Since RCA was founded in 2012, it has supported thousands of people in need by remaining focused on a mission to improve the lives and health outcomes of people affected by rare, less common and complex cancers.
“At RCA, we redefine cancerA disease where abnormal cells split without control and spread to other nearby body tissue and/or organs. Cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and lymph systems. support, so no one is left behind or feels alone. We believe everyone should be given the best possible chance to live beyond cancer,” RCA CEO Christine Cockburn said.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be able to increase access to our unique patient support services through our newly established local office in Wollongong.
“Excitingly, we are also launching our refreshed look to the world, one that reflects the work we’re doing at RCA today and into the future, while paying homage to our heritage logo and colours.
“This brand refresh helps us to reaffirm our focus on redefining cancer support and doing whatever it takes to deliver support defined by what’s most important for people living with rare, less common and complex cancers,” Ms Cockburn said.
70-year-old woman and local Wollongong residentA junior doctor that is employed by a hospital to provide care and treatment as they train in a specialty field such as cancer., Michelle Pearse, was diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer five years ago. She initially underwent 32 rounds of chemotherapy
• a chemical drug treatment to kill or slow-growing cancer Cells
• these drugs are called cytotoxic drugs
, as well as radiotherapy, with much improvement. She moved on to a clinical trialA study to test new treatments such as drugs, procedures or technologies to see if they work and/or are safe for people. for a new tablet form of chemotherapy at Westmead Hospital and thankfully this has continued to keep Michelle well.
“I want to continue this trial as I am having great results, however the time and cost of travel to get there every six weeks is making it difficult. I live in Wollongong Warrigal Care, but the local Hospital is not participating this particular trial, so without any means of getting there myself I would not have been able to access my treatment,” Michelle says.
“Thankfully, Rare Cancers Australia were able to help me with my transport and get me to my appointments, allowing me to have this life changing treatment. They have been incredibly generous, and I am very grateful.
“Collectively from day one my Cancer teams have fought to keep me alive…I am very grateful and feel the best I have felt in almost five years,” she said.
RCA’s Patient Support Team comprises Specialist Cancer Navigators who are all, qualified clinical and allied health professionals. They are in service to patient wellbeing and do whatever it takes to change the story of a rare cancer, through improved diagnosisUsing medical test results, identify and name a disease and/or condition., limitless support and relentless advocacy. RCA’s office is located on Level 1, 65 Market St, Wollongong and further information and contacts details can be found at www.rarecancers.org.au.
Office Opening event details:
Date: Friday, 21 February
Time: 9.30am – 10.00am (official welcome)
10.00am – 11.00am (morning tea/meet & greet)
Location: Level 1, 65 Market Street, Wollongong
Media contact: Alicia Ballesty, RCA, 0499 880 742 or [email protected]