Think Pink Events 2022-23 - Think Pink Foundation

-Acupuncture and Breast Cancer-

11 October 2023 – Guest Speaker to all Think Pink clients

We were joined by Christine Lee who introduced the history and principles of acupuncture. She outlined what to expect from treatment, discussed the evidence supporting acupuncture for breast cancer support – this includes for fatigue, pain, sleep issues, digestive issues, mental health, peripheral neuropathy and temperature regulation.

Christine Lee, B.A., B.AppSci(BioMed)/B.AppSci(ChMed)

Christine has been working as an acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine practitioner for over 15 years. She has studied Chinese Medicine at RMIT and completed an internship at the Jiangsu Provincial TCM Hospital in Nanjing, China. She has also completed a further mentorship program in Jing Fang medicine with Suzanne Robidoux. Her acupuncture practice includes TCM acupuncture, ear acupuncture, scalp acupuncture and laser acupuncture.

Christine has taken a special interest in oncology support for the last 5 years. She has completed ongoing training at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and studied under international oncology acupuncturists. She has a special interest in chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy.

-The Finishing Touch Supporting Think Pink During Breast Cancer Awareness Month-

All of October 2023

For all of October, Think Pink are proud to be supported by The Finishing Touch who will be donating $20 from every booking to The Think Pink Foundation.

At this time each year you will see our teams of Finishing Touch staff wearing their bright pink aprons as we proudly support breast cancer charity, the Think Pink Foundation.

As a national all-female business, The Finishing Touch feels a deep affinity with this charity which has, at its heart, a team of dedicated women helping other women.

Think Pink’s state-of-the-art facility, The Living Centre, provides a wide range of free programs nationally that assist families to alleviate the emotional and physical stress a cancer diagnosis can bring.

With a wonderful team of 145 women working for The Finishing Touch around Australia we understand that breast cancer is a disease that touches everyone. We are proud to be affiliated with this inspiring charity, helping to enable a better journey through breast cancer for patients and their families.

-No Pong Supporting Think Pink During Breast Cancer Awareness Month-

All of October 2023

This October, Think Pink are lucky to be supported by No Pong, an Australian Owned, natural deodorant company. $1 from every tin sold this October will be donated evenly between Think Pink and the McGrath Foundation.

No Pong are a natural deodorant company based in Australia. With a history of supporting Breast Cancer research over many years, this year they are including Think Pink in their donations – providing support to breast cancer patients.

No Pong is applied using a small amount on your fingers and rubbed into the armpit. It’s a great way to get in touch with your body and notice any unusual changes.

For every No Pong order this October, we’ll equally split a $1 donation between Think Pink and the McGrath Foundation.

Use code: THINKPINK10 – for 10% off your order – expiring end of this year!

– MooGoo Skincare Information Session-

21 September 2023 – Guest speaker to all Think Pink Clients.

This session was run by Melissa Lewis, from MooGoo Skin Care discussing a bit of her own personal breast cancer journey contributing to the creation of their oncology range. She followed by an education session on their therapeutic products recommended to be used across treatment and beyond.

Who has worked as part of the senior management team at MooGoo Skin Care for nearly 7 years. She holds a degree in Naturopathy (Distinction) (BHSc.Nat), a Post Graduate Diploma in Psychology (PostGradDipPsych) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA. Hist). In October 2021, following her 40^th birthday, her life was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Fit, healthy, no family history and a mother of 3 young children, she has spent the past 2 years becoming an advocate for not only her own health but also supporting those diagnosed with cancer. With the support of MooGoo, she works closely with medical practitioners, cancer wards, associations and patients providing a natural solution for treatment related skin issues. She now shares her passion for MooGoo, her personal experiences and knowledge to support skin health across treatment and beyond.

– Think Pink Grand Reopening-

Held on Wednesday 26th July

On the 26th July 2023, Think Pink had the delightful opportunity of hosting a Grand Reopening event for the Living Centre. The overwhelming support from our community was evident, with over 90 principal partners, sponsors, donors, and key stakeholders in attendance, including volunteers, facilitators, and clients.

During the event, Think Pink Foundations’ esteemed Founder, Patron, and Director, Irene Hendel, along with Director David Hendel, had the honor of presenting framed certificates to our key sponsors and donors. Moreover, they took the time to express gratitude to all those who have been instrumental in contributing to Think Pink’s success over the years.

We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who participated in the event, donated generously, and contributed to Think Pink’s achievements thus far, as well as those who will support us in the future. Your unwavering support is invaluable to us, and we look forward to continuing our mission with your ongoing encouragement.

Docklands The Living Centre initially commenced operations in 2020, but shortly thereafter, within a mere two weeks, it faced closure to the public owing to the Covid Pandemic. However, undeterred by the circumstances, Think Pink swiftly adapted their services to an online format. During this challenging period, we managed to provide support to over 750 new clients in navigating their Breast Cancer journey through our complimentary support groups and programs. The Living Centre opened its doors to the public earlier this year and held an official Grand Reopening on the 26th July 2023. Think Pink continues to offer support programs and services in person at The Living Centre and via zoom allowing Think Pink to offer its services to more breast cancer patients in need.

– Career Coaching Workshop-

Held on Monday 24th July

Maike Schroeder discussed next career steps, CVs, LinkedIn profiles, interviews and how to network, answering any career related questions.

^{A career is an important part of life and we understand a breast cancer diagnosis can impact this. Maike Schroeder is a well established, trusted and solution focused Strategic Career Coach and Senior Relations Manager with a wealth of experience in the field of executive coaching, career management and career transition. She is continuously engaging with her well established network and is aways open to connect people to enhance their career prospects.}

– Core Nutrition through Breast Cancer –

(This event will be held on Monday 26th June for HOT Pink Sisters Support Group)

Naomi’s online class will explore the unique nutrition needs of those going through breast cancer treatment, recovery and optimising diet for survivorship.

Nutrition plays a powerful role in managing energy levels and side effects during treatment, optimising weight and body composition during and after treatment and reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence.

Nutrition advice can be overwhelming and confusing, Naomi will clarify the fact from fiction and there will be plenty of opportunity to answer your individual questions.

Naomi Lawrance – Accredited Practicing Dietitian & Accredited Nutritionist: is highly experienced in supporting those touched by cancer and has spent many years working at Peter MacCallum Cancer centre as well as providing private oncology care. Naomi understands the complex and evolving needs of those living with cancer, through all stages of their journey. She recognises the confusing and overwhelming nature of advice people receive, and ensures that everyone feels understood and empowered to make their own educated decisions.

Naomi is passionate about supporting people to make lasting changes to enhance their health and improve their relationship with food. She recognises that each person has a unique background and goals therefore requires a tailored plan to optimise their health. Her approach to nutrition is holistic, individualised and evidence based.

– Exercise and Breast Cancer –

(This event will be held on Wednesday 21st June for Second Hope Support Group)

For our first guest speaker for the Second Hope support group this year, Dale will be discussing exercise during breast cancer and how it can improve the lives of those living with breast cancer.

Dale Ischia is an accomplished Accredited Exercise Physiologist with over 25 years of clinical experience, specialising in oncology for the past 11 years. She is the founder of ‘Moving Beyond Cancer’, a highly-regarded exercise physiology program that is dedicated to improving the lives of people with a cancer diagnosis through appropriately prescribe exercise.

Since acquiring her cancer exercise specialist qualification from the American College of Sports Medicine, Dale has lent her expertise to numerous private clients, organizations, and support groups, including the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre, The Alfred, Peter MacCallum, The Cancer Council, Think Pink, Pancare, Prostate Cancer Support Groups, and Ovarian Cancer Australia and the Leukaemia Foundation.

Dale stays up-to-date with the latest research findings and applies them to her clinical practice to provide the best possible education and exercise prescription to her clients and everyone at Moving Beyond Cancer. Her ultimate professional goal is to reduce the side effects of cancer treatment and help people gain a sense of control over their bodies, while also providing a positive focus.

– Specialist Bra Fitting Information Session with Gen Gort –

(This event will be held on Wednesday 14th June for all Think Pink clients)

Genevieve Gort will be joining us to discuss the various bra options available, what to look for when getting fitted and showed us a range of bras, breast forms and breast shapers, lymphoedema bras and swimwear.

Bra fitting specialist Genevieve understands that it takes a lot of courage to step back out into the world after breast cancer surgery and treatment. Restoring visual symmetry with comfortable and beautiful lingerie is Gen’s primary focus.

After breast cancer surgery women need bras that are comfortable and gorgeous, and for some women, a breast form (prosthesis) or breast shapers to restore visual symmetry of breasts.

Genevieve Gort is a registered nurse and a specialist breast-care/surgical garment fitter with 30 years of nursing experience.

Every woman’s needs are different – Genevieve offers a discreet and confidential service helping clients begin the important journey of regaining comfort and confidence after surgery.

– Lymphoedema, Compression Garments and Wraps –

(This event will be held on Tuesday 30th May for all Think Pink clients)

For our first guest speaker of 2023, Sarah Gill will be discussing Everything you ever want to know about compression garments and wraps, including a brief overview of what lymphoedema is.

What is the function of a compression garment? When do I need to wear a compression garment? Why do they come in different knits and classes? What are the different types of wraps available and what do they do? Plus A brief overview of what lymphoedema is.

Sarah gill is a lymphoedema practitioner with a background in education who regularly gives presentations on lymphoedema to other health professionals, consumers, and community groups. Sarah is registered with the Australasian Lymphology Association and works in Regional Victoria.

Want to know more about lymphoedema right now? Listen to this interview with Sarah on ABC Central Victoria radio.

– The Use Of Psychedelic Drugs In The Palliative Care Setting with Dr Margaret Ross PsyD –

(This event was held on Wednesday 2nd March 2022 for Second Hope and HOT Pink Sisters Support Groups)

Dr Ross joined us to discuss the current study at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne, which uses synthetic ‘psilocybin’ (a psychedelic compound found in ‘magic mushrooms’) in combination with psychotherapy, to treat depression and anxiety in people with advanced stage illnesses. She will also briefly discuss: .

The historical use of psilocybin in indigenous cultures.
Why promising research in the 60’s (which indicated psychedelics could help alleviate fear of death in some cancer patients) ground to a halt very quickly.
How psychedelic research in cancer related anxiety and depression resumed in 2000’s and why psilocybin + therapy could potentially ease psychological suffering in people with terminal illness.

Dr Margaret Ross is the Chief Principal Investigator and Clinical Lead for Australia’s first psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy study treating depression and anxiety in the terminally ill. Her study is a world first investigating psilocybin assisted therapy for all palliative conditions. Dr Ross is pioneering a new frontier in psychedelic medicine. She combines this ground-breaking trial with palliative medicine and clinical work in her role as Senior Clinical Psychologist and Senior Researcher at St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne.

“We see a lot of fear and despair in our terminally ill patients, so to be able to offer a novel trial treatment that has already shown such promise is excellent. It’s really a privilege to be able to conduct this research. This is one of the most exciting developments in psychiatric research in decades.”

– Lymphoedema Presentation with Sarah Gill –

(This event was held on Tuesday 8th March 2022 for the Fabulous Over 50s and Beyond Support Group)

The Fabulous Over 50s and Beyond Support Group were joined by lymphatic specialist Sarah Gill via Zoom. Sarah has worked for over 10 years as a certified lymphoedema practitioner and as a remedial massage therapist for 20 years.

Sarah Gill is a sought-after educator and regularly gives presentations on lymphoedema to other health professionals, consumers, and community groups.

She is a Dr. Vodder (lymphatic) certified therapist, she has a Diploma of Remedial Massage and is a member of the Australasian Lymphology Association & Massage & Myotherapy Australia.

– Q&A session with Dr James McCracken –

(This event was held on Thursday 10th March 2022 for the Pink Sisters Support Group)

Dr James McCracken was invited for a Q & A Session with the Pink Sisters Support Group.

Dr James McCracken is a Medical Oncologist with the breast service at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, where he is also undertaking a PhD in the clinical utility of circulating tumour DNA as a predictive and prognostic biomarker in breast cancer.

He is often an invited speaker at educational events, and is passionate about educating junior doctors, being the founder and course convener of the Melbourne Cancer Course.

– Exercise & Breast Cancer Information Session with Dale Ischia –

(This event was held on Monday 28th March 2022 for for all Think Pink clients)

This information session was presented by Accredited Exercise physiologist, Dale Ischia.

Dale heads up Moving Beyond Cancer; an awarding winning Exercise Physiology clinic dedicated to helping people with cancer maintain or regain their health and fitness. Dale discussed the benefits of exercise during treatment, post treatment and what needs to be considered when exercising.

Dale Ischia is an Accredited Exercise physiologist with more than 20 years clinical experience who has specialised in oncology over the past 7 years.

Dale founded ‘Moving Beyond Cancer‘, an exercise physiology program dedicated to improving the lives of people with a cancer diagnosis through appropriately prescribed exercise.

– Breast Cancer and Criteria for Genetic Testing with Morgan Murphy –

(This event was held on Wednesday 6th April 2022 for the Supporting Blokes Group)

The Supporting Blokes Group was joined by Genetics Nurse – Morgan Murphy as he answered questions about the criteria for genetic testing, counselling involved prior to testing, implications for insurance, cost involved and the various genetic mutations in relation to breast cancer.

Morgan Murphy is a Genetics Nurse for the Parkville Familial Cancer Clinic at Peter Mac and Bendigo Health Cancer Centre located in Bendigo.

Morgan coordinates the familial cancer clinic in Bendigo and Mildura, seeing patients and family members concerned about the family history of cancer and assessment of family history to identify high risk cancer genes, providing information, support and education about the level of genetic risk.

Morgan has been a Genetics Nurse for 14 years and has also worked as an oncology nurse and palliative care nurse.

– Palliative Care with Kaye Hose –

(This event was held on Wednesday 6th April 2022 for the Second Hope and HOT Pink Sisters Support Groups)

Kaye Hose, a Palliative Care Clinical Nurse Consultant from the Austin Hospital, joined us to talk about the role Palliative Care can play in your treatment, in particular symptom management.

Kaye was keen to answer any questions around the subject of Palliative Care such as:

What role does palliative care play in my treatment?
How is the service provided at a hospital based clinic different from a Palliative Care service in the community/home?
Do all hospitals offer a palliative care service?
What symptoms can a palliative care service help to manage?
When is the right time to access Palliative Care? What if I leave it too late?

Kaye Hose’s experience in palliative care is in both the hospital sector as a Palliative Care Nurse Consultant at The Austin Hospital and in a previous role in the community with Melbourne City Mission Palliative Care service as a Clinical Nurse Specialist. Kaye is currently employed with Austin Health and is involved in transitioning patients from hospital to home with The Palliative Care Acute Transition Home Service (PATH). Kaye also works in the outpatients setting in the Palliative Care Clinic which focuses on keeping patients well with symptoms managed in their own home.

In keeping with a community focus, Kaye is also working on the Palliative Care Advisory Service which is a phone service set up by The Department of Health to support both the community and health professionals in the provision of palliative care.

– Loneliness and Connection with Ande Szendroe –

(This event was held on Wednesday 4th May 2022 for the Supporting Blokes Group)

For this session, Ande Szendroe presented an overview on loneliness and connection, which is recognised as a growing public health priority across Western Societies.

The Department of Health (Victorian Government) have been working with a range of specialist providers developing information, education packages and has invested in ongoing service delivery in response to the growing challenges of loneliness. The impact of almost two years of lockdowns for many Victorians continues as we are all encouraged to live with COVID. For individuals living with or recovering from life-threatening illnesses and treatments, their families and carers, loneliness can be amplified.

Ande Szendroe brings a range of clinical and program-development expertise to the Team at Think Pink. Her services include, a timely and responsive counselling service, service-planning and development with a focus on education and co-facilitation of the Think Pink Bloke’s Group.

Ande is passionate about the particular and purposeful non-clinical service model provided at the Living Centre. As a resident counsellor, she offers dedicated life and adjustment counselling services.

– Acupuncture Supporting Breast Cancer with Christine Lee –

(This event was held on Monday 9th May 2022 for the Fabulous Over 50s and Beyond Support Group)

The Fabulous Over 50s and Beyond Support Group were joined by Christine Lee who is a qualified acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner via Zoom. We discussed how acupuncture can be helpful for cancer related fatigue, heat & neuropathy.

Christine Lee has been a qualified acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner for over 14 years. She graduated from RMIT in Melbourne and completed her internship in Nanjing, China in 2008.

Christine has a special interest in supporting patients through their cancer diagnosis, treatment and ongoing. She has completed advanced studies in oncology acupuncture and has worked in an integrative cancer support clinic. These days she works in Fitzroy North and Flemington, and continues to support cancer patients.

– Menopause & Breast Cancer with Associate Professor Amanda Vincent –

(This event was held on Monday 16th May 2022 for all Think Pink Clients)

Menopause can be a really challenging time in a woman’s life whether it occurs naturally or is medically induced due to treatment side effects. This session was presented by Associate Professor Amanda Vincent who explored menopause and breast cancer, the effects and reasons why this occurs.

Associate Professor Amanda Vincent has clinical, research and translation expertise with national and international recognition in the area of menopause. This is demonstrated by her roles as a consultant endocrinologist for 25 years in the multidisciplinary Monash Health Menopause Clinic including the development of the Early Menopause, Menopause Oncology and Turner syndrome Long-term care clinics; as an invited speaker at national and international meetings (professional and consumer); as a Board member and President of the Australasian Menopause Society and as an invited member of the Cancer Australia working group on management of menopause in women with breast cancer.

Amanda is Co-chair of an international guideline development group for updating the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) 2016 premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) guideline and is keen for feedback from women with POI regarding content and resources to accompany the guideline.

– Q&A session with Dr James McCracken –

(This event was held on Tuesday 7th June 2022 for the Fabulous Over 50s and Beyond Support Group)

Dr James McCracken was invited for a Q & A Session with the Fabulous Over 50s and Beyond Support Group.

He is often an invited speaker at educational events, and is passionate about educating junior doctors, being the founder and course convener of the Melbourne Cancer Course.

– Mens Health with Dr Bernie Crimmins –

(This event was held on Wednesday 6th July 2022 for the Supporting Blokes Group)

Dr Bernie Crimmins was invited to talk with the Think Pink Supporting Blokes group for an educational and entertaining session about Men’s Health.

Dr Bernie Crimmins graduated from Melbourne University in 1980 and completed his Residency years at St Vincent’s Hospital. He began General Practice in 1983 and has completed a Graduate Diploma of Human Nutrition and a Masters Degree in Public Health.

Bernie has special interests in Nutrition and Weight Management, and Sports Medicine – having been the Hawthorn Football Club’s Medical Officer for 15 years and author of multiple men’s health books.

Specialities in General Medicine include: Nutrition; Weight Management; Sports Medicine.

– Metastatic Education Session with Sam Rennie –

(This event was held on Wednesday 13th July 2022 for the Second Hope and HOT Pink Sister Groups)

Sam Rennie joined us at the centre to discuss tackling the difficult subject of communication within relationships and families.

Navigating the dynamics within relationships and families whilst living with the challenges of Metastatic Breast Cancer.
Managing the anxiety and depression associated with the challenges of cancer treatment and progression
How do you find the support you need?

Living with this diagnosis is hard but managing reactions from family and friends can be harder. Sam will also discuss strategies for dealing with the anxiety and depression associated with this diagnosis.

After completing her Bachelor of Education, Samantha found her true calling in nursing and has been working as a nurse, facilitator, educator and therapist for over 25 years. Little did she realise that her nursing career could lead to working in the funeral industry but it was a critical meeting in coming to understand the full cycle of life and death and the importance of grief in that process. Samantha has been working both nationally and internationally with corporations, groups and individuals around the topic of grief and empowerment to provide people with tools for greater communication, compassion and fun.

– Nutrition and Breast Cancer with Naomi Lawrence –

(This event was held on Monday 18th July 2022 for All Clients)

Naomi’s online presentation explored the unique nutrition needs of those going through breast cancer treatment, recovery and optimising diet for survivorship.

Naomi Lawrence is highly experienced in supporting those touched by cancer and has spent many years working at Peter MacCallum Cancer centre as well as providing private oncology care. Naomi understands the complex and evolving needs of those living with cancer, through all stages of their journey. She recognises the confusing and overwhelming nature of advice people receive, and ensures that everyone feels understood and empowered to make their own educated decisions.

– Q & A Session with Dr David Speakman –

(This event was held on Wednesday 7th September 2022 for the Supporting Blokes Support Group)

The Supporting Blokes Support Group were honored to be joined by Dr David Speakman OAM for a Q & A Session.

Dr David Speakman OAM is currently the Chief Medical Officer at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (Peter Mac), having held this position since 2013. David is also a practicing clinician working in both the Breast and Melanoma and Skin Units both at Peter Mac and in private practice. He has over 20 year’s sub-specialist experience in both these areas.

David is a firm supporter of patient centered care and that a strong connection between the patient, the patient’s family and their entire treating team is vital in obtaining the best outcomes for patients with cancer.

– Sex and Cancer with Dr Amanda Hordern –

(This event was held on Monday 19th September 2022 for ALL CLIENTS)

Dr Amanda Hordern, PhD, joined us for an exciting Q & A Session on ‘Sex and Cancer’ to address difficult questions about sex, intimacy and body confidence after cancer.

Amanda’s ground-breaking book published last year, combines the latest neuroscience with simple, powerful and practical techniques to help you reclaim your sexual confidence, desire, and happiness from the inside out. Since publishing ‘Sex & Cancer’, Amanda was asked by many readers to develop an online course that would further facilitate ‘the next step’ in Rekindling your Spark: An 8 step program, with lifetime access to interactive, action packed videos, activities, encouragement and sex therapy guidance from the comfort your own home.

Dr Amanda Hordern is a leading expert who strives to lift the lid off the great taboo of sex and cancer. She draws on many years of experience as Executive Director Cancer Information and Support, at Cancer Council Victoria, Australia and decades of counselling, teaching and research in cancer care.

Dr Hordern is an international keynote speaker and has lectured in cancer and palliative care at Post Graduate, Masters and PhD levels. She has assisted thousands of patients to reprogram their mind through her private practice, Bayside Healthy Living. She draws upon the latest findings in neuroscience to embrace measurable and uplifting changes, no matter what age, culture, gender, type or stage of cancer.

– Metastatic Education Session with Dr Belinda Yeo –

(This event was held on Wednesday 28th September 2022 for Second Hope and HOT Pink Sisters Support Groups)

In this presentation, Dr Belinda Yeo provided the group with an update on current treatments for Metastatic Breast Cancer and an insight into current research and future treatment options.

Dr Belinda Yeo is jointly appointed to the Austin Hospital as a Medical Oncologist and to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute as a Clinician Scientist with a specific interest in breast cancer.

Belinda trained in Sydney before joining the Breast Unit at The Royal Marsden Hospital, London as a Clinical and Research Fellow. She completed a Master’s Degree at The University of London and The Institute of Cancer Research in novel genomic and non-molecular breast cancer risk assays.

Belinda is co-lead of the VCCC Research and Education of the Breast Tumour Stream, she is a clinical trial investigator and continues her translational research investigating improving personalisation and minimizing toxicities for patients with breast cancer.

– Hypnotherapy with Mathias Otte –

(This event was held on Wednesday 5th October 2022 for the Supporting Blokes Support Group)

For this Supporting Blokes Group meeting, Hypnotherapist, Mathias Otte discussed how hypnotherapy can assist with anxiety, self-confidence, fears and phobias as well as stress management and relaxation.

Mathias Otte is a Melbourne-based clinical hypnotherapist and coach. He is double-certified via the Australian Academy of Hypnosis and the UK Hypnosis Academy and a certified executive coach (IECL).

Mathias has a Master’s Degree in Adult Education/Educational Science and Economics and is passionate about helping people thrive in their jobs and lives through learning, coaching or a hypnotherapy experience.

– Education & Networking Event with Dr David Clouston –

(This event was held on Thursday 6th October 2022 for Breast Care Nurses & Health Professionals)

To celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we invited Breast Care Nurses and Health Professions for an informative presentation by Dr David Clouston, Pathologist (MBBS, FRACP).

Breast pathology: From the pathology bench to the report

Dr Clouston took us behind the scenes to see how specimens are handled in the pathology laboratory, from when the specimens are first received until the final report is generated.

Dr David Clouston (MBBS, FRACP) undertook his medical and specialist pathology training in Queensland.

Since moving to Melbourne he has worked in both the public and private sector, including setting up and running his own pathology practice, Focus Pathology.

David is a highly regarded expert in the areas of breast and urological pathology, and is actively involved in both research and education.

– Hypnotherapy with Dr Amanda Hordern –

(This event was held on Monday 10th October 2022 for ALL CLIENTS)

In this presentation, Dr Amanda Hordern, PhD, explained how the latest findings from clinical hypnotherapy, neuroscience brain retraining techniques and mindfulness can assist you to break the cycle of fear and ‘negative thought viruses’ and reset your mind and body to a happier calmer place.

– Nutrition and Breast Cancer with Lauren Atkins –

(This event was held on Thursday 20th October 2022 for the Pink Sisters Support Group)

For this presentation we were joined by Lauren Atkins from OnCore Nutrition. Lauren discussed oncology care, preventative nutrition and innovative strategies to improve health, body composition and food relationship.

Lauren Atkins is an Advanced Accredited Practicing Dietitian, Senior Oncology Dietitian and Co-founder and Director of OnCore Nutrition. She has over ten years’ experience in oncology and hematology nutrition care, having worked at Peter Mac, The Royal Children’s Hospital Epworth as well as providing education and leadership to multiple universities and cancer organisations. Lauren is a member of the COSA Nutrition Group Executive Committee and contributes to national cancer care research and frameworks.

Lauren hosts her own podcast, OnCore Nutrition Two Peas in a Podcast and is passionate about empowering people with knowledge to optimise their health.

– Canteen with Shae Chester –

(This event was held on Wednesday 2nd November 2022 for the Supporting Blokes Support Group)

For this month’s Supporting Blokes Group meeting, we were joined by Shae Chester from Canteen. Shae explained how to communicate effectively with children, how to prepare for difficult conversations and tips on how to offer and access support. Canteen’s research shows that when parents communicate openly, their children are likely to experience less distress and anxiety.

Key Points covered:

Common parental concerns and reactions from young people
Understanding the needs of young people
How to prepare for an open and honest conversation
Looking after yourself How to access further support from Canteen

Shae Chester (National Community Educator) has been with Canteen since 2009, and has held four different roles within the organisation, which gives her a great insight in working with her colleagues and the young people and families Canteen support.

She is passionate about working collaboratively with communities around the country, to educate about services, and how communities can support each other, so that families impacted by cancer will have the compassion and care they need during their experience.

– Canteen with Shae Chester –

(This event was held on Tuesday 8th November 2022 for the Fabulous 50s & Beyond Support Group)

In this session, Shae Chester from Canteen, provided the Fab 50s group with an overview of CANTEEN and the services they provide. Shae discussed communicating effectively with children and how to prepare for difficult conversations and tips on how to offer and access support.

Canteen’s research shows that when parents communicate openly, their children are likely to experience less distress and anxiety.

Key points covered:

Common parental concerns
How to prepare for an open and honest conversation
Looking after yourself
How to access further support from Canteen

Shae Chester (National Community Educator) has been with Canteen since 2009, and has held four different roles within the organisation, which gives her a great insight in working with her colleagues and the young people and families Canteen support.

– Specialist Bra Fitting Information Session with Gen Gort –

(This event was held on Monday 14th November 2022 for All Clients)

In this session, Genevieve Gort discussed the various bra options available, what to look for when getting fitted and showed us a range of bras, breast forms and breast shapers, lymphoedema bras and swimwear.

After breast cancer surgery women need bras that are comfortable and gorgeous, and for some women, a breast form (prosthesis) or breast shapers to restore visual symmetry of breasts.

Genevieve Gort is a registered nurse and a specialist breast-care/surgical garment fitter with 30 years of nursing experience.

Every woman’s needs are different – Genevieve offers a discreet and confidential service helping clients begin the important journey of regaining comfort and confidence after surgery.

– Exercise, Nutrition & Breathing: Prevention & Treatment of Lymphoedema with Sarah Gill –

(This event was held on Tuesday 22nd November 2022 for All Clients)

In this presentation Lymphatic Specialist, Sarah Gill took us through the recent research on prevention and treatment of cancer-related lymphoedema through exercise and what the influence of various diets have on lymphoedema. She also presented adjustments to your breathing habits to help clients feel less tired and breathless.

Sarah Gill is a Dr. Vodder (lymphatic) certified therapist, she has a Diploma of Remedial Massage and is a member of the Australasian Lymphology Association & Massage & Myotherapy Australia.is a registered nurse and a specialist breast-care/surgical garment fitter with 30 years of nursing experience.

– Symptom Management in Pallative Care with Kaye Hose –

(This event was held on Wednesday 30th November 2022 for HOT Pink Sisters and Second Hope Support Groups)

For our final Metastatic Education Session of the year, Kaye Hose joined us to continue the discussion around the topic of ‘Symptom Management in Palliative Care’. Kaye spoke about some of the common symptoms managed in a Palliative Care Clinic, including pain, anxiety and nausea.