17 June 2024
A free Information Forum in Shepparton on Wednesday 26 June will be hosted by Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), Australia’s leading breast cancer consumer and advocacy organisation, and give locals an opportunity to learn more about current and emerging breast cancer treatments and care. It will also address mental health support, lymphoedema management and local services available in the Shepparton area.
BCNA listened to members in and around Shepparton as part of our pre-event survey and heard that there are concerns around travelling for treatment, access to specialists and allied health, access to mental health support services as well as lymphoedema management and care.
BCNA’s Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services Vicki Durston says we know that equity of access is a significant issue for those who live rurally and regionally in Victoria.
“There can be difficulties accessing resources and support services in regional areas like Shepparton with some people affected by breast cancer travelling for treatment and bearing the financial burden of doing so,” Ms Durston said.
“Access to holistic healthcare is important not only for when someone is going through a diagnosis but after treatment as well. There is a huge demand for these types of services, which can make accessing them difficult.”
In addition to providing information and support to those diagnosed with breast cancer, BCNA advocates for better health and support services for people affected by breast cancer. This Information Forum offers a chance for people to engage with breast cancer experts they might not otherwise have the opportunity to hear from, close to where they live.
“We are coming to Shepparton with the aim to provide information to help with the issues that have been identified and hear directly from attendees about their experience,” Ms Durston said.
BCNA’s Information Forums are designed for everyone affected by breast cancer – whether they have been diagnosed with DCIS, early breast cancer, or metastatic breast cancer as well as supporters. It will also be an opportunity to hear from local community groups and BCNA members, who will share their own stories about their breast cancer diagnosis.
We are looking forward to connecting with the Shepparton community. This event will also be held online for anyone who would like to join via Zoom.
Registrations are free and open right up until the start time via BCNA’s website.
Date: Wednesday 26 June
Location: Quality Hotel Parklake, Shepparton
Time: 9.00 am for 9.30 am start – 3.00 pm
Guest speakers – Shepparton:
Medical oncologist: Dr Michelle White
Oncology Social Worker: Dr Carrie Lethborg
Lymphologist: Professor Neil Piller (appearing via video)
McGrath Breast Care Nurses: Michelle Parish and Melissa Gilmour
If you require quotes, content, or an interview please reach out and our team can coordinate this for you.
About us:
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the peak national organisation for Australians affected by breast cancer, and consists of a network of more than 175,000 individual members. BCNA supports, informs, represents and connects Australians affected by breast cancer and works to ensure that all Australians affected by breast cancer receive the very best care, treatment and support appropriate to their individual needs.
Contact details:
Carissa McQualter
Communications Specialist
0405 928 476
