4 Corners - Generation Cancer

Question

4 Corners on ABC had an interesting program on cancer in young adults (under 50) called “Generation Cancer”. &nbsp; Not specific to breast cancer, but breast cancer was mentioned quite a bit.
Should be available to watch on iView.

kirsten_bcna · Answer

Hi everyone and thank you Suki​ for highlighting the story. I know there was quite a reaction to many of the topics that were explored.We know that any media on cancer with lived experiencing may impact our Network so I hope anyone who found it difficult to watch reaches out to us today for support.For me watching last night, I saw so many of the reasons why we developed the Podcast What you don't know until you do with Dr Charlotte Tottman. The emotions that are so difficult to understand for yourself until you connect with others - who just know!Series 1:https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/podcasts/what-you-dont-know-until-you-do/Series 2:https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/podcasts/what-you-dont-know-until-you-do-unlimited/&nbsp;Last night also highlighted that we have so many unanswered questions in cancer and why research is so very important. When we have unanswered questions - we know it can bring about uncertainty - and I don't know about anyone else but uncertainty can make me a bit wobbly!&nbsp;I also found some of the questions that were asked angered me - but this is not the first time and it sure wont be the last that a media story raises my temperature!I have found chatting with our Network to help process some of my thoughts, feelings and reactions to last night - so if you need us we are here.KP

jacjac · Answer

Hi all, my amazing mate , Patrice featured in this program. She’s the author of the book Fk with Cancer.&nbsp;I was first diagnosed at 38 and now am 44 with Stage IV.I was wondering if the BCNA was advocating for any changes to the cancer plan (which fails to address 30-45 cancer) or government support including Superannuation rules.&nbsp;The assumption that cancer is an over 55, homeowner, retiree disease is causing housing instability, financial distress and making life harder for this age group &amp; younger.I’m a renter and I fear I’ll work til I die due to the DSP being so low and Super Insurance being impossible to navigate. I consider myself lucky as I know two young women (23 and 26 respectively) who are on JobSeeker during treatment because they have no sick leave left and had to stop work.&nbsp;I have written to MPs about this with Ministers sending back template letter recommending the aged pension (I’m 44) or even refinancing (I’m a renter).Our first challenge is to be counted but then to be recognised. &nbsp;Happy to help in anyway I can to get this to the right people.&nbsp;

suki · Answer

My apologies - I didn’t mean for my post to be triggering 🙏
As a fit, active, healthy person diagnosed with breast cancer at 47 with no family history, I felt the program raised many of the questions I had/have. &nbsp;I am pleased that the issue is being highlighted and hopefully the outcome will be further research and support.
I particularly welcomed the segment on financial issues for younger people - taking time off for treatment, lack of super, cost of scans etc. &nbsp;I definitely feel more can be done in that space.

arpie · Answer

Thanks for the heads up Suki​ xx.
I always record it - so will definitely make sure I watch it.&nbsp;

kirsten_bcna · Answer

I agree Suki so many topics and issues covered that it will help with many conversations including finance, work, partners, kids, diet exercise, friends, music, screening ages, the environment - it covered a lot of ground