It’s been two months since Springfield’s first radiotherapy service opened its doors to local cancer patients, enabling access to more affordable, timely treatment.
Advanced prostate cancer patient David Terlich has credited the local service for bringing normality back to his life.
“I feel very fortunate to have come into contact with such a professional, caring and human team,” he said.
“I don’t know what would have happened if the Springfield centre wasn’t there to offer vital treatment when I needed it – I received high dose palliative pelvic radiotherapy with very good affect after experiencing a tumour bleed.
“The support of the team has been amazing and the treatment has allowed me to return to a normal life. My energy levels have normalised and I am feeling hopeful. I’ve also been lucky not to experience any ill-effects.”
CEO of Radiation Oncology Centres, Mark Middleton, said the world-class centre at Springfield was a life changer for local cancer patients.
“Our Springfield Cancer Centre is already making a tangible difference in the lives of locals affected by the disease,” Mr Middleton said.
“Our team is working hard to ensure exceptional patient care – giving local cancer patients the highest standard of treatment available.
“Equipped with world-class technology and staffed by some of Australia’s top cancer radiation specialists, the centre will continue to improve the quality of life and survival prospects for Queenslanders diagnosed with the disease.”
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said Springfield’s radiotherapy centre was an important step forward for local cancer control.
“The services offered by ROC make cancer treatment more accessible for local patients and help to reduce waiting list times for radiotherapy treatment across the State,” Ms Clift said.
“As well as having access to state-of-the-art technology, local patients and families will also have access to Cancer Council Queensland’s free cancer counselling service and support programs, to underpin the high standard of clinical service provided by ROC.
“Having a centre in Springfield means local cancer patients no longer need to travel 40 minutes to Brisbane every day for treatment, saving time and reducing the financial impacts of travel and parking costs.
“We congratulate ROC on the management of this important facility, and look forward to seeing its further impact on the local community.”
Around 25,000 Queenslanders are diagnosed with cancer each year, and about 8600 die from the disease.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.
ENDS
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Senior Media Specialist,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5239
Mobile: 0488 015 702