Victorian communities to receive free Cancer Forums thanks to RACV

Wednesday 9 June, 2010

Cancer Council Victoria is working hard to reduce the impact of cancer on Victorians through its Cancer Information and Support Services.

One way Cancer Council Victoria is doing this is by providing a series of free community forums across Victoria with the support of RACV.

Over the past two years RACV has donated an incredible $80,000, enabling Cancer Council Victoria to provide forums that will help survivors adjust to changes in their life and provide them with the opportunity to share experiences with others in a similar situation.

Funds have also been used to train facilitators to run the support groups and to provide a car to deliver the programs.

Director of the Cancer Council's Cancer Information and Support Service Dr Amanda Hordern said the seminars were developed based on feedback from cancer survivors about their information and support needs.

"Fighting cancer is not an easy job, and it's a job that we definitely can't do, and don't do alone, so Cancer Council Victoria is grateful for the support of the team at RACV," Dr Hordern said.

"Thanks to a generous contribution from RACV, we're able to offer these seminars free to local residents."

RACV Community Relations Manager Davina Halls said the forums provided those dealing with cancer with the vital support they needed.

"These forums for cancer survivors, people with advanced cancer, their family and friends provide reliable information and the opportunity to talk to others who understand what they are going through," Ms Halls said.

"RACV has a strong sense of community and welcomes the opportunity to support members of our community with these important forums."

For more information see ouir events calendar or call 13 11 20.

When Cancer Won't Go Away forums

For people whose cancer has advanced, and their family and friends.

YARRAWONGA, 18 June, 10am - 1pm
Coop's restaurant, 137 - 139 Belmore Street

ARARAT, 16 August, 10am - 1pm
Chalambar Golf Course, Golf Links Rd

HORSHAM, 17 August, 10am - 1pm
Horsham Sports and Community Club, 179 Baillie St

SHEPPARTON, October 2010, 10am - 1pm (date to be confirmed)
Venue to be confirmed

Local cancer clinicians, health professionals and a legal expert will discuss:

  • Treatments and medical supports
  • Living with uncertainty
  • Financial and legal issues
  • Support services

Life after cancer forums

For people who have completed treatment and their family and friends

YARRAWONGA, 18 June, 3pm - 6pm
Coop's restaurant, 137 - 139 Belmore Street

ARARAT, 16 August, 5.30pm - 8.30pm
Chalambar Golf Course, Golf Links Rd

HORSHAM, 17 August, 5.30pm - 8.30pm
Horsham Sports and Community Club, 179 Baillie St

BENALLA, 16 September, 5.30pm - 8.30pm

SHEPPARTON, October, 5.30pm - 8.30pm (date to be confirmed)
Venue to be confirmed

This interactive session facilitated by experts will cover:

  • Coping with feelings after active treatment finishes
  • Returning to a 'new normal' after cancer
  • Exploring reactions and needs of those close to you

Call 13 11 20 or email csg@cancervic.org.au for more details or to register.