Funding for breast cancer nurse support
Ongoing funding to Goulburn Valley Health’s two McGrath breast care nursing positions will see Michelle Parish and Kerry Patford continue their vital work in supporting those with breast cancer.
Federal Member for Murray Damian Drum announced on Tuesday that $390 000 had been secured to fund Ms Parish and Ms Patford’s positions as McGrath breast care nurses.
This funding comes from a $20.5 million commitment from the Federal Government to support 57 McGrath breast care nursing positions across the country.
Locally this funding will ensure the Goulburn Valley retains Ms Parish and Ms Patford as McGrath breast care nurses for the next four years, from July this year.
As McGrath breast care nurses, Ms Parish and Ms Patford cover a large area with Ms Parish based in Shepparton and Ms Patford in Benalla.
Both nurses make house calls and provide medical, psychological and emotional support to people and families impacted by breast cancer.
Ms Parish has been in her role for eight years and said they could see up to 60 or 80 people a year with new diagnosis or rediagnosis of breast cancer.
She said the announcement meant they could continue to provide people and their families with support.
GV Health interim chief executive officer Max Alexander said to have the McGrath breast cancer nurse positions continued was an exemplary decision.
‘‘It provides an absolutely essential service to many,’’ he said.
Mr Drum said the McGrath breast care nursing positions were an asset to the region.
‘‘I think everybody in one way or another has probably been touched by this disease, whether it be friends, neighbours, relatives or family members,’’ he said.
‘‘I think everyone can relate to what a great announcement it is.’’