Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift calls on Queenslanders to show they care about carers this National Carers Week.
This week is National Carers Week (October 16-22) – an opportunity to raise community awareness about the diversity of carers and the importance of their roles.
It’s also a time to show carers how much they count too.
In Australia, around 2.8 million carers provide around 1.9 billion hours of unpaid care each year – giving their time and energy to provide hope, support and assistance for those most in need.
Anyone at any time can become a carer. In Queensland more than 26,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer this year. Many will need the ongoing care and support of their loved ones throughout their cancer journey.
While providing care can be a rich source of satisfaction in people’s lives, it can also be challenging – and in those times Cancer Council is here to help.
Many carers experience similar levels of psychological distress to those they are caring for and commonly encounter unexpected difficulties when supporting a loved one with their illness.
Often carers feel apprehensive about seeking support as they aren’t the ones diagnosed, but we want to remove that stigma and help family and friends to reach out for the help they need.
Cancer Council Queensland is here to support every family member, neighbour, friend or carer who works hard to help those touched by cancer to achieve the best possible quality of life.
A quick call to Cancer Council 13 11 20 can provide access to a comprehensive range of assistance programs, information and resources – or simply a listening ear if you need it.
Staffed by experienced health professionals, 13 11 20 ensures patients and carers don’t go through cancer alone.
Help us celebrate carers this week by honouring a carer in your community.
Imagine the impact we would make if we had one ‘thank you’ for every one of Australia’s 2.8 million unpaid carers. You can make a difference by offering your thanks today!
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.
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