Friday Update - 17th April 2025
Hi everyone, We’re back with your latest update from Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA)—keeping you across activity happening within the organisation and the broader community. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, navigating treatment, or supporting a loved one, we hope you find the update useful. We cannot believe it is Easter already! Hope you can enjoy the time in a way that feels right for you. You may even like to grab a hot cross bun this Easter at Bakers Delight! Did you know Bakers Delight and BCNA have had a partnership for 25 years? (Read more about this amazing partnership in this update). 📚 Resource of the Month: “My Journey” upgrade If you haven't explore it it yet, BCNA has launched its new My Journey with better information and support for people impacted by breast cancer! You would've noticed that My Journey and Online Network can now be found in one place for a more streamlined user experience across all devices. We collaborated with consumer representatives and healthcare professionals in creating and reviewing our evidence-based content, ensuring the new My Journey features a broad range of the latest and most credible resources for you. Watch the video here of Naveena (BCNA Consumer Representative) talking about how to navigate the platform. If you have any questions, please go to our Frequently asked questions page in the first instance. To ensure we do not miss any of your feedback or technical issues please log these under the Get in Touch form to ensure feedback is collected in the centralised area. A special thank those of you who have supported us with feedback and troubleshooting solutions during the transition to the new platform. 📢BCNA in Action: Policy Priorities 2025 With breast cancer being the most common cancer affecting Australian women, annually it is costing the Australian Government nearly $1.8 billion. As we approach the federal election, BCNA is advocating for systemic change in four key areas: Reducing the financial costs of breast cancer treatment and support – Women with breast cancer experience high out-of-pocket healthcare costs as well as indirect costs such as loss of income, leading to substantial financial burden. Prioritising risk-based stratification for early detection and breast screening programs – Genetic conditions and breast density can significantly increase breast cancer risk. Access to specialist diagnostic and screening tests is limited due to restrictive eligibility criteria, cost, and workforce shortages, particularly in regional areas. Addressing unmet supportive care needs for people impacted by breast cancer – Advances in treatment continue to improve survival rates, but physical and emotional impacts such as chronic pain, fear of recurrence, and lymphoedema remain complex and require greater attention. Investing in a sustainable and comprehensive cancer data ecosystem – The lack of comprehensive cancer data, including metastatic staging and recurrence, limits evidence-based healthcare planning and investment. In addition to these priorities, BCNA continues to work alongside the Australian Access to Breast Reconstruction Collaborative Group (AABRCG) to advocate for those at inherited risk of breast cancer to access surgery as a Category 2 rather than Category 3 - preventing people from being diagnosed with breast cancer while they wait for essential risk reducing surgeries. To read more about this collaboration click here. We are also continuing to drive policy reforms that enhance metastatic breast cancer (MBC) staging and recurrence data reporting. 📢BCNA in Action: National Cancer Survivorship Conference 2025 BCNA recently hosted a pre-conference workshop From Patient to Partner: Unlocking the power of consumer engagement at the 2025 National Cancer Survivorship Conference , aligning with the conference’s goal of building capability and capacity in survivorship care and research. The workshop focused on strengthening research impact through effective consumer-researcher partnerships. The session explored best practices for embedding consumer voices in research to enhance study design, improve relevance, and drive meaningful translation into clinical practice. Led by BCNA, in partnership with COSA, the University of Queensland and Translational Research Institute, the workshop highlighted collaborative approaches to integrating consumers into survivorship research, supporting sector-wide learning and capability building. BCNA funded the attendance of BCNA Consumer Representatives and supported the involvement of other peak cancer NGOs involved in the ACNNP to come together. There was shared interest to prioritise reducing barriers and increasing participation in consumer engagement in research, policy and practice. For those newer to consumer engagement, conversations provided encouragement on how to keep moving forward with curiosity and respect. We look forward to sharing the formal evaluation outcomes with all participants and our network. Hear about the conference highlights 🤝BCNA Celebrating partnerships RED ENERGY For a decade now, Red Energy has turned pink for BCNA. Yesterday BCNA and Red Energy celebrated an incredible 10 years of partnership. Since 2015, Red Energy has supported the 58 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer, including being a Major Partner of Pink Lady Match and Pink Sports Day program, which galvanises communities across Australia. Red Energy’s belief in BCNA’s cause manifested itself in the development of the Red BCNA Saver Plan*, through which Red Energy has contributed over $2.3 million on behalf of its customers. 🔗Read more about the impact of this colourful and thriving partnership via the link Red Energy's 10 years of turning pink for BCNA BAKERS DELIGHT From 1–21 May 2025, Bakers Delight bakeries across the country will turn pink to show their support for Australians affected by breast cancer. This year marks a very special milestone, 25 years of partnership between Bakers Delight and Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA). Together, we’ve raised over $27 million to ensure that no one diagnosed with breast cancer is unsupported. 🔗Read more about this incredible partnership via the link Bakers Delight Breast Cancer Campaign Partnership 🎉 Event Spotlight: Carman's Fun Run is coming to Sydney in 2025! Carman's Fun Run SYDNEY 2025! We’re thrilled to share that the wildly popular Melbourne event Carman's Fun Run is coming to Sydney in 2025! Join us on Sunday 21 September as Metcalfe Park, Pyrmont, turns pink as our partners at @carmanskitchen and @solemotive bring this fantastic event to a brand-new city. Whatever your speed, we have an option for you. Choose to join our 5km, 10km or half-marathon run, or gather your friends and family for the 5km Pink Lady Walk. If you register now, you’re taking advantage of the EARLY BIRD RATE! Be quick because this discount stops 29 April 2025. Click on the link to find out how to register Register Here 👂 We Want to Hear From You! What topics do you want to see more of in the community? Share your feedback, questions, or ideas via helpline@bcna.org.au or reply directly to this post. Take care and keep the conversations going! @BCNA_Mod TeamPink Hope (Australia's Hereditary Cancer Charity) - Events
Robyn (Programs Manager) at Pink Hope wanted to share to several events they have got coming up that are are focused on supporting people with hereditary cancer risk: (Sharing here in addition to the Hereditary Genetic Mutations and Breast Cancer group) Fri June 21st – Community catch-up dinner Brisbane Sat June 22nd – Info & Support Day at Royal Brisbane Women’s hospital Fri July 19th - Community Catch-up dinner Melbourne Sat July 20th - Info & Support Day at Uni of Melbourne Fri Aug 9th – Community Catch-up dinner Sydney Sat Aug 10th – Info & Support Day at Macquarie Uni, Sydney Flyers attached and website info via the link https://www.pinkhope.org.au/join-an-eventFriday Update - 8th December 2023
Welcome to December members, This may be a good time to remind ourselves and those around us that the holiday season can look different for everyone. If you’re struggling to feel those ‘festive’ feelings, please be kind to yourself. Here are some strategies from the Cancer Council to help make Christmas easier if you’re affected by cancer: 6 ways to cope with cancer this holiday season Hope you enjoy the update. Community Highlights November Activity In November the Online Network had 112 new discussions; 641 new comments and 26,216 visits to the community Popular Forum Discussions If you have missed some of the most active discussions in the last few weeks, you can check them out via the links below: Lobular breast cancer just diagnosed Creative Corner! Friday Funnies New Diagnosed SUFFERING STOPPING HORMONE TREATMENT FOR MENOPAUSE Posts by 'Category Name' November 2023 Community News BCNA News - New Board Members 16 Nov 2023 At BCNA's Annual General Meeting today, Surgical Oncologist Professor Bruce Mann retired from the Board after 9 years' service. We are so grateful to Bruce for his commitment and passion for BCNA and our purpose. We know he will continue to remain a friend of BCNA. CLICK HERE to read further. BCNA News - Time to Count People with Metastatic Breast Cancer – A Way Forward 29 Nov 2023 Finding a way to have people living with metastatic breast cancer consistently counted on our cancer registries is a step closer to reality. The Time to Count People with Metastatic Breast Cancer – A Way Forward report outlines a roadmap to collecting and reporting cancer stage and recurrence data. Read more via the link Time to Count People with Metastatic Breast Cancer - A Way Forward BCNA News – Vale Peta Murphy MP It is with much sadness that Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) acknowledges the death of Peta Murphy MP. Please read the discussion https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/26093/vale-peta-murphy-mp#latest You are welcome to leave your own comments / reflections. Mary Lloyd – The sneaky breast cancer I almost missed and how other can look out for it Mary Lloyd from the ABC’s Specialist reporting Team tells her personal story of a breast cancer experience and how lobular breast cancer (lobular carcinoma in situ – LCIS) is harder to detect. Her story looks at how is lobular cancer different to other types of breast cancer, and why lobular breast cancer is harder to detect on medical images. BCNA promotes breast awareness, and we encourage women to be familiar with their breasts so they can pick up changes early. If you notice a change that is unusual for you, it is important you see your doctor as soon as possible. Watch and read the full story HERE Dragons Abreast Australia (DAA) Celebrates 25 years! BCNA is proud to share a big birthday with Dragons Abreast Australia (DAA). Like us, DAA turned 25 this year. And, like us, DAA promotes the benefits of exercise – especially after a breast cancer diagnosis. Dragon boating is a great opportunity for those living with and beyond breast cancer to get back into exercise – pick up a paddle, have fun, and connect with others in a friendly and supportive environment. Interested in learning more? To join a dragon boating club or get involved in events, visit DAA’s website Click here to learn more about the benefits of exercise post-treatment on BCNA’s newly refreshed website. Shop BCNA Charity Christmas Cards - Hello Sunday Each year @hellosundaystore produce a beautiful range of Christmas cards just for BCNA. Designed by Australian and international artists, the cards are available in packs of 10 and are presented in a premium wallet featuring your chosen design. Hello Sunday donate 10 per cent of the wholesale price to BCNA. To buy your 10-pack of Christmas cards visit the link in bio. T&Cs apply https://hellosunday.com/collections/bcna-charity-christmas-cards BCNA Forums/Webcasts Upcoming Webcast! Stay tuned for the upcoming webcast related to "Persistent pain after treatment" on the 7th of February 2024 (Registration link will be posted in events through the Online Network soon) Upcoming Information Forum! Stay tuned for the upcoming BCNA Information forum to be held in Murray Bridge SA on the 6th of March 2024 (Registration link will be posted in events through the Online Network soon) Coffs Harbour Information Forum Recording now available! CLICK HERE to access recording The forum had both early breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer streams, and speakers for this forum included: · Dr. Michelle White, Medical Oncologist · Dr. Carrie Lethborg, Oncology Social Worker · Hugh Campbell, Exercise Physiologist (Masters in Oncology Exercise) · Lee Millard-Newton, lymphoedema accredited therapist (ALA), Registered Nurse · Jane Kelly, local Breast Care Nurse · Rob Brangwin, local Social Worker Books/Movies/TV Series/Documentaries This week I thought it was timely to include several resources that Peta Murphy was happy for BCNA to continue to share. Thankyou Peta for your voice. Upfront About Breast Cancer Ep#27 - Vulnerability and strength - Peta Murphy on breast cancer Dear Peta - a personal story https://youtu.be/-Hku5PtYzbk?si=yTZYA9IXYrTvfsKL 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.auFriday Update - 1st September 2023
Welcome to spring everyone! It feels like Field of Women has flown by us, however I would love to provide a recap on the wonderful day that it was. We also have Policy & Advocacy news in relation to a new drug recommended on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS); Additionally, we have information on the 60-day prescriptions of the PBS medicines. Please share your own Field of Women photos! We would love to see them (If you are happy to share). Online Network Housekeeping: Several members have advised that sometimes emails from the Online Network (eg. notification emails) cannot be found in their Inbox. These messages will end up in your 'Junk' or 'Spam' folder, therefore it is a good idea to check those folders occasionally. Typically if you right click on the email and mark it as 'not junk' it will give you an option to 'Always trust this email' Community Highlights Popular Forum Discussions If you have missed some of the most active discussions last month, you can check them out via the links below: Totally confused after seeking second opinion need to connect chemo question please? Joining the shitty titty club... Extreme weakness! Posts by 'Category Name' 12 August - 31 August 2023 Featured Private Group - 'Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)' Created only last month, the new Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) private group aims to connect together individuals who are diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Around 15 per cent of people with early breast cancer will have a sub-type called triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC is a type of breast cancer that does not have any of the three receptors commonly found on breast cancer cells – the oestrogen, progesterone and HER2 receptors. This means they don't respond to treatments that block these receptors. TNBC generally respond well to chemotherapy. Read more via the My Journey article Triple negative breast cancer Community News BCNA News 22 August 2023 – BCNA celebrates recent PBAC decisions Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) has welcomed a decision to recommend a crucial drug to treat early-stage triple negative breast cancer for a government subsidy CLICK HERE to read more BCNA News 01 September 2023 – 60-day dispensing prescriptions of PBS medicines Today BCNA welcomes the first day of 60-day dispensing for certain medications. This will make medicines cheaper for people living with chronic disease, including those with breast cancer. Although not in the first tranche, we look forward to hormone-blocking therapies used to treat some types of breast cancer being included in future rollouts of the program. Read our media release here. This morning, Federal Health Minister Mark Butler talks to ABC RN Breakfast about the changes. You can listen to the interview titled: 'Scare campaigns complete rubbish': 60-day pharmacy scripts introduced' here BCNA Social Post - Asking for a second opinion This is such a common topic and question we hear on the Helpline, therefore I thought I would share the social post here in the Friday update as well: We are often asked if it’s OK to get a second opinion from another health professional – whether that’s an oncologist, surgeon, GP or other health professional. Some people tell us they don’t want to offend their health professional or may not know how to go about requesting a second opinion. While you may initially be referred to a particular health professional, you do not need to stay with them. If you are unhappy about who you have been referred to, or just want to speak to someone else, it’s a good idea to seek a second opinion. When telling your health professional that you'd like a second opinion, be upfront and direct. Most will welcome a second opinion – they may even suggest it themselves. Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below. For more information on getting a second opinion: https://www.bcna.org.au/understandi.../your-medical-team/. Daily Mail – Major change coming to telehealth appointments from today Telehealth appointments are an important part of Australia's healthcare system with millions accessing the service every year. But there is one major change coming to telehealth appointments that patients need to know about CLICK HERE to read more Field of Women Reflecting on my first Field of Women, it was truly a wonderful day. I was humbled by the many lovely people who crossed my path and stood beside me on the MCG. The strength and sense of community I'll never forget. There were smiles, tears and moments of personal reflection I could see on people's faces; arms around each other in support and bright colours to shine a light on breast cancer. Thankyou to everyone who shared their story and I hope you enjoyed the day. You can now view photos and videos from the day via the links below: View photos here View live stream recording here BCNA Staff survey - Field of Women 2023 Here is my own little memory that I love from the day: BCNA Forums/Webcasts Coffs Harbour Information Forum BCNA is hosting an Information Forum in Coffs Harbour on the 7th of September 2023 for everyone affected by breast cancer, including their supporters, covering a range of vital topics CLICK HERE to register (Note: If you are unable to attend in person, you can still join us virtually. When registering, select ‘Information Forum – Attending Virtually’. The virtual session will be delivered via Zoom, and you will receive the access link one day before the event). Books/Movies/TV Series/Documentaries Great to see information about the upcoming Coffs Harbour Forum in the local news this week Coffs Coast News Of The Area 1 September 2023 - News Of The Area Thankyou for taking the time to read the update. Please take care and if you have any questions or feedback please messaged of our Online Network moderators below: @Pat_BCNA @Mez_BCNA @Risha_BCNA @Denise_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 The mod team - Mez, Jenny, Pat, Denise and Risha "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become". - Carl JungFriday Update - 31st March 2023
Hi everyone, BCNA have been around town with the Port Lincoln and Warrnambool forums both being held in March. If you wish to watch the recordings when they become available, refer to the My Journey article https://myjourney.org.au/article/3662 ; Easter is just around the corner too. For those who observe the occasion, may you have a lovely week. If it includes a hot drink with hot cross buns to mark the occasion, then we have come into the perfect weather here in Victoria. Take Care and enjoy the update. Community Highlights March 2023 Activity During the month of March the Online Network had 91 new discussions; 441 comments and 18,557 visits to the community. Popular Forum Discussions If you have missed some of the most active discussions in the past couple of weeks, you can check them out via the links below: All the tests to update new diagnosis Friday Funnies Feeling a failure Just feel like running away Decision on chemotherapy Posts by 'Category Name' March 2023 Community News BCNA News - 07 March 2023 BCNA part of first ever research into Fear of breast cancer recurrence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women BCNA News - 23 March 2023 Findings from the study, led by Professor Jane Usher at the University of Western Sydney, found people from LGBTIQ+ communities continue to face disparities of care BCNA Health Professional Network News - 23 March 2023 A keynote speaker at a Health Professional Network event hosted by BCNA in Adelaide earlier this month provided an informative presentation on managing oestrogen deficiency symptoms in women living with breast cancer. Read How to Manage Menopause After Breast Cancer - Dr Tonia Mezzini New Trial for Advanced HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Breast Cancer Trials has opened a new study called the TUGETHER clinical trial, which aims to find out if adding tucatinib and pembrolizumab to the usual treatment given to people with advanced HER2-positive breast cancer, will slow down the growth of the cancer. Read further details about The TUGETHER clinical trial and discuss with your treating team if you wish to know more about accessing trials Trans Day of Visibility Today on Trans Day of Visibility (31 March 2023), BCNA affirms and celebrates our transgender and gender diverse members. Trans and gender diverse people may have questions and concerns about how they will be impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis, including how cancer treatment will affect their body image and gender affirmation, how their treating team will respect their gender and how they can access inclusive peer support. Breast cancer can affect anyone, and everyone has the right to health care that respects their identity and is free from discrimination. Read more about challenges faced by trans and gender diverse people in this report by the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & Society: https://www.latrobe.edu.au/.../TRANScending... BCNA has a suite of resources for those in LGBTIQ+ communities with breast cancer, here: https://www.bcna.org.au/.../information-for-lgbtiqplus.../ Break the cycle of hereditary breast cancer BCNA joined a Pink Hope event at Parliament House in Canberra last week to help break the cycle of hereditary breast cancer. Representatives from BCNA's Policy & Advocacy Team heard from a consumer panel shining a light on the challenges Australians at risk of, or diagnosed with, hereditary breast cancer face. As part of this panel, we heard from Nikki Neofitou who at 23 made the decision to undergo preventative breast cancer surgery, but it was delayed and, while waiting, she was diagnosed with cancer. BCNA joins Pink Hope in advocating for a national approach to reducing wait times for preventative, and other breast cancer-related, surgeries. Read the ABC News story here: https://www.abc.net.au/.../surgery-waits.../102130914 Pink Hope Community ABC Australia Field of Women is back at the 'G' in 2023! BCNA's iconic Field of Women is back at the MCG this August to mark BCNA's 25th anniversary. Early-bird pre-sale tickers will be available soon! Register NOW to be notified when pre-sale tickets are live via the following link https://bcna.live/FieldOfWomen2023 Webcasts / Podcasts Webcast Details will be available next week for an upcoming webcast: 'Prioritising me - setting healthy boundaries' on the 27th April 7.00-8.00pm. Stay tuned! Podcast Season 2 of 'What you don't know until you do' podcast is coming in April! Following on from the success of season 1 of What You Don’t Know Until You Do with Dr. Charlotte Tottman, in which Charlotte talks about her lived experience of breast cancer over 10 insightful episodes, we're excited to be back with season 2. This season will focus on Charlotte's clinical experience and will explore topics such as navigating relationships with your treating team, managing behavioural changes and the importance of setting boundaries for self-care. Books / Movies / TV Series / Documentaries Currently reading the book The Girl Who Fell From the Sky . This is a story of a young woman's resilience and courage after falling 14,000 feet whilst skydiving. Emma wakes in hospital a paraplegic and learns how to live again. Hope you enjoyed the update and if you have any feedback please feel free to comment below or send a private message. @Jenny_BCNA @Carissa_BCNA @Pat_BCNA @Mez_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 - Mez, Carissa, Jenny and Pat "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it" - Maya AngelouThe Beacon - 1st March 2023
Hi everyone, If you haven't checked your inbox yet, you should have received the latest issue #94 of The Beacon. Alternatively you can access it here via the link https://www.bcna.org.au/news-events/the-beacon-magazine/issue-94-march-2023/ If you prefer to read it offline as a PDF there is a 'Download' option. Hope you enjoy the content.Friday Update - 10th March 2023
Hello Online Network members, Hope you are enjoying a lovely Autumn day if you live in Melbourne; it truly is a beautiful season. Reflecting on some of the Online Network’s February activity, it was nice to see that the most activity has been visible in ‘Social Groups’ (private groups). If you have not checked out the variety of groups that may be relevant to your needs, please head to the link Groups Take care and enjoy. Community Highlights Revised Group The private PALB2 Gene Group has been changed to Hereditary Genetic Mutations and Breast Cancer to encompass individuals affected by any genetic mutation that may relate to an increased risk of brest cancer. February 2023 Activity In February the Online Network had 93 new discussions; 596 new comments and 15,032 visits to the community Popular Forum Discussions If you have missed some of the most active discussions in the past few weeks, you can check them out below: New Group Proposal - No Reconstruction post Breast Cancer Surgery What Care Givers do ...... Not doing so well Letrozole - Fracture in spine Mastectomy Posts by 'Category Name' February 2023 Community News BCNA News – 07 March 2023 More research is need into fear of breast cancer recurrence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, participants at a Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) Think Tank heard last week BCNA part of first ever research into fear of breast cancer recurrence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women BCNA News – 02 March 2023 As Australia’s leading voice for people affected bu breast cancer, BCNA is proud its Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services, Vicki Durston, has been elected president of the General Assembly of the ABC Alliance BCNA’s Director Policy, Advocacy and Support Services elected to international breast cancer body International Women's Day - 8th March 2023 Thankyou to those who supported or participated in the Carman's Fun Run last Sunday. BCNA are pleased to announced that with the work of fundraisers and event partners, we were able to raise over $255,000 to help support of Australians affected by breast cancer. World Lymphoedema Day – 6th March 2023 On World Lymphoedema Awareness Day BCNA is calling for improved equity of access to treatments for lymphoedema. Lymphoedema, which is swelling caused by damage to the lymph nodes, can affect many people following treatment for breast cancer. It is a lifelong condition that can require wearing expensive compression garments to manage the symptoms. The financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis is already significant without the ongoing costs to manage and treat lymphoedema. All states and territories run programs that subsidise lymphoedema compression garments, and BCNA is calling for further investment to make these programs even more accessible in the long term. BCNA celebrates advocates like Monique Bareham who says early diagnosis followed by evidence-based care is fundamental to living well with lymphoedema. ‘Compression is key to managing swelling and access to garments is essential.’ For more information on lymphoedema compression garment programs in your state/territory, see here: https://www.lymphoedema.org.au/.../compression-garment.../ Cancer Survivorship Conference The sixth national Cancer Survivorship Conference has been underway in Adelaide Convention Centre today and yesterday, Hosted by the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia - COSA and Flinders University. There were some great speakers at the conference and BCNA held an exhibit there to engage with health professionals, researchers and consumers. A couple of my colleagues came across some practical information that Online Network members may find of interest. They met Rebecca who has gone through her own breast cancer experience and works for the organisation ‘Moo Goo’. Many of you know that the Moo Goo creams have been helpful for people during their radiation treatment and here is the link from our service finder if you would like to find out more MooGoo Prophylactic Measures and Skin Care During Treatment They also found sexual health physician Tonia Mezinni highly informative and engaging. You can check out further information about her via the link https://drtoniamezzini.com.au/ . We also have added another business to the BCNA service finder Olive & Bee This is a natural lubricant created by Claire Osterstock (Physiotherapist) in Adelaide who assist men and women with pelvic pain. The product was handed out after Tonia Mezinni’s session. BCNA presented three of its major projects on detailed posters: Surviving Breast Reconstruction: What Information Would Help Women; Making Metastatic Breast Cancer Count, and Out With Cancer: LGBTQI Cancer Survivorship and Care. Forums / Webcasts Warrnambool Information Forum 28th March 2023 BCNA have announced another face-to-face forum coming in March. You can see the latest discussion here through the Online Network: https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/25352/upcoming-event-warrnambool-information-forum-28-march#latest Port Lincoln Information Forum 7th March 2023 – Recap to come soon The Port Lincoln forum was held this week and I look forward to sharing more details and recap of the event in the next update Books/ Movies / TV Series/ Documentaries Breast Cancer Now - The Chat – The UK’s first group messaging series is live Breast Cancer Now have created a new series called ‘The Chat’. Aimed at encouraging us to question how we speak about breast cancer, highlighting the importance of honesty and real talk in society that typically does not like to talk about. Inspired by real cancer stories – check it out Breast Cancer Now | The Chat That's all for this week and if you have any content you would like to see in the updates please feel free to share with me and I will try my best. @Jenny_BCNA @Carissa_BCNA @Pat_BCNA @Mez_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 - Mez, Carissa, Jenny and Pat "She stood in the storm, & when the wind did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails." - Elizabeth EdwardsThe Beacon - 1st December 2022
Hello everyone, Well it is December already and the latest issue #93 of The Beacon is available now and should arrive in your inbox today. Alternatively you can access it here via the link https://www.bcna.org.au/news-events/the-beacon-magazine/issue-93-december-2022/ There is also a 'Download' option if you prefer to read it as a PDF. Enjoy!Friday Update - 7th October 2022
Friday update 7th October 2022 Warm greetings to members old and new. Sorry for the belated Friday update (public holidays and leave caught up with me!). Despite the continued rain drops left-over from winter days, you can certainly feel the touch of spring in the air as we make our way into October. BCNA has a lot of activity happening in October as it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I will share with you some of the activities ahead and a little more about BCNA’s theme ‘My Care’. My local hills look beautiful with the mist Community highlights Have you checked out the online network private groups? It is always great to revisit the various groups that you can join here through the online network, as we do add new ones on occasion. Here are links to all the current groups: · Choosing breast reconstruction · Living with metastatic breast cancer · Let's talk about vaginas · Young women · Invasive Lobular Cancer (ILC) · Work and breast cancer · Christians diagnosed with breast cancer · Breast Cancer, Childlessness and Us.... · First Peoples · Carers Corner · LGBTIQ+ Breast Cancer Network · Living in Regional, Rural and Remote areas · Men living with breast cancer · PALB2 gene support · Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Breast Cancer (Note: There are no notifications to tell members of a group when someone has posted a new ‘discussion’ or ‘comment’. Therefore it is useful to check-in occasionally on the groups you are part of to see if others are reaching out for support) Popular forum discussions Members new and old may have missed some of the forum discussions that have been most active in September: 1. Letrozole for the next 10years.. 2. In your gardens 3. Creative Corner! 4. Lumpectomy tomorrow - lobular cancer and so scared 5. Letrozole & thining hair Posts by ‘Category’ Name’- September 2022 Community News Understanding my care It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) wants to take the opportunity to shine a light on what best breast cancer care looks like and empower those diagnosed to make informed decisions about their care. Throughout October BCNA will be promoting what optimal breast cancer care looks like by highlighting five key elements of the Optimal Care Pathway (OCP) for people with breast cancer. We understand that everyone has different needs and personal circumstances, so what is determined to be the best care for you, might be completely different for someone else. If you would like more information about optimal care, or you have any questions about your care, you can call BCNA’s Helpline on 1800 500 258 or visit Helping Australians access the best breast cancer care Join us in Rockhampton BCNA will be hosting an Information Forum in Rockhampton for people living with breast cancer and their supporters on the 26th of October – 9:00am for 9:30am start – 3:00pm. The Information Forum will cover a range of topics including the latest in breast cancer treatment, managing your emotional wellbeing after a breast cancer diagnosis, and how you can live well during treatment and beyond. It will also be an opportunity to hear about what BCNA does and the services and resources we have available to support you, alongside discussing the unique rural challenges you may experience and the local services available in your community. Guest speakers will include Medical Oncologist Dr Rebecca Moor, Oncology Social Worker Dr Carrie Lethborg, Breast Care Nurses Donna Wellington, Sally Haley (McGrath) and Carolanne Boland, Exercise Physiologist and BCNA member Karen Seymour and BCNA member Michelle Peters. There will be two concurrent information sessions throughout the day – one for people with early breast cancer and one for people with metastatic breast cancer. To register or for more information about the event, click on the following link: https://bit.ly/BCNA_Rockhampton_Forum Making Metastatic Breast Cancer Count October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is taking this opportunity to tell you what we’re doing to shine a light on those living with metastatic breast cancer. As part of our commitment to be the voice of all with metastatic breast cancer, next week on 13 October – Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day – we will be launching a paper on this very issue. The intent of the paper is to: · Draw attention to the fact that we do not have consistent cancer reporting across Australia that would allow us to determine how many people are currently living with metastatic breast cancer · Put our own estimated figure to the size of this group using available modelling · Highlight the unmet supportive care needs of this group · Call for policy change and accountability to ensure this group is counted and made visible so that we can plan and deliver the care and support they need On the 13th, we invite you to connect with BCNA on social media, share our post and Issues Paper, and tell us what this announcement means to you via our posts and social stories on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Community Fundraising Events in October October is the perfect time to host an event because it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Whether it’s a Pink Sports Day and sausage sizzle at your sporting club, an Actively Pink fitness challenge or fundraising walk with friends, or a Pink Lady Event morning tea – registration as a ‘host fundraiser’ is free, simple and fully supported to help you make it a fun and perfectly pink event For ideas and inspo, or to register your event, visit https://bit.ly/BCNA_Community_Fundraising Regional, Rural and Remote As mentioned in the last update, there is a new private group Living in Regional, Rural and Remote areas. I thought it would be a good time to remind online members of the BCNA information available for those who live in these areas and are going through a breast cancer diagnosis: · Launceston Information Forum: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpvVCfUeAqMB_rEU4xOFhqJHau0AJG7sj · Ballarat Information Forum: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpvVCfUeAqMBmHGiqN4Puaae3szIqRi3d · Podcast episode: In conversation with Tania and Fiona: The challenges of living in a rural area following a breast cancer diagnosis · My journey articles Questions to ask if you live in a remote or rural area; Breast cancer information for people in rural areas; Financial supports for people with breast cancer in rural and remote areas Webcasts Men and Breast Cancer – Treatment, Managing Side Effects and Finding Support In recognition of Male Breast Cancer Awareness Day on Thursday 20 October, we will be hosting an interactive webcast for men diagnosed with breast cancer. The session will explore hormone-blocking treatments for breast cancer and how to manage side effects, provide information about lymphoedema and the treatment and care available and learn about what resources and support are available to you. To register or for more information about the event CLICK HERE Did you miss the ‘Living well with breast cancer’ online information forum? Thank you to everyone who joined one or more of the sessions during our recent online Information Forum. We hope you took away some helpful information and enjoyed connecting with others. If you missed a session that interested you, the videos are now available to be viewed on demand CLICK HERE For more information about our upcoming Information Forums please visit the BCNA website Books/Movies/TV Series/ Documentaries A Darker Shade of Pink - Mary O'Brien & Pia Hirsch The book describes the story of 21 years of supporting women living with metastatic breast cancer. It is a pragmatic guide about establishing and running this kind of group as well as a collection of funny, sad, and creative stories and experiences told by Mary, Pia and the women who have been a part of the Advanced Breast Cancer Group throughout the last 21 years. The above book is another beauty out of the My Journey library (If you have any breast cancer related books that you have found insightful, please email through contact@bcna.org.au). Take care and if you have feedback or any concerns while online, please contact one of the moderators - @Jenny_BCNA @Carissa_BCNA @Pat_BCNA @Mez_BCNA If you need to speak with someone regarding your concern, please call 1800 500 258 alternatively, you can email contact@bcna.org.au Take care, The mod team – Mez, Carissa, Jenny, & Pat “Be there for others, but never leave yourself behind.” – Dodinsky
