Dr Jo Prendergast "Cancer and Cartwheels"
What happens when a comedian’s life gets flipped over by cancer? They find the funny side of course. But can cancer be funny? When psychiatrist Dr Jo Prendergast was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2021, she asked herself what good she could do with the treatment experience. As someone who cannot be idle - even during chemo - she put together a website on managing chemotherapy side-effects, made a semi-viral TikTok, and wrote her second comedy show. At the four-year anniversary of her diagnosis, Jo is cancer-free and ready to laugh about the tough stuff. She is inviting us to laugh with her. Jo's Cancer and Cartwheels show is touring nationally and supporting Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA). Jo has offered BCNA a limited allocation of double passes to each of her comedy festival ‘opening night’ shows in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. If you would like to register to receive a complimentary double pass with a post show meet, greet and photo register here Cancer and Cartwheels - performance schedule and dates (opening night in bold): Adelaide : March 11 - 15, 2025 Melbourne : March 31 - April 6 2025 Sydney : April 26, 2025 Brisbane : May 17 -18 2025 Jo is also aiming to raise $5,000 through her shows to help BCNA continue to provide free support and resources for all Australians affected by breast cancer. This year more than 21,000 Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer. She is encouraging her show attendees to make a donation and leave a message or dedication on her event fundraising page. Any donation over $2, will be issued with a tax-deductible receipt. If you would like to read more about Jo there are also the following social media handles / links: @cancerandcartheels @drjoprendergastcomedy and https://drjoprendergast.comVolunteer for Pink Bun campaign
Do you, or someone you know, have time between now and the end of May to support Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA)’s biggest fundraiser? We are looking for people to help coordinate Pink Bun Campaign Volunteers with events at Bakers Delight bakeries from May 1st to 21st, 2025. The role involves working with other BCNA volunteers in your community and Bakers Delight bakeries, with support from BCNA staff. People who enjoy talking to others and are comfortable with basic computer skills can apply here to register their interest. Please forward this link onto anyone you know who might be able to help. We are especially looking for support in NSW, the ACT QLD, and WA. Funds raised though the Pink Bun Campaign are vital to BCNA’s ability to support Australians affected by breast cancer. If you don’t have the availability to support BCNA in this role, please keep an eye out for details on how you can support the campaign with a spare hour or two. Check out the behind the scene video from last year's campaign https://www.facebook.com/bakersdelight/videos/bcna-pink-buns-are-back/754110623542494/Welcome New Members - 8th November 2024
Thankyou to everyone who has joined the Online Network recently: @ChefArn @Gemma86M @Tropickle @DavKel8285 @KatieBee @Petiti @NatAnd @Rhee @cancersucks123 @youngt @Tokilovesme @sawsan @brymac @Rhubarb21 @michellemad @Millie_Vanilli @jessr84 @Neetha @joyalick6 @AmandaB @BarbaraP @MissL @GrannyBerd @stine @pwood @anne983 @PCK @Mals @narelle_d @belle_1 @LeeAnn @dianamaree @Kiska @trix63 @globalbabe @dandelion85 @MellieG @Doris @MelV83 @zoe @tsanson @4rrrt5555 @pjaz @little_miss_curious @giselle @alisonf @Bdel @Erika888 @flowergirl @yse @Katsued @roo123 @vickitennant @SlimTee @vicksta @Lincoln_Chick1981 @AmandaHER2positive @GRS @tantechrissie @Topcat29 @sunrise_sunset @lescol @kimw71 @Kjenkins @Adelsalison @coltmama @SandiDee @Keen @JulesNicoll @purplenailpolish @toni64 @tina_m2 @Ris67 @dangerje @520174 @hughsy @Deelight @diana_s @ilovesummer @Suziw1957 @sez44 @winwin14 @bgu @Kate15 @mumto6kids @Mauz1453 @Annemarie29 @Nicola95 @beth_again @Fairlie @Cheree_80 @shirlanne @JelsKovac @LizzieV @perthpom71 @allyluscombe @vickifriz @Beatha @sarah_h2 @pchan @Southmelbourne24 @PinkSummer @SMcS @katesmom @Chalkie @markell @Kasper34 @PamJ @biance88 @ang2212 @jlong86 @DoreenG @Carolyn1 @lizk @LRZ @Hilly58 @patrice @Brazillda @Helenesylvia @GMenghetti @jodylee @Bec0715 @tonic @JessPer @Dan_S @Luca @Padmant @Keggie32 @Fairyland_3 @janemk @Wadi @Mona73 @melsev @marialynley You have found your way to Breast Cancer Network Australia's (BCNA's) Online Network. This is a forum where you are not alone and can engage with generous members who provide meaningful support to each other. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with other members. Please explore our various Groups for members who are looking for greater peer-to-peer support. The following links may also be helpful in getting you started: If you would like to introduce yourself please read How do I post a new Discussion? How do I send a private message? Navigating the online community Community Guidelines My Journey Newly diagnosed? Listen to BCNA's Upfront About Breast Cancer Just Diagnosed - What's Next? and What I Wish I Knew podcasts Metastatic breast cancer diagnosis? Webcast: Just diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, what’s next? When is your birthday? Head to this discussion thread if you would like to share your birthday (no need to include the year unless you want to). We love an online celebration and on the day you will receive a virtual birthday cake that we can all share! Our long-time members (newbies too!) are a wealth of information regarding the useful discussion topics and information available through BCNA's Online Network, therefore please do not hesitate to post your questions. You have the option to add details about yourself to your 'Profile' (Update your profile image by clicking 'Change My Picture') and if you would like more targeted responses, you may like to add where you live (e.g. Sydney; Melbourne; Regional Victoria). If you need help navigating the Online Network please message myself @Mez_BCNA or one of our other moderators: @Denise_BCNA , @Risha_BCNA , @Pat_BCNA, @Kate_BCNA , @Daina_BCNA Please note: the Online Network is not moderated by staff/volunteers on the weekends, however if you need something actioned, the quickest way to resolve your query is to contact the Helpline Team via email helpline@bcna.org.au or phone 1800 500 258 Monday to Friday 9:00am-5:00pm AEDTWelcome New Members - 10th October 2024
Thankyou to everyone who has recently join our community: @tracyk @LuLua @Darby @Strawbz @Leslie_A @yharding @CarrieB @Aries @amch @Ally_B @sandrar @Maxiash @Birdsworth @wynette @Newgrandma @mamal @Shazzi @chersher @TiffyM @npolmans @Grid @elas1620 @Caithness @syrettmanda @ReggieO @anaprivado @SusieQuzie @HRM @SarahS0309 @KCG @AM1234 @Lulu5 @Son @susie55 @joannag @yesrun @Jeanni @RobynL @JT8572 @Beckyvdb @Eunice_2024 @emily30 @mk14960 @kim23 @TOT13 @DorisK @Peachy @Ankit2024 @Kim315 @sea_breeze1 @Apiday @shellHer2 @mjane1577 @Kaz27 @scram @Bec45 @Chance @Ali550055 @Paula_M @Livinglife @MKKeech @ajt42 @BKB @Bing @Emer05_S @klf @su_macsu @Caroljean @Tracey_T @Fiona_S13 @Aleeta1110 @marrow @Gail1953 @melmeljay @jurrie @kgbCoast @DonnaJo @melways @Georgie_H @bennettjau02 @SamaraPaige @juliew @chrismans @Mackenzie @10986597 You have found your way to Breast Cancer Network Australia's (BCNA's) Online Network. This is a forum where you are not alone and can engage with generous members who provide meaningful support to each other. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with other members. Please explore our various Groups for members who are looking for greater peer-to-peer support. The following links may also be helpful in getting you started: If you would like to introduce yourself please read How do I post a new Discussion? How do I send a private message? Navigating the online community Community Guidelines My Journey Newly diagnosed? Listen to BCNA's Upfront About Breast Cancer Just Diagnosed - What's Next? and What I Wish I Knew podcasts Metastatic breast cancer diagnosis? Webcast: Just diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, what’s next? When is your birthday? Head to this discussion thread if you would like to share your birthday (no need to include the year unless you want to). We love an online celebration and on the day you will receive a virtual birthday cake that we can all share! Our long-time members (newbies too!) are a wealth of information regarding the useful discussion topics and information available through BCNA's Online Network, therefore please do not hesitate to post your questions. You have the option to add details about yourself to your 'Profile' (Update your profile image by clicking 'Change My Picture') and if you would like more targeted responses, you may like to add where you live (e.g. Sydney; Melbourne; Regional Victoria). If you need help navigating the Online Network please message myself @Mez_BCNA or one of our other moderators: @Denise_BCNA , @Risha_BCNA , @Pat_BCNA, @Kate_BCNA , @Daina_BCNA Please note: the Online Network is not moderated by staff/volunteers on the weekends, however if you need something actioned, the quickest way to resolve your query is to contact the Helpline Team via email helpline@bcna.org.au or phone 1800 500 258 Monday to Friday 9:00am-5:00pm AEDTWelcome New Members - 20th September 2024
Thankyou to everyone who had recently joined the Online Network: @Tjay74 @laura1975 @senjakala @kiwisandy @Inga70 @Cazza_61 @tashcancer36 @JMB @vmacalli @Alicat @Merry @kerasia1 @maxi3 @valprecious @Amasya @snaggy @boobunnyboo @liseelu @Bettijean @GraceyS @MazLee @jconnolly4285 @SallyL @VMS72 @Rein91 @Captain @imoise @Wags @jenny @AMac megan43 @Joss238 @BRCAqueen @libby_ @Italy1 @Judith_M @Jemmy @shelly1 @lindy14 @bkno @Penners1 @SusanForbes @Bravest @fidrumm @Wellsy @Clairel @monkey @mayamd @sal2024 @Caity @canwejustnot @keds @Ifonly24 @terrianne @MrsEmu @Allison29 @profcarm @Ama_nda @rubyroo70 @aj456 @70Wingate @heathbee @narns24 @talans @soozyq @AliPerth You have found your way to Breast Cancer Network Australia's (BCNA's) Online Network. This is a forum where you are not alone and can engage with generous members who provide meaningful support to each other. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with other members. Please explore our various Groups for members who are looking for greater peer-to-peer support. The following links may also be helpful in getting you started: If you would like to introduce yourself please read How do I post a new Discussion? How do I send a private message? Navigating the online community Community Guidelines My Journey Newly diagnosed? Listen to BCNA's Upfront About Breast Cancer Just Diagnosed - What's Next? and What I Wish I Knew podcasts Metastatic breast cancer diagnosis? Webcast: Just diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, what’s next? When is your birthday? Head to this discussion thread if you would like to share your birthday (no need to include the year unless you want to). We love an online celebration and on the day you will receive a virtual birthday cake that we can all share! Our long-time members (newbies too!) are a wealth of information regarding the useful discussion topics and information available through BCNA's Online Network, therefore please do not hesitate to post your questions. You have the option to add details about yourself to your 'Profile' (Update your profile image by clicking 'Change My Picture') and if you would like more targeted responses, you may like to add where you live (e.g. Sydney; Melbourne; Regional Victoria). If you need help navigating the Online Network please message myself @Mez_BCNA or one of our other moderators: @Denise_BCNA , @Risha_BCNA , @Pat_BCNA, @Kate_BCNA , @Daina_BCNA Please note: the Online Network is not moderated by staff/volunteers on the weekends, however if you need something actioned, the quickest way to resolve your query is to contact the Helpline Team via email helpline@bcna.org.au or phone 1800 500 258 Monday to Friday 9:00am-5:00pm AEST
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."Welcome New Members - 4th September 2024
Welcome to our newest members to join recently: @Cobi @Cynthia_Plus_5 @La_Rees @blakeel @lauren_m @ZoeBell @FeR @antonio07 @Pinkcakegirl @seaspirals @ElsieJ @soupy @diholmes777 @Suki @sargejeb @Kwarb @Mims @nat_k20 @lainee @Duckpadling @KAC @AllisonG @silvie063 @Rosina @smiller @sahara @am84 @DeeJ @LaurenPoll @frankie @Lauren_P @franrup @Chrissy53 @Marianne_S @TannieB @ChillY You have found your way to Breast Cancer Network Australia's (BCNA's) Online Network. This is a forum where you are not alone and can engage with generous members who provide meaningful support to each other. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with other members. Please explore our various Groups for members who are looking for greater peer-to-peer support. The following links may also be helpful in getting you started: If you would like to introduce yourself please read How do I post a new Discussion? How do I send a private message? Navigating the online community Community Guidelines My Journey Newly diagnosed? Listen to BCNA's Upfront About Breast Cancer Just Diagnosed - What's Next? and What I Wish I Knew podcasts Metastatic breast cancer diagnosis? Webcast: Just diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, what’s next? When is your birthday? Head to this discussion thread if you would like to share your birthday (no need to include the year unless you want to). We love an online celebration and on the day you will receive a virtual birthday cake that we can all share! Our long-time members (newbies too!) are a wealth of information regarding the useful discussion topics and information available through BCNA's Online Network, therefore please do not hesitate to post your questions. You have the option to add details about yourself to your 'Profile' (Update your profile image by clicking 'Change My Picture') and if you would like more targeted responses, you may like to add where you live (e.g. Sydney; Melbourne; Regional Victoria). If you need help navigating the Online Network please message myself @Mez_BCNA or one of our other moderators: @Denise_BCNA , @Risha_BCNA , @Pat_BCNA, @Kate_BCNA , @Daina_BCNA Please note: the Online Network is not moderated by staff/volunteers on the weekends, however if you need something actioned, the quickest way to resolve your query is to contact the Helpline Team via email helpline@bcna.org.au or phone 1800 500 258 Monday to Friday 9:00am-5:00pm AEST
