Issue 17 Summer 2001

Breast Cancer Network Australia newsletter Herceptin for women with advanced breast cancer

n October, the then Federal Howard, about Herceptin at Raelene Minister for Health, Dr Michael Boyle’s birthday party in June (never IWooldridge, announced that miss an opportunity!) and he had Herceptin would become available for followed that up by organising women with advanced breast cancer. meetings between the Network and This announcement was greeted with relevant Ministers and Advisors, delight and relief by women and their including with Dr Wooldridge. families all around Australia. Oncologists around Australia also Jill Suppree has become the ‘face’ of our It was the result of months of hard joined with us, urging for women to Herceptin campaign. Her letters to politicians work on the part of our Network, and have access to this drug. often contained drawings by her two sons. shows what team work can achieve! Individual Network members ran We knew Herceptin could be effec- letter-writing campaigns. tive for some women (see article on Jan Skoritch encouraged Canberra page 11) but, at a $1000 a week, few women to contact their politicians to women could afford to pay themselves. see what could be done. Some women had considered selling Jill Suppree, a young Melbourne their homes; one woman sold her farm woman with advanced disease, sent to pay for the drug. For women with letters to every MP, many accompanied young children, the chance of longer by drawings from her two young sons. survival times was even more vital. Other influential women went out of A proposal to put Herceptin on the their way, and their comfort zones, to Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme was lend their active support and speak up. rejected three times due to the cost. E-mails and letters flew thick and We swung into action! fast. One MP told us he’d received We at Breast Cancer This really was a combined effort. more than 3000 letters! Network Australia send all Several member groups decided to You can imagine the excitement our members and supporters support the Network’s policy that when it was finally announced that best wishes for the festive Herceptin be made available to all Herceptin would be available free of season, and a wondrous, women who needed it – not just those charge for our precious women. healthy year to follow. who could afford to pay. It shows the power of a combined Breast Cancer Action Group national voice and the need to be in INSIDE... devoted a newsletter to this campaign, there for the long haul. urging its women to write and e-mail The Network is delighted to have STATE ROUND-UP 2 their Members of Parliament. been able to play such an active role in HAIR-RAZING EFFORTS 4 BCAG NSW organised for women to this campaign. We wish to acknowl- be interviewed on national television edge the contribution of all those who FIELD OF WOMEN 6-11 to highlight their plight. took action – member groups, MY JOURNEY 12 Women in WA mounted a campaign, individuals, politicians, clinicians. DRAGON BOAT NEWS 13 while NT Breast Cancer Voice In the end, the winners are those organised a meeting with Senator women who need Herceptin and will YOUNG WOMEN’S FORUM 14 Grant Tambling, Parliamentary now be able to get it. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 15 Secretary for Health, to argue the case. – Lyn Swinburne, UPCOMING EVENTS 16 I spoke to the Prime Minister, John National Co-ordinator 1 State Round-up

Federation presentation of this year’s Breakfast at the Westin Hotel, Sydney, TASMANIA Fashion Extravaganza. on Australia’s Breast Cancer Day. Norma claims this is her last year and Dr Michael Wooldridge launched the Several Network members were thanks are due to her for the past three much-awaited Consumer Guidelines invited to attend the stakeholder years in raising awareness in the booklet for women with advanced seminar on the Strengthening Support community of the positive side of a disease, while Network member, Fairlie Project being run by Siobhan Harper on diagnosis of breast cancer. Howard, spoke of the importance of behalf of the Commonwealth Health We are delighted to report that Calvary such a resource for women with Department. Hospital will be officially opening a advanced disease. Siobhan delivered her first report and Lymphoedema Clinic in February 2002. On October 20, the first Best Breast invited those present to nominate for the The doors open at the end of November Breakfast was hosted by BCAG NSW project reference group that will form the for a much-needed service in Canberra. and the NSW Breast Cancer Institute next phase of her three-year project. Two of our members have been on the at Old Government House in Three of our members, Margaret steering committee and we congratulate Parramatta. Tassell, Beth Batchelor and Gerry the management and physiotherapists at Another consumer advocacy training Rockliff, continue to work hard on their Calvary and vascular surgeon, Dr David course in Sydney during October has working group projects. We congratulate Hardman, in bringing this long-awaited recruited ‘new voices’. We wish Sally and thank them for their terrific efforts! clinic to Canberra. Lynch and Tessa Mallos well as they Australia’s Breast Cancer Day functions Elspeth Humphries, Anna Wellings attend a conference in San Antonio in were held in Hobart, Launceston and Booth and Leona Furstenberg presented December. Devonport. Deidre Moses reports that the women’s perspective to the BabyDocs From all the Network in NSW – best the mini Field of Women at the Royal program at The Canberra Hospital wishes for Christmas and renewed energy Hobart Hospital, went extremely well. recently. for our preparations for 2002. Planning has already commenced for Leona spoke passionately about issues Contact: Pam Bell (02) 9955 9313 or the major Field of Women, which will be for young women with breast cancer, [email protected] held in Hobart in 2003. Anyone including sexuality and fertility. interested in joining the committee, Contact: Anna Wellings Booth should phone me as soon as possible. (02) 6247 8470 or wbfamily@interact. Launceston members, Pauline Watson net.au or Elspeth Humphries and Beth Batchelor, attended the (02) 6239 6344. Capacity Building Workshop in During Breast Cancer Week, the Launceston during November. Wesley Breast Clinic hosted a This workshop, run by the NEW SOUTH WALES gala fashion parade in with Commonwealth Office for the breast cancer survivors as models. A Status of Women, offers national A busy time for all in NSW! highlight was the appearance of John non-government women’s organisations Breast Cancer Action Group and Otto, men who have been diagnosed training about seeking change in policy NSW and other NSW BCNA members with breast cancer. or practice. contributed to the outstanding success of BreastScreen Northside invited Janelle Contact: Joan Williams (03) 6421 7700 the Herceptin campaign by writing Gamble and Leonie Young, together or [email protected] letters and making the most of speaking with Liddy Clark, the member for and media opportunities. Everyone is Clayfield, to speak at its mini Field of thrilled with the outcome. Women. THE ACT Eight Mini Fields of Women were held A special blessing by Tunbal song and across the State, with great success and law woman, Maroochy Baramban, and a ACT members, enthused and good representation from local politi- prayer by the Reverend Peter Lockyer, encouraged by Jan Skorich, were cians and celebrities. set the scene for the day, which finished active in supporting the Herceptin Decorated Bakers Delight stores with a fabulous cake featuring the pink campaign, the outcome of which we all throughout NSW added to community silhouette. applaud. awareness of the effects of breast cancer. Janelle Gamble was a guest speaker, This is a fantastic example of the power Congratulations must go to Rosanna along with the Premier’s wife, Heather of the Network – when women around Martinello and her team for their work Beattie, at a luncheon during Breast Australia combine in a campaign that in presenting the Young Women and Cancer Week. makes a difference. Breast Cancer Moving Forward Forum at Joan Sheldon, the member for Members were delighted to meet Jill Darling Harbour on October 21. , was so impressed by the Field Suppree (the face of Herceptin) from Thanks also to the Network for its of Women in Brisbane that she invited all Victoria at the Bosom Buddies fashion financial sponsorship of this important female parliamentarians to meet with event in October. initiative. Network board member, Dr Cherrell Norma Bradley and her team are to be Eight hundred people attended the Hirst, and Leonie Young to discuss congratulated on a most successful National Breast Cancer Centre’s important issues relating to breast cancer. 2 in the near future. A few alternatives Community Centre. Susan Timpani ORTHERN ERRITORY N T have been thrown around, but the one runs workshops for many groups and a that seems to have the most support is breast cancer session is always included. Like everywhere else, October Breast Cancer Association of WA. Steps Dragons Abreast SA was launched in was a busy month. are in place for the change. October with a Dragonboat Association Thanks must go to the Admistrator’s Our wonderful dragon boat rowers, the SA (DASA) social event providing wife, Jeanette Anidomatis, who kindly Cockburn Amazons Dragons Abreast, special support. Our watermelon and hosted a cocktail party in Alice Springs took part in the ‘Bridge to Bridge’ event champagne drink went down well! and a luncheon in Darwin. Both were on Sunday 28 October – a 12km paddle The various dragon boat clubs cheered well attended and much enjoyed. from Perth to Fremantle in our bright us on and gave generously to help Australia’s Breast Cancer Day started pink boat. The rowers were amazing. establish our team. One team gave me with a breakfast at Rydges Plaza, where The team is always happy to welcome $101 after the event – “just because we our breast care nurse, Deb Amery, and new enthusiastic paddlers. think you are great”. local surgeon, Phil Carson, gave a Contact: Carol Bishop (08) 9489 7312 The SA Dragons Abreast team is Territory perspective of breast cancer. or [email protected] or Yvette managed by Vicki Nottage. The Lunchtime saw a ‘Breast Patrol’ Libregts ??? secretary is Lyndal Outram, while the through the city mall and the rest of the treasurer is Marion Holland. day was spent manning information stalls The Clare Quilters have made a beautiful quilt in memory of Joan Heath, in local shopping centres. SOUTH AUSTRALIA Over the past few months, we have a seven-year member of the group who made contact with new and enthusiastic died of breast cancer. Elaine Forrest, the women, all of which bodes well for next The Australian Field of Women quilters’ spokesperson, asked Action for year! Have a safe and undoubtedly hot was a spectacular sight in Breast Cancer SA to raffle the quilt and Christmas. Adelaide’s Victoria Square. we raised more than $1000. A special The steering committee for Strengthen- Contact: Susan Tully (08) 8927 3327 thank you, Elaine. ing Support for Women in Rural and or [email protected] or Michelle Contact; Carlene Butavicius (08) 8272 Remote SA had meetings in September Hanton (08) 8941 8923 or hanton@ 2895 or [email protected] and November, while a National Breast ozemail.com.au Cancer Centre (NBCC) workshop was held in Adelaide on November 5. WESTERN AUSTRALIA I was one of a panel interviewed for the VICTORIA Doorways Project - Analysis of the Provision of Breast Cancer Services at RAH, another Victoria is on the verge of What great news! Herceptin NBCC study. launching a Dragons Abreast is finally available for all! Just The Action for Breast Cancer SA team under the enthusiastic management goes to show the power (and persistence) AGM was held on October 3. Dr of Pamela Williams, a new BCNA of women. Well done to all of those Deborah Rathjen from Bionomics gave a member from the Bayside Group. Any concerned. presentation about genetic research and women interested in joining this dragon Some of our dedicated members put a the company’s focus on developing boat team may contact Pamela on lot of time and effort into organising genetic indicators for the early diagnosis (03) 9592 6352 or 0417 147 822. mini Fields of Women in 11 metropolitan of disease types, to facilitate more Dragon boat racing is a great way to Perth and five regional shopping centres accurate treatment regimes. exercise, have fun and promote breast in WA to coincide with Australia’s Margaret Ryan talked about her new cancer awareness all at once. It is an Breast Cancer Day (and the week position at ACF, one which is evolving activity that attracts the public’s leading up to it). as she settles in. Action for Breast attention and has been a really A lot of positive interest was shown in Cancer SA hopes for a close working wonderful experience for the women the displays. It all helps to raise relationship with Margaret. involved from other parts of Australia. awareness in our community and, of Liz Libregts was appointed president; The Warrior Women exhibition has course, much-needed funds. About Raelene Walker, vice-president; Pam begun touring Victoria. For details, see $5000 has been raised so far. Balfour, secretary; and Raylene Gribble, Upcoming Events on page 16. Congratulations should go to all of those treasurer. October 22 (Australia’s Breast Cancer who organised the event and helped on I attended a cancer expo at the Enfield the day. Thank you. Day) provided opportunities for Action on Breast Cancer (AoBC) has awareness of breast cancer issues. There were a number of mini Fields Of Women applied to become a member of the These reports are extracts of more in Victoria, which attracted a good deal Western Australian Council of Social comprehensive quarterly reports of attention. This was a great opportu- Service. written by our State representatives. nity for the Network to recruit more Its assistance will include facilitative The complete reports can be found women. workshops highlighting such topics as on our web site, www.bcna.org.au We wish you all the best for a wonder- information for board and committee Our state representatives are always ful festive season and good health into members. The council also provides the happy to hear from our readers or to the new year. opportunity to network with government promote activities within the state. and non-government organisations. Just give them a call! Contact: Gerda Evans (03) 9805 2500 or The AoBC is looking at a name change [email protected] 3 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Congratulations Networkers!

Dragons Abreast importance of corporate and non- The National Australia Bank’s profit organisations working together Community Link Volunteer Award to make a difference. in the Northern Territory’s Health Patricia Edgar Category has been won by the NT/ In October, the Network’s chair, ACT Dragons Abreast. Dr Patricia Edgar, accepted two The $5000 in prize money will assist significant awards within four days. our national Dragons Abreast fund. As director of the Australian Congratulations to the dragon Children’s Television Foundation, boaters and national co-ordinator, Patricia accepted the prestigious, A friendly bet during the Spotlight store managers Michelle Hanton. Image and Science international conference in Surfers Paradise cost four people their hair and raised $13,000 for the Network. Bakers Delight conference’s Youth TV Prize at the In September, Network and Bakers Eiffel Tower in Paris before UNESCO Delight representatives applauded with and the Council of Europe’s Outstanding gusto when we received one of three International Jury. Four days later, she was back home to Finalists Awards in the Prime be presented with a Melbourne Award and hair-razing Minister’s Business and Community by The Committee for Melbourne. Partnerships Awards, presented in the efforts! Great Hall of Parliament House, Lyn Swinburne Canberra. National co-ordinator, Lyn The Network has been absolutely Bakers Delight founder, Lesley Swinburne, won the Shell Community bowled over by the extraordinary Gillespie, and the Network’s national and Government Section of the fundraising efforts of everyone co-ordinator, Lyn Swinburne, received Victorian Telstra Business Woman of involved in head shavings at Spotlight the award from the Prime Minister, the Year Awards. The $4000 prize and Bakers Delight. John Howard, who spoke about the money has been given to the Network. What started out as a friendly bet

at the Spotlight store managers The Prime Minister, conference in Surfers Paradise turned John Howard, into an impromptu fundraising event presented a Business and Community for the Network. Partnerships Award to Four were shaved, raising $13,000. Lesley Gillespie of Pledges were collected from the Bakers Delight and the ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Network’s national co- managers and stores during the final ordinator, Lyn night of the conference. Swinburne, in The head-shaving craze also caught September. on at the Bakers Delight conference in September. On the final evening, a number of people, including Bakers Delight founder and Executive Chairman, Roger Gillespie, were without their hair. An amazing $37,500 was raised for Participants needed for study our Network by franchisees, staff and Shirley O’Connell, a PhD student Shirley’s research is aiming to help Bakers Delight suppliers. at Queensland’s University of develop appropriate services and Thanks to everyone involved – Technology, is recruiting women for programs for young women with the shavers, shavees and financial her study of the concerns of young breast cancer. backers. women with breast cancer. If you are interested in taking part The spirited support you have shown If you were diagnosed with breast or finding out more about Shirley’s is so appreciated and will enable the cancer between 18-40 years of age, study, phone her on (07) 3864 5872 Network’s work to reach women right not more than three years ago, you or e-mail [email protected]. across the length and breadth of are eligible to volunteer for the study. edu.au Australia. 4 Bakers ‘delight’ the Network ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Filling our latest Seats at the Table n Saturday, October 20, Since the last issue of The Beacon, Bakers Delight bakeries these women have been appointed to around Australia supported O working groups and committees, or the Network’s Field of Women participated in forums: by donating 50¢ cents to the freezers full of bread! • Maryanne Maher (NSW) and Network from every $2.30 loaf We would like to thank you for Mary Macheras-Magias (Vic) – they sold. supporting Bakers Delight who do so National Breast Cancer As this issue of The Beacon went much to help our Network. Centre’s Young Women’s Advisory to print, the Network had received We would like to thank you all, as Group. more than $53,000! every cent raised helps the Network • Pam Williams (Vic) and Jenny The promotion has been a fantastic to continue its work in seeking to Morrison (Qld) – National Breast opportunity to spread the word about improve the treatment and care of Cancer Centre’s Psycho-social the Network. those diagnosed with breast cancer, clinical practice guidelines Many more people around Australia and work towards preventing this (Summary cards for health will now be aware of our pink ladies disease for the benefit of the whole professionals project team). and their significance. community. • Veronica Macaulay-Cross (Qld) Some of the bakeries went all-out Thanks to the franchisees, bakers, and Jayne Poynts (Qld) – to promote the event, with pink hair, staff and all involved, especially Kath Queensland Health’s Oncology streamers, balloons, sausage sizzles, Snell whose tireless commitment made Scenario Planning Workshop. face painting, and even more head the day run so smoothly. • Lyn Swinburne (Vic) – National and leg shaving! Next time you visit your local Bakers Breast Cancer Foundation’s We have had many phone calls from Delight, please let them know how Research Priorities Steering supporters telling us they now have grateful we are! Committee. • Carlene Butavicius (SA) – Fundraising by Bakers South Australia’s Strengthening Delight stores Support for Women with Breast around Cancer Project’s national Australia on October 20 has workshop. raised more • Diane Shore (Qld) – Queensland than $53,000 for the Women’s Cancer Screening Network. Services Consumer Reference Here, Group. Melbourne Bakers Delight To learn more about A Seat at staffers spread the Table, phone Gil Paulsen on the word about (03) 9805 2500 or e-mail the Network. [email protected]

Summit to gather members from across Australia

Since our launch in October 1998, We have decided to do this at a We are hoping that women will Breast Cancer Network Australia has Network Summit, to be held in report back to their member groups gone from strength to strength. We Melbourne on February 22 and 23, and consider ways to get actively now have more than 60 member 2002. involved in Network projects and groups around Australia. The Network has invited our community initiatives on behalf of We need to strengthen the ways we member groups to nominate a delegate women with breast cancer and their work closely with our member groups to attend, and we will cover each families. and to communicate what the delegate’s travel and accommodation We are excited about the prospect Network is doing – our plans for the costs. of getting together with key Network future and how we can actively It should be a marvellous opportunity women from all parts of Australia to involve our members in these for women to learn about our progress share our plans for the Network – the initiatives on an on-going basis. and plans for the future. energy will be amazing!

5 The Field of Women blooms in Adelaide

ictoria Square, in the heart We were greeted at the start of our and the SA Office of the Status of of Adelaide, was transformed Silent Walk by two policewomen on Women, pathologist and former Lord V into a Field of Women horses decorated with pink and white Mayor, Dr Jane Lomax-Smith and the between Saturday October 20 and ribbons who escorted participants Network’s national co-ordinator, Lyn Monday, October 22 – Australia’s across the road. Swinburne. Breast Cancer Day. Our MC was Carlene Butavicius, Adelaide media identity, Leigh Thousands saw the display as they BCNA’s SA state representative. McClusky, spoke about Margaret passed in their cars. Others came to see Newly appointed Governor, Marjorie Kelly, who had achieved much in her the silhouettes up close and to read Jackson-Nelson, officially launched life despite her challenges with breast their messages of encouragement, hope the Field of Women. She spoke of how cancer. Margaret’s husband, Graham, and remembrance. her good friend, Raelene Boyle, had led the ceremonial planting. Students and teachers from Walford asked her to perform this task in her Breast cancer survivor, Vanessa Girls School, St. Peters Girls School, place, as Raelene was still recovering Lambert, read her moving poem about Genunga International High School, from recent surgery. the significance of the silhouettes. We Annesley College Boarding House, The speakers included Diana were then warmed by the beautiful Seymour College, Wilderness College Laidlaw, the Minister for Transport, voices of the girls from Pembroke and Gilles Street Primary School, Girls Choir and the church bells rang along with some Venturers arrived out across Adelaide. early on the Saturday to help plant the Be part of the 2002 Following the official proceedings, we silhouettes. had a chance to meet women and their Anyone with teenagers will Field of Women families from Adelaide and across the appreciate how precious ‘sleep-ins’ are, state. Several Network members even The Network is looking for people and yet these lovely girls were keen to travelled from interstate to take part. in NSW to join the organising play an active role in our event. It was a great opportunity to committee for next year’s Field of The Organising Committee had celebrate our lives and to pay tribute Women in Sydney during October. worked tirelessly to rope in friends and to those we have lost. We need people with ideas, com- family to help. Husbands put up signs, On Monday, the silhouettes were mitment and time. Of course, few of hooked up the power, lifted and carted. packed away and everyone was able to us have hours of spare time to devote, BreastScreen staff, women from the put their feet up at long last. but it’s often the busy people who are ACTION group and BCSS volunteers Outstanding leadership was shown by most ready to find time for such a set up displays and spoke to the public. Carlene Butavicius and our project worthwhile cause. Even passers-by joined the planting manager, Cathie Tonkin. We thank We will be appointing a project team. One man, Steve, who calls them for their incredible contribution, manager in Sydney to co-ordinate Victoria Square his home, came to along with that of the members of the and implement the event, but she/he check us out and became our greatest Organising Committee: Judith Brine will need a team of all sorts of people worker over the next three days! (Adelaide City Council), Sheila Evans to help make this happen. At one stage, we couldn’t believe (BPW SA), May Jackson, Helen Being on the organising committee how much one person could achieve Wiltshire, Vanessa Lambert, may not be your thing, but you might until we realised that Bakers Delight Meredith Russell, Judith Stewart, be able to help in other ways. manager, TraceyLee Carey, had Karen Shepherd (BreastScreen) and To be a part of the Sydney Field of brought along her twin sister, Tanya! TraceyLee Carey (Bakers Delight). Women, phone 1800 500 258 and Adelaide turned on a magical day for The Network recognises the work register your interest. Sunday’s formal ceremony. The sun and dedication of all those who made This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance shone and the silhouettes had an even Adelaide’s Field of Women such a to be involved! greater impact against the blue sky. successful and memorable event.

Thank you A huge thank-you to our 2001 Field of Women major sponsor, New Idea. We appreciate the support it gives us and a range of breast cancer initiatives.

6 SA’s new Govenor, Marjorie Jackson- Nelson, launched the Field of Woman and paid tribute to her friend, fellow athlete and breast cancer survivor, Raelene Boyle.

Victoria Square, in the heart of Adelaide, was the site of the 2001 Field of Women between Saturday, October 20, and Monday, October 22 – Australia’s Breast Cancer Day.

Left: Police women mounted on horses decorated with pink and white ribbons, accompanied the Silent Walk.

7 Snapshots from mini fields around Australia

Right: Cooma, NSW The Cooma-Monaro Shire Council was supportive, posters were displayed in local shops, Cooma Hospital, Community Health Centre and GP surgeries. Local radio stations ran community announcements and Jane Redmond did several live interviews. Local newspapers were also supportive as was local photography studio SCHOO’s. Hospital maintenance staff gave their time, and many breast cancer survivors, partners and children of women who did not survive planted the silhouettes, sold badges, drew pink silhouettes on the footpath. It was a successful day involving the whole community.

Left: Ringwood, Victoria Participants held a Silent Walk around Ringwood Lake followed by an opening ceremony including songs performed by the hospital’s choir. Afternoon tea was provided by the hospital and the North Ringwood Bakers Delight. The silhouettes were planted in the shape of a star, to represent the group’s theme ‘Lighting the Way’ for women in the future. The silhouettes were later moved into the hospital’s garden.

Right: Taree, NSW The Taree Mini-Field was held in Fotheringham Park. It was co-ordinated by Lyn Mills and officially opened by the Mayor, Councillor Mick Tuck. The captain of the local high school, Samantha Fisher, made a moving speech dedicated to her grandmother, a breast cancer survivor. The day was well supported by the community, with the local breast cancer support groups handing out information, the Taree RSL band playing, a motor bike display and many businesses offering goods and services.

Left: Canberra, ACT This year’s mini Field of Women was combined with a dragon boat regatta; an effective way of involving a sporting body, while maintaining the solemnity and significance of the Silent Walk. Chris Emery, husband of our esteemed past member, Jean, presented the trophy to the winning crew. Senators Margaret Reid and Kate Lundy, two of our most faithful supporters, attended, despite pre-election activities. We thank them both sincerely for their on-going support and encouragement of the Network.

8 Left: Campbelltown, NSW This mini Field was successfully managed by Cindy Gilliam at the University of Western Sydney. She held a ceremony during the day, Below: Bundaberg, Queensland which was attended by local ABC Day saw Bundaberg’s politicians, including Federal MP inaugural Mini-Field of Women. Bronwyn Bishop and many special We began with a Silent Walk guests. The guest speakers were Dr through the main street to Buss Park Stephen Della-Fiorentina and where the field was launched by Dorothy Kwasniak – a breast Councillor Peters. Dr Denise Powell cancer survivor. An evening spoke, as did Bev Cross, who shared program was also held which began her experiences with BCNA and with a Silent Walk and a support services for women. The Candlelight ceremony. The silhouettes were planted while the University Choir sang and Robyn QCWA Choir sang. The Field was Wicks spoke about The Network. blessed and 100 balloons were The whole event was well released. Morning tea was served at supported by the student body at the the Civic Centre. University and also local Rotarians who helped raise more than $1000.

Above: Wagga Wagga, NSW The Wagga mini Field was held in Victory Memorial Gardens. It was organised by the Breast Cancer Support Group and compered by Mary-Helen Martens. Participants first gathered for the Silent Walk on the footpaths surrounding the gardens. A short silhouette planting ceremony was followed by speeches, readings and a prayer from local ministers. The overall response was great. Quite a few women described the event as “just what we needed”.

Right: Laidley, Queensland The Field was planted at Das Neumann house. During the day, Bob Dutton, executive officer to local MP, Bill Flynn, presented Majorie Cusack and Val Neubling with a certificate of appreciation for their work as volunteers over the past seven years. Among those in attendance was Kerry Zibell, who has learnt of a recurrence of her initial inflammatory breast cancer. She continues in the fight, attending a local cancer support group, and is planning a trip around Australia with her husband soon.

9 Brisbane’s Silent Walk during September travelled down George Street to the Field of Women planted at Suncorp Metway Park.

They were able to gain sponsorships Thousands join together in from local companies, including Energex, Thiess and Minter Ellison, and support from a range of other Brisbane’s Silent Walk companies and individuals. Over the last few weeks of huge crowd came to pay Young country singer, Kylie Sackley, preparations, a new team of helpers tribute in their own way by then reduced us all to tears with a song emerged from the Twelfth Night A joining together for the she had written for her mother, who Theatre. Network’s Silent Walk leading to the had been diagnosed with breast cancer. The staff wanted to be so actively Brisbane Field of Women in September. Again, the Brisbane Field of Women involved because the theatre’s owner, The Walk started at Parliament was the result of hours of work by a Gail Wiltshire, is a breast cancer House and moved along Brisbane’s number of key Network people, survivor. George Street, with policemen on especially Leonie Young, Janelle One staffer, Lyn Pelgrave, took motorbikes closing the street to all Gamble and Cherrell Hirst. responsibility for the management of other traffic. the Launch Day and another, Lewis, Some people came alone; others with took calls in the preceding fortnight friends and supporters. Entire families from people seeking information and came to walk together and spend time Well done, Wendy! wanting to record silhouette messages. reading the messages in the Field. For three weeks, Twelfth Night We were joined by several Brisbane Congratulations and thanks to Theatre became headquarters for the identities, including former mayor, Wendy McClusky, our Field of Field of Women. Sally-Anne Atkinson, and Bonny Women National Co-ordinator. A crew from Foxtel filmed through- Barry, the member for Apsley, repre- Wendy did a fantastic job out the day and the resulting program senting the Premier, . overseeing the fields in Adelaide was shown during October – breast We arrived at the Suncorp Metway and Brisbane, as well as the 50 mini cancer month. Park to the spectacular sight of the Fields around Australia. The Field of Women remained in 12,500 silhouettes, which had been place for a week. A roster of volunteers planted in the lawn that morning by and health professionals were in place teams of volunteers. These included throughout this time to give students from Brisbane State High information and support to the public, School, Moreton Bay College, and to help in recording messages to Clayfield College, Brisbane Girls be placed on the silhouettes. Grammar and Milton State School. Key public messages were circulated Local personality, Anne-Marie about the importance of early detec- White, introduced the speakers, tion, the need for support for those including Raelene Boyle and Wayne touched by this disease and the need Goss, who, as head of the Goodwill for the community to keep striving to Games and a cancer survivor, spoke of find answers to the breast cancer the event’s theme, ‘Celebrating Life’. riddles. 10 Issues of ○○○○○ Thank you to the friends of the Fields ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ These people headed up mini field for Concern ... 2001. The Network would like to thank them and their committees for their work. Queensland Sholeh Boyle, Townsville Judy Wild, Buderim Marianne Zangari, Chirnside Bev Cross and Shirley Harrison, Herceptin – the facts Bundaberg Astrid Raines, Laidley Imelda O’Loughlin, Toowoomba erceptin is the first of the been recorded among women whose Felicity Pembroke, Cairns new ‘targeted’ drugs, so tumours strongly overexpress Her2, Julie Foreman, Southport Hcalled because it attacks only (New England Journal of Medicine, Christine Lindemann, Ipswich the overexpressing tumour cells. March 2000). NSW Chemotherapy, while a useful tool for As Herceptin is a targeted drug, it has Kim Harris, Penrith fighting cancer, cannot differentiate relatively few side effects, which means Gay Lee, Goulburn Goulburn between cancerous and normal cells – an improved quality of life for women Linda Williams, Broken Hill Jane Redmond, Cooma all cells are affected. taking the drug. That is important for Lyn Mills, Taree Herceptin works best on women all women, but even more so for Cindy Gilliam, Campbelltown whose breast tumours overexpress a women with young families, as means Helen Gray, Wagga Wagga protein, called Her2. Generally, the they can continue to be active within Anna Banks, Port Macquarie more this is overexpressed, the more their families. ACT effective the drug. Women who have been taking Anna Wellings Booth and Tania As of December 1, Herceptin will be Herceptin have told us that, after Pirotta, Canberra available free of charge to women with months of feeling weak and ill on Victoria metastatic breast cancer (where the chemotherapy, they have been able to Sue Heffernan and the Year 9 girls at cancer has travelled to more distant resume a normal life – go back to Methodist Ladies College, Kew parts of the body), whose tumours university, help with reading at their Annie Bailey, San Remo Maggie Stowers, Ringwood overexpress Her2 – about 20-25% of children’s school, join the kindergarten Maree Scanlan, Traralgon women with metastatic disease. helpers roster. Melissa Billing, Bendigo Oncologists will be able to have their The Network’s web site – Kim Pinniger, Ararat patients’ tumours tested by patholo- www.bcna.org.au – has more informa- Jenny Watson, Abbotsford gists to identify those for whom this tion about Herceptin, but if you have Phillipa Bourke and Maxine Corfield, therapy might be effective. advanced breast cancer, we suggest Heidelberg Herceptin is not a cure, but a 45% discussing the suitablity of the drug for Mary Funder and Libby Pearce, Camberwell improvement in overall survival has you with your oncologist. Gerda Evans, East Melbourne Lauren Costello, Ferntree Gully Queensland women celebrate life Tasmania Nola Polmear and Denise Walshe, The Network sponsored the information about breast cancer Hobart Celebrating Life seminar at the Wesley resources. South Australia Hospital as part of our Field of Women Leonie Young did a great job as the Merrilyn Harrington, Kingston event in Brisbane. seminar’s MC. Rhonda Smith and Maxine Barker, Port With 300 people in attendance, this As always, the women with breast Lincoln was an excellent way of informing and cancer were the stars. Edith Cooper Janet Williams, Mount Gambier updating Queenslanders. The speakers spoke about cycling around Australia Di Reade, Minalton ranged from Prof. John Forbes, who earlier this year with the Fenceliners, West Australia spoke about clinical trials, to Jan while Ellie Willson talked about being Marina Johns, Bridgetown Power, who entertained with a wise diagnosed with breast cancer while Carol Bishop, co-ordinated mini Fields and witty presentation about the pregnant with her first child. at Albany, Booragoon, Bunbury, Carou- meaning of success and celebrating life. All the while, Ellie’s husband and sel, Floreat, Geraldton, Innaloo, Bakers Delight supplied a sumptuous their son, Nathaniel, now a healthy Joondalup, Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Mid- morning tea and gave each attendee a toddler, were sitting in the front row. land, Mirrabooka, Morley, Rockingham, calico backpack of pamphlets and Her’s was a wonderful, candid story. Warwick and Whitfords.

11 My Journey Making the most of a new beginning

onday, December 2, 1996, June Ann and Ian Monks with is a day that will remain two of their Mforever in my memory. seven grandchil- While taking a bath, I discovered a dren; twins Tristan and lump in my right breast. Hannah. My feelings at that time were no doubt the same as those felt by countless women before me – disbelief and a gut-wrenching fear. After various tests, breast cancer was diagnosed and I had the lump removed, along with glands from under my arm. Then followed several weeks of radiotherapy and I began the recovery process. I would have to say that the emotional recovery was the most I told no one about it, in fact even be amazing if I weren’t depressed. difficult and, believe me, I ran through now I feel uncomfortable that people She cited all the physical reasons why the whole range. will think I am a ‘nut case’, although if I would be depressed, such as having Initially, I was convinced I was going cancer taught me anything it was not had surgery, being taken off hormone to die, totally ignoring the fact that my to worry about what people think. replacement therapy, weeks of prognosis was good. I pictured this little man in my body radiation treatment and finally coming All around me, people were telling wearing rubber boots, a raincoat and to terms with the side effects of me to be positive, but I wasn’t rational. hat. He carried a backpack vacuum Tamoxifen. I felt like yelling ‘You be positive’. I cleaner and every time a cancer cell I felt better when it was all out in the realised later I was angry. I didn’t want reared its head he stomped on it and open and agreed to take some anti- to have breast cancer and at that stage vacuumed it up and blew the dead depressants until I returned to normal - I didn’t want to be bloody positive! cells out of my ear. whatever that was going to be. My writer’s imagination refused to be Despite my efforts to be positive, I A return to physical exercise made a quelled and I devised my own method lapsed into depression and howled all huge difference and I played tennis of being positive. over my doctor, who told me it would and went line dancing.

A husband’s thoughts

June’s diagnosis of breast cancer left asked for me to be present as a plan of We spent time together, talked me totally gobsmacked. It was action was outlined. together and loved each other. I tried unexpected and I wasn’t sure how to The following days, as June awaited to encourage her to look ahead and cope or the best way to support her. surgery and test results, will be forever be positive. I would have done I waited in a room a long way from engraved in my memory. I was thank- anything to take away her pain, the diagnostic area and as time ful for the support and love of my especially her depression. passed my stomach and my thoughts wonderful children. At one stage, I got a bit heavy churned. The weeks that followed were an handed and ordered her to write. I Hours passed before I received any emotional minefield for me. knew this was her solace and even feedback and although the doctor I had no idea what to say or how to she had no real idea why she had who sought me out was kindness behave, but I knew that being there for given it up. itself, her presence filled me with June at this time was the most She wrote and got her books dread. important thing. published and I am so proud of her. June was shell-shocked and had We did what we have always done. – Ian Monks

12 The number of people I line dance ○○○○○ with who came out of the woodwork Dragon boating news to tell me of their own experiences ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ with breast cancer amazed me. These ragons Abreast is thrilled to people were getting on with their lives report that South Australia and had put their cancer behind them. D now boasts a crew of pink I decided it was time I did the same. ladies and has received an $800 For some years, I had been interested grant from Sport and Recreation, plus in writing and had managed to get a generous funding of $2500 from the few short stories published, but before Minister for the Status of Women my breast cancer I had begun writing and $600 from various dragon boat romantic fiction novels. clubs. After the operation I shoved this The 8th Australian Masters Games ambition in the ‘too hard basket’ until in Newcastle during October was a my husband thrust me in front of the first for us – two boat loads of pink computer and said, ‘Write. I don’t care ladies. if it’s garbage. Just write!’ Two Dragons Abreast teams competed in the 8th What a powerful statement! No one Australian Masters Games in Newcastle. I’m not sure why I was reluctant to could miss those hot pink lycra rashies, resume my writing. I think it was all the fabulous wigs & boas! life, phone Pamela on (03) 9592 6352 tied up with feeling that the most I The Southbank Corporation has or 0417 147 822. could expect from life was a bit more donated two dragon boats to our The national raffle was an outstand- of living and that I shouldn’t expect to Brisbane group. ing success, raising more than $8500. become a published author. I decided a Darwin is in the process of building a First prize went to a Territorian, while publisher would not want to risk pink boat. This has been made possible the second and third prizes went to money on someone who had had by a generous donation from Madeline NSW. breast cancer. Luck. Plans for 2002 include entering the The fact that I was older than a lot of Western Australia has Chinese New Year Races at Darling romantic fiction writers always both- managed to have a boat Harbour, the Moomba ered me too, but now I think ‘Bugger painted pink. Festival in Melbourne and them. They can either like my work or Appropriately, she’s called the Australian National lump it!’ the Amazon Lady! Titles on the Gold Coast. I wrote several books and in 1998 I Pamela Williams and an Remember, new paddlers had two accepted by New Concepts enthusiastic group of are always wanted! Publishing for its electronic line. Since women are establishing a For more information then, I have had five more accepted, dragon boat team in about what’s happening in three of which are in paperback. I can’t Melbourne. your area contact your tell you what a joy it is to finally If you’d like to know state representatives or achieve status as a published author. more about what’s in- Michelle Hanton on Cancer has become a measuring stick volved or are looking for (08) 8941 8923 or e-mail for all my other problems. Most things adventure and fun in your [email protected] seem minor when compared with listening to that diagnosis and can be put in their proper place in life. When everycloud.com I see people fussing about silly things I feel like taking them aside and telling An increasing number of books full them delivered to your door. them to get a life. of information and the personal everycloud bazaar is an on-line used So much has happened to me since I experiences of women with breast bookshop for those wishing to sell had breast cancer, not the least of cancer are becoming available. books they’ve already read. which is becoming the grandmother of everycloud.com, run by breast To receive a mail order catalogue, a seven (including twins). cancer survivor, Leonie Young, deals newsletter with updates about new Rather than breast cancer being an in new and used health and lifestyle releases or more information, contact end to the life that I knew, it became a books and other resources. Leonie at everycloud.com, PO Box new beginning. I can honestly say that A comprehensive catalogue of 426, Sunnybank, Queensland 4109, I look forward to every day and the breast cancer titles is available on- phone (07) 3341 7570 or 0414 417 absolute joy I find in living. line or by mail order. Leonie can also 570, e-mail [email protected] source titles on any subject and have or Internet www.everycloud.com – June Ann Monks, Queensland 13 Thanks also to our partners, particu- Moving forward for young larly The Cancer Council NSW. Pfizer, Novotel, Avant Card and Breast Cancer Network Australia also deserve women with breast cancer a special mention – their sponsorship enabled our day to be a free event. oving forward is exactly BCNA thanks you The special needs of young women what Sunday 21 October with breast cancer are many and varied M2001 at Novotel Sydney on • Norwich Union’s Guiding Star – the young women reiterated that Darling Harbour was all about … Committee for its $5000 donation. throughout the day. Fertility, children, These funds will help host the moving forward into a better tomorrow relationship and coping issues are just National Summit next February. for the 205 young women, partners some of the issues raised. • Debbi Robey and Pip Cowan, set and health professionals who attended themselves the challenge of walking Many more will be highlighted by the the Young Women and Breast Cancer Victoria’s Great Ocean Road from questionnaire responses that we will MOVING FORWARD Forum and for Anglesea to Apollo Bay. They soon share. all those young women who will achieved their goal, raised $376.90 We at Young BCAG will champion inevitably follow. for the Network and spread the these issues with the key stakeholders The day was a recognition that we message about the need for breast in the breast cancer world, now with a cancer awareness in our community. young women: louder voice and many more members. • Naughton Transport for transporting • can get breast cancer, that we exist, Some inroads have been made to our Field of Women silhouettes. • with breast cancer do have special • Wilson Storage for assisting us with help young women. To celebrate our needs which we want acknowledged the Field of Women stocktake. successes, we have established an and addressed, and annual award for outstanding • with breast cancer can move contribution to young women with forward and live enriched lives. about, the issues and needs of young breast cancer. The inaugural Young This truly inspirational day was women affected by breast cancer. BCAG Award was presented to the opened by myself and Dr Andrew Equally important, participants had a deserving Prof. Michael Friedlander Penman, CEO The Cancer Council chance to meet other young women and Belinda Thewes for creating NSW, our key partner. Model, Sarah and partners going through similar support programs specifically for young O’Hare, then set the scene with style. experiences. women. Some of Australia’s experts, Dr Rosie Moving Forward was the initiative of But there is so much more that can King, Prof. Stewart Dunn, Dr Fran Young Breast Cancer Action Group and should be done for us. If the Boyle, Dr Rod Baber and Petrea King, NSW. We are all young volunteers at various cancer organisations, shared their wisdom, helping us in different stages of our breast cancer researchers, governments and we practical ways to move forward. journey and share a passion to bring young women really work together, we Comedian, Gretel Killeen’s ‘hubub’ about change to help all young women can achieve so much more. was an hilarious end to an amazing day. with breast cancer. Clearly, our young issues know no Everything was kept on track by our My inspirational Young BCAG team geographic boundaries and Moving brilliant MC, Cyndi Kaplan, a Breast mates, Elli Faktor, Kirsty Simmonds, Forward convincing showed that such Cancer Action Group NSW member Sarah Crompton, Anita Phillips and a forum is needed and wanted by and breast cancer survivor. Sandra Tanner, made the forum a young women. The day’s program was specifically reality, under the guiding hand of Sally Which cancer organisation will developed to look at, and to talk Crossing of BCAG NSW. Thank you! organise the inaugural national or perhaps various state-based young Guest speaker, women and breast cancer forums in Sarah O’Hare (third from the 2002? This would truly allow us to left), with the move forward in leaps and bounds! Moving Forward – Rosanna Martinello, organising committee: Anita convenor, Young Breast Cancer Phillips, Elli Action Group NSW Fakter, Rosanna Martinello, Sarah Editor’s note: The Network is keen to Crompton, Kirsty develop this concept, which began last year Simmonds and Sandra Tanner. with the Young Women’s Awareness Forum in Melbourne. We are considering ways to make this into a national program in the future. 14 Letters to the editor

Your article, New Risk Management Noreen Nye and her husband, Don. Clinic in Melbourne, on the back page of the latest issue of The Beacon prompted me to write to you with my story. My mother, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 49, died at 52. Her only sister was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 49 and died several weeks later. For myself, I had breast cancer at 66. I have always felt that there must be an hereditary factor somewhere in our family, so when my oncologist referred me to the Familial Cancer Centre of Peter MacCallum Institute, that my granddaughter will be watched her article, Helping a friend with the Melbourne, I knew that he must have carefully. ‘Big C’. felt the same. I am so glad that he did. I have been told that I have a fairly A wonderful friend gave me a feet The women who counselled me were high risk of breast cancer returning, massage. The day after my surgery, she caring and helpful – I cannot speak but I have an excellent GP, specialist came to the hospital with some highly enough of them. The blood test and oncologist who watch me regu- aromatic oils and massaged my feet, results took some months, as it is a larly. Also, I try to keep positive and and it felt ooooh so good and relaxing. time-consuming and exacting task. I learn all I can. Also, to help myself when recovering was found to have a mutation in the The cancer support group I belong to from surgery and trying to cope with BRCA2 gene. has been a great help and inspiration. I chemotherapy and radiotherapy, I’d go I am one of a family of six children, have made some wonderful friends, all to the bedroom, put the TV on at a all of whom are living. Genetic testing with a story to tell. low volume so that I couldn’t hear the was offered to my five siblings, all of – Noreen Nye, phone, and let the answering machine whom accepted. My young sister was Bridgewater on Loddon, Victoria take messages whenever I wanted to the only one of the five who was found sleep or rest without disturbances. to carry the same fault. I’m a six-year survivor of breast My family knew that if I was prepared My husband and I have two sons – cancer, having been diagnosed just to accept phone calls or visitors I’d be they both carry the BRCA2 gene fault. after my 40th birthday. lying on the lounge. If I was in the They each have a son and a daughter, The Spring issue of The Beacon is my bedroom it was because I wanted peace my grandchildren. first, and I think it’s full of helpful and and quiet. They respected that won- To date, one grandson tested negative positive information and articles, and derfully. and a granddaughter has tested the producers of this newsletter should A friend would put a note on her positive. My other granddaughter has be proud of their results. front door telling callers when she was indicated that she is thinking seriously I liked Kathy Kuipers’ page, and resting, but would appreciate their visit about the test. would like to add a couple of items to a bit later, preferably with a phone call The granddaughter who has tested first. positive will attend the new risk These things might appear to be management clinic and be monitored On the move? rude, but I know of other people doing six-monthly (I guess for the rest of her After mailing each issue of the same if they were tired after a tiny life). Fortunately, she is a strong young The Beacon, a number of baby had kept them up for half the woman and I am proud of the way she night, recovering from any type of newsletters are returned to us, as is handling it. surgery or were shiftworkers. It’s all people have moved. So don’t forget It has taken two years to get to this about looking after our health and to let us know if you are planning to point and it has been a learning coping with the day-to-day. or have moved. Phone the experience for the whole family. It is Again, thank you for a great Network’s new toll free number, something that I could have done newsletter. 1800 500 258. without, but I am reassured knowing – Marie Mueller, South Australia

15 ○○○○○ The Beacon is printed Beautiful women with the generous

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ support of PMP Print. Age 3: She looks at herself and sees a ‘too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too queen. straight/too curly’ - but says, ‘At least, Age 8: She looks at herself and sees I’m clean’ and goes out anyway. Cinderella. Age 50: She looks at herself and sees Age 15: She looks at herself and sees ‘I am’ and goes wherever she wants to . an ugly sister (Mum, I can’t go to Age 60: She looks and then reminds school looking like this!). herself of all the people who can’t even Seeking Age 20: She looks at herself and sees see themselves in the mirror anymore, ‘too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too goes out and conquers the world. Shelter straight/too curly’ - but decides she’s Age 70: She looks at herself and sees The Network welcomes these groups going out anyway. wisdom, laughter and ability, goes out under its umbrella: Age 30: She looks at herself and sees and enjoys life. • Bayside Breast Cancer Support ‘too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too Age 80: Doesn’t bother to look, just Group, Victoria; and straight/too curly’ - but decides she puts on a purple hat and goes out to • Seaside Support Group, Victoria. doesn’t have time to fix it, so she’s have fun with the world. During the next few months we will be contacting all our member groups. going out anyway. Maybe we should all grab that purple hat We hope that each of them will be Age 40: She looks at herself and sees earlier! able to identify a woman from their group willing to be their Network UPCOMING EVENTS contact person. This should make December 1-13: Warrior Women Exhibition, Convent Gallery, Daylesford, contact between us all much easier, Victoria. and allow us to involve you all much Contact: phone (03) 8430 8419. more in our projects and activities. December 9: BCAG NSW annual general meeting, 2.30pm, YWCA, 5-11 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney. Contact: Sally Crossing, (02) 9436 1755. New on the web site 2002 • Glenys Ruff from Gippsland had a great time at the Breast Friends February 21: BCNA’s Annual State Representatives’ Think Tank. weekend retreat and workshop in February 21-22: Fourth National Breast Care Nurses Conference, Adelaide, SA. Bendigo during October. Contact: Silvana DiMaria, (08) 8222 4618 or e-mail [email protected] • Report from the Illawarra Breast February 22-23: Breast Cancer Network Australia’s National Summit, Melbourne. Cancer Support Group’s New Idea March 8: ‘Bust Out’ International Women’s Day Gathering, Luna Park, Melbourne. morning tea and fashion parade, Contact: Deb Casey (03) 9531 1954 or www.bustout2002.com which was hosted by the hilarious Colette Mann. March 15 or 16 (to be confirmed): ‘BreastCare and Your Care – Improving • Why would anyone want to crawl Outcomes for Victorian Women’, a free seminar. over rocks and risk being swept out Contact: BCNA (03) 9805 2500. to sea? Debbi Robey and Pip June 30 – July 5: 18th UICC International Cancer Congress, Oslo, Norway. Cowan did just that, and all in the Contact: [email protected] name of breast cancer. Read their July 5-6: Fifth Australasian Conference on Familial and Genetic Aspects of Cancer, story and enjoy the photos. Barossa Valley, SA. • Reports from our state and consumer representatives. • Lisa Page’s experience with the YOU’RE NOT YET ON OUR MAILING LIST? Encore exercise program. Contact: Gil Paulsen, phone 1800 500 258, fax (03) 9805 2599, • Dragons Abreast newsletter. e-mail [email protected] or fill in this coupon and send it to: Breast Cancer Network Australia, PO Box 4082, Auburn South, Vic 3122 THE BEACON Name: ...... The Beacon is the newsletter of Breast Cancer Network Australia. Address: ...... Editor: Lyn Swinburne (03) 9805 2500 Layout: Substitution ...... State: ...... Postcode: ...... Your comments and items for the next newsletter are welcome. Send them to Phone: ( )...... E-mail: ...... PO Box 4082, Auburn South, Victoria 3122. Have you had a diagnosis of breast cancer? ❑ Yes ❑ No 16