Meet Lisa, Our Cancer Resource Nurse
Supporting you through your cancer journey
A cancer diagnosis can bring with it a lot of questions, uncertainty and change. Lisa, our Cancer Resource Nurse, is here to make sure patients and their families know that they don't have to navigate cancer alone.
With 45 years of nursing experience, including 25 years working in cancer care, Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and compassion to her role. Lisa has been part of our practice team for four years and is passionate about helping people access the information, care and support they need throughout their cancer journey.
A passion for cancer care
Lisa has always had an interest in cancer care. Her journey began working in oncology at Ringwood, before completing postgraduate studies in Oncology and Palliative Care.
What Lisa enjoys most about her role is simple — being able to help people.
Lisa particularly values being able to provide support beyond the clinical aspects of cancer treatment through programs and services that promote wellbeing, connection, exercise and survivorship.
What does a Cancer Resource Nurse do?
The role of a Cancer Resource Nurse is about much more than providing information. Lisa is there to listen, support, educate and advocate for patients.
Patients can come to Lisa for support with a wide range of concerns, including:
Understanding their cancer diagnosis and treatment
Managing treatment side effects and symptoms
Understanding what to expect throughout treatment
Coordinating care and referrals
Connecting with allied health and community services
Nutrition and healthy lifestyle support
Exercise physiology
Breathing techniques
Palliative care support
Advance Care Planning
Emotional and wellbeing support
Accessing cancer support programs and resources
Lisa can also liaise with doctors on a patient's behalf when needed and help coordinate different aspects of their care.
Support wherever you receive treatment
Patients sometimes wonder whether they can access Lisa's support if their cancer treatment is taking place outside the local area.
They can.
Patients within the Kyabram catchment, including Kyabram and Girgarre, can access support even if they are receiving treatment in places such as Bendigo or Echuca.
Lisa can help patients understand what support is available locally and how different services can work together.
Support at any stage of your cancer journey
Patients can access Lisa's support at any stage of their cancer journey.
Sometimes you may have questions about your diagnosis or treatment. At other times, you may need help managing side effects, adjusting to life after treatment or finding additional support for yourself or your family.
There is no need to wait until things become overwhelming.
One of the messages Lisa most wants patients to hear is that there are many resources and supports available, and Lisa's role is to help patients find the right support when they need it.
A holistic approach to cancer care
Lisa takes a holistic and patient-centred approach to cancer care.
Lisa recognises that cancer affects more than just the person receiving treatment. Family members and carers are an important part of the journey too, while the patient remains at the centre of care.
Lisa's approach is simple:
“If it's important to them, listen and advocate.”
Lisa provides emotional and wellbeing support, while also recognising that some people may benefit from more specialised counselling. Where appropriate, Lisa can connect patients with counselling and other support services, including free counselling available through Cancer Council.
Helping people stay connected and well
Supporting patients isn't only about managing treatment. Lisa is passionate about helping people maintain their wellbeing, connection and quality of life.
Lisa is involved in programs that provide additional support, including:
Cancer Wellness Exercise Program
Helping patients incorporate appropriate exercise and movement into their cancer journey.
Survivorship Program
Supporting people as they move through and beyond cancer treatment.
Monthly Luncheon at the Kyabram Club
Providing an opportunity for people to connect, share experiences and enjoy time together in a supportive environment.
Lisa's advice following a cancer diagnosis
If Lisa could give one piece of advice to someone who has just received a cancer diagnosis, it would be:
Take your time.
You don't have to accept everything straight away. You don't need to have all the answers immediately, and you shouldn't feel rushed.
Take the time you need to get your head around what is happening. Find out what support is available and know that you can access that support at any time.
Go at your own pace and give yourself time to get into a good headspace.
You don't have to navigate cancer alone
Lisa wants every patient to know that they don't have to face their cancer journey on their own.
Whether you need information, practical support, help managing treatment side effects, assistance connecting with services, or simply someone to talk things through with, Lisa is here to help.
There are many resources and services available, and Lisa can help you understand what is out there and connect you with the support that is right for you.
Accessing Lisa's service
The Cancer Resource Nurse service is available to patients within the Kyabram catchment, including Kyabram and Girgarre.
You do not need a GP referral, and the service is free.
To make an appointment, contact the Day Unit / Ambulatory Services Unit:
📞 03 5857 0298
Lisa is here to listen, support and advocate for you throughout your cancer journey.