newsletter - Cancer Society NZ

CanTalk
newsletter
SUMMER 2012 No. 61
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Contents
Editorial
January 9 signalled a different
start of the new year for all of us
at Cancer Society Wellington as we welcomed our
new CEO Michael Smith and CanWork Project Coordinator for Men’s Health (National), Steve Kenny.
The karakia that began the mihi whakatau described
the Maori belief that a rainbow signals a new
beginning. The symbolism of the rainbow is useful
to us all as we let go of what has passed in the last
year and begin a fresh start with the new year.
A Sad Farewell... and a Warm Welcome
2
CanTalk Survey Results
3
Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy
4
Thumbs up for Wellington Hospital
4
Pancreatic Cancer Making Quiet Inroads
5
Dietary Help
5
Developing Genetic Profile
5
Chemotherapy Hope
Cancer Connect Calling
6
6
Taste Changes During Cancer Treament
7
Burn Baby, Burn - You Ain’t Got Me Beat
7&8
Prescription to Taste
8
Share a Recipe
8
Our Dad’s a Pirate
9
Poem - Sleight of Hand
10
Book Review
10
Cherry Juice Aids Sleep 10
Library Update
11
What’s On In Our Centres
12
Other Supportive Services
13
Wellington, Hutt, Porirua & Kapiti Groups
14
Wairarapa Groups
15
Letter To The Editor
15
Joke15
CanSupport Programme
17,18 & 19
Free services available
Back page
Letting go or putting things behind us is easier said
than done. Those that have undergone cancer
treatment (radiotherapy, chemotherapy or surgery),
are facing ongoing challenges with side-effects of
their treatment. This issue has some inspiring stories
from those that refuse to dwell on what is no longer
and face their future with courage and humour.
Thank you to all who took the time to respond to the
CanTalk survey. The comments people made were
especially useful. The main aim of this newsletter
is to provide psycho-social support to those people
affected by cancer – whether they be patients or
carers. Hearing people’s stories, sharing many
common emotions and experiences and being
inspired by others, whatever cancer you may be
coping with, can make a real difference to your
own journey. I would be delighted to hear from you
if you feel you would like to contribute and share
something about your experience.
And lastly a warm welcome is extended to you all to
support our big purple fundraiser - Relay For Life. A
special time to celebrate and acknowledge cancer
survivors, remember those lost to cancer and to
raise funds to fight back.
Wishing you all the best for your year ahead.
Sue Corkill - Editor
Contact: Sue Corkill, Cancer Society Wellington Division
52 Riddiford Street, Newtown or email: [email protected] regarding any
information in (or contributions) to the CanTalk Newsletter. This CanTalk
newsletter is compiled and edited by the Cancer Society Wellington Division.
Disclaimer
Many of the articles in the publication are sourced from overseas. The inclusion of these items does not imply that procedures, treatments, or tests reported herein are
approved of, or available in NZ. These articles are for discussion purposes only. The views and opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of the Cancer Society of
NZ.
1
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
A Sad Farewell ....
Roger Taylor ended his time as Divisional Manager Cancer
Society Wellington (CSW) at the end of December 2011 when
he was fare-welled from the Executive Committee and all staff
of the Division.
Roger began his employ with Cancer Society Wellington
in July 1994 and remained at the helm until the end of
2011. During his tenure, Cancer Society Wellington made
considerable progress across the range of our activity, with
programmes and resources that have benefited the wider
Cancer Society.
Adept at appointing highly competent staff, Roger supported
them and their initiatives well, and faithfully and surely
represented CSW within the organisation nationally. Staff will miss his eagle eye in checking for accuracy
in printed materials; they will miss his prompt attention to concerns they might raise; they will miss his
open door, his approachability and attentive listening; they will miss his razor-sharp wit; they will miss his
kindness, trust and respect. They will miss him.
We wish Roger all the very best in his retirement.
....and a Warm Welcome
As one door closes another one opens…………
We warmly welcome our new Chief Executive Officer, Michael Smith, who joined Cancer Society Wellington
in late December 2011.
For the last 7 years Michael has held the position of Chief Executive Officer of Caritas Aotearoa, New
Zealand, the Catholic overseas aid and social justice agency. Prior to this he held a senior leadership
position with New Zealand Red Cross in the joint functions of Chief Financial Officer and Corporate
Services Manager.
Michael is regarded as a capable business manager by his
peers and a person who really enjoys working in the not-forprofit sector, with a great understanding of the dynamics and
challenges of the sector.
He is looking forward to the challenge of enhancing the
performance of the Cancer Society and is excited about the
work he will be doing. Michael is married to Helen and they
live in Karori with their 3 young children.
We also start the year by
welcoming Steve Kenny to the
staff. Steve (Ngāti Toa, Ngai
Tahu, Ngāpuhi, Taranaki whanui) will be based at Wellington Division and is
responsible for introducing the CanWork Men’s Health programme nationally.
Fiona Pearson, Assistant Divisional Manager,
Manager Information & Suppport
2
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
CanTalk Survey results
Thank you to all those who responded to the survey in the last issue of CanTalk. It was wonderful to get
your feedback and to hear from many I haven’t had contact with for a long time.
A special thank you to Brian Fields, volunteer extraordinaire, who has spent many hours of his own time
collating all the material. A quick snapshot of the results:
•
Of the 587 respondents, 540 (92%) have either had cancer or currently have cancer (with almost
half of those, breast cancer survivors). Another thirty respondents (5%) had not had cancer but were
supporting someone who had cancer and 6 participants (1%) were health professionals who did not
had/have cancer and were not supporting anyone with cancer. Another 10 (2%) who completed the
survey were volunteers or counsellors.
•
The circulation of CanTalk has a wide variation, with nearly half of participants (45%) having received
the newsletter for more than three years, and at the other extreme nearly 20% for a year or less.
•
The number of articles read by respondents is high, with just over half (58%) noting that they enjoy
the whole newsletter with 18% reading four or more articles and 17% reading two to four articles in
the last three issues of CanTalk.
•
When asked what articles were of interest, nearly 80% (422) stated that articles which affected
themselves or their whanau/family or friends were of most interest. Three-quarters of respondents
were also most interested in articles about research development with another 70% most interested in
articles on cancer prevention.
•
Once finished reading CanTalk, 52% of participants keep the newsletter for further reference and 29%
pass the newsletter on to someone else to read.
•
The overwhelming majority of the comments were of a positive nature. However, a number of readers commented on the paper used. Cost is crucial and at all times I
endeavour to make this newsletter as cost-effective as possible. Converting to our present digital
colour format and paper was in fact a significant cost saver (almost $1000/issue) as was the change
to our present clear packet mailing system. Like photography, black and white is no longer cheap.
•
Other requests included more articles on rarer cancers and more articles by men for men - so I would
be delighted to hear from more of you to enable this to happen.
And remember that CanTalk is available online www.cancernz.org.nz and so for those
of you who would appreciate bigger print this option may help.
Sue Corkill - Editor
3
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
the damage is no longer present. The nerves
become sensitised and thus send dysfunctional
signals, resulting in the neuropathic pain.
It is possible to manage symptoms in a way that
reduces the impact and allows for an optimum
level of functioning. Pain management techniques
can ‘turn down the volume’ of these symptoms so
that they say in the background at a lower sensory
‘sound’ (effect) rather than prominently demanding
attention and feeling overwhelming. This can be
used in conjunction with pain medication to give
optimal benefits.
Understanding Peripheral
Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is the term used to
describe damage that occurs to the nerves of
the peripheral nervous system. It predominantly
affects the hands, arms, feet and legs but
sometimes other locations such as the nerves
in the face. Symptoms usually begin from the
toes then fingers as initial prickling and burning,
numbness and pain, and these symptoms
progress towards the centre of the body and can
include some impairment of temperature and
sensitivity to touch.
The incidence of peripheral neuropathy is
relatively common with chemotherapy, but the
severity varies individually so not all patients will
be as affected as others or for the same length of
time. Many people experience it as a temporary
condition.
It tends to occur between the first and third cycle
of some chemotherapeutic agents, eg vincristine,
cisplatin, oxaliplatin,paclitaxel, thalidomide and
bortezomib, although some cases can occur after
treatment has been stopped (a process called
‘coasting’). Sometimes motor neuropathy can
occur (but less so in the early stages) and can
cause weakness, muscle wasting, cramps and
fasciculation (muscular twitching).
With the development of chemotherapy-induced
neuropathy, quality of life can be significantly
affected. The damage to nerve cells by the
chemotherapy means that sensory receptors give
either a constant or intermittent and unnecessary
signal to the brain that the nerve has been
damaged. However, this signal is ‘redundant’, as
with the cessation of chemotherapy the cause of
Particular anti-depressants may also be effective for
treatment in neuropathic pain as well as controlling
for depression, which can occur in response to
dealing with this condition.
Talking with professionals such as counsellors or
psychologists about the difficulties experienced and
associated emotions is also a positive approach to
self-management. Support groups can also be very
helpful, with members not only sharing experiences
but also sharing ideas on how they manage and
reduce the impact within their lives.
Kay Cunningham, Clinical Psychologist, Wellington
Thumbs Up for Wellington
Hospital
Dr Abdullah Roofullah recently conducted an audit
looking at the incidence and severity of peripheral
neuropathy in women diagnosed with early breast
cancer who received the chemotherapy drug
paclitaxel between Feb 2010 and Feb 2011 at
Wellington Hospital.
He found the incidence of peripheral neuropathy
was slightly less than that found in the large
international trials but nevertheless affected a
large number of women. ‘You have to juggle the
need to give chemotherapy versus the severity of
the peripheral neuropathy’, he said. ‘Paclitaxel is
tolerated well for the most part, but the peripheral
neuropathy, whilst temporary for most women, still
takes months to years to disappear’. Dr Roofullah
stressed that if you think you may be developing
peripheral neuropathy, the important thing is to
ensure that you tell your doctor at each visit.
Sue Corkill
4
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
Pancreatic Cancer Making Quiet
Inroads
‘What’s out there for me?’ is a common question
for those people who get cancers that aren’t in the
news every day. Sadly there are many rarer cancers
such as pancreatic cancer (which currently ranks
11th among NZ males and 10th among NZ females
– Ministry of Health Registration Statistics, 2009),
that don’t get the publicity and support that the more
common cancers do. This can make people feel very
frustrated and alone especially when the prognosis
seems grim. But it is important that those affected by
pancreatic cancer know that there are many people
striving to improve the understanding and outcome
of this cancer.
The pancreas is an important gland that is found
slightly behind the stomach and in front of the spine.
The pancreas has two major functions. The first is to
produce insulin and glucagon - two hormones that
control the sugar levels in our blood. The second
function is to produce enzymes that are important
for breaking down the food we eat and help with
digestion – the so-called digestive enzymes.
About 20 different cancers come under the umbrella
of the term ‘pancreatic cancer’ and each is treated
differently. Adenocarcinoma is the most common
type and is found in the lining of the ducts that
deliver the digestive enzymes to the digestive tract
or duodenum – usually in the head of the pancreas.
Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computers Inc, who died
recently, had another form of pancreatic cancer that
is known as a neuroendocrine tumour. His type of
cancer begins in the hormone-producing islet cells of
the pancreas and is considered very rare, accounting
for only 2% of pancreatic cancers.
As with most cancers, pancreatic cancer
can be treated successfully if found early but
unfortunately it is often diagnosed at an advanced
stage. The majority (80%) of those affected are
over 60 years of age, and smoking is linked
in 30% of cases. Treatments include surgery,
chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies, and
immunotherapy. Around the world many people are
committed to improving the treatment and support
for those affected by pancreatic cancer. Some recent
initiatives are highlighted in the following boxes.
5
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
This video (in our library
and also available online)
is an initiative developed
by the New South Wales
Cancer Council and the
NSW Pancreatic Cancer
Network to help those
coping with pancreatic
cancer. It is informative,
hopeful and practical.
www.pancreaticcancer.net.au
Dietary Help
The Study for Survival research undertaken by the
Pancreatic Cancer Network UK has given new rise
to commitment of this group to improve outcomes
for pancreatic cancer patients. They are determined
to commission research in this area, starting this
year, to increase funding to attract scientists and
researchers to this field.
Their new website www.pancreaticcancer.org.
uk has been launched which includes updated,
easy-to-read dietary information to help patients
cope better with minimising weight loss and loss
of appetite. It covers topics such as pancreatic
enzyme supplements, nutritional supplements, and
diet tips for managing symptoms.
www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/diet.
Developing Genetic Profile
The Australian Pancreatic Cancer Genome Initiative
(APGI) co-led by Professor Sean Grimmond,
Brisbane, and Professor Andrew Biankin, Sydney,
is determined to improve the outlook for pancreatic
cancer patients. These two men have brought
experts from medical and scientific areas across all
of Australia together and are particularly focused
on determining the genome profile of pancreatic
cancer.
They have linked with the International Cancer
Genome Consortium (ICGC) and aim to collect
tissue and blood samples from 400 pancreatic
cancer patients across Australia and study them to
see the changes in DNA. The genetic changes will
then enable them to better determine who gets the
disease, what treatments are best, and to develop
‘personalised cancer medicine’.
www.pancreaticcancer.net.au
Continued on page 6
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Continued from page 5
Chemotherapy Hope
Last year a new drug regimen called FOLFIRINOX
(5-FU, leucovorin, irinotecan and oxaliplatin) was
found to have produced the longest improvement
in survival in a phase III clinical trial of people
with pancreatic cancer that had spread or
metastasized.Those that received the regimen
lived approximately four months longer than
those treated with the current standard of care,
gemcitabine. This is a tough chemotherapy regimen
with serious side-effects and obviously not suitable
for many patients, but it finally gives researchers
something positive to build upon.
New England Journal Med. 2011;364:1817-1825
Other resources:
www.cancernz.org.nz – Booklet on pancreatic
cancer : Pancreatic Cancer; for people with cancer,
their family and friends. Cancer Council Victoria.
http://www.pancan.org/section_facing_pancreatic_
cancer/ - Informative information especially around
treatment for pancreatic cancer.
Sue Corkill
Cancer Connect Calling
Many of you have welcomed the opportunity to
be linked with a Cancer Connect volunteer to
discuss issues around your particular cancer and
treatment. The ability to talk to someone who
has been through a similar experience is often
very reassuring and can assist in helping to make
difficult decisions. However, as many of you
will also know, with new treatments constantly
emerging we are constantly needing to add to
our group of Cancer Connect volunteers. We ask
for your help in filling our gaps.
The Cancer Society is offering a new training for
potential volunteers in the first quarter of 2012.
We are particularly keen to hear from those
of all nationalities who have been treated for
prostate, oesphageal, lung, stomach, thyroid,
breast (reconstruction and those with experience
of latest drugs) or gynaecological cancers. Also
melanoma, multiple myeloma, mesothelioma,
sarcoma, or brain tumours. Not everyone will
meet our criteria but we would appreciate your
interest. All costs are met once selected.
Email Ann Hodson, Volunteer Manager [email protected]
‘Taste’ changes during cancer
treatment
Most people receiving treatment for cancer report
at some point that the taste of food changes. If
this does occur, eating and drinking may become
a negative experience. This has implications
for diet and nutrition as well as for practical and
social aspects of shopping, cooking and dining.
Many things affect how flavour is experienced
– taste is just one of them. The sense of taste
refers only to what is perceived by the taste buds
on the tongue when food molecules come into
contact with them. There are five basic taste
qualities – sweet, salty, sour, bitter and savoury
(also known as umami). These basic tastes act a
bit like the primary colours – they are the building
blocks of all other flavours. The sense of taste
interacts with other senses such as smell and
touch (texture) to make up the whole flavour
experience. Taste, smell and touch can all be
affected by cancer treatment as can thermal
sensations (being more or less sensitive to hot or
cold foods). In addition to these components of
flavour, some patients describe oral sensations
such as offensive or metallic ‘tastes’ in the
mouth which get in the way of the true flavour of
food. Some patients describe going in search of
specific foods or drinks to try and get rid of ‘the
bad taste’.
If the taste buds are affected by chemotherapy,
radiotherapy or surgery, one or more of the basic
taste qualities may be perceived as more or less
intense. For example, it may be difficult to pick
up the taste of salt in food or sweet foods may
become overpoweringly sweet. This may result
in a stronger preference for some foods (e.g.
savoury or sweet foods) rather than others. Continued on page 7
6
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Continued from page 6
Food enjoyment can be affected not just by sensory qualities but by mood, memories or a reduced
appetite. Food might taste the same as it always has but that taste is no longer enjoyable during cancer
treatment. Some people say they go off their favourite
foods or have aversions to foods such as coffee,
Food tasting dull?
tea, alcohol, chocolate, red meat or citrus fruits and
juices or to foods they make have eaten on treatment
Try being more creative with your seasoning:
days. ‘Taste changes’ can be quite temporary
during the period of treatment (for example during
• Worcestershire sauce
chemotherapy) or can be much longer-lasting (in the
• Fresh or pickled ginger
case of radiotherapy or surgery to the mouth region).
• Asian flavours such as soy and fish sauce
with lime, palm sugar and chilli.
Unfortunately there are no complete remedies for
altered flavour perception – it is a matter of trying
different strategies to see what works best for you.
Maintaining good oral hygiene during cancer treatment is always important to try and keep saliva flow,
taste buds and teeth in the best shape they can be to avoid mouth problems which can interfere with
food enjoyment. Managing nausea well (usually through maximum doses of medication) can promote a
good appetite. Finally, know that you are not alone – changes to the eating and drinking experience are
common and can understandably be frustrating and disappointing. Often it is just a matter of time until
food can be fully enjoyed again.
Anna Boltong, PhD Candidate (Dietitian), Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. Anna recently presented her research at the
COSA conference in Perth, Nov 2011.
Burn baby, burn - you ain’t got me
beat
When I was diagnosed with tongue cancer I had a large
section of my tongue cut out and replaced with a muscle
from my forearm. Once installed, my ‘new tongue’
helped me speak and chew, but of course it hadn’t come
fitted with taste-buds… so I’d expected a loss of taste.
But even with substantially less of the ‘old tongue’ left
after surgery, I still found had an complete range of taste
sensations, including sour, sweet, savoury, salty and
bitter.
I’d been warned that chemotherapy could create unexpected changes in tastes, like making some foods
taste metallic, but I didn’t have that problem. The biggest impact from chemotherapy for me was loss of
appetite at the time. ‘Not feeling hungry’ may sound like a minor issue, but it was a serious problem for
my wellbeing; I was relatively thin and my doctors were concerned about me losing more weight. I knew I
had to eat to keep up my energy and bodyweight, but through times where I just couldn’t face food. After
my chemo infusions, the smell and taste of cheesy or creamy food would make me feel sick (and I love
cheesy food!). So, I knew I had to eat, but during chemo my body seemed like it was against the idea.
That created a sense of frustration and despair. However, it only lasted the duration of the chemotherapy
cycles; after a few days I’d get my appetite back.
While chemotherapy had temporary effects on my taste, radiation treatment created permanent changes.
Instead of having less taste, my mouth and tongue have become extraordinarily sensitive to spiciness.
I think of it like a superpower revealed. Just as a dog can detect high-frequency sounds that ordinary
humans can’t hear, I can detect a pinch of chilli in a seemingly innocuous cheese muffin. Unfortunately
my body’s response to chilli or pepper is less than heroic: there’s an instant and pervasive burning pain in
Continued on page 8
my mouth, making my eyes stream and puff up.
7
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
Continued from page 7
This has been a permanent, not a temporary,
sensitivity for me and hasn’t waned over time.
Beer, wine and alcoholic drinks create a similar hot
burn in my mouth. In my experience, beer is warm
but wine is like breathing fire. I assume that the
higher the alcohol content, the higher the pain. I
tested that once, trying a shot of whiskey, with an
immediate conclusion: yes, higher alcohol content
meant greater pain and streaming eyes. I didn’t
need to test that theory again!
It’s not just spices and vices. Toothpaste, tomatoes
and fruit juices all generate a strong burn for me.
Over time I’ve learned to find variations of types and
brands that generate a lighter reaction: acid-free
tomatoes, red grapefruit juices instead of orange
juices.
The trick is to experiment and explore; never write
off one food group altogether. It’s an adventure in
finding new recipes. I used to loathe peanut butter,
but I now love peanut butter smoothies!
Initially, I was reluctant to go out to a restaurant
or café. I felt embarrassed to ask staff about the
food; not wanting to seem picky or annoying as
a customer; and not wanting to draw attention to
myself if I was among others. But waiters and staff
are well used to fielding questions, for example
about allergies. Be polite and specific. Asking ‘Is
the food quite spicy?’ invariably gets me a ‘Not really’
answer; so it’s much better to ask ‘Does this contain
chilli or pepper?”.
Occasionally I get a craving for a food that I used to
love, but now can’t eat comfortably. I’m amazed at
the power of these cravings to overcome good sense
and experience. For example, pre-cancer, I used to
love eating curries. Since my treatment, more than
once I’ve been at a café and ordered a deliciouslooking Thai green curry, thinking ‘Mmm…that looks
good, I’ll have that’ and then only realise once I’ve
started eating ‘Oh damn – I remember now – I can’t
eat this’. I call these my ‘food failures’ – you’ve got
to laugh at your own stupidity sometimes!
I’ve met other patients who have the reverse
problem, from the same treatment regime as me.
They’ve lost taste, rather than gained sensitivity; and
they need to add chilli or spices, rather than remove
it. I think the principle is the same – keep trying
new foods and recipes; don’t despair and settle on a
limited diet.
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Tips
•
•
•
•
Be open-minded about trying
new foods. After treatment,
your body changes and
improves over time – what
didn’t work in the past might in the future, or it
might work in a different combination or recipe.
Try one different food adventure per week!
When eating out, proactively check about
ingredients in the meal. Ask staff (or your host)
a specific and polite question about what’s
in the food. It’s no different from checking
about allergies or intolerances, and perfectly
acceptable.
Smile at your failures! It’s much better to test
out new foods, and discover your limits, than
write yourself off.
Seek out new substitutes and adapt your
recipes to suit. What might sound like alien
food may actually be delicious. It’s all a matter
of taste!
Nick White
Prescription to Taste
Dr Luis Pineda, a USA haematologist and
oncologist was a man used to seeing his
patient’s nutritional needs deteriorate due to the
effects of their chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
In 2000 he enrolled in a culinary school to
combine his knowledge of medicine with the art
of cooking.
The result is this free booklet: Prescription to
Taste; a cooking guide for cancer patients.
It aims to provide recipes for food that will
assist in re-stimulating their affected taste buds.
Ingredients are not necessarily available in NZ
but there are many recipes that can be easily
made or adapted with many useful comments.
Free download at: www.cookingwithcancer.org
Share a recipe
We would like to create our own online recipe
book by collecting your recipes that help you/
helped you cope with loss of appetite, sore
mouth, dry mouth, difficulty in swallowing or
needing to gain weight.
Please email [email protected] or send to
Sue Corkill, 52 Riddiford St, Newtown, Wgtn.
8
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
Our Dad’s a Pirate!
September the 14th 2011 is a day that I
will never forget.
I was asked to go to Wellington Hospital
for an eye examination to confirm what
I thought was simply an eye infection.
After many tests the Eye Doctor said,
‘I need to talk to my boss as I’ve found
a lesion’. Ten minutes later she broke
the news, ‘You’ve got a melanoma on
the back of your left eye’. Next, the
Surgical Consultant gave us the news that,
given its location, the only viable remedy was to
remove the eye completely’. And on top of that
he then said I would need to have various other
tests to make sure the melanoma hadn’t spread
anywhere else in my body.
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
It hasn’t been easy on my family either. Our two
boys, aged 7 and 5yrs, were pretty scared about
what was happening to their Dad but now with
my new glass eye I’m in hot demand with
their friends all eager to see and touch
my eye. My wife has been my rock, and
in fact if she hadn’t been so persistent
in making sure I went to the Doctor and
subsequently the hospital, the prognosis
might not have been so good!!!!!!!!
Words cannot begin to describe the
support I have received from my family
and friends both before and after my surgery,
and the professional support I have had from
the Wellington Cancer Society and the Eye
Department at Wellington Hospital has been
amazing. A Big Thank You to Fiona Pearson at
the Cancer Society who spent a lot time helping
my wife and me work through a lot of the worry
and fear, and Doctor Keith Small at Wellington
Hospital for being so professional, caring and
empathic to myself and my family.
My head was spinning out of control by then. All I
could think was that ‘I have Cancer and I’m going
to die’. The next few weeks were a blur of waiting;
waiting for radiography bookings and
then waiting for the results. It was like
With my peripheral vision and
‘It is all fun and games until
Chinese Water Torture and I think I just
depth perception changed – I
someone loses an eye’.
about drove my poor wife mad with my
have a lot of challenges ahead
worry. Thankfully the melanoma was
to face with driving, working and
localised to the eye only and had not
daily
tasks.
This
time
has been hugely scary, sad
metastasised or spread anywhere else……
and frustrating but it’s great to be coming out the
other end. To all of my fellow Males out there;
So now the focus shifted from my entire body
don’t put off going to the Doctor and having
being at risk to losing an eye. My favourite saying
things checked out as the life it could save may
now is that ‘It is all fun and games until someone
be yours!!.
loses an eye’. While it is not easy losing an eye
Have a great 2012 everyone.....I know I will!!!!!
the experience of having this cancer has taught
me what is really important in my life - my family
Neville Carswell (One-Eyed Wellingtonian)
and friends and most importantly my own health
and well-being. Unfortunately, like many, until now
I have taken this for granted.
I have had lots of really frustrating moments.
Early after my surgery I decided that I would try
and be as self-sufficient as I could hope to be.
My first challenge, as easy as it may sound, was
to make my own cereal....empty bowl (check),
cereal poured into bowl (check), milk on cereal
and not all over bench (check),yoghurt on top
(perfect!!)...Wow and no spillages...how happy
could I be!!!....Walking towards the dining room
table I forgot about the fish tank on my left which
my missing left eye would have normally seen
and the contents of the cereal bowl were thrown
all over the fish tank....
Oh well, tomorrow is another day I guess!!.
9
Neville seen here with his two sons, Caleb and Robbie.
Ed’s note: At time of print Neville is successfully back
at work and has just started driving again.
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Book Review
After Breast Cancer : Answers to
questions you’re afraid to ask, by
Musa Mayer (2003)
This book is a wee gem. A writer by
trade, Mayer was diagnosed with
a Stage 2 breast cancer which did
not show up on a mammogram.
She writes about many of the technical aspects
of breast cancer (studies and treatments),
interspersed with her own perspective and
weaving in information and communication she
had had with friends and colleagues, including
those on an international mailing list for Breast
Cancer.
Her information is most relevant to those with a
diagnosis of invasive breast cancer, but don’t let
the title put you off if your cancer was not invasive
breast cancer, because Mayer has the knack of
writing in a way that acknowledges many issues
that are not specific to breast cancer, including
fears about recurrence, about secondary cancer
not being picked up early enough, about worrying
you are not having enough follow-up checks,
about over-reacting when you find another lump or
bump - and about dealing with the loss and grief
that will occur if you stay connected with other
cancer patients and some don’t survive.
Her book is informative, interesting and sometimes
fun - I laughed as she related how what she
thought was a full-blown cancer recurrence scare
turned out to be an attack of gas! And, for me it
was comforting. She starts off by reminding the
reader that some of us have to survive. Why not
you? Indeed, I thought. Why not me?
Nicci Page
Sleight of hand by Jo Hanley
Some cancer patients wore a wig
and so did I a silver cap to replace the hair
fallen in clumps upon my pillow.
It came with me everywhere
gardening, cycling, concerts and walks
and cheerful coffees with supportive friends always there.
Without it, I felt old and sick
which I was
which I am
that is not denied.
But my wig gave me choice
to conceal or reveal
to shield those I love from too much pain
to be all that I was and would be again.
Then.....
slowly.....
my hair grew again
soft and vulnerable as a baby’s down.
And today I am washing my wig
gently soaping and rinsing it
ready to be put away
for the next time.
Incurable they say
but I feel no despair my wig lets me choose
to be me ....with hair!
Cherry Juice aids sleep
A recent small study shows that taking tart Montmorency cherry juice may offer
slight assistance with sleep. All 15 volunteers had a small improvement in their
sleep when they drank 30ml of cherry juice concentrate twice daily for 7 days.
Tart cherry juice contains substances that lead to increased levels of melatonin,
which is the hormone responsible for getting us to sleep. However, it is also very
high in anti-oxidants and so not advisible for those on chemotherapy.
Tart cherry juice is found in most health shops.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20438325
10
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Library Update with Julie Holt Breast Cancer: The facts by Christabel Saunders
and Sunil Jassal, Oxford University Press, UK, 2009.
Concise guide to breast cancer written by two Australian
breast surgeons.
Writing Your Self: Transforming personal material
by Myra Schneider, Continuum, UK, 2010. A
comprehensive resource for exploring personal literature
and life writing.
My One Night Stand With Cancer by Tania Katan,
Alyson Books, USA, 2005. Katan, who describes herself
as ‘a lesbian and an optimist’ is diagnosed with breast
cancer aged 23 years then again aged 31. This very well
written memoir filled with ‘rage and humour’ tells her
story of survivorship.
100 Questions and Answers About Men’s Health:
Keeping you happy and healthy below the belt by
Pamela Ellsworth
Prostate Cancer Survivors Speak Their Minds by
Arthur Burnett and Norman S Morris, John Wiley and
Sons, USA, 2010. The authors, a prostate cancer surgeon
and a prostate cancer survivor describe the medical facts
about treatment options, side effects, and outcomes along
with practical advice and moral support.
What’s Up With Lyndon? Medkidz Explain
Osteosarcoma by Kim Chilman-Blair and John Taddeo,
American Cancer Society, USA, 2011. Another in
this excellent series of graphic novels for teenagers
explaining different types of cancer.
The Cancer Nutrition Center Handbook by Carolyn
Katzin, The Cancer Nutrition Center, USA, 3rd edition
2006. The author is a nutritionist with over twenty years’
experience working with people with cancer and their
families.
Writing My Way Through Cancer by Myra Schneider,
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, UK, 2003. Poet and author
Schneider describes how creative writing helped her
through diagnosis, treatment and recovery from breast
cancer.
11
Caring for a Loved One with Cancer by June Hunt,
Crossway, USA, 2011. The author, a cancer survivor and
spiritual counsellor, has written a really useful book for
carers. Each brief single-topic chapter is full of helpful
tips.
The Weeping Willow by Lynne Dale Halamish and
Doron Hermoni, Oxford University Press, USA, 2007.
A collection of stories from the author’s extensive
experience in counselling people about loss.
CDs/DVDs
Relaxation for People With Cancer, Their Families
and Friends, Cancer Council NSW, Australia, 2010,
and
Mindful Meditation for People With Cancer, Their
Families and Friends, Cancer Council NSW, Australia,
2010. These two CDs narrated by psychologist Dr
Lisbeth Lane guide you through the basics of relaxation
and mindfulness.
Cancer: A positive journey. Auckland Deaf Society,
Auckland, New Zealand, 2011. A DVD for the deaf
community narrated in New Zealand Sign Language.
Describes the journey of two women who talk about
their personal experiences with cancer and gives
information about support services available.
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
What’s on in our centres
Wairarapa
•
Grief Recovery Programme starting in March
•
Living Well with Cancer Course starting in March
•
Look Good Feel Better - bookings essential
•
Contact the Centre if interested in Art Therapy, Carers Workshops,
and Lymphoedema management
Contact Cancer Society Wairarapa 06 378 8039 or email: enquiries@
cancersoc.org.nz for these and all other supportive initiatives.
Blenheim / Marlborough
•
Next Look Good Feel Better - 13 February
•
Marlborough Skin Awareness Clinics - doctor-led clinics that give
advice on moles, freckles, skin changes and sun damage. Picton - Friday 24 February - Parish Hall, 3pm - 7pm Blenheim - Friday 23 March - Civic Theatre, 2pm - 7pm
•
Yoga Classes will recommence in early February
•
GRAPERIDE Cycling Event - Saturday 24 March - www.graperide.
co.nz. Contact office if interested in joining a small group training for
the 19km survivor’s ride.
For futher information about these and other CanSupport programmes, talks
and the local newsletter contact Margot Wilson 03 579 4379.
Nelson
•
Look Good Feel Better
•
Living Well with Cancer Programme
•
Public Education Seminars
•
Relay For Life starting 3 March at 4pm - www.relayforlife.org.nz. If you
have had a cancer diagnosis, whether recently or not, we invite you to join
us at our upcoming fabulous Relay For Life event.
For futher information about these and other CanSupport programmes,
talks, ongoing support groups for those with prostate cancer, breast cancer,
lymphoedema, Lost Chord club and more; Contact Linda Lucre: 03 539 3662 or
email: [email protected]
12
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
Other supportive services
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
CanNow - Moving Forward
Look Good ... Feel Better
Leigh Renai - Coordinator
A free programme for women with cancer. Learn,
through hands-on experience, techniques to help
restore your appearance and self-image during
chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Contact us at the Cancer Society 04 389 8421
Information nurses offer a one-on-one programme
to promote wellbeing for women after early breast
cancer. Discuss your concerns, regain direction and
energy after cancer.
Contact us: 04 389 8421 or
[email protected]
Art Therapy
Silky Pillows
Not to be missed – this is a real treat!
With Mary Brownlow
An opportunity for cancer patients or those close
to them to express their feelings or fears through
drawing, painting or working with clay.
Art Therapy is particularly good for children who
have a parent with cancer. It allows them to
express their fears and feelings in a very safe,
supportive way.
Fee: $25.00 waged or $10.00 if unwaged.
Call Fiona Pearson on 04 389 0053
Art therapy also offered in the Wairarapa
Contact Cancer Society 06 378 8039
Massage
Bobbie-Joe Wilson
Tuesdays between 9am-3pm
Fees on a sliding scale of $15-$40
Relaxing, soothing massages to help both mind
and body. Subsidised by the Cancer Society
and offered at the Cancer Society Rooms, 52 Riddiford St, Newtown.
Contact us at the Cancer Society on 04 389 8421
to make an appointment.
The Silky Pillow is a soft kidney-shaped satin
pillow which can be worn under clothing to
protect your body from knocks and assist with a
comfortable night’s sleep after surgery or
radiotherapy. Also excellent in providing a little
extra support under the car seatbelt when in the
car. Silky Pillows are made by women of various
Inner Wheel clubs for those who have had
breast surgery or treatment. We would like to
offer them also to others who may like
additional comfort following abdominal, chest or
bowel surgery.
Free of charge.
Contact us at the Cancer Society – 04 389 8421
Lymphoedema Assessment &
Management Clinic – Loam
Learn how to successfully manage your
lymphoedema with expert assessment and
education.
This is a subsidised service offered by the Cancer
Society, with clinics run in Newtown, Lower Hutt,
Kapiti and the Wairarapa. A medical referral is
required – contact your GP, surgeon or cancer
care team. Cost: $15.00/session.
Contact us at the Cancer Society Wgtn – 04 389
8421, or Wairarapa 06 378 8039
13
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
Wellington, Hutt, Porirua &
Kapiti Groups
All these groups below invite support people as
well as anyone who has had an experience with
any type of cancer.
New members please contact Virginia Lee on 04
389 0084 or email [email protected]
before attending.
CanX
2nd Wednesday of each month, 5.30pm - 7.30pm,
Cancer Society, 52 Riddiford St, Newtown. This
lively group caters for those under 50yrs affected
by cancer.
Facilitated by Gay Dungey & Mel Higson
Upper Hutt Evening Support Group
2nd Wednesday of each month, 7.30pm - 9.00pm,
Silverstream, Upper Hutt
Facilitated by Claire Laurenson 04 970 1222
Porirua Cancer Support Group
1st Friday of each month, 10am - 12 noon
20 Ngatitoa Street, Elsdon, Porirua
Facilitated by Natalie Kini
Contact Natalie: 04 237 0110 or 04 237 6778
Kapiti CanSurvive Group
4th Tuesday of each month, 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Kapiti Rotary Room, Community Centre,
Paraparaumu
Contact Judy Dickie: 04 298 8514
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Multiple Myeloma Support Group
This warm group hold informal lunches 4-6
weekly in rotation at Kapiti, the Hutt Valley and
Wellington. Next one Sat 11 Feb in Kapiti. All
those coping with Multiple Myeloma and support
people are invited. Members are also willing to
talk to any newly-diagnosed patient by phone or
individual meeting.
Contact Audrey Swallow: 04 298 3117 (Kapiti).
Prostate Cancer (PALS)
4th Tuesday of each month, 7.30pm - 9.00pm,
Cancer Society, 52 Riddiford St, Newtown. The
group regularly invites speakers and enjoys
discussion, sharing experiences, gaining of
perspective and support.
Contact Paul Kane: 021 029 88258
Spirited Women
1st Wednesday of each month, 12 noon 2.00pm,
Cancer Society, 52 Riddiford St, Newtown.
Bring some lunch to share. Speakers invited
every 2nd month.
Facilitated by Elva Phillips and Martina Cziharz
Hutt Valley Breast Friends
1st Tuesday of each month, 7.00pm - 9.00pm,
St Mark’s Church, 58 Woburn Road, Lower Hutt
Facilitated by Laurie Lawler & Claire Laurenson
Spirited Women - Kapiti
Breast Cancer Shared Lunch
3rd Wednesday of each month,12.30pm -2.00pm
Kapiti Community Centre, Paraparaumu.
Bring some lunch (sharing it is optional).
Contact Judy Dickie: 04 298 8514 or email
[email protected]
Mareikura Support Group for Maori & Whānau
3rd Friday of each month, 10am - 12 noon
Mary Potter Hospice, Warrimoo St, Paraparaumu
Contact Miriama: 04 902 7095 or email
[email protected]
14
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Letter to the Editor
As someone who has twice been diagnosed
with early breast cancer (in 2000 and 2006) I
was very interested to read the article on pages
5-6 in the Spring 60 issue of CanTalk by Lynn
Harwood. However, I was left wondering if any
research has been done on why women do
not complete their oral hormone therapy. One
was left with the impression that women who
don’t complete their therapy were neglectful
and perhaps foolish. In my own case, I had to
discontinue Tamoxifen after 18 months (with the
consent of my surgeon, oncologist and GP) as
it was affecting my liver. In my later ‘adventure’
I had to discontinue using another brand after 3
weeks because of the extreme side-effects on
my nervous system. Again, the medical professionals were in agreement this was necessary.
Wairarapa Groups
Jacinta Buchanan co-ordinates and facilitates all
the Wairarapa Networking/Support Groups. For
any information about any group: Contact: 06 378 8039
Womens Support Group
3rd Wednesday of each month, 11am - 1pm
Cancer Society - 140 Dixon St, Masterton
Co-facilitated by Ngaire Potangaroa
I wonder how many other women have been affected as I was and have had to discontinue their
therapy.
Diane Grant.
Mens Support Group
A group for men coping with any type of cancer. Every 4th Wednesday, 12.30pm-2.30pm.
Cancer Society - 140 Dixon St, Masterton.
Co-facilitated with Brent Matthews.
South Wairarapa CanSupport
In partnership with Family Works Every 2nd Wednesday 1-3pm.
Turrett House, 42 Fox Street, Featherston.
Co-facilitated by Robyn Burns
Myeloma & Blood Cancer Support
Luncheon Meeting with speaker. 6th November, 12-2pm - 140 Dixon St, Masterton
Partners and Carers Support Group
1st Wednesday of each month, 1-3pm
Cancer Society - 140 Dixon St, Masterton
Independent groups in Masterton supported
by Cancer Society Wairarapa Wairarapa Breast Cancer Support Group
1st Monday of each month, 10am - 11.30am
Facilitated by Doff Simmonds 06 304 9748.
Wairarapa Prostate Cancer Support Group
1st Tuesday of each month, 1.30pm-2.30pm
Facilitated by Robert Brader 06 370 8699.
15
Ed’s reply: Thank you for raising what is a very
important point - namely that there are many
women who would have continued taking their oral
hormone therapy had they not suffered side-effects
leading them to discontinue their therapy.This
article and research was based on prescription
uptake and so the reasons contributing were not
understood.
Joke
A strong young man at the
construction site was bragging that
he could outdo anyone in a feat of
strength. He made a special target
of one of the older workmen.
After several minutes, the older worker had enough.
‘Why don’t you put your money where your mouth
is?’ he said. ‘I will bet a week’s wages that I can
haul something in a wheelbarrow over to that
outbuilding that you won’t be able to wheel back.’
‘You’re on, old man,’ the braggart replied. “Let’s see
what you’ve got.’
The old man reached out and grabbed the
wheelbarrow by the handles. Then, nodding to
the young man, he said, ‘All right, get in!’
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CanSupport programme
February - April 2012
Attendance is open to anyone who is currently in
treatment or those who have received treatment
anytime in the last 3 years and any whānau or family of those affected by cancer.
In Wellington: Carers and
Partners of those with Brain
Tumours
with Fiona Pearson and Virginia Lee
Date: Starting Tuesday 6th March 2012 for 4
weeks
Time: 12.30-2pm (Lunch provided)
Venue: Cancer Society Rooms, 52 Riddiford St,
Newtown
To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee - 04 389 0084 or
[email protected]
This is a group for partners and family members of
someone who has a brain tumour. It is run as a four
week course held over the lunch hour. Its purpose is to
discuss common concerns, to gather information and
to learn strategies to help carers and partners manage
this difficult time.
Fiona Pearson is the Manager of Support Services
and a counsellor at the Cancer Society, Wellington.
What am I entitled
to?
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Most sessions are FREE but occasionally costs
apply.
Enrolment is required for all programmes. Each
workshop has a minimum and a maximum limit.
To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee on 04 389 0084 or
email: [email protected]
In Lower Hutt: Nordic Walking
with Leanne Toledo Cortés
Date: Starting Tuesday 21st February 2012 for 6
weeks Time: 10am – 12.00 Venue: Lower Hutt walkway, to be advised or
for transport, meet at the Cancer Society Rooms
Riddiford St Newtown at 9.30am
To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee 04 389 0084 or
[email protected]
Nordic walking offers great exercise in a scenic
environment. A minimal level of fitness required- if
you can stand/walk for 45 minutes - you can Nordic
walk. Walking with poles is a great way to build or
maintain a degree of fitness for those in treatment,
recovery and beyond. Also open to whānau, family
and carers. The Cancer Society provides poles
(limited numbers) and some transport to the walking
venue. To get specific details of walk track or to
arrange transport to the walking route please call
or e-mail Virginia. Lee Toledo Cortés works as a Health Promoter at the
Cancer Society and is a Nordic Walking instructor.
An information session is offered
as an individual appointment
with Virginia Lee. This 50 minute
session will cover entitlements
and how to access health and
social services. Questions
welcomed.
To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee 389 0084 virginia.
[email protected]
16
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
In Porirua: Relaxation for mind
body and wellbeing with Mr Bobbie-Joe Wilson
Living Well - education
programmes
Our Living Well programmes are for anyone affected
by cancer wherever you are in your cancer journey.
Family/ whānau, partners, carers or friends are all
welcome. Living Well offers practical ways of living
well, building self-knowledge, self-confidence and selfhelp skills.Topics such as: understanding what cancer
is, nutrition, managing personal reactions, living with
uncertainty, relaxation skills, communicating with your
healthcare team and dealing with family stress are all
discussed.
i) Living Well - For those treated for Mouth, Nose
or Throat Cancers - Wellington with Hazel Neser
and Rita Klus
Date: Starts Monday 20 February for 6 weeks
Time: 6.00pm-8.00pm (Light meal provided)
Venue: Cancer Society, 52 Riddiford St, Newtown.
To enrol: Contact Hazel Neser - 04 389 8421 or
email [email protected]
ii) Living Well - Kapiti with Judy Dickie and Sue
Jamieson
Date: Starting Monday 26 March for 6 weeks to 7
May - (excluding Easter Monday)
Time: 6.30pm-8.30pm
Venue: Kapiti Health Centre, Warrimoo St,
Paraparaumu.
To enrol: Contact Judy Dickie 04 298 8514 or email [email protected]
Wellington: Prostate Cancer
Information Forum
Date: Saturday 10th March 2012
Time: 12.30-4pm
Venue: Cancer Society Rooms, 52 Riddiford St,
Newtown
To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee 04 389 0084 or
[email protected]
This 3 hour forum aims answer your questions and
provide information about diagnosis, treatment and
side effects of prostate cancer. Lunch will be served,
followed by guest speakers and a panel of health
professionals.
17
Date: Starting Monday 20th February for 6
weeks, ending Monday 26th March 2012
Time: 10am-12midday
Venue: Ora Toa Medical Centre, Bedford St
Porirua
To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee 04 389 0084 or
[email protected]
Numbers definitely limited. Attendance at all 6
sessions strongly advised. This course is open to all
those with cancer and/or family or whānau.
Bobbie-Joe is the massage and relaxation therapist
with the Cancer Society in Newtown.
In Wellington: Mindfulness with Stephen Archer
Date: Starting Thursday 16th February for 6 weeks
– ending Thurs 5th April with a 2 week break from
classes on 8th &15th March 2012
Time: 4.15-4.45pm Venue: Pa Maria 78 Hobson St, Thorndon To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee 04 389 0084 or
[email protected]. Numbers definitely
limited. Attendance at all 6 sessions strongly
advised. Koha suggested.
‘Mindfulness is a self-management wellness approach
which assists us to change the way we think, feel and
act. The sessions will be divided between practical
exercises and teaching and reflection time. Notes and
an instruction CD are available to assist with home
practice. Repeated mindfulness practice can lead to
positive life changes including reducing stress and
anxiety, reducing chronic physical pain, boosting the
immune system, coping with difficult life events such
as change, dealing with negative emotions, reducing
insomnia, helping to improve concentration, induce a
sense of happiness and wellbeing’. (Stephen Archer’s
information)
Stephen Archer is a Wellington teacher and
practitioner of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
techniques, his website is www.mindfulnesstraining.co.nz
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Wellington: Complementary
Therapies
with Professor Shaun Holt
Date: Tuesday 27th March 2012
Time: 7-8.30pm
Venue: Cancer Society Rooms, 52 Riddiford St,
Newtown
To enrol: Contact Virginia Lee 04 389 0084 or
[email protected]
Prof. Shaun Holt will present an evidence-based
overview of the use of complementary
therapies for cancer. His book, Complementary
Therapies for Cancer, has been written for anyone
with cancer and for health care professionals.
Prof Shaun Holt lectures at Victoria University of
Wellington, holds Pharmacy and Medicine degrees,
has been the Principal Investigator in over 50 clinical
trials. He is an Honorary Research Fellow at the
Medical Research Institute of New Zealand, and is the
author of 6 books.
Men’s Evening
with Edmund Salem and Grant Wattie
For men who have a family member with a lifethreatening illness.
Rally for Relay For Life
Cancer Society Wellington Division’s tenth Relay
For Life will be held at Frank Kitts Park, Jervois
Quay, over the weekend of 31st March – 1st April.
The waterfront park will once again become a
marquee city and temporary home to over 1,500
Relay participants and visitors in this actionpacked FUNdraiser.
Our second Relay For Life – Porirua will be held at
Te Rauparaha Arena on 25th – 26th February and
promises to be an amazing day and night for all!
The Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is a
remarkable community event that helps
communities:
and acknowledge cancer
survivors
Date: Wednesday, 29 February
Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Venue: to be confirmed
To enrol: Contact Elva Phillips 021 328 835
This event is hosted by Mary Potter Hospice and
Sweet Louise.
Healthy-Steps moving you to better health with the Lebed Method
Saturdays, 9.15am - 10am, St John’s Church Hall
Johnsonville
Mondays, 6pm-7pm, 52 Riddiford St, Newtown
Thursdays, 10.00-11.30am, DanzPort, Upper Hutt
Costs: (Negotiable on individual basis)
$40.00 for 8 weeks. Free trial lesson offered
Contact: Di Graham 04 934 3083 (Johnsonville)
Naena Chhima 04 389 8421 (Wgtn)
Kathryn Clark 04 526 7370 (Upper Hutt)
loved ones lost to cancer
against cancer, which
affects one in three New
Zealanders
Relay For Life is more than just a fundraiser. It’s
a life-changing experience. Everyone’s reason
to participate in Relay is as unique as their own
personal story. At Relay, people can find healing,
comfort and support from others who have faced
cancer, or who have lost a loved one to the
disease.
For more information about Relay For Life or to
register a team contact the Cancer Society on (04)
389 8421 or visit www.relayforlife.org.nz
Rachael Hadwen
18
CANCER SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND Te Kāhui Matepukupuku o Aotearoa
CANTALK SUMMER 2012
Wellington
(04) 389 8421
Kapiti
(04) 298 8514
Nelson
(03) 539 3662
The Cancer Society’s free
support services can help you
or someone you care about
• understand cancer
• talk with others
• understand treatment
• find support
ANY CANCER, ANY QUESTION
0800 CANCER (226 237)
Cancer Information Helpline
Marlborough
(03) 579 4379
Wairarapa
(06) 378 8039
Visit the Wellington
Division at 52
Riddiford St,
Newtown Wellington
6021
Email:info@
cancersoc.org.nz
www.cancernz.org.nz
CanTalk
Please add me to the CanTalk Newsletter mailing list
Please remove me from the CanTalk Newsletter mailing list
I have some questions/would like some more information - (supply daytime phone number or contact)
I would like to receive my CanTalk Newsletter by email. ( Insert email address below)
FIRST NAME:SURNAME:
ADDRESS:
PHONE:EMAIL:
Please tick one of the following options
Patient
Caregiver
Other (please state)
Cancer diagnosed with or cancer/s interesed in:______________________________________________
Any comments on this issue:
Send to Cancer Society - Wellington Division, PO Box 7125, Wellington 6242 ; Visit 52 Riddiford Street, Newtown, Wellington; phone 04 389 8421 or email Sue Corkill - [email protected]
Newsletters with local content are available in Nelson, Wairarapa and Blenheim
Please contact your local Cancer Society office.
Nelson: 03 539 3662
Blenheim: 03 579 4379
Wairarapa: 06 378 8039
For Cancer Information and Support phone 0800 CANCER (226 237)
or go to www.cancernz.org.nz