Friday Update - 17th November 2023
Mez_BCNA
Administrator, Staff, Member, Moderator Posts: 1,123 ✭
A very warm welcome to all
our new members who have joined us in November so far and to our existing
members who continue to provide support to others navigating their breast
cancer diagnosis or who are seeking support for family/friends.A reminder for our newbies: please check out Episode 1 (Season 1) of Charlotte Tottman’s Podcast D Day: diagnosis shock
Dr. Charlotte lays out her lived experience, provide explanations of psychological triggers and responses, and practical strategies that may help someone on their own cancer journey.
Enjoy the update!Community Highlights
Popular Forum Discussions
- Lobular breast cancer just diagnosed
- Hospital bag
- First anniversary
- Surgery day
- Quietly Freaking Out - Lumpectomy in less than two weeks
Christmas Funnies Thread
Its nearly time to post in the thread: Christmas Funnies ....... put them up here for a laugh! It can be a stressful time for many, particularly if you are faced with a breast cancer diagnosis. Hope you can enjoy some light hearted fun and share your funny quotes and pictures
Posts by 'Category Name' November 3 - 17 2023
Community News
BCNA Member Survey
We are excited to be launching a
national member survey for people impacted by breast cancer to better
understand how you use BCNA’s services and resources.
We have designed this survey in partnership with
researchers from the University of Sydney and representatives from our
membership groups including from our rural and regional, metastatic, LGBTIQ+
reference groups and SATT program graduates.
So many things have changed since we last
conducted a national survey in 2017 that informed the State of the Nation
report. This survey will guide our priorities and work to ensure that we keep
delivering the highest quality information and support to our members.
Healthcare has also changed a lot over the last
five years, especially since COVID-19. We are launching a separate survey for
health professionals who deliver breast cancer care so that we can improve our
engagement across the sector. The health professional survey will also be
launched this month.
Please click below to access the online survey
that best fits your experience:
https://www.bcna.org.au/member-experience-survey/
Marathon4Mum
Last Saturday, five amazing young men
challenged themselves to complete a marathon in memory of their mum and mother
figure, a woman who positively influenced their lives and continues to inspire
them every day, Jedda Berry.
"Marathon for Mum wasn't just a run, it was a
meaningful journey to honour an extraordinary lady and pass on the invaluable
lessons she shared." - Joel Berry
Five years ago, these young men organised a head
shave that raised over $50,000 in support of BCNA. We are thrilled to announce
that the 2023 'Marathon for Mum' has surpassed all of our expectations and
raised an incredible $80,000 to help BCNA continue to provide free support,
information and resources for all Australians affected by breast cancer.
To the extended community of family, friends and
supporters that rallied behind the boys, cheered them on and supported in every
possible way - you have all helped to make an incredible difference for the
more than 20,000 Australians that will be diagnosed with breast cancer each and
every year.
You can check out their fundraising page and story
via the link Marathon4Mum
Enhertu approved for PBS for those with HER2 metastatic breast cancer
BCNA welcomes the listing of Enhertu (trastuzumab deruxtecan) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for those with metastatic breast cancer .
BCNA supported the process for Enhertu to be
considered for listing on the PBS and we welcome the government subsidy for
this exciting new drug CLICK
HERE to read further
Australian Cancer Plan
Although cancer care has improved dramatically in Australia over the past few decades, two new cancer plans have been unveiled focusing on improving outcomes for priority population groups and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Two new cancer plans, one launched by the Australian Government and the other developed by the peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), aim to improve the cancer experiences of population groups who have the worst cancer outcomes. The two plans were announced in the past fortnight and hope to prevent Australians most at risk from “falling through the cracks”. To read further please head to the Australian Cancer Plan website.
BCNA Forums/Webcasts
BCNA will be hosting a webcast, Ask the Expert: Menopause – It’s more than a hot flush! on Wednesday 6 December 2023. You will have the opportunity to post questions during the live event.
Many people experience changes to their sexual wellbeing associated with breast cancer treatment that can be caused by menopause or menopause-like symptoms. These can include vaginal dryness or discomfort, loss of libido (sex drive), changes to self-esteem and fatigue. Topics like these can often be difficult to discuss with your partner or health professional and it can be reassuring to know you are not alone.
During this webcast, you will hear from Dr Tonia Mezzini, Sexual Health Physician based in Adelaide. Dr Mezzini is a leader in this area, with her level of expertise, she provides best practice and compassionate medical care. She presents in an open, informative and engaging way about sexual health and wellbeing.
This webcast will help to provide you with strategies to manage menopausal symptoms and discuss the support available to assist you with your sexual and emotional wellbeing.
Register for the webcast here.
Books/Movies/TV Series/Documentaries
I recently watched the movie 'Nyad' which is based on the true story of athlete Diana Nyad who at the age of 60 commits to swimming 110 miles from Cuba to Florida! https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5302918/
Take care everyone and if you have any questions or feedback please message one of our Online Network moderators below:
@Pat_BCNA @Mez_BCNA , @Risha_BCNA, @Denise_BCNA, @Daina-BCNA , @Georgie_BCNA
If you wish to speak with the Helpline team regarding your concern, please call 1800 500 258 Mon-Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm (AEDT), alternatively you can email helpline@bcna.org.au
The mod team
"Find a way." - Diana Nyad
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