News for patients, families and friends

Friday 30 March, 2012

Three months ago, after facing cancer for a long period, Kristian Anderson, a typical bloke in his mid-30's, died. (For those of you who don't know the story, Kristian shot to fame when he made this video for his wife Rachel, thanking her for the support, and to simply say "I love you". The video was passed on, shared, cried over and talked about via social media.)

As Kristian underwent his cancer journey, he started taking stock of his life, sharing his experience on his blog. Reading through this inspiring yet heart wrenching blog, one thing was clear, Kristian's wife Rachel and two young boys, Jakob and Cody, were his priority and focus.

For many people facing cancer that I have worked with or had the privilege to meet, the importance of meaningful connections and being able to aptly express how you feel is paramount. It's about spending quality time with your family, your friends and the people you love. Because unfortunately for some of us, it doesn't always last and so it is important to make every moment count.

Like the recent death of AFL footballer and Reach co-founder Jim Stynes, Kristian reminded us to connect with what's important- our family and the people we love. He said: "More than anything, take care of your health, but on top of that... Love your family. Love your missus, or your partner, and your kids.....give them yourself. Give them your time. More than anything, spending time together is what matters."

These are Kristian's words, not mine. But I believe in these words there is something for us all.

Take care of yourselves and each other,

Amanda Hordern PhD
Director
Cancer Information and Support Service

 

Highlights:

Ask Amanda

Hi Amanda,
I have just been diagnosed with testicular cancer and am considering my treatment options. As I am unsure about what to do, my wife has suggested speaking to another specialist first but I don’t want to offend my treating doctor. Would love your advice on this one?
Cheers,
Nick

Read Amanda's response here

Tip of the month – Caring for the Carer

According to Carers Australia, there are more than 2.5 million unpaid family carers in Australia. More than 770,000 of these people are primary carers, meaning they provide the most care for the person they are looking after. The average carer spends about 40 hours per week providing care.

Holiday Break Program

Due to the financial hardship cancer places on families, it becomes difficult to afford a holiday at a time when it is needed most. Cancer Council Victoria offers a program which coordinates holiday's free-of-charge for Victorians with a cancer diagnosis that may not otherwise be able to afford a break.

Living with Cancer - Free Education Sessions

This FREE program is run by trained health professionals to give those facing cancer, their families and friends, the chance to learn more about cancer, its treatment and their emotional reactions to it.

Family Connect - Urgently Needs Volunteers

Cancer Connect is a free and confidential service that provides an opportunity to speak to a trained volunteer who has been through a similar cancer experience, offering support and understanding.

Things I am grateful for

"My wonderful support group - we meet once a month, and although some days I don't feel like going, every time I do I walk away feeling much better, and less alone. The laughs we share keep me feeling good for days."
Julie, 64, Undergoing treatment for bowel cancer.

Upcoming Events

Events being held in 2012 for people with cancer, their families and friends, run by Cancer Council Victoria.

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