INSPIRATIONAL
Last week I was privileged to attend the BCNA National Summit – Making a Difference.
During the conference, I met some wonderful people. Loved hearing their stories, especially those who live in regional areas as their communities and challenges are different to those in the city.
When I arrived, I shared a coffee with an incredible woman, who despite her own challenges, is giving back as a Community Liaison officer in Launceston, working in a low economic community and “Making a Difference”.
I introduce Stephanie Rigby, a mother of a son and a disabled daughter and who has lived with cancer for 7 years.
Lifestyle impacts include a daughter who is intellectually disabled, has had no family support.
When she was diagnosed, she and her husband had just managed to raise enough funds to buy a commission home. Not long after her diagnosis, her husband who worked at the demised Gunns Group, lost his job. It took him 3 years to get work. During that time their savings went on keeping afloat as well as coping with cancer treatment. We all know how difficult it is managing the day to day regime of cancer treatment and what it does to your head.
Living in a regional town, Stephanie had to travel for radiotherapy. There was no transport available. Through word of mouth she learnt about the Red Cross who helped her out.
During her treatment, she had no family support and did everything herself which was difficult. Despite having a disabled child that needed support as well as herself, there was no assistance. She was also frightened and unsure about her medical journey at the local hospital as she was on her own and didn’t know what was going to happen to her family. What a resilient woman.
Stephanie said she is a very shy person but through BCNA has become empowered to improve herself to help others. Her inspiration was Pauline Watson and Mandy Forteath who mentored her as a Community Liaison officer for BCNA. Since her introduction to BCNA she has completed many courses including community services, Parents Matter Program, First Aid, Customer Service & Business. Not bad for someone who lacked self-confidence.
Stephanie was so chuffed when she visited BCNA Head Office to present a cheque for $1700 through a fundraising initiative in her community. This may seem a small amount, but it wasn’t for those who gave it. BCNA staff welcomed her and was over the moon with the donation. Every little bit helps.
As a passing comment, she would love some BCNA badges to give her and helpers credibility (she is making her own). Her new goal is to get a Community House in Blackwood Drive, Launceston up and running. She needs help.
Stephanie, you are a “Community Hero” making a difference. Go girl.
Karen Cowley
Living with Cancer for 10 years.
