Cancer survivor support group

Published on 27 March 2019

Are you a cancer survivor or do you support someone with cancer?

Murray Primary Health Network (PHN) is establishing a cancer support group within the Gannawarra Shire to provide a safe space for people affected by cancer.

Developed through a partnership between Murray PHN, Gannawarra Shire Council, Buloke Shire Council, Kerang District Health, East Wimmera Health and Mallee District Aboriginal Services, a “meet and greet” event to form the group will be held in May.

“Council understands there is an identified gap in support services available within the Gannawarra Shire for those affected by cancer,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

Between 2013 and 2015, women living in the Gannawarra Shire were more likely, compared to the State average, to be diagnosed with bowel and kidney cancer. There are also significantly higher rates of melanoma within the Shire and the neighbouring municipalities of Buloke and Swan Hill compared to the Victorian average.

Victorians living in regional and remote locations commonly have a lower five-year survival rate than those in urban areas, and current data suggests that residence in the Loddon-Mallee region have, on average, a four per cent lower survival rate than those in metropolitan Melbourne.

“Current literature demonstrates that cancer survivors deal with a myriad of acute, chronic and late effects of cancer treatment. They also face a host of physical, psychological, emotional, social, spiritual and economic effects,” Mayor Learmonth said.

“The group will enable people to develop local connections, providing emotional and other supports including the sharing of information, resources, experiences and ideas.”

To register your interest, contact Gemma Bilardi at Murray PHN by calling (03) 4408 5610 or e-mailing gbilardi@murrayphn.org.au