Welcome to the April edition of 'Let's Talk' for 2020!

‘Let’s Talk’ is published quarterly for Aboriginal health professionals and those working with Aboriginal communities who are proudly leading the way to a cancer-free future in WA.

If you have any questions or would like any further information about any of the articles included in this newsletter, please contact Cassandra Clayforth, Regional Education Manager at Cassandra.Clayforth@cancerwa.asn.au.

Our second accredited Cancer Education Course for Aboriginal Health Professionals

The week-long Cancer Education Course was delivered in partnership with the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia in Perth from 17 - 21 February 2020.

"Whisper No More" workshop in Geraldton

Our PEPA team recently ran a 2-day 'Culture-Centred Palliative Care Workshop' from an Aboriginal perspective in Geraldton. We had a great group of presenters over the two days educating health professionals about Aboriginal culture and how to better care for their Aboriginal clients and families towards end of life.

Kimberley residents spread word about Cancer Council WA Lodges

As Crawford Lodge celebrated its 20 year anniversary on Friday 28 February 2020, one Kimberley family knows too well the importance of the community-funded accommodation for rural cancer patients, their families, and carers.

Read the story

"16 Teaspoons of Sugar" campaign

Our LiveLighter® team's latest campaign, 16 Teaspoons of Sugar, exposed the large amount of sugar contained in sugary drinks. Developed by the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) in partnership with Cancer Council Victoria, the campaign was broadcast throughout WA on Aboriginal TV and radio stations.

Culturally appropriate palliative care in the West Kimberley

The Palliative and Supportive Care Education (PaSCE) have collaborated with the Yiriman Project in the Kimberley to produce an educational video resource for health professionals working with Aboriginal people affected with a life-limiting illness.

Upcoming events

Grief, Loss and Self-Care for Aboriginal Health Workers - 24 November 2020 (Perth)

This free one-day workshop is informed by the latest research and best-practice, and provides training for Aboriginal Health Workers and those in related roles to support Aboriginal people dealing with grief, loss, and trauma. This free course is aimed at Aboriginal Health Workers and those in related roles.

Culture-Centred Care: an Aboriginal perspective 2-day workshop - 27-28 October 2020 (Perth)

This two-day workshop is designed for health professionals working with Aboriginal clients to develop their skills in caring for Aboriginal people and their families facing a life-limiting illness, and will explore the topic of cultural awareness in palliative care. The workshop will be presented by a variety of specialists utilising case studies and group discussion.

Cancer and COVID-19

COVID-19 is particularly dangerous for people with compromised immune systems, including cancer patients and survivors. Our website is being updated regularly with information on how cancer survivors and West Australians undergoing cancer treatment can limit their risk of exposure, as well as Cancer Council WA services and programs directly impacted by COVID-19. This page also includes a link to Cancer and COVID-19 – what it means for our Mob information hub by Cancer Australia.