New support campaign to help reach more regional Victorians
COVID-19 has been particularly difficult for people affected by cancer.
You or someone you know may have had treatment impacted due to Victoria's lockdowns or waited months to receive psychology or counselling support because of the ongoing pressure placed on the health system. Perhaps hospital visitor restrictions stopped you from being with your loved one during an extremely tough time.
But while many restrictions have been relaxed across the state, people with cancer are still taking precautions and isolating to protect their health and wellbeing.
Callers to our 13 11 20 cancer support line have said they’re still struggling to cope, are feeling anxious and overwhelmed, and are missing connections from their family, friends and regular cancer support groups.
Whatever your experience with cancer and COVID-19, our new state-wide campaign has been developed to remind you that 'you're not alone' – an especially important message for people living in rural and regional Victoria.
The campaign helps people understand that by calling our experienced and trusted cancer nurses on 13 11 20, you can access the support you need. It's free, confidential and available for anyone affected by cancer, including carers and loved ones.
“We hope increased awareness will encourage people affected by cancer to reach out for cancer support, particularly given the impact that COVID-19 has had on available services,” says Katherine Lane, Head of Cancer Information and Support Services at Cancer Council Victoria.
“The campaign features one of our Wimmera-based 13 11 20 cancer nurses, Taryn, to illustrate that when you call us, you actually speak with an experienced cancer nurse who really knows cancer.”
Whether it's managing the cost of cancer, finding assistance to access emotional support, or getting advice to navigate the health system, we're here to help. With our database of more than 470 community support services, we have detailed knowledge of local options right across the state.
“When I relapsed, the social worker referred me to Cancer Council’s nurses,” says Shireen, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
“There’s lots of things that you can’t talk about with your family, so it’s nice to be able to talk to someone rather than burden your family. They’ve got enough to try and deal with.”
Get support
You can call us on 13 11 20, request a call back or email your question to us. The cancer support line is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.