Wellbeing day for women battling cancer

COUNTERPART – a statewide service of Women’s Health Victoria that supports and informs women with cancer to live well – is partnering with Bass Coast Health to organise a free wellbeing day for women with cancer on Wednesday, August 30. 

Cape Paterson resident Rahnee Skate is looking forward to attending as there weren’t events like this in this area following her breast cancer diagnosis in 2019. 

“I had my treatment in Melbourne, and when that finished, I was left thinking ‘What now?’. I asked to be referred to a local Breast Care Nurse, who was fantastic, but what I really wanted was to talk to other women who had been through similar experiences to myself," she said. 

“Family and friends are wonderful support, but having someone with a cancer diagnosis really understands the mixture of emotions that are ongoing.” 

Rahnee is looking forward to connecting with other women at Counterpart’s wellbeing day. 

At the event, women living with cancer can try qigong, join in an art therapy activity, hear from an Occupational Therapist about managing fatigue after cancer and enjoy lunch and a cuppa with other women who have similar experiences. 

“I would encourage any woman who has experienced cancer to come along, whatever stage of their journey they are at. You never know when you might need support,” Rahnee said. 

“We want more of these events in our area, so it is important to make the most of these opportunities.” 

The Inverloch wellbeing day is free for women who have had any type of cancer and their partners, family or friends. 

“At 33 years old I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was a mum of two young, gorgeous girls. I was in shock and our lives changed drastically,” said Emma Hasson of Stony Creek.

“Multiple surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation followed my diagnosis. A year later and treatment was over and now I am on the road to recovery.

“I am looking forward to connecting with others who have been through similar at the wellbeing day. The day will be a fantastic opportunity to relax and focus on myself as my journey of healing continues. I believe days like these are so important for support through diagnosis, treatment and healing.” 

Bookings can be made online at counterpart.org.au/events or by calling Counterpart on 1300 781 500. 

To find out more about Counterpart's other services visit counterpart.org.au