Beverley resident Irene Oram is urging others affected by cancer to be aware of the support available to them.
The 66-year-old Telehealth Coordinator, who was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier in the year, says she is fortunate to have known about the support services available to country people ahead of time.
“I almost feel that because I have had this knowledge my journey has been made much easier,” Ms Oram said.
“I work in health so when I was told I needed to go to Perth for six weeks of radiation treatment; I knew how to access the Cancer Council WA accommodation service.
“It is important for people from the country to know that these types of services are available to them.”
In the 2016/17 financial year, Cancer Council WA’s Crawford and Milroy Lodges accommodated 4,711 regional cancer patients and their carers who travelled to Perth for treatment.
Mrs Oram said although she knew of the service, she was pleasantly surprised by the social support offered at both lodges.
“It does make a difference to be able to relate to people that are going through something similar to you,” Ms Oram said.
“When you first hear you are going to be away from home and on your own for six weeks, it is quite daunting.
“The people that stay here are very supportive of each other and you can have as much or as little social interaction as you like.
“There are also a reasonable amount of activities that you can get involved in, or even here at Milroy, you can go out and have a walk around the bushland.”
Cancer Council’s iconic fundraising event, Daffodil Day, will take place this year on Friday 24 August, a timely reminder that support for people affected by cancer is just a phone call away said Ms Oram.
“It can be quite isolating in the region, so knowing what services are available, or at least making a call to ask about what is out there, is the first step after being diagnosed,” she said.
Money raised on Daffodil Day will enable Cancer Council WA to continue their vital cancer research, education and support services. Donate at www.daffodilday.com.au.
Exclusive to WA this year is Policeman Dougal bear ,who visited Northam Police Station last week to meet OIC Senior Sergeant Geoff Dickson and First Class Constable Petrina Wilson.
You can purchase Dougal or a Daffodil Day pin from Cancer Council WA at Northam Boulevard Shopping Centre Wednesday 22 August 12pm to 3pm.
People wanting more information about Cancer Council WA support services can contact the not-for-profit’s 13 11 20 Cancer Information and Support Line.
