstruction or finding for more details www.bcna.org.au>Events>Forums or phone 1800 500 258 (freecall). information? Are you satisfied July 31: BCAQ Goondiwindi Seminar, 8:30am-3.00pm, Goondiwindi Waggamba Community Cultural with the outcome? Centre. Cost $10 includes lunch and refreshments. RSVP: 22nd July (for catering). Phone: Tracey (07) 3666 0614 or Selina Talwood (07) 4677 1126. Speakers include surgeon, oncologist, local GP, breast Maybe you preferred not to care nurse, prosthesis specialist, dietician, lymphoedema specialist. All are welcome. have a reconstruction? Tell us what that decision means to September 10 -12: The 2nd National Conference for Young Women Affected by Breast Cancer. Radisson Gold Coast Resort, Queensland. This will be an opportunity to learn, network, share, raise you. We would love to hear awareness and further advance the needs and issues of young women in Australia. Standard registration from you. is $95. All registration details can be found at www.ywcaustralia.org.au. See website for terms and Please email your story of conditions or phone Cancer Council Queensland (07) 3634 5100. 200-300 words (about half a September 11 (Saturday): BreaCan and Cancer Council Victoria ‘Hope in the face of uncertainty’ – page) to [email protected] a one-day forum for women living with secondary cancer. Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, by the end of September 2010. 210 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. Registration essential. Bookings and information on 1300 781 500. Please include a high-resolution September 19 (Sunday): Blackmores Sydney Running Festival. BCNA has been chosen as one of the digital photo, or post your supporter charities for this festival. Register to be a participant in one of the four events: Blackmores photo to us, and we will return Sydney Marathon, Blackmores Half Marathon, The Sunday Telegraph body+soul 9km Bridge Run and The Sunday Telegraph 4km Family Fun Run. To participate in the event and to fundraise for BCNA visit: it to you. www.sydneyrunningfestival.com.au October: Mini-Fields of Women will be held around Australia. Visit our website www.bcna.org.au to find a Mini-Field near you or to register your own. October 25 (Monday): Australia’s Breast Cancer Day 2010. the BEACON Layout: SUBStitution BCNA Herceptin survey BCNA BCNA would like women with The survey will be conducted If you have been, or are currently 293 Camberwell Road, early breast cancer who have online and should take no more being, treated with Herceptin for Camberwell, Victoria 3124 been treated with Herceptin than 20 minutes to complete. early breast cancer and would 1800 500 258 (freecall), (03) 9805 2500 to complete a short survey for The survey will be anonymous like to participate in the survey, [email protected] or us. We hope to learn about – we will email you a link to a send your name, postcode and www.bcna.org.au women’s experiences with website where you complete it email address to policy@bcna. Herceptin. via the internet. org.au by Friday 18 June. If you wish to unsubscribe to The Beacon or The Inside Story We’d love your help. please contact BCNA.

16 Winter 2010 Breast Cancer Network Australia