When a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, one of the first things they need is support.
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For Launceston McGrath Breast Care Nurse Mary Sweeney, providing invaluable physical, emotional and physiological support is what she does best.
In her role, Ms Sweeney has supported more than 180 people living with breast cancer.
She said the most rewarding part of her job was witnessing the strength and resilience in people, their family and their friends.
“I meet amazing people that are often incredibly strong and resilient,” she said.
“Seeing the growth of my patients through the many ups and downs of their breast cancer experience, and seeing them finish their treatment with the confidence to continue living their lives is extremely fulfilling.
“My main aim is to support my patients and their families whilst providing education and direction on the many new processes they encounter, making their lives easier in any way I can during what is a difficult time.
“When my patients finish their treatment, with time, they and their families start living their lives again. I am very proud to be a McGrath Breast Care Nurse.”
One patient Ms Sweeney has helped is Launceston’s Margaret Bricknell.
The 54-year-old is one of the many people living with a breast cancer diagnosis, who has benefited from the support of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse.
Diagnosed in May 2017, Ms Bricknell said her first reaction was shock, but with support she was able to get through it a day at a time.
“My very first reaction was – oh my God, what is all this about,” she said.
“No one in my family has had breast cancer and I was just horrified.
“I thought to myself ‘I’m not going to survive this’. However when I met Mary, she helped me stay positive, and changed my mind set.”
Ms Bricknell said the support she and her family received was life changing.
“Mary is fantastic – not only does she support me personally, but also my family too,” she said.
“She regularly came to see me during my chemotherapy treatment and came with me to many doctor’s appointments so she could answer my questions later.
“She always supported me and checked in to see how my husband and sons were coping. I don’t know how we would have gotten through this without her.”
This year in Australia, more than 50 people are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
McGrath Breast Care Nurses provide vital support not only for the person going through breast cancer, but also for the family and friends who are affected by their loved ones breast cancer diagnosis.
There are currently 120 McGrath Foundation Breast Care Nurses in Australia, with more needed.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the foundation aims to raise funds for McGrath Breast Cancer Nurses to continue support services.
For more information visit mcgrathfoundation.com.au.