Hello everyone and welcome to Friday’s update.
National Volunteer Week 21 – 28 May 2018
It was National Volunteer week last week and I wanted take this opportunity to say thank you to all of the BCNA volunteers! We are thrilled to have such a dedicated and enthusiastic team of volunteers who provide support in so many ways for our organisation and women and men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. A big thank you to all of you!! A particularly big thank you to those on our network who lead our private groups and those who keep an eye out for new members to the network to ensure they are welcomed. We greatly value your support. Actually a big thank you to all of you for supporting each other and creating such a welcoming environment.
Resilience project
Last week I had the opportunity to attend a presentation at my children’s primary school about the Resilience Project. The presentation provided ‘practical evidence based, positive mental health strategies to build resilience and happiness’. It was a great presentation and I left thinking that it not only applies to my children but that adults would also benefit from lots of the information provided so I thought I would share it with you The presenter, Hugh van Cuylenburg, had three main messages to help build resilience - practice gratitude, empathy and mindfulness. One of his suggestions included keeping a ‘gratitude’ diary and every day for 21 days documenting 3 things that went well for you. So far I’m up to day 3 of my diary! See the link below.
https://theresilienceproject.com.au/
Community
highlights
Every week we have so much variety in the posts being shared in the online network. These can include questions about treatments, updates on how things are going, and celebrating milestones. Here are some popular conversations you might have missed:
Who else can’t sleep? (2681 views)
This has been an amazing thread that has provided a real insight into the problems associated with sleep while undergoing breast cancer treatment. Online members sharing their experiences of how to best manage this issue. One of our helpline nurses, Riki, attended a workshop on sleep at Peter Mac and we hope to have some resources to share with you soon.
Here Goes (1947 Views)
Commenced by TabooGal who said that she had tried posting a couple of times in the online forum but had ‘backed out’. This is quite normal as many of our members spend time reading prior to posting. Having been diagnosed with breast cancer, she had lots of unanswered questions. It was great to see the peer support offered to her by our community members.
Community News
Plan B Conference & Field of Women Bursary spots still available!
We have a limited number of Plan B Conference and Field of Women Bursary spots still available!
If you live in a rural or remote location around Australia and are a breast cancer survivor then you could be eligible.
We are offering a $250 bursary which includes a ticket to the Plan B Conference and a ticket to the Field of Women.
You can find out more information here: https://www.bcna.org.au/news-events/events/plan-b-conference/
Should you wish to apply please send your name, address and phone number to Renee Gani – conference@bcna.org.au
Bosom Buddies ACT
Bosom Buddies ACT are running the following three information sessions that you may be interested in:
·
Tuesday 19 June 10 am – 11.30 am Financial Considerations and Practical advice
· Tuesday 14 August 10 am – 11.30 am Wills and End of Life Care Plan
· Tuesday 28 August 6 pm – 7.30 pm Breast Reconstruction –“ to do or not to do” with Dr Farhadieh
Location - Pearce Community Centre, 1 Collett Place, Pearce ACT
The sessions are free and open to everyone, however you will need to RSVP for catering purposes. If you are unable to attend but are interested in any of these topics please let let Kareen Tait know and she will send you session notes.
Kareen Tait, Executive Officer 0406 376 500
RSVP: email admin@bosombuddies.org.au
In Danger
Josepha Dietrich will be joining Kenmore Library, Kenmore QLD on the 7 June at 6.30 pm- 7.30 pm to discuss her new book In Danger.
In Danger is one woman’s powerful story of how her mother’s death saved her life. When Josepha Dietrich was 21, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Four years after her mother’s death, the disease reared up in Josie’s own cells, this time more aggressively. She was 34, and her high-needs baby son was not yet one.
In Danger is Josie’s journey through life with breast cancer from inside the experience, capturing her energy and force-of-nature personality. She reflects on the literary works that inspired her, from cancer literature to other medical memoirs, works that helped her to explore disease and the human condition, and shed light on its darker aspects.
At its heart, this moving memoir delves deep into how it feels when everything you love is in danger. Books will be available for purchase on the night, or bring your copy from home for Josie to sign. Presented as part of the Lord Mayor’s Writers in Residence series.
Bookings for the event can be done online through https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/author-talk-meet-josepha-dietrich-kenmore-library-tickets-44970628360 .
YWCA Perth Programs
YWCA Perth are asking for expressions of interest in attending the following programs in Term 3 for 2018.
Perth Metro area
Riverton
Leisureplex- Corner High Road and Riley Road Riverton
Friday 27 July – Friday 14 September 12-2 pm
Balga Leisurepark- Corner Princess Road and Balga Avenue Balga Thursday 26 July - Thursday 13 September 12.30-2.30 pm
Being winter, they only run the 2 programs, however term 4 will see 3 metro programs. They are not confirmed as yet, however they do run a north, south and central program in Term 4. Enrolment is by returning the completed enrolment forms. To obtain your pack or make an enquiry contact the YWCA of Perth, 9440 3501 or FREECALL 1800 305 150. Email: programs@ywcaperth.com.au
More details are available at www.ywcaencore.org.au
The moderation team and I have enjoyed reading your posts regarding your favorite quotes, here is another one I came across the other day “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face” Eleanor Roosevelt.
Hoping you all have a good weekend and stay warm!
Giovanna
