Cancer Council provides special support for carers

06 May, 2008

Unpaid carers, family and friends of people with cancer are urged to attend the Cancer Council's first Carer's Forum on Saturday May 10, 2008.

With 66 Victorians diagnosed with cancer every day, few Victorian families have not been touched in some way.

This interactive forum is an opportunity for unpaid carers, family and friends to share experiences and discuss many of the issues carers may face. Topics include: what happens when the carer has cancer, self-care and support services available.

Dr Amanda Hordern, Deputy Director of the Cancer Information and Support Service at The Cancer Council Victoria said the forum is the first step towards bridging the gap in support services for unpaid carers, family members and friends. 

"Caring for someone with cancer can be daunting and stressful, particularly when it is someone you care about very much," Dr Hordern said.

"The person with cancer may be experiencing feelings of distress, and treatment side effects such as fatigue and mood changes can have an enormous impact on relationships.

"Many carers are also taking on additional responsibilities such as daily chores and extra work to ease financial burden which can be tiring and stressful.

"This forum will address many of the practical and emotional issues that family and carers may face and will also provide a safe space to talk about experiences and concerns."

Visit the Cancer Council website for further information.