Celebrating cancer nurses like Jenny Gilchrist on Cancer Nurses Day

As the world celebrates Cancer Nurses Day, Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) proudly acknowledges the invaluable contributions of cancer nurses, with a particular spotlight on the dedicated work of Jenny Gilchrist, one of Australia’s few Breast Oncology Nurse Practitioners based at Macquarie University Hospital.

Jenny Gilchrist’s journey in oncology nursing spans over 20 years, with 15 of those years devoted to breast oncology. Her extensive experience across the healthcare sector in New South Wales, spanning from early diagnosis to end-of-life care, has shaped her into a highly skilled and compassionate practitioner who is deeply dedicated to her patients' wellbeing.

"Supporting Australians diagnosed with and affected by breast cancer is not just an honour but a profound privilege," says Jenny.

Throughout her career, she has observed remarkable advancements in cancer research and the development of new treatments. However, she remains deeply aware of the ongoing challenges faced by those diagnosed, especially in accessing the comprehensive care they require. To navigate the emotional demands of her role, Jenny has developed effective coping strategies, highlighting the resilience and dedication essential in her work.

The recent commitment by the Australian government to fund 100 new all cancer care nurses is a critical development that Jenny believes will enable healthcare professionals like herself to provide the dedicated support that Australians affected by cancer need throughout their experience.

However, she also stresses that not everyone has access to the services they need, which is where organisations like Breast Cancer Network Australia play a crucial role. BCNA can support cancer nurses by providing essential information, resources, and advocacy for patients, helping ensure that cancer care nurses have the backing they need to care for their patients effectively.

“As a Nurse Practitioner in breast oncology, I have the privilege of guiding people through the healthcare system and utilising the BCNA resources to ensure that Australians experiencing breast cancer receive the support they need.” Jenny explains.

“The government’s support in the investment of nurses through the Australian Cancer Plan represents a significant step forward; however, we must continue to advocate for every Australian affected by breast cancer to have access to a dedicated nurse who can assist them throughout this challenging experience.”

Jenny’s dedication to her profession is evident in her advice to new nurses entering the field of oncology. “Gain as much knowledge as possible and seek out a variety of experiences to build a well-rounded perspective on caring for cancer patients,” she advises. For Jenny, the privilege of being a Nurse Practitioner lies in the opportunity to holistically support patients and their families through one of the most challenging times in their lives.

Looking to the future, Jenny envisions a healthcare system where every Australian with breast cancer is paired with a dedicated nurse, ensuring personalised care and unwavering support, in partnership with Breast Cancer Network Australia.

Reflecting on the possibility of a world without cancer, she poignantly states, “If I could, I would find a cure for cancer. I’d be very happy to be out of a job for that reason.”

As Breast Cancer Network Australia celebrates Cancer Nurses Day, the organisation stands with professionals like Jenny Gilchrist, reaffirming its commitment to supporting cancer nurses and advocating for a healthcare system where every patient receives the care and support they deserve.