Friday Update - 6th September 2024

Mez_BCNA
Mez_BCNA Administrator, Staff, Member, Moderator Posts: 1,144
edited October 16 in Community news and events

Hello members, we’re pleased to bring you the latest Friday Update from our forum. Dive in to catch up on what’s been happening around Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and see what your fellow members have been chatting about.

As I was looking into Spring news and tips, I came across interesting insight from the Australian Bureau of Statistics 7 insights into sun protection behaviours in Australia from new ABS data to consider as the sun starts to shine more!

On a lighter note, you may like to check our Cancer Council's  Learning to Relax Audio Files designed to help cancer patients and their families, friends and carers learn relaxation techniques that may reduce the effects of stress associated with cancer. It includes guidelines and introductory exercises together with natural sounds and peaceful music to help listeners get the most benefit from relaxation.


Community Highlights

August Activity

August saw 102 new members; 87 new discussions; 534 new comments and 8,149 visits to the community.

Popular Forum Discussions 

If you have missed some of the most active discussions in the past month, you can check them out via the links below:

·       Lobular breast cancer just diagnosed

·       Struggling through Chemo

·       Letrozole

·       New to the Journey

·       Treatment after surgery


Posts by 'Category Name' 1-31st August 2024



BCNA Forums/Webcasts - 💻 Watch recording now!

Did you miss our webcast 'Breaking Barriers: Global insights and local voices on metastatic breast cancer? 

The webcast featured special guest Dr Hope Rugo, globally recognised for her work as a clinical oncologist and breast cancer researcher. We heard from our speakers about the international landscape of metastatic breast cancer and the current emerging treatments across the world.

Please watch recording below:

https://youtu.be/vId3tnJ-wnk?si=rYY0b2hE0tm15cgU


Community News

BCNA celebrates cancer nurses and advocates for enhanced support on Cancer Nurses Day


Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) proudly honours the exceptional contributions of cancer care nurses who play a crucial role in supporting those living with cancer - Read full article HERE


Greater access to life-extending drug for people with metastatic breast cancer

In a significant decision set to benefit around 1,700 people each year, access to cancer drug trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu) is being expanded from 1 September 2024.

For those living with the newly defined HER2-low subtype of metastatic breast cancer, this is a vital development that will extend their lives and improve quality of life - Read full article HERE


BCNA's My Care Kit - re-design


Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) would love to introduce you to our re-designed My Care Kit, which is available free of charge to women in Australia who undergo surgery for breast cancer. 

The Berlei Post-Surgery Recovery Bra has been designed specifically based on the feedback of people diagnosed with breast cancer and health professionals, and offers a softer and more functional new design with no pressure points and flexible closures to accommodate any swelling. 

We’re here to support you. Please reach out to BCNA’s Helpline on 1800 500 258 or send an email to helpline@bcna.org.au if are yet to access your post-surgery bra.


BCNA statement about Elle Macpherson's treatment decisions

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) would like to address recent media coverage regarding Elle Macpherson's statements about her personal approach to breast cancer treatment. Elle Macpherson's choices highlight the deeply personal nature of treatment decisions following a breast cancer diagnosis - Read the full article HERE


Books/Movies/TV Series/Documentaries


BCNA's Director of Policy, Advocacy & Support Services - Vicki Durston, Dr Charlotte Tottman & BCNA member Sarah Sharpe were on this week's episode of Life Matters on ABC Radio Breast reconstruction after concern and two birders on a big quest - ABC listen

We appreciate you taking time to read our update and please feel free to pass on any feedback or questions. The Mod Team - @Pat_BCNA @Mez_BCNA @Daina-BCNA @Kate_BCNA @Denise_BCNA @Risha_BCNA

If you wish to speak with the Helpline team regarding your concern, please call 1800 500 258 Mon-Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm (AEST), alternatively you can email helpline@bcna.org.au 

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