đąWednesday Wellness - 4FEB26 - World Cancer Dayđ
Today is World Cancer Day, a global moment to raise awareness, honour those affected by cancer, whether personally or as a carer, and remind one another that support, hope, and the strength of our community can make the biggest impact on the life of another. This yearâs theme continues the call to âClose the Care Gapâ - a reminder that everyone deserves access to timely screening, quality treatment, and compassionate support. While cancer impacts millions of lives, a powerful part of today is recognising the strength of individuals, families, carers, health professionals, and communities who walk this journey together. đą So here is your wellness check-in for today: Be informed: Knowing the signs, symptoms, and screening recommendations for your age group can save lives. Be kind to your body: Gentle movement, rest, nourishing foods, and stressâreducing moments all contribute to wellbeing. Be connected: If someone you know is affected by cancer, even a small checkâin message can mean the world. Be compassionate to yourself and others: Everyoneâs experience is different, and support looks different for everyone too. Always remember that finding breast cancer early gives you the best chance of effective treatment. Being breast aware at any age means knowing whatâs normal for your body, so changes can be noticed sooner. If you're looking for some guidance on how to do this, watch our educational video or send it to someone you know that would benefit who is coming up time for a self-check! Learn how to perform a breast self-check here So this World Cancer Day, letâs take a moment today to honour resilience, hold space for those navigating cancer, and reaffirm our commitment to a healthier, more equitable future for all. đ
CEO Update - Kirsten Pilatti - Nov25
Dear Online Network community, As we approach the summer and holiday season, I want to take a moment to check in with you all and highlight some of the important campaigns and support services BCNA offers. đ October was a month of pride and purpose as we launched our new Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. breast awareness campaign. It was important that we could harness the passion and experiences of our network to help rebuild confidence among young women. While awareness of breast cancer may be high, we now need the Australian community to move from awareness to action. I loved being at Bondi Beach, where hundreds of women stepped into our mirrored booths to learn how to check their breasts with confidence. The energy, connection, and courage on display were truly inspiring. If you havenât already watched our new educational video, I encourage you to do so - and please share it with your friends, family, and networks. You are our best champions for helping spread this life-saving message. đ Looking ahead, weâre all limbering up for one of BCNAâs biggest events of the yearâCarmanâs Fun Run in Melbourne. Join me and thousands of runners, walkers, and joggers as we take on 5km, 10km, or the half marathon! Itâs a great way to kick off the new year, do something positive for yourself, and raise vital funds to support people affected by breast cancer. You can register here. đ Don't forget that we are here for you - we know that many medical services close during this time, which can be particularly challenging for those undergoing treatment. We want to ensure that anyone affected by breast cancer knows support is available including My Journey and My Care Kit. You are all familiar with our incredible Online Network community. When we completed our member experience survey last year, we heard that many people know we are here for when you are first diagnosed but didnât realise the resources and support we have when people are through those difficult first few months â so I would love you to tell me..... đŹ What is your favourite BCNA information page, video, podcast that has helped and why? As always, please reach out to our helpline if you need anything at all - 1800 500 258 9am-5pm AEDT - we are here and together we are stronger â¤ď¸ Cheers KP Kirsten Pilatti, CEO, BCNAđ The numbers are out.
Australia continues to lead globally in breast cancer survival rates. The latest 2025 data reveals: âŁď¸ Five-year survival has risen to 93% (up from 75% in 1987â1991). âŁď¸ In 2025, around 20,336 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer, including 207 men. âŁď¸ Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in Australian women, making up 27% of all new cases. âŁď¸ The average age of diagnosis is 62, with 80% of cases occurring in women over 50. âŁď¸ Metastatic breast cancer remains undercounted, but estimates suggest up to 16,000 people are living with it in NSW, Victoria, and Queensland. BCNA continues to advocate for national data collection. These statistics highlight both progress and ongoing challenges in breast cancer care and support. Most importantly, they remind us of the big picture behind our WHY - together we work to improve these numbers year on year. đ Click here to read more and download the infographic.In admiration and tribute to one of our community champions - Amber Whalan.
In admiration and tribute to one of our community champions - Amber Whalan. Mum to Ollie (14), Hazel (12) and Chase (10), a loved daughter, sister, friend and mad Deeâs supporter. Amber died yesterday, aged 38. These are always the days that bring our disease into reality for us all. Her words will continue to have an impact and make a difference. Her story connected with so many people across our Network. We know that sharing your experience is not always easy but certainly sends a message of strength to our community. We are forever grateful for the role Amber played and how her legacy will live on. "BCNA reminded me that seeking help isnât a weakness. Itâs a form of strength. And in a world where cancer can make you feel like youâre fighting alone, finding a network that gently says, âWeâre here. We get it. And weâre not going anywhere,â can mean everythingâ - Vale Amber. If you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer or cares for someone with a diagnosis, support is available. Contact the BCNA Helpline on 1800 500 258.đ Weâre delighted to welcome Christina to the BCNA team! đ
Weâre very pleased to officially announce that Christina_BCNAâ has joined the BCNA Online Network team as our newest moderator! Don't panic! Christina is here to be a wonderful addition to our team - the current BCNA mods you know and love are all still here. While the rest of our team continues to support you over the helpline phones, Christina is here as a dedicated presence in the Online Network, helping to nurture connection, conversation, and care within our digital community. Christina is passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces where people feel supported, heard, and connected. As a moderator, sheâll be helping to guide discussions, offer encouragement, and ensure our network remains a welcoming, respectful and active environment for everyone at all times. You may have noticed a few changes to the Online Network group pages recently, like updated page content, new groups like DCIS and the public Breast cancer awareness group, as well as new forums like Policy & advocacy and new initiatives like our Wednesday Wellness check ins. These are just some changes Christina has been busy making behind-the-scenes as part of her mission to ensure BCNA's Online Network remains an updated, active and impactful space. This is all part of our ongoing campaign to show how much we truly care and invest in our members in the Online Networkâbecause we know how important it is to you. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, deeper connections, and positive energy as we continue to nurture and grow BCNA's Online Network. Weâre thrilled to have Christina_BCNAâ on board and canât wait for you to get to know her! đ Please do reach out and say hello - we know she'd love to hear from you.â¨Wednesday Wellness Check-In
It's time for a Wednesday Wellness check in... đ¸ WELCOME TO SPRING! Itâs been a chilly winter, hasnât it? The kind that makes you want to stay wrapped in a blanket with a warm cuppa. But with spring just around the corner, weâre starting to feel those little hints of warmth and light â and itâs giving us something to look forward to đ¸ Today, weâre checking in on wellness â whatever that looks like for you right now. Maybe itâs a moment of peace, a good laugh, a walk in the sun, or just getting through the day. Big or small, it all counts. đ CARMEN'S FUN RUN Are you in Sydney and looking for some fun in the sun? Following its overwhelming success in Melbourne, Carmanâs Fun Run is launching its inaugural Sydney event on Sunday 21 September 2025. In collaboration with Sole Motive and Carmanâs Kitchen, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable, pink-filled day at Metcalfe Park, Pyrmont. Walk, jog or run 5km, 10km or 21.1km and make it count by raising funds to help Australians affected by breast cancer. Secure your spot now and help us turn the Harbour City PINK! Read more and register via the link Carmanâs Fun Run 2025 - Sydney đť NETWORK ACCESS UPDATE We know there have been some glitches lately on this Online Network, and we just wanted to say a big thank you for hanging in there with us. We really appreciate your patience while we work through these technical issues â we know how important this space is for connection and support. Our team is on it and doing everything we can to get things back to normal as soon as possible. Weâll keep you posted with any updates, and in the meantime, if youâre having trouble or need a hand, please reach out â weâre here to help đ Thanks again for your understanding and kindness â it means so much to us and to this amazing community. If youâre just joining us, we encourage you to explore the forums Get started here introduce yourself, or simply read along. And if youâve been with us for a while, thank you for continuing to support others. Warmly, BCNA ModsPink Lady Match - 2025
Pink Lady Match is back, and tickets are on sale now! đ Join us at the MCG on Sunday 10 August to watch Melbourne Football Club take on the Western Bulldogs (match time 3.20pm) Buy your ticket to the Pink Lady Bay via the link Pink Lady Match where 100% of ticket sales go directly to BCNA. All Pink Lady Bay seats include your choice of all new BCNA beanie! See you at the âG đ If you cant be there in person - show your support buy buying your place in the virtual pink lady.Friday Update - 1st August 2025
Hello and welcome to our Friday Update! Whether youâre new to the BCNA Online Network or a long-time member, weâre so glad youâre here. This safe space built on connection, understanding, and shared experience. Last month, weâve seen powerful conversations, and practical advice shared across the community. From navigating treatment side effects to finding emotional support, your contributions continue to make this network a safe and empowering place for all. If youâre just joining us, we encourage you to explore the forums Get started here introduce yourself, or simply read along. And if youâve been with us for a while, thank you for continuing to support others. đŹ Trending Online Network Discussions â July 2025 Bone and join pain side effects of chemotherapy Offering practical advice and emotional support for those newly starting chemotherapy treatment. From bad to worse, but getting better. Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) after previously having early-stage cancer. Kindly sharing story with the community, sparking conversation and shared experiences. Implant or Autologous Flap? Exploring reconstruction options post-mastectomy, with members sharing their experiences with implants versus DIEP flap procedures. WHO do I tell? Emotional challenges of disclosing diagnosis to loved ones. Members sharing advice on navigating conversations with family and friends. Letting go of blame - WHY did I get cancer? Inspired by a BCNA podcast, this discussion sparks meaningful dialogue about emotional healing and self-compassion. đ BCNA Highlights â July 2025 Expanding the âSeat At The Tableâ Program BCNA continued to grow its internationally recognised Consumer Representative Program Seat at the Table program , empowering people with lived experience to influence cancer research, policy, and care. This initiative ensures that real voices shape decisions that affect breast cancer patients nationwide. BCNA Consumer Representative Kym shares what she thinks Do you think itâs important that those with lived experience are involved in research? Global Advocacy for Metastatic Breast Cancer BCNA joined forces with Breast Cancer Now (UK) and Rethink Breast Cancer (Canada) at the Australian High Commission in London to launch a joint advocacy pledge. The united call to action urges governments and health systems worldwide to count and recognise people living with metastatic breast cancer; a critical step toward improving care, visibility, and support. Watch Together for visibility, equity, and support! Exciting News! BCNA is proud to welcome Red Energy as our inaugural Principal Partner. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our mission to support all Australians affected by breast cancer. Together, weâre powering hope, connection, and change. Stay tuned for more on how this collaboration will make a meaningful impact. Male Breast Cancer Awareness In November 2024, Martin noticed signs that something was wrong with his health. Read his story via the link Humbled by the love and support đ BCNA Events BCNA Pink Lady Match â Sunday 10 August 2025 Join BCNA and major partner Red Energy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as the Melbourne Demons take on the Western Bulldogs in support of Australians affected by breast cancer. Watch video Pink Lady Match is back, and tickets are on sale now Event Schedule 1:30 PM â BCNA Tribute Field opens in Yarra Park 1:30 PM â BCNA merchandise available outside Gate 1 and between Gates 5â6 2:00 PM â MCG gates open; attendees take seats for entertainment and pre-match ceremony 3:00 PM â Players enter the field 3:20 PM â Match begins Carmanâs Fun Run Sydneyâ Sunday 21 September 2025 đââď¸ Location: Metcalfe Park, Pyrmont, Sydney Time: 6:00 AM â 1:00 PM AEDT Event Options Half Marathon (21.1K) â Wave A: 7:15 AM | Wave B: 7:20 AM 10K & 5K Runs â Waves start from 9:00 AM Pink Lady 5K Walk â Starts at 10:15 AM Read more and register via the link Carmanâs Fun Run 2025 - Sydney Thatâs a Wrap! Thank you for joining us for another month of connection, support, and shared strength in the BCNA Online Network. If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, please donât hesitate to reach out to our moderators via BCNA_Mod or email helpline@bcna.org.au . Weâre here to help and always happy to hear from you. Until next time, take care and stay connected! BCNA_Mod TeamCount Us In. From Australia to the world: Leading the push for global metastatic breast cancer visibility
BCNA has teamed up with global partners to launch a powerful new pledge calling for visibility and support for people living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). The message? Just because MBC is incurable doesnât mean people should be invisible. This global pushâunveiled at Australia House in Londonâbrings together voices from Australia, the UK, and Canada, demanding better data, recognition, and care for those living with MBC. Itâs a bold step toward making sure no one is left out of the picture when it comes to cancer care. Read the full media release via the link Count Us In. From Australia to the world: Leading the push for global metastatic breast cancer visibilityFinally counted: A milestone for Victorians living with metastatic breast cancer
For the first time, Victoria has counted everyone living with metastatic breast cancer in the state, marking a major step forward for visibility, recognition, and support. New data released by the Victorian Cancer Registry (VCR) estimates that 4,461 Victorians are living with metastatic breast cancer, making them visible in the health system and ensuring their needs can are not overlooked. This achievement is the result of decades of consumer-led advocacy by Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), collaboration with the Victorian Cancer Registry and Cancer Council Victoria, and the determination of women living with metastatic breast cancer who have long called for change. Read more via the link Finally counted: A milestone for Victorians living with metastatic breast cancer
