DNA Doesn't Lie
Hello members! If you get a chance you may like to watch this week's episode of SBS Insight DNA Doesn't Lie - BCNA consumer Linda Rudman features in the episode, speaking about how she always knew cancer ran in her family. Linda underwent genetic screening in 2019 that revealed she had the BRCA1 gene — which leads to a high risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer (You can hear more about Linda's story via BCNA's YouTube channel High risk prophylactic mastectomy BCNA Dr Jane Tiller also features in the episode, discussing genetic discrimination in life insurance underwriting and how some families are choosing between preventative genetic screening and life insurance.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 Team
Watch this space!
We’ve been listening to your feedback and we’re excited to announce that the Online Network will be moving to a new platform in early 2025! This has been designed to better serve your needs. This will mean you will only need one login, one password for the Online Network and all our resources. We are committed to improving your experience, and we can’t wait to share these new features with you in the New Year. Keep an eye out for regular updates in early 2025.Friday Update (20/12/24) - BCNA Christmas Closure Details
Hello members! As we find ourselves in the last month of the year, we reflect on the activities BCNA have undertaken in 2024 (Highlights shared in the update), while acknowledging the work still ahead. This December, we are filled with gratitude for the strength, resilience, and hope that defines the breast cancer community. Whether you are a someone living with or beyond breast cancer; metastatic breast cancer; a caregiver or loved one - we hope the Online Network continues to be a safe place you can turn to for support and information. To our regular contributors to the Online Network that 'stick around' to support others, we appreciate the invaluable support you spread throughout the forum and the positive ripple effect that you may not see. Enjoy the update! BCNA Helpline over Christmas and New Year BCNA’s Helpline will be closed from 5pm Monday 23 December and will reopen on Monday 6 January at 9am (AEDT). During this time, you can request a call back, when we reopen by filling out this form. If you are looking for information about breast cancer, read Resources during the festive season page on our website. If you require additional support through this time, please contact one of the following organisations: Cancer Council www.cancer.org.au or 13 11 20 (available 27-31 December from 11am – 3pm (AEDT)) Beyond Blue www.beyondblue.org.au available 24/7 Lifeline www.lifeline.org.au available 24/7 For First People, 24/7 support is available at 1300YARN (12 92 76) www.13yarn.org.au For LGBTIQ+ people call or webchat with QLife at www.qlife.org.au or 1800 184 527 (available everyday 3pm-midnight) Online Network over Christmas and New Year You can continue to connect with others, here on BCNA's Online Network (available 24/7). Mez, Daina and Kate will be moderating the Online Network over the closure period should you need to send a private message for urgent matters you can include all moderators in your message. To send a private message from your laptop/desktop click the envelope next to your profile picture and click on the highlighted picture below; type in the moderator’s names in the ‘recipients’ Mez_BCNA Kate_BCNA Daina_BCNA. Type the body of your message and hit ‘Post Message’ button; To send a message from your mobile device you will click on your profile picture and then the envelope will be on the top-right (screenshot below): Community highlights Christmas Funnies In the spirit of Christmas Funnies ....... put them up here for a laugh! Popular forum discussions You may be interested in several forum discussions that have received the most comments in December: Lost Temp up Experience with suction/negative pressure dressings New and need to make some big decisions Not sure my future is looking bright BCNA Community News - 2024 Highlights Counting people with metastatic breast cancer: a step closer - 05 Feb 2024 A roadmap to finally count the number of people diagnosed with incurable and life limiting metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is a step closer thanks to the $1.5 million announced Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to fund a cancer data alliance on Saturday 3 February Read full article here. Carman's Fun Run raises $285,000 for BCNA - 22 Feb 2024 Melbourne turned on perfect weather as 6,100 participants ran or walked to support Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA). With support, BCNA has raised over $285,000 through Carman's Fun Run this year, and the donations are still coming in! All funds raised help BCNA to continue our work to ensure that all Australians affected by breast cancer receive the very best care, treatment and support. We are incredibly grateful for everyone's efforts through online fundraising and by getting involved on the day. We would also like to thank the Gaudry Foundation for their generous dollar matching donation of $10,000. Don’t forget to register and participate in Feb 25! BCNA Impact Report- 29 Feb 2024 We hope you enjoy reading about our many achievements, the significant milestones we’ve reached, and the personal messages from individuals who, with your support, have been helped in numerous ways by BCNA. Please read the report via the link 2024 Impact Report BCNA welcomes pharmacy prescription changes for breast cancer medications- 05 March 2024 From 1 September 2023, people pay less to access 325 medications on the PBS – with the Federal Government allowing a 60-day supply to be dispensed each time a person goes to the pharmacy, instead of a 30-day supply Read full article here Pink Bun Campaign raises $2 million for BCNA - 5 June 2024 BCNA gratefully extend a heartfelt thank you to our foundation partner Bakers Delight, along with every person who purchased Fun Buns or made a donation in-store between May 9-29. It is you who made the 2024 Pink Bun campaign a huge success! With your help, Bakers Delight raised an incredible $2 million, which will go directly to help Breast Cancer Network Australia support all Australians affected by breast cancer. https://youtu.be/RIjY93A7AVI Pink Lady Match raises $165,000 for BCNA - 28 June 2024 The power of connection was on full display last Saturday night at the MCG with almost 30,000 fans attending to support Melbourne FC and North Melbourne FC in the 2024 Pink Lady Match. Our Mini-Field of Women tribute outside the ground and light up display from partners Opal ANZ and Red Energy welcomed fans to the ground before filling the Pink Lady Bays with a sea of pink beanies, scarves and ponchos. Greater access to life-extending drug for people with metastatic breast cancer - 28 Aug 2024 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 Read full article here https://youtu.be/1MS3SHQVRGg?si=7M6_8C5joIHQW2wV New data captures true number for metastatic breast cancer In a world first, people with metastatic breast cancer are now being counted – at least in New South Wales. And work by the Cancer Institute New South Wales shows numbers have been wildly underestimated. Previously, the national estimate was of 10,553 people living with the disease. This new, verified data shows 7,900 people (7,850 women and 50 men) with metastatic breast cancer in NSW alone Read full article here https://youtu.be/n5c94wdEkd0 BCNA Webcasts / Information Forums in 2024 Webcast 'Persistent pain after breast cancer, addressing quality of life' - 07 Feb 2024 https://youtu.be/SGWv6HhHn3Q BCNA Information Forum (Murray Bridge SA) - 06 March 2024 The Information Forum covered topics including: Current and emerging treatments Managing emotional impacts Lymphoedema Head to the website link to access the session recordings Murray Bridge Information Forum (Website page) BCNA Information Forum (Hobart TAS) - 02 May 2024 The Information Forum covered topics including: Current and emerging breast cancer treatments Managing the emotional impacts of living with breast cancer The role of exercise in breast cancer care A guided meditation. Head to the website link to access the session recordings Hobart Information Forum (Website page) Webcast 'Let's cut through all the hype! Why exercise?' - 22 May 2024 https://youtu.be/ACwFpR1M32Q Webcast 'Global insights and local voices on metastatic breast cancer' - 13 Aug 2024 https://youtu.be/vId3tnJ-wnk Online support session 'Dealing with fear or doubt about treatment choices' - 09 Sept 2024 Clinical Psychologist Dr Charlotte Tottman and BCNA CEO Kirsten Pilatti discuss ways to recognise, manage and overcome emotions that media coverage may have caused. It includes qualified advice and strategies on how to manage what you may be feeling. (Mez's top pick for 2024!!) https://youtu.be/Eb6hKrI1rhs Books/Movies/TV Series/Docos This Cancer Council video is a few years old now, however still relevant for people navigating a breast cancer diagnosis over the holiday period. You may like to check it out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkVCLbsvp74 On a lighter note, I still believe these are my favourite movies in recent years and worth a watch: As I always say if you are not feeling Christmas this year there is always 'The Grinch who stole Christmas'! Our Helpline team, moderators and BCNA send you warmest wishes of happiness, rest and good times with the people (and pets!) who bring you joy. Hope to connect with you all again in 2025! 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 (AEDT), alternatively you can email helpline@bcna.org.au "May your days be merry and bright" - White ChristmasIncurable breast cancer numbers almost triple previous estimates. World first data
After 25 years of advocacy by BCNA, people with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) have finally been counted — at least in New South Wales. In a data breakthrough that far surpasses previous estimates, the Cancer Institute NSW has identified there are 7900 (7850 women and 50 men) living with MBC in NSW alone. This world-first announcement means people living with MBC are now visible in NSW, ensuring their needs are no longer overlooked. Knowing how many people are living with MBC means we can plan a healthcare system, policy and services. This announcement will pave the way for all cancers to be counted and is a model that can be rolled out nationally and internationally. To help ensure everyone is counted contact your state Health Minister and ask them to fast track the work of NSW in your state or territory. For more information about the announcement, you can read our latest media release via the link Incurable breast cancer numbers almost triple estimates (bcna.org.au) If you need our help? We recognise the emotional weight of today's announcement on those affected by breast cancer. BCNA is here to provide support and resources to help you navigate through any fears or anxieties you may be experiencing. Please call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 if you need support.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. BCNA respects Elle Macpherson's right to share her experience and acknowledges that every breast cancer experience is unique. All individual breast cancer diagnoses and experiences are different. BCNA recognises Elle Macpherson's right to discuss her own breast cancer experience through her own lens and support her right to make the choices she feels are best for her circumstances. It’s important to recognise that everyone’s diagnosis and every treatment path is unique and shaped around their individual diagnosis. When public figures discuss their health experiences, it brings valuable attention to important issues. However, BCNA believes it's crucial that these discussions do not lead to doubt or fear among others facing similar diagnoses. Our priority is to ensure that people feel empowered and informed in the choices they make following a breast cancer diagnosis. BCNA advocates for the importance of accessing trusted, evidence-based information to guide treatment decisions. While a healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being, plays a role in cancer care, we emphasise the importance of consulting healthcare professionals and relying on the expertise of your treatment team to make informed decisions for you. BCNA's role is to cut through the noise and help people navigate what is a very stressful time in their lives. We provide free information and resources to those with a breast cancer diagnosis at a time they need it most, along with support via our free Helpline. For more information or support, please visit our Information and Resources Hub or call our Helpline at 1800 268 002.
Supporting you through the current media coverage
Good morning all, As we’ve seen unfold in discussions over the past week in the online network, many of you have been impacted by the media surrounding a celebrity’s choices during their own cancer treatment. This is not the first time, nor the last, that a high-profile person will make statements that can affect those of us who have experienced breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some of the things you may be feeling at the moment include: - Feelings of doubt, fear, or shame in managing your own breast cancer experience. - A fear of recurrence or progression, which might lead you to question your evidence-based treatment plans. - Being at risk of ‘emotion-based’ decision making when it comes to treatment pathways or second-guessing any of your evidence-based treatment protocols. We are aware that some people may need support at the moment, and we wanted to take the opportunity to reach out. Our priority at BCNA will always be to ensure you feel empowered, informed, and secure in the choices you make with your own treating team following a breast cancer diagnosis. Clinical Psychologist, Dr Charlotte Tottman and BCNA CEO, Kirsten Pilatti filmed a member-focused discussion around recognising, managing and dealing with emotions or triggers that may have been raised by this recent coverage. It includes qualified advice and strategies on how to manage what you may be feeling. The intention is not to provoke unwanted emotions, but to provide information which may assist your wellbeing at this time. Proceed only if you are comfortable with potentially sensitive topics around breast cancer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb6hKrI1rhs Accessing quality, evidence-based information to guide treatment decisions is crucial when dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis. At BCNA, we ensure that individuals diagnosed with breast cancer receive information that is grounded in the best available clinical evidence. In addition to the Online Network, BCNA can help you to cut through the noise by providing access to reliable information and resources at bcna.org.au, as well as support via our free Helpline on 1800 500 258.Friday Update - 6th September 2024
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 "If you want to improve your self-worth, stop giving other people the calculator."Friday Update (On Tuesday!) - 13th August 2024
Hello everyone, We’re excited to bring you the latest updates, tips, and highlights from our community. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to our forum, we hope you find this update both informative and engaging. Thank you for being a part of our community. Community Highlights July Activity July saw 113 new members; 69 new discussions; 489 new comments and 11,906 visits to the community. New Private Group - Triple Positive Breast Cancer (TPBC) If you have been diagnosed with 'Triple Positive Breast Cancer' (TPBC) or supporting someone with this breast cancer type, we now have a new private group available! Head to the link Triple Positive Breast Cancer (TPBC) 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 Struggling through Chemo Calm before the storm Triple Positive Breast Cancer The waiting game... Posts by 'Category Name' 1-31 July 2024 BCNA Forums/Webcasts - 💻Join us online today at 3.30pm! Join us online today (13th August) at 3.30pm for our webcast Breaking Barriers: Global Insights and Local Voices on Metastatic Breast Cancer The webcast will feature special guest Dr Hope Rugo, globally recognised for her work as a clinical oncologist and breast cancer researcher. Hear from our speakers about the international landscape of metastatic breast cancer and the current emerging treatments across the world. Community News Providing the consumer voice in breast cancer research BCNA’s trained Consumer Representatives (CRs) play an important role in ensuring the consumer voice is included in breast cancer research. This year BCNA CRs provided the consumer voice in three of 19 National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) funded research projects. Breast cancer researchers have again asked our CRs to provide the consumer voice in their applications for the next round of NBCF grants to be announced in 2025. If you have a lived experience of breast cancer and would like to take part in studies and projects that aim to improve outcomes for others diagnosed, we invite you to join Review and Survey Group via link https://www.bcna.org.au/join-the-review-survey-group/ Berlei 20-year long partnership This year, Berlei and Breast Cancer Network Australia are celebrating our 20th year of partnership, driven by compassion, care and community. BCNA has helped countless Australians touched by the effects of breast cancer. Here’s to a bright future together. From developing the My Care Kits and Post-Surgery Bra to the Pink Bra Initiative, we’re so proud to have journeyed together over the last two decades. The My Care Kit is available free of charge to women in Australia who undergo surgery for breast cancer. The kit is generally ordered by your health professional, however please feel free to call BCNA's Helpline BCNA’s Helpline 1800 500 258. Immunisation Awareness Month While August signals the last month of winter and we start looking forward to warmer weather, Immunisation Awareness Month reminds us that we still need to play our part in keeping safe. COVID-19 still poses a considerable risk to those who are immunocompromised, which includes those receiving active treatment for cancer. Speak to your doctor about whether you are due for a booster COVID-19 vaccination and consider wearing a high-quality and well-fitted mask to protect yourself and others. If you are receiving treatment for breast cancer, it's important to make a plan with your treating team should you test positive for COVID-19. This could include receiving antivirals if you are eligible, to help you recover. Everyone has a part to play in keeping those who are vulnerable safe, and in ensuring our health systems can continue to deliver care to those who need it. Breast Cancer Now - Spotlights the Things people with Cancer Leave Unsaid Breast Cancer Now (UK research and support charity) has launched a very powerful campaign that highlights the things that people with breast cancer often don't speak about. Check out the campaign via the Link (Breast Cancer Now) https://youtu.be/ifLxM0vi8l0 Overwhelming response from volunteers for breast research project (Sunshine Coast News) More than 12,000 local women have been recruited by BreastScreen Queensland Sunshine Coast to participate in a world-first study. Read the full article HERE Books/Movies/TV Series/Documentaries Have you subscribed to BCNA’s The Beacon e-magazine? The Beacon is our free twice-yearly publication for people with breast cancer, and their families and friends. You can subscribe here Thank you for catching up with our latest update. We hope you found the news insightful and engaging. Stay tuned for more news and updates in our next edition.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 "The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it." – C.C. ScottFriday Update - 12th July 2024
Welcome to the latest Friday Update! This week is NAIDOC week (National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee) and celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Therefore we will again highlight BCNA's information and support for our First Peoples. Last month we had the Pink Lady Match at the MCG, of which we will share great images from the event. We will also share where you can watch our information forums online; the latest Policy & Advocacy news and more! Enjoy with you warm cuppa :) Community Highlights June Activity June saw 89 new members; 69 new discussions; 489 new comments and 11,906 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: Struggling through Chemo chemo or no chemo 38yo solo mama, what is happening?! Dizzy turns - BC Trip Negative diagnosed July 2019 Doesn't get any easier Posts by 'Category Name' 1-30 June 2024 Community News Pink Lady Match - More than a Game The power of connection was on full display last Saturday night at the MCG with almost 30,000 fans attending to support Melbourne Football Club and North Melbourne Football Club in the 2024 Pink Lady Match, thanks to our major partner Red Energy. Our Mini-Field of Women tribute outside the ground and light up display from partners Opal ANZ and Red Energy, welcomed fans to the ground before filling the Pink Lady Bays with a sea of pink beanies, scarves and ponchos. BCNA is thrilled to announce that over $165,000 was raised from PLAY4BCNA beanie sales and Virtual Pink Lady donations which will ensure BCNA can continue to provide vital support for the more than 20,000 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Check out the short video captured of the day https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/wYbO3ZsXF7 Did you know that BCNA advocates to reduce the cost of new breast cancer drugs? In the last three years we have supported over 15 submissions to campaign for these expensive breast cancer drugs to be put on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) so that they are more affordable In April we welcomed a decision by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) to recommend the life prolonging breast cancer drug Enhertu (trastuzumab deruxtecan) for government subsidy on the PBS for HER2-low metastatic breast cancer. Lynparza (olaparib) has recently been listed on the PBS for HER-2 negative early breast cancer with a confirmed BRCA mutation. Last year, BCNA advocated strongly for Lynparza’s subsidy as an important treatment option to help reduce the risk of breast cancer coming back after treatment for people who are at especially high risk of recurrence. BCNA remains committed to advocating for Lynparza’s subsidy for metastatic breast cancer patients. If you need support navigating your breast cancer treatment, call our Helpline on 1800 500 258. BCNA Podcast: What you Don't Know Until You Do UNLIMITED - "No" is a sentence (Boundary setting) EP8 After a cancer diagnosis and treatment, you often discover you are not able to operate at the same level as you did pre-cancer - physically, cognitively, or emotionally. In episode 8 of Upfront – What You Don’t Know Until You Do: Unlimited, Clinical Psychologist Dr Charlotte Tottman explains the importance of boundary setting in self-care, particularly in relation to the challenges in continuing to care for loved ones while navigating a cancer experience, and the role of guilt in this. We learn about how to identify your limits and act on them, communicate to others and ourselves, and how to identify alternative helpful activities and prioritise them Listen Here Providing the consumer voice in breast cancer research BCNA again celebrates the important role trained Consumer Representatives (CRs) play in ensuring the consumer voice is included in breast cancer research. CR Kathy Bell contributed to the study: Pioneering lower-dose combination treatments for breast cancer, one of 19 breast cancer research projects to receive a National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) research grant. The study led by Associate Professor Lan Nguyen at Monash University will use an innovative approach to address the challenges posed by breast cancers resistant to PI3K targeting drugs. If you have a lived experience of breast cancer and would like to take part in studies and projects that aim to improve outcomes for others diagnosed, we invite you to join Review and Survey Group via the form below. You can find out more about the study and join the Review and Survey Group via the link Join the Review & Survey Group BCNA information for First Peoples Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in First Nations’ women. If you are one of these women, or know one of these women, BCNA has information in different formats to help support you during treatment and beyond. The information was developed with significant input from consumers through BCNA’s First Peoples Advisory Group. Read more about Information for First Peoples https://bcna.org.au/resource-hub/articles/information-for-first-peoples/ resources via the BCNA website. We have a private group right here through the Online Network First Peoples You can also visit Cancer Australia’s Our Mob and Cancer for information and resources for First Peoples diagnosed with cancer. BCNA Forums/Webcasts Where can you watch BCNA Forums? This year BCNA have held forums in South Australia (Murray Bridge), Tasmania (Devonport/Hobart) and Victoria (Shepparton). If you would like to find out more about the content presented in our forums, you can head to our YouTube Playlist to watch various location recordings: https://www.youtube.com/@BCNetworkAustralia/playlists Books/Movies/TV Series/Documentaries Women from First Peoples communities across Australia talk about why it’s important to look to your community, including friends and family, for strength and connection and how speaking to others who have had similar experiences can help you. We recommend you take care when watching this video as some people may find the content upsetting. The people featured in this video are sharing their own unscripted personal stories. This is not intended to replace medical or professional advice. This video was made with support from Cancer Australia through the Supporting Women in Rural Areas Diagnosed With Breast Cancer program. Published in 2022. https://youtu.be/1d5ShdMSS8E Enjoy and if you have any feedback please feel free to comment below or send a private message. 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 "We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here to observe, to learn, to grow, to love... and then we return home." - Australian Aboriginal Proverb
