Advocacy with BCNA over the years
where it has taken me
I became an advocate for BCNA in the late 1990’s. My diagnosis in February 1991, at the age of 52 was a shock, I was too busy, too fit to have breast cancer. My life was very full with four adult children, a very busy husband, and I held a senior nursing position in a busy Mid/Surgical Private Hospital in Melbourne. I chose to have bi-lateral mastectomies, one essential because of Lobular Invasive cancer, the other was my well considered choice, no chemo, no radiotherapy but the offer of immediate reconstruction, I gratefully accepted. My doctors were excellent, ahead of their time, and 20 years on I am fit, active and enjoying my life.
My most recent appointment for BCNA was on the organising committee for the 13th Australian Breast Care Nurses conference, in Melbourne, Feb 10-11 2011. From my first meeting in September 2010, I was welcomed as the consumer voice, had input into the program and all the planning for a very interesting and educational conference. We are so fortunate to have breast care nurses who are respected and valued by us and the clinical team. Lyn Swinburne gave an inspirational Opening Address which set the tone for a wonderful two days.
My involvement with National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre, Cancer Council Victoria, BMDI Breast Cancer Support Group, Committee member of the Breast Cancer Action Group Victoria, founding member and volunteer at Breacan and most recently a member of the Community Advisory Committee for the Royal Women’s Hospital are all activities which come from my involvement with BCNA and the excellent training they offered. I have made wonderful friends over the years with women who I may not have met if we had not had the same diagnosis.
So my message to you is to accept the opportunities BCNA may offer you. I do this, not just for you and me, but for my daughter, three daughters-in-law, six beautiful grand-daughters (and two grand- sons). We have come so far since 1994 and that historic 1998 BCNA Conference in Canberra when women raised their voices and were heard!
-- Heather, 2011
