Health Professional News

Tuesday 3 April, 2012

Amanda Hordern As I write this message, Jim Stynes is being laid to rest, his life being celebrated across the country. I don't follow AFL myself, but I do feel the impact Jim's death and legacy has had on so many, and importantly, understand the reasons go far beyond his on field achievements.

Jim Stynes has redefined hope for people facing cancer. He has showed so many of us hope goes beyond the length of life we live, to what we can achieve in the time we have and how we can make a difference to those around us. For that, Jim has earned a place in many people's hearts.

When he spoke openly about what it was really like to live with cancer, especially in its advanced stages, he gave voice to the everyday challenges of facing the disease as well as granting people permission to ask questions, to seek support, and to search for practical assistance to help them make choices that were right for them.

Each time Jim's story featured in the news, and since his death, the Cancer Council Helpline (13 11 20) has taken many calls from the community, wanting to know more about the potential value or dangers of complementary and alternative therapies. If you or your patients have any questions, please refer to our resources available online, or call a cancer nurse on 13 11 20.

By sharing his journey publicly, Jim made people feel comfortable about reprioritising their own lives, to really work out what's important when you're confronting something like this, to think about the legacy you can leave behind even when life is short.

Cancer, after all, can bring great clarity. It strips us bare and can focus us on the things that matter.

There is something in this for all of us,

Amanda Hordern's signature
Amanda Hordern PhD
Director
Cancer Information and Support Service

 

Highlights:

Advance Care Planning Advance Care Planning

Allowing patients to clearly communicate their final health care wishes to their medical team and families.

"It has given me peace of mind to know that if my condition was to worsen my family and medical team all know what I would want. I know my wishes will be respected and it takes away added stress for them." - Bob, 72, Prostate Cancer Patient

Advance Care Planning Cancer information and support in your patient’s language

Cancer Council Helpline provides information and support in languages other than English.

Those affected by cancer, including families and friends, can speak confidentially with an experienced Cancer Council nurse with the help of an interpreter.

New resources now available New resources now available

Loss and Grief: A guide for people with cancer and cancer survivors, their families and friends.

Understanding Radiotherapy: A guide for people with cancer, their families and friends

Events Upcoming Events

Events being held in 2012 for oncology health professionals and their patients, run by Cancer Council Victoria.

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