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.
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 ProverbFriday Update (On Tuesday!) - 18th June 2024
Hello members new, old and in between :) Well, it has been some time since I crammed in an update for you all (apologies) and Tuesday is just as good a day as any right? During the month of May BCNA had another very successful Pink Bun campaign and our webcast 'Let's cut through all the hype! Why exercise?' was a hit! As we head into June we have the Pink Lady Match at the MCG in support of breast cancer and we are also heading to Shepparton for our information forum. All of these details are provided in the update - enjoy! Hope you are all rugging up as we adjust to the winter air. You may like to read Cancer Council QLD's article Ward off the winter blues: five tips to stay on top of your health this winter Community Highlights May Activity May saw 79 new discussions; 674 new comments and 16,507 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 Anxious Newly Diagnosed Old habits die hard Friday Funnies After 13 years and 2 diagnoses today the biggest celebration yet... Posts by 'Category Name' 1- 31 May 2024 Community News Taking the pulse on our members' experience with BCNA We wanted to find out if BCNA’s information and support services—including our Helpline, Online Network, website, podcasts, and webcasts—are meeting the needs of our members. Late last year we sent out a member experience survey asking how we can improve the support we provide to people living with and beyond breast cancer Read further details here Thankyou! 2024 Pink Bun Campaign Wrap 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 has raised an incredible $2 million, which will go directly to help Breast Cancer Network Australia support all Australians affected by breast cancer. I personally was honoured to be part of this years campaign and stand beside Sam as she bravely told her story. We need to talk about metastatic breast cancer - BCNA's new media guide 6 June 2024 Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) – Australia’s leading voice for people affected by breast cancer – has released a media guide on how to talk about metastatic breast cancer. BCNA’s Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services Vicki Durston said she hoped the guide would help journalists, among others, when covering stories about metastatic breast cancer, and breast cancer more generally. Read the media release via the link BCNA’s new metastatic breast cancer guide and view the Media Guide BCNA Podcast - What you Don't Know Until You Do UNLIMITED "The view from the other side of the bed: the partner's perspective" EP7 If you haven't yet stumbled across Dr Charlotte Tottman's wonderful podcase series, I'm sure our Online Network members tell you its worth a listen. In our socials channel highlight recently that talks to a partner's perspective of their loved one's diagnosis Listen Here Pink Lady Match - This weekend! (21st June) Tickets are now on sale, so please help BCNA 'pink up' the game and show support for every Australian affected by breast cancer. If you can't make it to the game, please do show your support from afar by purchasing a virtual pink lady or a BCNA beanie. Visit the link https://www.pinkladymatch.com.au/ for tickets and merchandise today. BCNA Forums/Webcasts Forums - Attend our next event in-person (Shepparton, Vic) or online! Wednesday 26 June 2024 Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is heading to Shepparton, Victoria, as part of our national Information Forum series. We are bringing leading experts to the local community to provide insights on a range of breast cancer topics Register Here Webcasts On Wednesday 22 May we held BCNA’s webcast Let’s cut through all the hype! Why exercise? We were thrilled to have Lauren Whiting, Founder and CEO of Lift Cancer Care Services and trained Oncology Physiotherapist present on the night. Lauren spoke about the many benefits of getting regular exercise for anyone who has been recently diagnosed or who is living with or after a breast cancer diagnosis. She also talked through simple and practical ways exercise can be implemented in the comfort of your home, where to seek information and resources on exercise and how to access support from professionals like an exercise physiologist. We were also joined by two BCNA Consumer Representatives, Dr Andrea Smith and Dr Naama Carlin, sharing their experience with exercise and what it looks like for them. The on-demand recording of this webcast can be viewed below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACwFpR1M32Q Books/Movies/TV Series/Documentaries As mentioned in this update, I was very honoured to represent the Helpline team to work with our ambassador Sam in this year's Pink Bun Campaign (You know I plugged the Online Network of course!). Check out Sam's story below: https://youtu.be/id0jc-6r_DI 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 "You may find that making a difference for others makes the biggest difference in you." - Brian WilliamsBCNA welcomes pharmacy prescription changes for breast cancer medications
Six key breast cancer drugs are now more affordable thanks to 60-day prescribing. BCNA is pleased to confirm that six common types of hormone blocking therapies such as letrozole, anastrozole and tamoxifen, amongst others, are now able to be prescribed 60-days at a time, saving consumers time and money. “It is especially important that we work to reduce the cost of hormone blocking therapies for breast cancer as some are required for ten years or more after active treatment finishes,” said BCNA Director Policy, Advocacy & Support Services Vicki Durston. “Reducing the ongoing cost of these drugs will start to address financial toxicity and improve equity, especially for those in lower socioeconomic groups who already experience disparities in access to breast cancer care.” BCNA advocated strongly in support of 60-day prescribing last year, alongside other groups such as the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Read more via the link https://www.bcna.org.au/latest-news/bcna-news/bcna-welcomes-pharmacy-prescription-changes-for-breast-cancer-medications/ and also refer to the Department of Health and Aged Care information sheet https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-03/savings-with-60-day-prescriptions_0.pdf
