đ§ Have you connected with our podcast: Upfront About Breast Cancer
Within our Online Network, we know how important it is to feel informed, supported, and connected at every stage of a breast cancer experience. One of the many ways we support our community is through our Upfront About Breast Cancer podcast. This is a resource created for you, where real stories, expert insights, and practical guidance come together in a way that is easy to access whenever you need it. A much loved part of the podcast is the What You Donât Know Until You Do series, hosted by Dr Charlotte Tottman. Dr Tottman is a psycho oncologist who has supported many people through the emotional impact of cancer and, following her own breast cancer diagnosis. Her thoughtful and compassionate approach creates a space where the emotional side of breast cancer can be explored openly, helping listeners better understand their own responses and feel less alone in what they are experiencing. đŹ Real conversations from our community Upfront About Breast Cancer brings together the voices that matter most. People with lived experience share their stories alongside healthcare professionals and experts, creating conversations that feel both genuine and reassuring. These discussions reflect the reality of breast cancer. They explore the shock of diagnosis, the emotional highs and lows, and what it can take to adjust to life during and after treatment. For many, simply hearing someone else say âme tooâ can make a powerful difference. đ± Supporting you at every stage We know that every experience is different, which is why Upfront About Breast Cancer is designed to support people across all stages. Whether you are newly diagnosed, living with metastatic breast cancer, supporting a loved one, or moving through life after treatment, there is something here for you. Episodes cover important topics such as what to expect after diagnosis, how to communicate with your healthcare team, managing side effects, and navigating the healthcare system. This means you can return to the information in your own time, absorb it at your own pace, and feel more prepared for the next step in your journey. đ Listen to Upfront About Breast Cancer podcast here. đž A gentle reminder Some topics may feel emotional or challenging. Please take things at your own pace and look after yourself as you listen. Support is always available, the online community and our Helpline on the phones are here for you. Have you listened to Upfront About Breast Cancer? We'd love if you shared: an episode that stayed with you something new you learned a conversation you would like to hear in the future đȘ Your experience may help someone else going through a challenging part of their journey. We are stronger, together.đ±Wednesday Wellness - 25Mar26 - Nurturing yourself and your confidence during breast cancer đ±
When youâre going through treatment, confidence can dip for so many reasons - changes to your body, fatigue, uncertainty, or simply the emotional weight of it all. Looking after yourself isnât just about managing symptoms; itâs also about supporting your sense of identity, dignity, and confidence. Todayâs reminder is this: âšSmall acts of self-care can have a big impact on how you feel moving through the worldâšIt's not about âlooking a certain way,â but about reclaiming moments of control, comfort, and confidence during a time when so much feels out of your hands. đ Gentle Ways to Build Confidence Through SelfâCare Choosing comfortable clothes or soft fabrics that feel good on your skin Taking a few minutes to moisturise, breathe deeply, or use a calming scent Wearing something that makes you feel âyou,â even on hard days Reaching for connection - a kind message, a community chat, a shared moment of support đ Look Good Feel Better: A Boost When You Need It Most If youâd like some practical, confidenceâbuilding support, Look Good Feel Better offers wonderful free workshops and kits designed specifically for people going through cancer treatment. Their programs include: Skincare and makeup tips for treatmentârelated changes Headwear and scarf styling Practical confidenceâboosting techniques Free takeâhome kits with products chosen to help you feel a little more like yourself These sessions arenât about appearance in a superficial way - theyâre about helping you feel supported, uplifted, and valued. You can explore their workshops and request a kit here đ https://lgfb.org.au/ đ https://lgfb.org.au/for-patients/home-delivered-confidence-kit/March 8th - International Women's Day đ
BCNA was founded by women affected by breast cancer who believed there had to be a better way. đ A better way to communicate. A better way to deliver care. A better way to show kindness, dignity and humanity. That belief still drives our work today. This International Womenâs Day, we celebrated the power of collective action. The UN Women Australia 2026 theme is âBalance the Scalesâ. When women come together to challenge the systems that shape their futures, real change happens. âFor BCNA, âBalance the scalesâ means helping women navigate a breast cancer healthcare system that was not designed for them. We also change that system by working with health professionals and government, making sure we are at the table every time a decision is made about breast cancer,â says Kirsten Pilatti, CEO of BCNA. At BCNA, women with lived experience lead change. Through advocacy, community and shared voices, we are reshaping systems so everyone affected by breast cancer can access the care, treatment and support they deserve. đ And finally, a little shoutâout to the amazing women right here in our online community. Youâre the heart of this space - showing up for each other with honesty, humour, courage, and compassion. Whether youâre sharing your story, offering a tip that helped you through a tough moment, or simply reminding someone that theyâre not alone, you make this community what it is. Here's to you! đ„đ±Wednesday Wellness - 3Mar26-The power of advocating for yourselfđ±
This Wednesday, weâre focusing on a part of wellness that is so important but sometimes overlooked while navigating the whirlwind of a breast cancer diagnosis: the power of advocating for yourself. Advocating for yourself doesnât mean having all the answers, being endlessly confident, or navigating everything on your own. It simply means honouring your needs, your values, and your voice - even on the days when speaking up feels hard. Itâs about trusting that you are the expert in your own body and your own lived experience. đ Why selfâadvocacy matters When you advocate for yourself, you help shape a care experience that reflects who you are and what matters to you. This can mean: asking for clearer explanations seeking a second opinion saying when something doesnât feel right requesting extra emotional, cultural, or practical support taking time to make decisions voicing what you need to feel safe and informed These conversations can deepen trust with your treating team and empower you to make choices with greater confidence and clarity. đ± Small ways to strengthen your advocacy You donât need to be loud or forceful - advocacy can be gentle and supported: Bring a support person to appointments Write down questions beforehand Ask for information in the format you prefer (written, verbal, print, digital) Let your team know how you make decisions best Take space when you need to â itâs okay to say âI need time to think about thisâ đ Questions to Ask Your Treating Team We've compiled the following lists of questions designed to help you on the path to having your voice heard during appointments with your treating team as you navigate a breast cancer diagnosis. Click the link below: đȘBe your best advocate with your treating team đŹ A gentle reminder Your voice should e an essential part of your health care plan. Give our Helpline team a call on 1800 500 258 if you're feeling stuck and are wanting to explore how you can best advocate for yourself during your breast cancer journey.đ±Wednesday 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. đ± 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€ïž 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: âŁïž Five-year survival has risen to 93% (up from 75% in 1987â1991). âŁïž In 2025, around 20,336 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer, including 207 men. âŁïž Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in Australian women, making up 27% of all new cases. âŁïž The average age of diagnosis is 62, with 80% of cases occurring in women over 50. âŁïž 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.âšWednesday Wellness Check-In
It's time for a Wednesday Wellness check in... đž 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 đž 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 đ» 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 Mods
