To mark World Head and Neck Cancer Day Cancer Council Queensland will be hosting a free information session on July 27 from 9am until 1.15pm at our Brisbane office.
The purpose of the forum is to educate, inform and support Queenslanders affected by head and neck cancer. About 800 people in Queensland are diagnosed with head and neck cancer each year.
Among the attendees will be Marty Doyle, who co-founded the Head and Neck Cancer Support Group in 2006 with others affected by head and neck cancer, after being treated for cancer two years prior.
“I found that whilst there was support for other cancers and cancer in general there was none specifically for Head and Neck Cancer,” Mr Doyle said.
“Head and Neck Cancer is one of the most debilitating cancers.
Members of the support group say they often feel less alone, more informed and more supported through and after their cancer experience after attending one of our meetings.
“There is still a lot more work to do to create even greater awareness.”
Co-founder of the Head and Neck Support Group Marty Doyle
Locals are encouraged to RSVP for the Head and Neck Cancer Forum prior to July 22 on the information sessions webpage.
What can I expect on the day?
This informative session will equip Queenslanders with strategies to manage long-term side effects associated with head and neck cancer.
What topics that will be covered on the day?
There will be a range of topics and information that will be covered on the day including:
- My personal experience
- What is ‘normal’ during treatment
- Good nutrition, eating and drinking
- The importance of exercise
- Psychosocial challenges and coping strategies
There will be group discussion and attendees can expect to hear from a range of professionals on the day including:
- Simon Bourne, Survivor
- Dr Ben Chua, Radiation Oncologist
- Bena Brown, Advanced Speech pathologist
- Louise Cooney, Senion Dietitian, APD
- Deb Pickersgill, Exercise Physiologist
- Samantha Clutton, Clinical Psychologist
What is the best method of transport to get to the forum?
The closet bus stop from the building is on Bowen Bridge Road which is a two-minute walk from the building. Fortitude Valley Train Station is also just a 10-minute walk from the building. There is also metered street parking available on the day in neighboring streets however this is limited.
Whether you have been diagnosed with a head and neck cancer or have a family member or friend who is affected by cancer, the forum is to help provide support and information. Register here.