Find cutting edge cancer clinical trials near you using the new Victorian Cancer Trials Link.

Search now

A conversation with Sara, Practical Support Program Manager

Tuesday 13 March, 2018

How long have you worked at Cancer Council Victoria and how did you get involved in practical support?

I started working at Cancer Council Victoria in 2014. This role appealed to me as it involved all aspects of my previous supportive care roles that I thoroughly enjoyed. I also recognised that there was an increase in the need for practical support once a person was diagnosed with cancer and there was value I could add to this area.

What does practical support mean?

Practical support includes financial and legal issues as well as other aspects, such as returning to work.

Describe a typical day at Cancer Council Victoria.

No two days are the same. My role involves providing phone support directly to those with a cancer diagnosis or their families, liaising with health professionals across the state and preparing presentations for community groups.

I work with a variety of professionals in different careers such as; lawyers, financial planners, financial counsellors and other volunteers.

What do you enjoy the most about your role?

Being able to use my financial planning qualification and share the skills I have gained towards a program which supports people affected by cancer. Making a connection between my knowledge of cancer and supportive care and my prior education allows me to assist clients.

I also enjoy the variation of the role. I can bring together my knowledge of cancer and supportive care and my financial planning qualifications to assist clients who are anxious and overwhelmed.

Are there any new initiatives for your programs in 2018?

In 2018 we are looking to bring our current programs together to develop a program of ‘Financial Resilience’.

This will provide education to both people with a cancer diagnosis and health professionals. We are hoping to increase financial understanding and literacy with a view to being able to develop long term strategies to manage the financial burden of cancer from diagnosis to life after treatment.   

To find out more about the programs Sara manages, click here.

Keep reading

Daffodil Circle’s Favourite recipes!

Just in time for the holiday (and entertaining) season, we put the call-out to our Daffodil Circle members for their favourite go-to recipes. Read more

Harnessing new technology to accelerate cancer research

Your support is leading to exciting developments in cancer cell identification. Read more

Calling 13 11 20 when you get a cancer diagnosis is vital

David, who was diagnosed with liver cancer 30 years ago, shares his five tips for people recently diagnosed with cancer. Read more

Caring through touch

Safe and simple massage techniques can also be used at home by those caring for a person affected by cancer to provide a sense of calm, comfort and connection. Read more

Busting clinical trial myths

Dr Dishan Herath from Western Health helps to dispel common misconceptions around participating in clinical trials. Read more

Clinical trials through the eyes of a patient

Jules, diagnosed with metastatic melanoma in 2020, shares her experience as part of a clinical trial and her advice to Victorians recently diagnosed with cancer. Read more

Talking bubbles icon

Questions about cancer?

Call or email our experienced cancer nurses for information and support.

Contact a cancer nurse