Cancer in my family: new online support
The ‘Cancer in my Family' group enables people in similar situations to share experiences and common issues via the private online community at any time of day or night. It is open to people who have been identified as having a genetic predisposition to cancer. It is also available for people at high risk who have not been able to be diagnosed, or who are unable to undergo genetic testing.
Jenni Jenkins understands the value of this new avenue for support. She has the HNPCC gene mutation, which increases her risk of bowel and certain other cancers. She said it was common for people in her situation to feel alone, as not many people knew about the condition.
"I attended a family information day about HNPCC in 2008 and the over-riding message from people carrying the gene was that they felt isolated," she said.
"We are constantly explaining to people what it is and there are so many decisions to make - should I have genetic testing? Should I have preventative surgery? How will this gene affect my family? The ongoing decision making process is such a big thing.
"This new service will be an amazing forum to communicate with others in a similar situation and will help people feel less alone," she said.
Telephone and Internet Support Program Manager, Kate Wakelin said online support was well known to reduce feelings of anxiety.
"People can write under an alias in a private setting which enables participants to explore their cancer experience with great honesty. The site is also professionally moderated so people can participate safe in the knowledge that they will access reliable information."
Ms Wakelin said services for this group of people had been limited until now so this new initiative will fill an important gap for people who would like to connect with others in a similar situation.
Join the Cancer in my Family group today by visiting www.cancerconnections.com.au This site is an initiative of Cancer Council NSW.
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