Our organisation is all about people so this year as we celebrate our 25th anniversary we want to share the story of Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) through the eyes of our network – our members with a lived experience of breast cancer, families that carry on the legacy of their loved one, health professionals providing care, and other important supporters of our work.
Read about key moments that have defined our network as we have grown into the organisation we are today, while also paving the way for what we will achieve in the future.
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer it felt like there was nowhere to go. I felt alone and very much isolated. Many were advising me on what to do and how I should cope but they had no idea. BCNA supported me through my survivorship, and gave me the opportunity to make a difference for others.
I am amazed and very emotional about how far we have come and the immense positive difference we have made to so many women, and their families.
I am incredibly proud that we have been able to continue to grow and support people newly diagnosed with breast cancer and those living with metastatic disease, and have also become a network that welcomes, includes and supports a more diverse community.
BCNA has been a leader in consumer-led advocacy in the cancer sector and paved the way for many other consumer advocates and organisations. As a disease with such a prevalent impact on so many people, BCNA has had the ability to galvanise a strong collective voice of people from all walks of life.
Read more about Being a strong voice.
BCNA knows that treating breast cancer means more than just treating the tumour. It is about seeing the whole person and recognising their psychosocial, as well as clinical, needs. Because of this, we communicate with our network in a variety of ways beyond just sharing the latest in clinical advice, including sharing the stories and experiences of our members. Your insights allow us to know firsthand where information and support is most needed and we have evolved our provision of information to adapt to these needs amidst the ever-changing health landscape and evolutions in technology.
Read more about Providing Information & Support.
Our network is formed and strengthened by connecting people and communities affected by breast cancer. Our members benefit from connecting with others who understand what they are going through. Whether it’s through our Online Network, attending a BCNA information forum or reading the personal stories in The Beacon, these connections can make a real difference to people’s experiences and make them feel not alone.
Read more about Connecting people.
BCNA’s small group of committed, long-term corporate partnerships has expanded our reach and provided the funding we need to keep innovating.
Read more about Partnering for change.
There is so much more to do!
BCNA remains committed to being a strong network that continues to evolve in response to the needs of those affected by breast cancer in Australia. We know that in another 25 years time, this may be very different, in anticipation of further advances in prevention, improved services to support living with and beyond breast cancer and new innovative ways that we access health information.
We asked our network for some thoughts on where they see BCNA in 25 years time:
In 25 years’ time my granddaughters will be reaching an age where breast cancer may come into their lives. If breast cancer is still here, if it hasn't been eradicated or if we haven't found a way to prevent it from happening, then I would hope that BCNA is still a haven that can be relied upon.
I want to see everyone, not just those with the strongest voices, getting the best care. I also want BCNA to continue to help those diagnosed to find each other and to feel a sense of shared understanding through the connections we foster.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with breast cancer, you can call Breast Cancer Network Australia’s (BCNA) Helpline on 1800 500 258.
*This article does not provide medical advice and is intended for informational purposes only.
Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you're seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.