TODAY, Tuesday, February 4, marks World Cancer Day—an international observance day to raise awareness about cancer and encourage its prevention.
This year’s theme, ‘United by Unique,’ reminds us that behind every diagnosis lies a unique human story.
As part of World Cancer Day, Northern Health is sharing the story of Montse, a 78-year-old proud Catalan, originally from Barcelona, who moved to Australia 52 years ago.
During her early life, Montse enjoyed playing basketball, and she was also the founder of the Catalonia Club in Melbourne where she held the positions of secretary, president, and treasurer.
Following her diagnosis of stage four lung cancer five years ago, Montse discovered targeting the side effects of treatment required an increase in physical activity.
“I have been receiving treatment which, although it keeps the cancer stable, has the side effects of fatigue and swollen legs, hence my need for exercise,” she said.
Although Montse lives locally at Mill Park, she was not treated at Northern Health and is not a patient of Northern Health.
“I heard of the ‘WellAhead’ program at Northern Hospital Epping from the U3A newsletter where I have been a member for many years,” she said.
“I have been attending WellAhead’s yoga and qigong classes for some time now.
“The program has helped me with my breathing and allowed me to exercise with a group, because I am not disciplined enough to exercise on my own.
“I have recommended the program to a 90-year-old friend who also has cancer.”
WellAhead is a holistic wellness program, co–designed with patients.
It aims to support and empower those living with cancer through a diverse and inclusive range of activities.
These include yoga, qigong, volunteer programs, the Northern Health Community Choir, and classes for seniors from Whittlesea U3A.
Northern Health Divisional Director Cancer and Specialist Services Professor Wanda Stelmach said wellness holds particular significance for individuals diagnosed and treated for cancer.
“I would like to see wellness, holistically supporting our consumers from the start of their diagnostic journey, through to treatment, remission, recurrence, and end-of-life care, and enable them to live as full a life as they desire,” she said.
Whittlesea Community Connections Chief Executive Alex Haynes said that part of their strategic plan was to respond to complex social issues.
“At Whittlesea Community Connections, we are really focused on supporting people to be healthy and have opportunities to connect,” she said.
“Partnering with Northern Health and supporting their WellAhead program means those in our community with cancer, and those caring for them, have opportunities to engage in free wellbeing activities, information, and support.”
For more information about WellAhead, visit www.nh.org.au/wellahead.
