How we supported you in 2023

A short summary of how we have helped support the Lymphoma community in 2023

What an extraordinary year it has been for the Lymphoma Australia team in 2023, and we are eager to share the remarkable milestones we've achieved. As we bid farewell to 2023, let's reflect on the profound impact we've made and the significant strides taken in supporting the lymphoma and CLL community.

We have touched the lives of nearly 1,400 newly diagnosed patients

1,900 patients or carers have called the Nurse Support Line with nurses spending 475hrs talking to them

12,000 resources sent to patients and hospitals

2,200 patients and carers attended education events or support groups hosted by Lymphoma Australia

950 patient treatment packs have been sent out

Lymphoma Australia continue to raise awareness of Lymphoma while also educating nurses caring for Lymphoma patients.

Calling all Australians with CLL / SLL – and their families!

A government committee is considering (once again) whether to recommend public funding of a tablet combo for newly diagnosed CLL / SLL.

If added to the Pharmaceutical benefits scheme, it would be the first time that Australians with this type of lymphoma will be able to take tablets for a fixed duration – just 15 months – and then have a great chance of living treatment-free for many years.

The PBS advisory committee REJECTED funding for this combo last year – so it is now more critical than ever that everyone with CLL / SLL (and their carers) leaves the committee in no doubt of how important this treatment option is for newly diagnosed CLL / SLL.

So, whether this would be a treatment option for you or not – please share what an all-tablet, non-chemo, fixed duration therapy – and then going treatment-free – would mean for Australians with newly diagnosed CLL/SLL.

Together, let’s change the lives of people living with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia /Small Lymphocytic Leukaemia!

Have Your Say

Keeping Safe this Festive Season

In light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we find it crucial to revisit a topic of paramount importance: the impact of COVID-19 on immunocompromised patients.

As infections surge once again, it remains as relevant and timely as ever to understand the importance of continued vigilance and protective measures. Your well-being is our priority, and we encourage everyone to stay informed, follow recommended guidelines, and reach out to us for any support you may need during these uncertain times.

RESPIRATORY VIRUSES:

HOW TO REDUCE RISK OF BEING INFECTED OVER CHRISTMAS

The festive season is a busy time for many and often includes catching up with people you haven't seen in a long time. Active treatment for lymphoma & CLL can reduce the effectiveness of the immune system. People who have weakened immune systems are at greater risk of getting infections, but there are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the chances of getting an infection.

Christmas can still be enjoyed with family and friends, however there are some small adaptations to social gatherings that can make it safer for you.

SOCIALISE OUTSIDE organise family gatherings in the open space of backyards or parks. This allows open fresh air and lower chance of contamination of respiratory viruses.

KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE between yourself and others. Maintain social distancing if possible in enclosed environments. If you cannot maintain distance, wear a mask to help reduce your chance of infection. There is no problem wearing a mask at any social event inside or outside. Also keep hugs and kisses to only those you feel safe to do so with.

AVOID PEOPLE WHO ARE UNWELL If you are in public and notice someone coughing/sneezing or visibly unwell, please move away from them to protect yourself. Ensure that family/friends do no visit if they are displaying any symptoms of illness such as fever, coughing, sneezing, headache, etc. It is not unreasonable to ask visitors to RAT test before they see you either.

WASH YOUR HANDS with soap and water for 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand wash. Wash your hands when you come into contact with others, before eating or touching your face, after using the bathroom and upon entering your home.

VACCINATE yourself and your close contacts.

MASK UP WHEN TRAVELLING when travelling on planes or public transport and especially on cruise ships.

Eating well over the Christmas Period

Christmas often involves lots of different foods however there are some foods to avoid while immunocompromised

RAW MEAT & FISH avoid all raw meats and raw fish. Cook meat until it is well done. Avoid crustaceans including prawns, crabs and bugs.

SOFT MOULD-RIPENED & BLUE-VEINED CHEESE avoid all Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Stilton, Gorgonzola and Bleu or other soft, unpasteurized cheeses

RUNNY EGGS thoroughly cook eggs (no runny yolks) and avoid foods containing raw eggs such as raw cookie dough or homemade mayonnaise

BUFFETS & SALAD BARS avoid premade salads and buffets. Only eat freshly prepared salads and freshly cooked meat

FRESH FRUIT & VEGETABLES before eating, wash all fruit and vegetables, even if you are going to peel off the skin

LEFTOVERS avoid leftovers at this time of year.

Christmas Closure Dates

Over the Christmas Period we will take a short break...

From December 23rd until January 8th, 2024 our phone lines and emails will be closed.

If you have an urgent matter, please contact your treating hospital. If you would like to leave a message, we will get back to you when we return.

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