smart living A U T U M N / W I NT E R ' 1 1
j page 5 A soldier’s battle with cancer
Special men’s issue Get men into smart living
Jeremiah’s story A heroic struggle with brain cancer
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Meet some of our hosts
Daffodil Day Celebrating 25 years
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Contents News
3
Call To Arms
4
Major Matthew Carr’s Battle Scars
5
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
6
Get men into smart living
8
Jeremiah’s story
10
Helpline Q&As
13
Daffodil Day
14
Race Thing
16
Relay For Life
17
Health feature: making lifestyle choices
18
Girls Night In
23
Pink Ribbon Day
24
Social pages
26
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’s CElO e W e co m
And can men step up? Of course we can, and in our men’s health feature we explore ways to make lasting lifestyle changes. We all want to live the good life – striking up a balance between health, work, family and friends. That said, when we start to look beyond our best intentions towards our environments, we can see firsthand how they shape our behaviours, often overriding even the very best of intentions. Take, for example, the hoary issue of men’s health, where the old adage of you can bring a horse to water applies. Men do congregate around convivial watering holes without any coercion, yet try to encourage a man to visit his GP for a preventative check-up and you’ll find the ‘horse’ reluctant to drink. This is part of the reason why more Australian men are dying of cancer. And contrary to popular myth, it’s not just prostate cancer and cancer in men’s ‘bits’, it’s the cancers like lung cancer, bowel cancer and melanoma, affecting men from all walks of life – men’s cancers don’t discriminate.
Thanks to our corporate sponsors and supporters Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea National sponsors: Officeworks, Travelscene American Express.
ISSN: 1445-1824 Published by Marketing and Communications Division of Cancer Council NSW ABN 51 116 463 846 Printing: SOS Print + Media Director: Manisha Amin Editor: Sally Bryett Production and design coordinator: Carol Balatincz Writers: Luke Alexander, Pip Moss, Catherine Stace Contributors: Lorna O’Brien, Christine Attenborough, Teneale Cameron, Kathy Chapman, Tianji Dickens, Hayley Doctors, Vikki Jayewardene, Rachel Kathriner, Roslyn Miller, Karen Kalpage, Julie Roberts, Anita Tang, Louise Woods, Melanie Zammit Smart Living Editorial Committee: Carol Balatincz, Sally Bryett, Charlotte Elliott, Vikki Jayewardene, Catherine Stace Proofreading: Deirdre Mowat Design: Cobe Design Photography: iStock and Cancer Council staff Copyright 2011 Cancer Council NSW Cancer Council New South Wales 153 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011 PO Box 572 Kings Cross NSW 1340 Australia Ph: 61-2 9334 1900 Fax: 61-2 9358 1452 Email: feedback@nswcc.org.au Website: www.cancercouncil.com.au All care is taken to ensure that the information contained here is accurate at the time of publication. Before commencing any health treatment, always consult your doctor.
You could say we’re on a mission because we know we can save almost 6,000 Australian men each year from dying of cancer through simple preventative measures, including minor changes to lifestyle and screening.
NSW sponsors: Franklins. Call To Arms NSW supporters: AFL NSW/ACT, CanterburyBankstown Bulldogs, Cronulla Sharks, Football NSW, Foxtel, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, NSW Rugby, NRL, Parramatta Eels, Rugby League’s One Community, St George Illawarra Dragons, Wests Tigers
In this edition you will also read an extraordinary story of faith and courage of a gifted and spirited boy, Jeremiah Del Tufo, and also read about recent events including our annual POSH auction, which raised over $1 million for cancer research. We will also encourage you to involve your sporting group with our Call To Arms season. We’re also preparing for a bumper 25 years of Daffodil Day on 26 August, an event not to be missed, so make sure you’re involved. Please enjoy the stories in this edition and do try our ever-popular recipe that offers a tasty meal with strong health credentials. You might be so inspired after trying out the recipe that more men follow suit and embrace the good life too. Warm regards, Dr Andrew Penman AM CEO, Cancer Council NSW
NSW sponsors: Bijoux Collection, CityRail, Fastway Couriers, Franklins, Harris Farm Markets, HCF, IGA, NAB, N Newsagents, Pearsons Florist Girls Night In National sponsor: Curves Pink Ribbon Day National sponsors: Amcal, Autograph, Best & Less, Big W, Carter Holt Harvey, Crossroads, Curves, Jeanswest, Millers, Rockmans/BeMe, Wombat, Woolworths NSW sponsors: Franklins, Greater Building Society, NAB, Newcastle Permanent City Mile Dash
Daffodil Day
NSW sponsor: GQ magazine
National sponsors: ANZ, Autograph, Coles, Coles Express, Crossroads, Gordon and Gotch, Millers, Power DC, Rockmans/BeMe, Sorbent, Star Track Express
NSW supporters: Barangaroo, ORIGINAL BOOTCAMP™, X-Tri
Corporate supporters: Bankwest, Blooms The Chemist, HCF, Medicare NSW, Newsagents Association NSW
news
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Sydneysiders set for
social change
CLEAR Study reaches 5,000 participants! The NSW Cancer, Lifestyle and Evaluation of Risk (CLEAR) Study will provide the most comprehensive information ever gathered about the lifestyle and genetic factors that influence cancer in the NSW community, and Cancer Council is pleased to announce we have reached the 5,000-participant mark. The findings of this groundbreaking study are expected to lead to a much better understanding of what causes cancer.
The Sydney Alliance is a broad-based coalition of diverse community groups, unions and religious organisations working together to advance the common good and to achieve a fair, just and sustainable city.
Sydney Alliance has held a number of listening campaigns across Cancer Council, and staff have also attended listening campaigns and training days with other member organisations.
While you won’t see the word ‘cancer’ in its material, many of the problems faced by cancer patients, and the different cancer outcomes in NSW, are linked with a lack of fairness and equity in our health system and community. This is why Cancer Council is a member of the Alliance.
Check out www.youtube.com/ watch?v=c-ccuQRCZgI to see what the same movement is achieving in the United Kingdom.
Participation in the CLEAR Study involves completing a questionnaire and providing a small blood sample (optional). Each is a one-time-only activity and there are no further obligations. It’s that simple to help find the answer to the question: “What really causes cancer?” Your story, or the story of someone you know, will help us find the answers – so if you or your partner have been diagnosed with cancer in the past 18 months, and if you’re over 18 and live in NSW, you can help us in the CLEAR Study. Contact the CLEAR Study hotline on 1800 500 894 or email CLEAR@nswcc.org.au for more information.
Cancer Council has developed a new initiative that allows people from all over the state to create any event they want and turn it into a fundraising activity. It could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience or something they do every day. The website is called 1000 ideas to fight cancer. It’s an interactive place where people can go and share their unique ideas on how to raise money for cancer. It can be anything – a fitness marathon, shaving your head or even a barbecue lunch with friends. Why not come up with a creative fundraising idea now and add it to the 1000 ideas wall, just for fun? Visit www.1000ideas.com.au so you can add your idea to help fight cancer.
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news
4 | smart living
POSH
2011 raises a record
$1.1 million Over the past 12 years, POSH has raised over $8 million, which has funded research into cancer prevention, new cancer treatments, and the provision of practical and emotional support to those affected by cancer. We are pleased to announce that 730 people attended this year’s gala ball at the Westin Ballroom and gave very generously to support Cancer Council’s work to beat cancer.
da The audience enjoyed on wonderful presentation by Professor Roger Reddel about cancer cell immortalisation. Comedian Vince Sorrenti once again donated his services for his 12th POSH auction and kept everyone entertained as the MC. Cancer Council would d like to thank the POSH Committee, sponsors, ponsors, corporate partners and guests for or giving so generously and making our work possible! For any further enquires about POSH, please contact Jenny Menzies at jennym@nswcc.org.au or call 02 9334 1967.
Lewis Rober ts-Thomson – Sydney Swan s.
Help us tackle cancer in men In 2006, Essendon Football Club players wore yellow armbands in an AFL match to support team mate Adam Ramanauskas, who was facing cancer. While the Bombers were fined $20,000 for wearing coloured armbands during this inaugural ‘Clash For Cancer’, these funds were donated to Cancer Council. Call To Arms has since grown to become a national fundraising event. Today, AFL, soccer, rugby and all sorts of sports teams join in. This year the event aims to raise $300,000 in NSW. Register your sports team at www.calltoarms.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85. Cancer Council will send you a Champions Kit, which has all you need to
hold a successful Call To Arms match – yellow armband tape, posters and tips on fundraising. By this time tomorrow, more than 50 men in NSW will have heard the words: “You have cancer”. It could well be men from your sports club who benefit from yourr e Call To Arms contribution. It could well be your best mate.
The fo following seve n simple lifestyle chan ges could cu t your cancer risk: 1. Check for unusual chang es and have regular sc reening tests 2. Maintain a healthy weigh t 3. Limit alcoh olic drinks 4. Eat a health y diet 5. Be physical ly active 6. Be sun-sm art 7. Quit smoki ng.
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Did you do the Dash? Did you know that one in two Australian men will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85? On 17 June this year, Cancer Council NSW held the first ever City Mile Dash, with participants braving the winter chill to run a 1.6-kilometre route in Sydney’s CBD during the peak workday lunchbreak.
reveal an awareness of prevention You’d be forgiven for thinking that a healthy 26-year-old was no candidate for testicular cancer, yet Matthew Carr, an officer in the Australian Army, was told the unimaginable, sending him on a path of self-determination. He was diagnosed with advanced, stage three testicular cancer, which had spread through his lymphatic system, establishing a number of secondary malignant tumours in his abdomen, lungs and neck. He began a cycle of chemotherapy in Darwin and subsequently underwent significant operations at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney. Whilst Matthew’s treatment lasted almost two years, he made a full recovery and recommenced his duties in the Army. Over the next seven years, Matthew travelled through China and was deployed to the Middle East on active duty. He married his wife, Michelle, in 2008 and was promoted to Major in the same year. In November 2008, Matthew developed a blood clot in his leg. Scans confirmed that his cancer had returned, with a secondary tumour within his abdomen. He underwent a life-threatening 15-hour operation and the tumour was successfully removed.
Whilst Matthew may never find out what caused his cancer, we do know that at least 30 percent of cancers are preventable through lifestyle choices and this is a message he wants as many men to know about as possible. “Blokes like me don’t want to fuss about our health because we don’t think we’ll get sick in the first place. “That was my attitude then, but now I know there’s some important things men can do to make a big difference to their health. Blokes need to know that it’s all good once they take stock of their health,” said Matthew.
The Dash was held during Men’ss Health Week, which ran from 13 to ght ht 19 June 2011, to focus the spotlig spotlight on cancer in men, not justt men’s ig g cancers. We’d like to say a very big nd thank you to all our entrants and n teams, and congratulate you on rts. your amazing fundraising efforts. eve ent a We couldn’t have made this event port.. po success without your support. We are calling o on who n anyone a ew ho h o would like to participate 2012 pa p art rtic icip pat a e in n tthe he h e2 01 012 01 run to dash and h to t yyour ou o u urr computer comp co omp pu utter er a nd n d register yyourself att ours ou ours rsel se ellf o orr yyour our tea ou tteam te am ma www.citymiledash.com.au ciity ym miiile ledash leda le da as sh h.c . om. – or o call 1300 65 85. 06 5 65 58 5.
Matthew is now working with Cancer Council NSW on our newly established men’s health committee and works across a number of projects promoting awareness of cancer in men including our newest fundraiser, City Mile Dash. Despite significant complications Matthew has been able to continue working within the Army and completed his autobiography, Battle Scars, in 2009. Matthew and a contingency from the Australian Army ran the City Mile Dash on 17 June. Visit www.citymiledash.com.au for post-race photos.
Cancer Council is giving away five copies of Mathew Carr’s book Battle Scars. Be one of the first five people to email Caths@nswcc.org.au to receive your free copy.
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biggest morning tea
Coastal host
6 | smart living
Australia’s
BIGGEST MORNING TEA
2011 Thanks for making your cup count Our sincere thanks go to our dedicated hosts and their wonderful guests for joining us in May for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. Congratulations on your incredible efforts and for taking time to support one of our leading fundraising events. Let our hosts inspire you Australia is a geographically big and culturally diverse country. To celebrate the different ways people get together to make their cup count in the fight against cancer, we spoke to hosts from country to coast and got an insight into their Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.
ck Outba t hos
ning Tea (left to right): ’s Australia’s Biggest Mor t Ettalong Beach Hut Cafe idtt, hmid Sch Ros er, Palm The hard-working team at Doherty, Ken y, Warrick Barwell, John Andy Walker. and John Marlow, Les Houseb per Coo e Ann per, well, Michael Coo Frank Schmidt, Robyn Bar
Outback host John McGovern and the Walgett community were motivated to get behind Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in 2009 and 2010, and he held another morning tea there again in 2011. Since 2009, the people of Walgett have raised more than $12,000 – an outstanding effort. John took over organising the annual event in 2009 after previous host, Jan Gudgeon, lost her battle with cancer in November 2008. She had hosted Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea functions in Walgett for 10 years, from 1998 to 2008. John wanted to ensure that the town did not miss out on the event, and he also wished to honour Jan’s outstanding efforts. Annella Powell from Cancer Council NSW recently visited Walgett, where a morning tea was held, and John, on behalf of the people of Walgett Shire, was presented with a certificate of thanks from Cancer Council.
Coastal host The Ettalong Beach Hut Cafe hosted its first Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event in May 2003. Proprietor Andy Walker’s mother had passed away a few years earlier after a long battle with breast cancer, and when he and his wife, Jo, saw the ad promoting the event, they decided that this could be their way of showing support for a cause so close to their hearts. Since hosting their first morning tea, Jo has lost an aunt and – very nearly – her father to bowel cancer. They have also seen many customers battle and beat the disease. However, these were the lucky ones – other customers have lost their lives to cancer. This year was their ninth Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, and each time their event just gets bigger. It’s a whole day of fun and entertainment for the community – not just a morning tea! Every year, a barbecue and a monster raffle are held in the main street. Cakes are also baked and donated to the cause by Jo’s mother and a friend. Over the years, the community has raised more than $20,000. Unfortunately, Andy recently had to return to the UK to catch up with family, as his eldest sister has been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer. This is another reason why every year will see the Ettalong Beach Hut Cafe back hosting their Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea and joining the fight to beat cancer.
Front Row: Annella Powell (Cancer Council NSW Regional Manager), Jim Gudgeon, Cathy Greene, Sister Mary-Ellen Griffin. Back Row: John McGovern, Judy James, Kate Anderson, Sue Yeomans.
$100,000 raised
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Diary note for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in 2012 year’s Save the date for next ing Tea. It Australia’s Biggest Morn 24 May will be held on Thursday having 2012. We look forward to you join us again!
Ambassadors cook up a storm We love our Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Ambassadors! These celebrities and well-known chefs donated thei their time, skills and tasty recipes to get everyone revved up to su support the launch of one of our favourite times of the year. Go to bigge p biggestmorningtea.com.au to check out some healthyy recipes provided by the chefs.
Sh Sharon Mariani M i i Cancer Council charity evening On 26 March 2011, 480 family and friends of Sharon Mariani gathered for a black-tie charity evening at Mounties Club, Mt Pritchard, in memory of Sharon and to raise funds for Cancer Council NSW. Sharon, who was a dedicated supporter of Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, unfortunately lost her battle with breast cancer in August 2010. Sharon’s husband, Peter, son, Peter James, daughters, Alison and Lauren, Sharon’s sister, Colleen Piccolotto plus sister-in-law, Christine Lord, and two best friends, Anna Pace and Ruth Rysko, along with many others, organised a wonderful evening with auctions and raffles, and raised $100,000 towards a Cancer Council transcriptional research project for breast cancer. Cancer Council would like to thank Sharon’s family and everyone who contributed to the night. Together we will achieve our aim of defeating cancer.
RIght: Sharon Mariani Below (left to right): Peter Mariani presenting Manisha Amin from Cancer Council with a cheque for $100,000.
Callum Hann (left) and Janella Purcell.
Adriano Zumbo. Zumbo
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men’s health
8 | smart living
Even the odds:
GET MEN INTO SMART LIVING By Dr Andrew Penman AM, CEO, Cancer Council NSW
More Australian men are dying of cancer than need to – and we can all play a part in preventing this. Contrary to popular myth, cancer in men is not just prostate cancer and cancer in men’s ‘bits’. But scan the newspapers and you would be forgiven in thinking that it was all about the prostate. Men are more likely to die of lung cancer than prostate cancer, yet it rarely gets covered or talked about. It’s in cancers like lung cancer, melanoma and bowel cancer that we can make the greatest difference, because these cancers are mostly preventable. The facts speak for themselves. Compared to women, men are 80 percent more likely to die from these cancers that are common to both. Through comparing the common cancers, we realise there is a massive difference between men and women, highlighting that men really are faring quite badly.
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Why are our men falling behind? When it comes to making cancer-smart lifestyle choices, women do it better. Men are more likely to smoke, to spend more time in the sun, to eat less fruit and vegetables1, to drink too much alcohol2, and to be overweight compared with women. It is factors like these that can increase your cancer risk as, for example, about 90 percent of male lung cancers relate to smoking. Men are also less likely to visit a doctor, perhaps because, as research shows, they tend to view themselves as healthy, when in fact they are not3. Or they take a fatalistic view, acknowledging their less-than-ideal lifestyles, but assuming that the damage is irreversible. Add the fact that men are more likely than women to be exposed to occupational hazards, such as asbestos and benzene to the mix, and we are painting a grim picture for men. Why does this happen? There are a number of reasons, including complacency, a lack of understanding on what causes cancer, and limited discussion among men and their friends about good health. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way.
Even the odds for men It’s realistic and fair to say we can even the odds between men and women dying of mostly preventable cancers, and reduce the number of men dying from these cancers. If women can change their behaviour and be more cancer-smart, then so can men, as long as they are provided with support relevant to them. And here’s the good news: making lifestyle changes now improves your health outlook for the future, whatever your past lifestyle may have been.
misapprehensions about what the test entails (it’s easier than you think!). Is it really that simple to change behaviour? Well, bad habits are very easily formed but much more difficult to break. It’s a real challenge. But the good news is that together we can overcome this challenge, on an individual level by men changing their behaviour, and en masse by the health system and governments altering their approach. According to NSW-based Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre (MHIRC), social, economic and political issues can, and do affect men’s health – so policy makers need to think differently and plan differently. Anthony Brown from MHIRC says, “It’s vital to have male-friendly health services. Within healthcare, we need to talk in the language of men and take health information to where men gather, work and play. Change in men’s behaviour won’t happen in a vacuum”. However, that doesn’t mean that we as individuals can be complacent in changing our approach to cancer prevention. What can we do? Well, let’s start by acknowledging the positives. Contrary to the myth that men don’t care at all – they do. Men are listening, as in the past 10 years they have lowered their risk of dying from lung cancer by 16 percent. Many men are interested in being healthy – you only have to look at the
The challenge So I put out a challenge to all men, myself included. Let’s start a social change movement. Let’s change our lives for the better. All we need to do is make small changes day to day to make us more cancer-smart. Cut down on smoking or consider quitting. Eat and enjoy more of the great fruit and vegetables that we have here in Australia, and get out and get active with your family and friends. Be sun-smart and ‘slip, slop, slap’ when outdoors – and no more avoiding check-ups at the GP! Treat your body like your car: you wouldn’t miss a tune up, you wouldn’t put substandard fuel in the tank, and you wouldn’t let it sit in the garage doing nothing … so why do that to your body? Not only will you feel better, but you will cut your cancer risk and the risk of other chronic disease. You’ll have more energy for family and friends, you’ll have more time with your kids and you’ll probably be around for longer. This means a lot to the people who love you. 1
Australia’s Health 2010 http://www.aihw.gov.au/ publications/aus/ah10/11374-c06.pdf p319
2
As above
3
Australia’s Health 2010 – AIHW
What can you do to cut your cancer risk?
In fact, we could save around 6,000 Australian men per year dying of cancer through basic preventative measures, including screening and minor changes to lifestyle. That’s around 20 percent of all cancer deaths! For example, the percentage of men who are screened for prostate cancer every two years is around 40 percent, yet the percentage of men screened for bowel cancer is significantly lower. With doubt being cast over the effectiveness of PSA testing as a population screening tool, it’s amazing to think that men are less likely to use the extremely effective test for bowel cancer. I’m willing to bet that the cause of this is a mixture of complacency (‘it won’t happen to me’), lack of awareness of the test and
multitudes of men’s magazines popping up, like Men’s Health and Men’s Fitness, helping get the perfect pecs, abs and legs like Beckham. We need to harness this.
Be cancer-smart. Here’s how: UÊ Quit smoking or help a mate quit smoking UÊ Be sun-smart UÊ Eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight UÊ Get active
Dr Andrew Penman AM.
UÊ Reduce alcohol intake UÊ Get check-ups at your GP.
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feature
10 | smart living
“He’d run at life with his arms and mouth open.”
Jeremiah’s story Nicole Woodford, Jeremiah’s mother, tells of her son’s struggle with brain cancer
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Jeremiah was an absolute eccentric. From the age of two, he wanted to be a marine biologist. He loved putting on a snorkel in the bathtub. He slept with a mask on his face and flippers on his feet. He’d run at life with his arms and mouth open.
I took him back up to Nowra, where he had an MRI. This picked up an 8-centimetre tumour between his skull and the base of his neck. I was told to pack lots of stuff, because we were going to hospital for a long time.
He was also a typical boy. He had unbrushed hair and a pocketful of rocks most days. He was also smart. He loved Harry Potter and other books. Everyone loved Jeremiah and wanted to talk with him. He’d light up a room. At six years old, he taught himself about quantum physics, energy and matter. He was just fascinated with science. He never seemed to sleep. He’d run into our room at 4am with a scientific fact.
Treatment
Aged seven, he got interested in religion and became a Buddhist. He took lessons and believed in it firmly. Jeremiah also invented the ‘huggle’ – a cross between a cuddle and a snuggle. It was like an enormous version of both. At the age of eight, he decided to be a nocturnal animal and camped out in the garden. He lived outdoors for five days in a tent, but got frustrated because he kept falling asleep. On the last day, he said that he’d decided to come back to the house because I might miss him.
The illness Jeremiah never got sick. He loved to surf, camp and swim. He was so healthy. On 8 June 2009, with absolutely no warning, Jeremiah walked into our room at 5am and said, “Mummy my neck hurts”. He had no temperature so I just thought he must have a crick in his neck. The next day it got no better so we took him to the doctor. The doctor thought it was tonsillitis. It didn’t improve, so we took him to the hospital and they thought Jeremiah might have had Sherman’s disease. I wasn’t convinced, so we took him to Nowra Hospital and asked for an X-ray. Nothing showed up on this, so I asked them to send the X-ray off to the paediatrician. In the meantime, Jeremiah was on antibiotics for two more days. He didn’t improve, so I took him back to the doctor and he had a spasm in the office. From here, he went into hospital for a CT scan. This didn’t pick up any tumour. By now, he could only sleep sitting up. A specialist paediatrician wanted to monitor him for a week, but I’d just had some photos developed from Jeremiah’s recent birthday and he looked so different that I was really concerned.
Jeremiah was operated on at Westmead Children’s Hospital and on removing the tumour, the doctor said it looked 99 percent benign. They then assessed the tumour and found that it was 95 percent benign and 5 percent malignant. The malignant part of the tumour was hidden inside the benign part, and it was so aggressive that it sent 12 other tumours down Jeremiah’s back. He then had eight hours of surgery to take the tumour out of his spine. They told us he would never walk again, due to his spinal cord being damaged. When he woke up, he refused to accept this, wiggling his toes. Miraculously, within two weeks he was walking again, with a frame. I was told that Jeremiah had a neural glioma and that the cancer cells had flown into his brain and spine. It was a granulated tumour. He had an extremely high dosage of radiotherapy treatment. After this finished, we took him up to the Great Barrier Reef to fulfil his dream of swimming with reef sharks and giant turtles. He loved this experience. Around this time, Jeremiah started reading Lance Armstrong’s book and became convinced that he was a reincarnation of Lance’s missing testicle! After the holiday, Jeremiah went back to hospital for chemo, and also had four stem cell transplants. We were told that the
Before Jeremiah passed away, he told Nicole that she must have another child. She is now pregnant and was due to give birth in June.
cancer had all gone after two rounds of the chemo. He was so brave. The only time he ever cried during his treatment was when they gave him a bath! At the end of January 2010, the treatment ended and we went home. Then, just two weeks later, Jeremiah developed an oedema. We took him for another MRI on 2 March and lots of tests were performed.
My child died in my arms and I just thought, “How is this possible?” Cancer returns The cancer had returned and completely riddled his brain. Jeremiah died in hospital on 5 March 2010. He fought until the very end. His lungs collapsed and he reinflated them himself. The pathologist told us that they couldn’t explain what had happened. The really sad part was that we had no options, as there was no research on this illness. That night I didn’t just lose a child, I lost so much potential. Jeremiah would have been an amazing grown-up and an amazing dad. I always thought that cancer doesn’t happen to people like us. But it does. It’s completely random. Two weeks before Jeremiah died, he asked, “Mum, do you believe in reincarnation?” I told him I didn’t know what to believe in anymore, after everything we’d been
Jeremiah A U T U M N / W I NT E R ' 1 1
feature
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through and seen over the last year. He said, “I do. I know I’ll be back.” Deep down, Jeremiah must have known he was dying. My child died in my arms and I just thought, “How is this possible?” It’s too late for my son. But maybe if we had more research, it won’t have to happen to other people’s children. This opened my eyes to the profound impact that charity can have on someone’s life. Every dollar can make a difference. We didn’t want to have a funeral for Jeremiah. Instead, we had a big feast, as he had loved cooking and eating. The kids all went surfing and we ate Jeremiah’s favourite food.
Jeremiah left behind his big sister, Ava, 11, just 17 months his senior. She’s lonely and sad, and thinks the whole thing is a nightmare. Sometimes she wakes up during the night thinking he’ll be in his bedroom. It gives her desperate anguish. Ava has lost her childhood. When her mates complain about their brothers annoying them, she feels like telling them to shut up. Ava was next to Jeremiah when he died. That night she looked at me and said, “Mum, I’m so inspired by Jeremiah. I’m going to work hard and become the best doctor, so children don’t have to suffer.”
locks during our surf carnival, which world champion surfer Pam Burridge helped us to organise on 15 May this year. Pam’s son was best friends with Jeremiah and the carnival involved surfing lessons with her, a competition and a fun run along the beach with flippers on – something Jeremiah used to love doing. We wanted every dollar raised to go into brain cancer research. That’s why we supported Brain Cancer Action Week, with funds going to Cancer Council’s research program.
Ava wanted to raise $50,000 in tribute to Jeremiah and she cut off her long, flowing
Brain cancer is one of the least understood of all cancers, and has been described as a ‘black box’ disease. Almost nothing is known about the environmental or genetic causes of brain cancers. While the survival rates for most other common cancers have improved over the past decade, highgrade gliomas (HGG) continue to be one of the most lethal and aggressive of all cancers. Leading brain cancer researchers, patients, survivors and their families, along with major cancer charities including Cancer Council NSW, spearheaded Brain Cancer Action Week, held 8–14 May 2011. The week is part of a movement for increased awareness and funding for one of the least funded, least researched, least understood – and yet one of the most fatal – cancers.
Why is Brain Cancer Action Week important? Despite a 7 percent increase in new brain cancer cases in Australia over the past decade, research funding for and survival rates of malignant brain cancer (high-grade glioma or HGG) remain regrettably low. No significant improvement in survival rates has been made in two decades, yet there are about 1,600 newly diagnosed cases of brain cancer each year. Funds from the Brain Cancer Action Week campaign are being directed to Cancer Council NSW’s Strategic Research Partnership (STREP) grant program. The funds are already being used to foster national collaboration in brain cancer research via the Australian Genomics and Clinical Outcomes of High Grade Glioma project. Visit www.braincanceraction.com.au for more information.
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Helpline Questions and Answers
Q1: I need to know what GBM means, because my mum has one. Can you tell me what support is available for her?
Q2: What are the causes of lung cancer? I have never smoked yet I have been diagnosed with lung cancer. Why?
A: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a cancer of astrocytes, which when healthy, act as a support to nerve cells of the brain. The brain tissue is composed of white matter (nerve tracts) as well as grey matter (neurones and glial cells). The neurones are surrounded by glial cells – cells that are important for support of the neurones, synthesis of myelin and forming the bloodbrain barrier.
A: Being a non-smoker, it is understandable that you would be confused and unsure as to why it is that you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, especially given that the effects of cigarette smoking are well known and widely published.
Brain cancer treatment usually involves biopsy and removal of as much tumour as possible. This is generally followed by a combination of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and glucocorticoid treatment. Cancer Council NSW has access to support services that are available to help you and your mum, including the Brain Cancer Telephone Support Group. This group offers emotional support, information and advice to people affected by brain cancer, and is designed to connect people with others who are going through a similar experience. There are very few obstacles to joining – all you need is access to a telephone in a quiet place (at work, home, hospital or even whilst travelling). The Brain Cancer Telephone Support Group is held fortnightly. Please encourage your mum to call the Helpline, where she will be able to speak to trained oncology health professionals and be given support and referrals onto relevant services.
However, 10 percent of lung cancers occur in individuals who have never smoked. Although there is no definitive reasoning behind this, as cancer is a very complex disease, there are other contributing factors to take into consideration. Passive smoking can be a contributor to lung cancer. This is thought to possibly increase a non-smoker’s risk of getting lung cancer by approximately 30 percent, with evidence suggesting that lung cancer in non-smokers is more prevalent in females than males. There is an idea that the sex hormones may be a factor contributing to this. There are also other aspects in individuals’ lives that may contribute to lung cancer in non-smokers, such as diet, genetics and environmental carcinogens.
Q3: I need to travel a few hundred kilometres for radiation treatment. My question is, can I record the doctor’s interview, so that I don’t have to repeat this all again to my family? A: This is good idea and can be very helpful for you and your family; however, you would need to discuss it and get agreement from your doctor in advance of the consultation, as there are legal aspects that may need to be addressed. So, in theory, this is possible and can be beneficial, but you would need to make some arrangements before it could happen. Another suggestion is that perhaps a family member would be able to drive you to treatment, so that you have support both practically and emotionally during your travel time.
Recording your doctor’s interview might be a good way of relaying the conversation to your family, if your doctor agrees to it.
You may also like to go to our Cancer Connections website, an online peer support service. Just log onto www.cancerconnections.com.au – it is easy to use.
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daffodil day
14 | smart living
Celebrating 25 years of Daffodil Day Friday 26 August will see Daffodil Day celebrating its 25th anniversary in Australia. Let’s get together to make this the biggest and brightest Daffodil Day yet. Together we can paint this state yellow!
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How to get et inv involved vol olve lve ved d Visit www.daffodilday.com.au and register to: UÊ Order a Daffodil Day merchandise box and sell items throughout the month of August UÊ Volunteer at a Daffodil Day site on Friday 26 August to sell fresh daffodils and merchandise UÊ GO YELLOW! Dress in yellow for the day, hold a ‘yellow’ morning tea, or do a ‘yellow’ run. Get creative and have fun along the way UÊ Donate in support of 25 years of Daffodil Day.
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We love the Daffodil Day 2011 merchandise range! Have a look at the new items you can order and sell to family and friends or in your workplace workplace.
rie tor Lorna O’B
What’s new for 2011? Russ joins us again T year’s Russ Bear is wrapped and This rready for the outdoors. He is soft and c cuddly, and would love to go home with yyou. This limited edition bear will be available for sale for only $30 on Daffodil a Day. You can also order online at www. D d daffodilday.com.au or purchase him tthrough Cancer Council retail outlets.
ce e Also available: Superhero Dougal, office clips and ball.
Want to order a merchandise box?
“Everyone has a charity event that they have a personal attachment to, and for me it is Daffodil Day. I chose this day because it, like cancer, does not discriminate and it raises money to fight all cancer types.
Kelly’s workplace Daffodil Day stall keeps up the fight “I became involved in Daffodil Day in 2008. I had recently lost my grandfather to cancer, and also my best friend a few years prior to that. It was the first year that I was in a position to be able to donate space and time to assist in raising funds for Cancer Council.
Cancer Council NSW’s Helpline has also been operating for 25 years. We asked Lorna O’Brien, Helpline Program Coordinator, how the Helpline has served cancer patients and their loved ones over that time. “It is certainly an amazing milestone for the cancer support unit. The Helpline has offered support to thousands of callers over the past 25 years. In 1985, it was a very humble beginning, consisting of three nurses and a very small list of services available. “Now, 25 years on, there is a team of 11 qualified health professionals working on the Helpline, consisting of dietitians, a radiologist, breast care nurses and nurses with oncology experience. To assist the Helpline consultants, there is a database of over 3,000 services, which ensures that callers can be provided with immediate and relevant information.
It’s easy: visit www.daffodilday.com. au to order a Daffodil Day box and other items. We will send you the items and posters (free of charge), along with selling tips. Then simply sell as many items as you can throughout August. Feel proud and satisfied that you have raised money to fund research, prevention programs and support services for people living with cancer.
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Look who else is celebrating a milestone!
“I love being involved with Daffodil Day and helping set up the stall. It’s always such a fun day and I am very fortunate to have staff within the building who like to help. I get such personal satisfaction knowing that I have helped Cancer Council raise money. It’s not about how much you raise, but just the fact that you get involved. “Daffodil Day is a day that I look forward to every year. I hope that I can be involved for many years to come. A huge thank you must go to everyone who is involved, because without them, this could never happen!”
“Over the 25 years, there has been incredible growth in services offered by Cancer Council. Callers to the Helpline can now have access to free legal and financial support, a financial assistance program and a peer support program, and then there is the telephone support group for those isolated by their cancer. There are also a number of support groups, as well as the Living Well After Cancer programs. This year, there was the development of an additional service for callers who need assistance with transport to treatment. “The Helpline has always been a free and confidential telephone support service. Cancer Council’s Helpline continues to be a resource centre of information for patients and carers to use at anytime during their cancer journey. “With each milestone, it is a time to reflect what has been achieved and to acknowledge that these services are only available because of the generosity of the people who donate to the cancer cause. We have great pride that the 13 11 20 number has played such a vital role to those affected by a cancer diagnosis. Thank you to all who were instrumental in its development, growth and success.”
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event
16 | smart living
“Too often these days, people neglect their health until they experience a health scare and reach a crisis point ...”
Run, walk, swim or cycle:
“My life has been personally touched by cancer, which was a motivating factor. In 2004, my mother was diagnosed with bowel cancer, losing her battle three months later, aged 54. In June last year, my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Since then, he has made some big changes to his health and fitness, which are really paying off. I believe the changes he has made to his eating and exercise habits are a large part of the success he has had with his current treatment.
Race Thing is all about having a go
“Dad actually joined me on the day of the marathon, completing the 4-kilometre family fun run – his first proper running event! “So, by entering the marathon and fundraising, I was aiming to promote a message of exercise and awareness of factors to help prevent cancer, and the great work done by Cancer Council.” When asked whether he had any tips for other Race Thing participants, David said, “Spread the word to as many people as you can that you are taking part in your race and fundraising for a great cause along the way. If others sign up and join you, even better. Most importantly, make the whole experience fun and you will have a blast!” ht):
(left to rig nning Festival es Sydney Ru or km ac Bl el. 10 d Rob Frem e at the 20 Robertson an Crossing the lin bertson, David Ro n Ia , rts be Julie Ro
David Robertson has always enjoyed running. However, in 2010, he decided to complete his first marathon in the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival and in the process raise funds for Cancer Council NSW through Race Thing – raising an amazing $2,000.
“Running is one of my passions,” David said. “I enjoy the way running allows us to reconnect with our own bodies, with others around us and with our surroundings. Plus it’s great for your health and wellbeing. The use of exercise and lifestyle factors is a powerful force to help prevent and fight cancer, which is something that I am also very passionate about. “Too often these days, people neglect their health until they experience a health scare and reach a crisis point, which leads them to make changes. My personal mission is to encourage people to make better health choices and reap the benefits now.
You do not have to run a marathon to be involved in Race Thing. You can join any sporting event or community day out – all you need to do is sign up and fundraise for Cancer Council NSW. Check out some of the Big Things you can get involved in at www.doyourthing.com.au/join-a-big-thing or visit www.doyourthing.com.au/race-thing to register your race.
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2011 calendar of Race Things
Give Relay For Life a go in 2011 Over 50,000 participants came together for Relay For Life in 64 communities across NSW this financial year.
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Relay For Life is Cancer Council’s biggest event across Australia. Held in communities all over the country, it raises over $18 million each year towards the fight against cancer. In 2010, the NSW Relay For Life community raised $6.1 million for cancer research, prevention programs and support services. A fantastic effort that goes a long way!
What is Relay For Life? Relay For Life is a fun, outdoor, overnight fundraising event that brings communities together to celebrate and remember the lives of those who have battled cancer. Teams take turns to keep moving in a relay style for the duration of the fundraiser. You can stay for the whole Relay or just visit and enjoy the free entertainment, activities and poignant ceremonies.
Bradley’s family gave Bathurst Relay a go
16 Sept
Motivated by the loss of his mother who passed away from stomach cancer, and having himself survived Hodgkin’s lymphoma as a child, Bradley Cook joined his family’s team at the Bathurst Relay For Life for the second year in 2011.
2011
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How can you Relay For Life?
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Each Relay For Life event is organised by a local volunteer committee on behalf of Cancer Council. Volunteers are invaluable in bringing together these events in their communitiess and helping make Relay such a successful and inspirational occasion.
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There were 20 to 30 family members at the event at any one time, and his team has raised over $2,500 – a fantastic effort for the fight against cancer. “Relay is a great chance to catch up with family and friends whilst helping a great cause,” Bradley said. “Walking the track by yourself is a good time to reflect on those loved ones lost. It is also a celebration of their eir lives and leaves you looking back with a smile.”
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Anyone can get involved in Relay For Life. There are no age limits or fitness ms requirements. Usually teams are made up of 10 to 15 people and headed up by a team captain.
Bradley Cook.
Relay For Life is held all around NSW throughout the year. Visit www.relayforlife.org.au to start your own team or join an existing team.
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health feature
18 | smart living
Graeme believes nothing will motivate a dad more than his children. Read the full story on page 22.
Health alth feature: feature
how you can make lifestyle choices to reduce the risk of cancer
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Swap It, Don’t Stop It The Australian Government recently launched the Swap It, Don’t Stop It campaign – a call to action to all Australians to make healthier lifestyle choices to reduce their risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Many people don’t realise that being overweight or obese is a risk factor for cancer. For men, having excess body weight can increase your risk of cancers of the bowel, kidney, pancreas and oesophagus. A waist measurement of over 94 centimetres for men puts you at risk.
Have you seen Eric? Swap It, Don’t Stop It features Eric, an animated blue balloon character – likeable but overweight. Eric is urging all Australians to make some simple lifestyle changes to become healthier – for instance, swap big for small, swap often for sometimes, swap fried for fresh, swap sitting for moving and swap watching for playing. Swap big for small: UÊ Don’t overcrowd your plate UÊ Think twice before going back for seconds UÊ Eat slowly to give your stomach time to signal it’s full UÊ Share a dessert rather than have your own. Swap often for sometimes: UÊ Swap fried food for fresh UÊ Swap fizzy drink for water UÊ Swap takeaway for homemade UÊ Eat less ‘sometimes’ food. Swap sitting for moving: UÊ Walk and deliver a message rather than email UÊ Take the bike for short trips instead of the car UÊ Park the car further away and enjoy a short walk UÊ Get off the bus one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way. Swap watching for playing: UÊ Don’t just watch sport – get out and get active!
UÊ Meet friends for a walk instead of coffee and cake UÊ Get outdoors with the family – go to the park or for a bike ride UÊ Swap a family movie for bowling. According to Eric, being a swapper is really simple: “It just means swapping some of the things I’m doing now for healthier choices. That way I can lose my belly, without losing all the things I love. It’s easy!” Think about all the swaps you can make in your everyday life – at work, at home or when out shopping. By making simple swaps, you can lose your belly without losing out on all the things you love. Healthy eating and getting active can help you lose centimetres from your waistline, and prevent or delay the onset of some chronic diseases.
But don’t forget ... Be realistic and don’t give up before you start to see the benefits. Be patient and keep at it. Set a series of goals and work towards them. Reward yourself when you get there. Start with small swaps that can be easily incorporated into your everyday lifestyle. Remember – small swaps add up to small changes that get easier over time and show results.
Think you need a helping hand? Making changes to your eating and activity is not always easy. At www.australia.gov.au/swapit you can find free resources to help you make changes towards a healthier lifestyle: UÊ Try the 12-week planner to help you plan and monitor your eating and physical activity, and to provide practical and simple ideas you can apply to your everyday life week by week. Just follow the simple suggestions and create some new habits. UÊ If you are a bit more phone-savvy, try the Swap It app for your iphone. This app allows you to choose from a range of food and physical activity swaps. You can set up alerts to remind you when it’s time to make a swap – it could be getting
off the bus a couple of stops early and walking the rest of the way, or swapping that afternoon chocolate bar for a piece of fruit. You can even create your own swaps! You can track your progress, use an ingredient planner, create your own shopping list and find a physical activity option near you. UÊ You’ll find recipe ideas that are healthy and quick to prepare. UÊ You can read more information on healthy eating and physical activity. UÊ You can share your success stories and tips! Plus you can find out what swaps other people are making. The Swap It, Don’t Stop It campaign and the swapper resources will help you lose your belly without having to lose out on the things you love, so start swapping today!
Why swap? There are two types of fat in our bodies that can result in health problems. Subcutaneous fat is the one right below our skin. Eric calls this kind of fat his ‘love handles’. The other type is intra-abdominal fat. This is the fat that coats our organs and causes the most concern. Even though we don’t yet fully understand what links intra-abdominal fat with chronic disease, we do know that even a small deposit of this fat increases the risk of serious health problems. In Eric’s case, his main reason for losing weight is his wife, Erica, and their two kids. He’s got so much to live for and he wants to be in the best shape possible. Statistics show that Eric is not alone with his increased waistline. In 2007/08, the proportion of Australian adults who were overweight or obese had grown to 61 percent, up from 56 percent in 1995. If you’re concerned about your health or waist measurement, please talk to your health practitioner.
Acknowledgement: Content used with the permission of the Department of Health and Ageing.
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food feature
20 | smart living
Try the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service If you’re the type who likes to have a chat, then the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service might be for you. It’s a free, confidential telephone service that helps people to make lifestyle changes in relation to: UÊ Healthy eating UÊ Being physically active UÊ Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Qualified Get Healthy Coaches will provide ongoing health coaching and support to help you achieve your goals. Visit www.gethealthynsw.com.au or just call 1300 806 258 Monday to Friday 8am–8pm.
What’s best in July
Alcohol facts UÊ Alcohol has been estimated to be a risk factor for 5,070 cases of cancer (or 5 percent of all cancers) each year in Australia. UÊ Alcohol increases the risk of cancers of the upper digestive tract (mouth, pharynx, larynx and oesophagus), liver, bowel and breast. UÊ It is not just heavy drinking that increases cancer risk. Even small amounts of alcohol increases the risk of these cancers, and the more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk. UÊ The combination of alcohol and tobacco increases the risk of cancer far more than the effect of either drinking or smoking alone. UÊ Cancer Council recommends that to reduce their risk of cancer, people limit their consumption of alcohol, or better still, avoid alcohol altogether.
Fruit
Vegetables
UÊ Apples
UÊ Nashi pears
UÊ Beetroot
UÊ Fennel
UÊ Pumpkins
UÊ Avocados
UÊ Oranges: navel
UÊ Broccoli
UÊ Jerusalem artichokes
UÊ Silverbeet
UÊ Kohlrabi
UÊ Swedes
UÊ Bananas UÊ Custard apples
UÊ Pomelos
UÊ Brussels sprouts
UÊ Quinces
UÊ Cabbage
UÊ Leeks
UÊ Grapefruit
UÊ Rhubarb
UÊ Carrots
UÊ Olives
UÊ Sweet potatoes
UÊ Kiwifruit
UÊ Strawberries
UÊ Cauliflower
UÊ Onions
UÊ Turnips
UÊ Lemons
UÊ Tangelos.
UÊ Celeriac
UÊ Parsnips
UÊ Witlof
UÊ Celery
UÊ Potatoes
UÊ Mandarins
UÊ Spinach
Thanks to Sydney Markets www.sydneymarkets.com.au for this What’s best in July list.
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y h t l a e A h recipe r e g r bu le o h w th e l l i w family y! e nj o
Chicken burgers 15 minutes preparation + 5 minutes cooking 8 serves of vegies in this recipe 500g chicken mince 100g mushrooms, roughly chopped 1 stick celery, roughly chopped 1 onion, roughly chopped 1 large sprig parsley 1 egg 2 teaspoons reduced-salt soy sauce ½ –1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1. Place mince in a large bowl. Process mushrooms, celery, onion, parsley, egg and soy sauce in a food processor until smooth then add to the bowl. 2. Mix with chicken mince and enough breadcrumbs to make a soft but manageable texture. 3. Divide mixture into 6 portions and shape with a little flour to form round patties larger than the width of the rolls.
Olive or canola oil spray
4. Spray a non-stick pan with oil and cook patties for 4–5 minutes on each side, until brown and cooked through.
6 wholemeal rolls, cut open and spread with sweet chilli sauce
5. Serve each patty on a roll with lettuce, tomato and cucumber slices.
3 lettuce leaves, shredded
Serves 6
A little flour to shape patties
Variations: For a beef burger, substitute 500g lean minced beef for chicken. Substitute low-fat cottage cheese or labneh (a soft cheese made from yoghurt) for the sweet chilli sauce. Acknowledgement: This delicious recipe is from the Go for 2&5® recipe collection. Visit www.gofor2and5.com.au to find more fruit–and vegetable-filled recipes. © State of Western Australia (2006). Reproduced with permission.
1 tomato, sliced ½ cucumber, sliced
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health feature
22 | smart living
Men’s quit smoking program welcomed In 2011, members of Burnside Uniting Care at Mt Druitt were offered support to quit smoking through a program funded by Cancer Council NSW’s Smoking Care Project. The program provided free nicotine replacement therapy products to disadvantaged clients of community service agencies.
About Burnside Uniting Care Burnside Uniting Care at Mt Druitt conducts a fathers’ group under the Newpin (New Parents and Infant Network) program, which aims for beneficial change within families and therefore greater possibilities for children. This is especially the case for families where continued tobacco use can mean children are exposed to health risks and possibly deprived of quality or quantity of food if the family’s budget is stretched through tobacco purchases. Graeme Kay works with fathers who want to improve family relationships or are going through a process of regaining access to their children.
Who attends? When Graeme first heard about the quit smoking program, he saw it as just another hoop to jump through. But he was surprised to see how much the dads really wanted it. “It really blew me away,” he said. “I just mentioned it to my boss, asking him if anyone in his group wanted to do this and he came in the next day with nine people on board.”
at the level of fight they will go through and the challenges they will overcome to see their children. “When it comes down to it, smoking is standing in the way of all this stuff,” he said. “It is something they are motivated to get rid of, if not for themselves, then for the health of their children. I was talking to one dad, and he said, ‘I want to hang on and see my children grow up’. From his perspective, he had a reason to live – his children – so things like smoking and healthy living became an issue for him, like it has for many others.”
Outcomes for health One person who had cut down his smoking said he used not to be able to mow the lawn, but now he could. He increased his lung function by 5 percent (he was under the care of a lung specialist). “I’ve gained a lot of weight,” he said. “This time last year I weighed 59 kilos, and I now weigh 69 kilos – that’s the heaviest I’ve ever been. I fit into clothes I never used to fit into, and everyone is commenting that I’m looking a lot healthier. “Before it was an effort for me to go outside and kick the ball around with my kids. I can do a lot more with them. Not saying that I never used to, but back then it was sort of like I’d kick the ball around for 10 minutes, and then I’d say, ‘Righto it’s your turn to play’, but now I can go and kick the ball round with them for four hours a day, or longer.”
Why did the men join the program?
Taking the opportunity to quit
One participant said, “It’s relevant because we are all parents – I want to see my kids turn two”. Another said, “I want to do it so bad because I want to see them grow up”. A father commented that it was sobering to see his youngest child pretend to smoke. But the most powerful motivator was hearing the words: “Dad, I want you to stop smoking. I don’t want you to die.”
Graeme’s experience was that dads seized on the opportunity to be able to participate. “I don’t actually know any smokers, apart from a rare one, who doesn’t really want to give up,” he said. “We know it’s doing us damage. There are so many reasons for giving up, but there’s also the challenge of giving up. This program gave its participants the opportunity to quit with support, which was very much welcomed.”
Graeme believes nothing will motivate a dad more than his children. He’s amazed
pink ribbon day
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Get ready for another
Girls Night In
date e h t e v a S
Jacinta Campbell at a Girls Night In at Hugo’s Lounge, Sydney, last October.
Taree event a huge success Leanne Wood and her all-girl committee had tears in their eyes when they realised how much was raised by their Girls Night In held last October. “We are still in shock at raising a massive $38,640,” Leanne said. The fundraiser, held at the Taree Wingham Race Club function centre, was attended by 450 usiastic women. wo enthusiastic
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Leanne lost a friend to breast cancer over 13 years ago, and when Girls Night In started in 2005, she dedicated this night to her friend, to all women who have lost their battle to cancer, and to the women currently going through cancer. The theme was ‘Supporting women living their lives’. “Hopefully these funds will help our children and grandchildren live a cancer-free life,” Leanne said. “We were blessed to have the wonderful Fiona O’Loughlin to entertain us. She was fabulous and we hope she will return again this year.” Girls Night In committee from Taree (left to right): Lee Walters, Leanne Newman, Melinda Oirbans, Melinda Allen, Leanne Wood, Michelle Cole, Janine Stevens, Amy Hogan, Tracie Rushworth and Sue Allport.
Last year, Girls Night In raised over $1.5 million from 2,000 hosts, who inspired 40,000 busy women across NSW to take time out and connect with girlfriends in support of Cancer Council’s mission to defeat cancer. The statistics for women’s cancers are sobering, especially as they’re not all about breasts – in fact, far from it. Approximately 5,500 new cases of female cancers are diagnosed in NSW each year and 1,400 deaths occur. Breast cancer remains one of the most common causes of preventable death, but it’s also important to acknowledge female gynaecological cancers. Between 2006 and 2008, these accounted for almost 35 percent of deaths from female cancers. Survival from gynaecological cancer was only 61 percent in this period, compared with almost 80 percent for breast cancer. “The statistics tell us that many women’s cancer deaths can be prevented, which is why conversations really are as important as raising money,” National Marketing Manager for Girls Night In, Melanie Zammit, said. “Our Girls Night In supporters contribute to research and all sorts of support for patients and survivors, including transportation to and from hospital for treatment; counselling and group support; interest-free loans for women whose treatment stops them from working; and free legal assistance to women who need it. “This event is special, as it is inclusive of all women’s cancers, whether it be cervical, vaginal, ovarian, vulva, breast or other types. That’s a compelling reason to get involved each year, as we are inclusive of all women.” An important aspect of the event is that women are helping to spread awareness of all women’s cancers among other women as the event continues to grow. Most of all, Girls Night In is about relaxing or letting loose – it’s up to you!
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pink ribbon day
24 | smart living
Start thinking pink for Pink Ribbon Day 2011
Thank you!
Did you know that last year 8,000 people took part in Pink Ribbon Day across NSW? Over $2.3 million was raised through the sale of Pink Ribbon items and ‘pink’ events. A big ‘pink’ thank you to everyone who supported or contributed to this day, including our wonderful volunteers.
Tickled Pink raises over $38,500
to right): Jodie Watson, Maureen Fyffe, Tickled Pink committee members (left Rebecca Brunnengraber and Alicia Stone. n, Sonya Walters, Jodie Myers, Kelli Wilso
A group of dedicated Avoca Beach ladies held their second annual Tickled Pink event late last year, raising over $38,500 for breast cancer research and support services. The event, held at Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club, featured theatre sports, trivia, silent and live auctions, and entertainment from local band The Cover Up. Tickled Pink committee representative, Jodie Myers, said the 2010 event was particularly significant, as one of their committee members had recently gone through her own breast cancer experience.
“As a committee, we were moved and inspired by our friend and fellow committee member. Her message is very much about being aware of changes in your body, checking them out and seeking the answers you need,” Jodie said.
Support Group, are made possible thanks to funds raised at events like these,” she said. “In addition, research projects continue to make significant breakthroughs in the disease, which will affect one in nine women in their lifetime.”
Speaking on the night, local Cancer Council Community Relations Coordinator, Lesley Chart, said that events such as Tickled Pink directly benefited local breast cancer survivors and their families. “Support and information for Central Coast women, including Soiree and the Breast Cancer
Congratulations to the Tickled Pink committee and all attendees on a fantastic night. What an amazing fundraising result! It is a great example of how a ‘pink’ event can make a big impact.
ate d e h t e v Sa
| 25
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Russ Penny Bear 2011 R
Sinead and her family are all smiles post-treatment.
Sinead owes her life to medical research Back in 2009, Sinead Forbes had just given birth to her third child, Louis, and was still breastfeeding when she began to suspect something was wrong. Chronic mastitis led her to have a mammogram. “I will never forget the doctor’s face. It was ashen, and she just looked at me and said, ‘Sinead, I don’t know how to tell you this. I have got the worst news.’” Sinead had ductal carcinoma in situ. “My breast looked like it was full of shards of glass,” said Sinead, recalling seeing the results of the mammogram. The ‘shards of glass’ were actually cancer cells. Sinead had a mastectomy, but the cancer was found to be in 11 lymph nodes. The HER2 protein in Sinead’s body was driving it to spread quickly. HER2 is found on the surface of breast cancer cells in around one in five women diagnosed with the disease, and HER2positive cancer cells tend to be more aggressive. However, research has made great progress in developing treatments – specifically the drug Herceptin – that target HER2-positive tumours more effectively. Herceptin helps slow the spread of and destroys breast cancer cells by attaching itself to HER2. Sinead now has hope for a healthy future, having just completed her 16-month treatment program. She’s in no doubt as to what saved her life. “I am a product of medical research. Without it, I would not be alive. If there can be more research into what causes cancer, and how can we control it, then that’s got to be a good thing for everybody.”
Th year’s limited edition Russ Penny This Be Bear is as gorgeous as ever. Dressed in pink, she is sure to please whoever is lucky enough to own her. Penny wi will be available on Pink Ribbon Day sites for only $30, or can be ordered online at www.pinkribbonday.com. au in October. Looking as cute as she does, Penny is sure to sell out quickly, so get in early!
Professor Chris Ormandy and his team at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research are investigating a breast cancer known as triplenegative. This type accounts for nearly 20 percent of all breast cancer diagnoses, often appears in younger women, has a poor prognosis and is very aggressive. Chris and his team are aiming to find genes that can become targets for new therapies – just as the discovery of HER2 led to the development of Herceptin. Chris explained why this research was so important. “If you look at the latest NSW breast cancer statistics, it appears that the recent reduction in mortality that we have seen for breast cancer is again reaching a plateau, so that tells us that we have nearly realised the full benefit of the improvements in detection and treatment that have been made so far. “Without more funding for breast cancer research, where we are now is where we would stay. There would be no new cures. So thank you to Cancer Council donors for supporting our work. Thank you for seeing this as a valuable way of spending your money.”
How to get involved in Pink Ribbon Day 2011 Visit www.pinkribbonday.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85 to register to: UÊ " Ê À`iÀÊÞ ÕÀÊPink Ribbon Day merchandise box and sell items to friends, family and colleagues during October UÊ / Ê Ê* tÊ `Ê>ʼ« ½Ê day or evening, or maybe a morning tea. Dress in pink, run or walk in pink – have a look on the website at some great ideas fellow supporters have come up with. UÊ 6 Ê Õ ÌiiÀÊ>ÌÊ>Ê* Ê, LL Ê site selling our merchandise to the public
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people
26 | smart living
pages The Westin Ballroom was transformed into ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in April for the POSH gala ball. Bruce Hodgkinson, Chair of the Cancer Council Board and Verity Hodgkinson, Cancer Researcher.
Brain Canc
er Action W eek A trivia nigh t was held d uring Brain guests to th Cancer Act e test as wel ion Week, M l as raised ov Managing P ay 8–14, an er $105,000 artner, Henry d put . Sharon Coo Davis York, Week Trivia k (far left), who sponso night, and gu red the Bra ests. in Cancer A ction
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea 2011 launched in April at Martin Place with our Ambassador chefs cooking up a storm. Left to right: Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Ambassadors Ed Halmagyi, Adriano Zumbo, Janella Purcell and Callum Hann. Front: Zumbo’s assistant, Emily Kirkman. (Photographer: Esteban La Tessa)
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Want to contact your local office? If you need further support or advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us. For a quick transfer to your local office, phone 1300 65 65 85 and listen for the prompts. Cancer Council NSW Head Office PO Box 572 Kings Cross NSW 1340 Ph 1300 65 65 85 Fax (02) 8214 6970 feedback@nswcc.org.au Metropolitan Sydney Cancer Council NSW 153 Dowling Street Woolloomooloo NSW 2011 Ph (02) 9334 1900 Fax (02) 8302 3537 info.metro@nswcc.org.au Greater Western Sydney Rotary House 43 Hunter Street Parramatta NSW 2150 Ph (02) 9354 2000 Fax (02) 9687 1118 info.westernsydney@nswcc.org.au
North West Region Shop 2, 218 Peel Street Tamworth NSW 2340 Ph (02) 6763 0900 Fax (02) 6766 7053 info.northwest@nswcc.org.au
South West Region 1/37 Tompson Street Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Ph (02) 6937 2600 Fax (02) 6921 3680 info.southwest@nswcc.org.au
Far North Coast 101-103 Main Street Alstonville NSW 2477 Ph (02) 6627 0300 Fax (02) 6628 8659 info.farnorthcoast@nswcc.org.au
Western Region 75 Kite Street Orange NSW 2800 Ph (02) 6392 0800 Fax (02) 6361 7425 info.western@nswcc.org.au
Mid North Coast 121 High Street Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Ph (02) 6659 8400 Fax (02) 6652 1530 info.midnorthcoast@nswcc.org.au
Relay For Life
Northern Sydney Level 1/117 Willoughby Road Crows Nest NSW 2065 Ph (02) 9334 1600 northernsydney@nswcc.org.au Southern Region 1 Lowden Square Wollongong NSW 2500 Ph (02) 4223 0200 Fax (02) 4225 1700 info.southern@nswcc.org.au Hunter Region 22 Lambton Road Broadmeadow NSW 2292 Ph (02) 4923 0700 Fax (02) 4961 0955 info.hunter@nswcc.org.au Central Coast The Hive, Erina Fair Erina NSW 2250 Ph (02) 4336 4500 Fax (02) 4367 5895 info.centralcoast@nswcc.org.au
Celebrate
Remember
Fight Back
!
Relay For Life is a fun, outdoor, overnight fundraising event that brings communities together to celebrate and remember the lives of those who have battled cancer. Teams take turns to walk or run around a track whilst enjoying entertainment, activities and moving ceremonies. With over 65 Relays held all across NSW throughout the year, Relay For Life is Cancer Council’s biggest event.
To register or find a Relay near you, visit our website www.relayforlife.org.au Every step you take increases someone’s chances of beating cancer.
Who will you Relay for? www.relayforlife.org.au
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Friday 26 August 2011
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