Hi kerry goodluck attending the conferance. I lived in a rural are and had to travel 3 hrs to treatment and 3 hrs return.sometimes this would end up a 12 to 14 hr day.Especialy if the chemo room was busy or the medicine wasnt ready.
The worst was radiation having to stay in the city for 6 weeks away from my family.I couldnt find any accomodation available for me.The only option was discounted motel room.I didnt choose this as i didnt want to be on my own through treatment and alone in a big city.
I was lucky to find a place to stay with a friend of a friend.I think this issue realy needs to be addressed.
I was lucky to have the district nurse call in once a week.But i found this wasnt enough support.My GP didnt keep himself informed about my progress.It was a battle to get in to see him.This became very frustrating so i tended to manage on my own between treatments.
The breastcare nurse would also ring periodicaly.If it wasnt for my 10 year old son.Especialy doing my dressings after radiation.A sight im sure will stay with him for ever! I dont know how i would of coped. god bless him.
Something needs to be done for rural patients.
-more funding
-linking oncologist with gp
-accomodation made available
-family support
Just to name a few.I hope i have helped you a little.i hope your voice is heard.
Cheers Annie x