Welcome to the latest edition of the Lymphoma Australia Newsletter
Inside this edition, we will be covering the following topics: - Dollar Matching Day for Dry July
- Upcoming Support Groups
- What's new in Mantle Cell Lymphoma WEBINAR
- Navigating Fertility & Menopause Through Treatment WEBINAR
- Exercise & Lymphoma Webinar Recording
- CAR T-CELL Therapy & Bispecific Antibodies Recording
- Patient Stories: Andrew Warden
- Winter Safety
- Lymphoma Awareness Month
- Gloup Medication
- Fact sheets for you
- Nurse Support Line 1800 953 081
We're aiming to raise $60,000 to support Lymphoma Australia’s specialist nurses—who provide life-changing care, guidance, and support to people living with lymphoma across the country. Whether you’ve been cheering on a Dry July fundraiser or haven’t had a chance to get involved yet—today’s a great opportunity to make a real difference. From now until matching funds run out, every donation made to Lymphoma Australia through
our Dry July page will be matched dollar for dollar (up to $500 per donation). Your support makes a real difference—to our nurses, our fundraisers, and to every person affected by lymphoma.
💚 On Treatment Online Support Group -- 15th July
💚 What's New in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Webinar -- 21st July
💚 Melbourne In Person Support Group -- 31st July
💚 Watch and Wait Online Support Group-- 11th August
💚 Navigating Fertility & Menopause Online Webinar -- 20th August
💚 Life After Lymphoma Online Support Group -- 28th August
💚 Adelaide In Person Support Group -- 11th September
💚 Transplants In Lymphoma Online Support Group -- 18th September
💚 Canberra In Person Education Day -- 24th September
💚 Impacted by CAR-T Online Support Group -- 30th September
If you are having trouble registering for an event, please contact our nursing team at nurse@lymphoma.org.au
Webinars and in-person education events are led by lymphoma experts who discuss the diagnosis and treatment of specific lymphoma subtypes and key research and treatment updates. Check out below our upcoming and past education events:
Join us for a free online webinar exploring the latest in Mantle Cell Lymphoma. This session will cover current treatment strategies, recent advancements, and what the future of care may hold. 🗓 Date: Monday, 21 July
🕓 Time: 4:00pm (AEST)
📍 Location: Online via Zoom
💻 Cost: Free (registration required) Our guest speaker, Professor Constantine Tam, is an internationally recognised lymphoma expert and Clinical Haematologist, currently heading the Lymphoma Service at Alfred Health and holding a Professorship at Monash University.
Upcoming Webinar: Fertility & Menopause After Treatment
Join us for a free online session designed to support individuals navigating fertility and menopausal health during and after lymphoma treatment. This webinar will offer expert insights on fertility preservation, how to access support services, and managing menopausal symptoms post-treatment. 🗓 Date: Wednesday, 20 August
🕓 Time: 4:00pm to 5:30pm (AEST)
📍 Location: Online via Zoom
💻 Cost: Free (registration required) Hear from leading experts including Dr Genia Rozen, Aisling Murphy, and Professor Kate Stern, followed by a live Q&A.
Highlights from Our Recent Exercise & Lymphoma Webinar
Webinar Recap: Staying Active and Managing Side Effects During Lymphoma Treatment
On 29 May, Lymphoma Australia hosted an informative and engaging webinar with experienced Oncology Physiotherapist Sharyn Wappett, Director of Restore Oncology Care and Lymphoedema Clinic. Sharyn shared valuable insights into how staying active can help manage the side effects of lymphoma treatment and improve quality of life. She covered topics including cancer-related fatigue, lymphoedema, post-operative scar tissue, cording, and strategies to support physical recovery during and after treatment. With over 25 years of experience and a passion for holistic care, Sharyn encouraged participants to take a proactive approach to their physical
wellbeing, highlighting practical steps to restore strength and mobility throughout the lymphoma journey. 🎥 Missed the session? You can watch the full recording
👉 Watch the full webinar below:
Highlights from our CAR T-Cell & Bispecific Antibodies Patient Seminar
Webinar Recap: CAR T-Cell Therapy & Bispecific Antibodies – What You Need to Know
On 13 May 2025, Lymphoma Australia, in collaboration with the Australasian Leukaemia & Lymphoma Group (ALLG), hosted an in-person Patient & Carer Seminar focused on two of the most promising advancements in lymphoma treatment: CAR T-Cell Therapy and Bispecific Antibodies. This comprehensive session featured expert speakers who explored the science behind these treatments, patient eligibility, access pathways, and what to expect throughout the treatment journey. The seminar also provided time for questions from patients and carers, with honest and informative responses from the panel. Session
Highlights: Dr Koon Lee – CAR T-cell therapy: Staying informed & making the choice Dr Janlyn Falconer – Understanding bispecific antibodies CNC Karen Maddock – Logistics and treatment
with CAR T-cell therapy Professor Judith Trotman – Accessing new treatments & understanding clinical trials Live Q&A session with patients, carers, and presenters
Watch the full seminar recording below:
Congratulations to Andrew Warden on Your Appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (OAM)
On behalf of Lymphoma Australia and the lymphoma community we are extending our heartfelt congratulations to Andrew Warden on his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia in the recent King’s Birthday Honours. Andrew is a 22-year survivor of Waldenström’s Macroglobulin, and this prestigious recognition is for his tireless dedication to the WM community, (WMozzies) and his outstanding contribution to the broader lymphoma community, research and advocacy. It has been a privilege for Lymphoma Australia to
work alongside Andrew as his commitment and leadership has made a significant and lasting impact. This honour is richly deserved.
Help Andrew Go Dry this July In memory of his long-term friend and fellow WM warrior, Andrew is doing Dry July for Lymphoma Australia. Michael van Ewijk was well known to Lymphoma Australia as a dedicated and fearless advocate for the lymphoma community. Despite being on treatment, Micheal cycled hundreds of kilometres for WM and Lymphoma awareness
We all know that winter is a challenging time due to the increased risk of respiratory illnesses and infection. This can be particularly tricky if you also have lymphoma, having treatment for Lymphoma, or you have a low immune system. Because of this, it is crucial to take extra precautions. Some strategies you could take during winter include: Don't isolate yourself, but be mindful of safety. Avoid large crowds where possible, and consider wearing a mask. Consider virtual interactions or social gatherings in smaller, well-ventilated spaces with fewer people When you do go out (especially to indoor venues such as a shopping centre) try and go during weekdays, or later in the evening when less people are around Practice good hygiene - wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after
using the restroom or touching surfaces in public places Consider vaccinations - discuss with your healthcare team about recommended vaccinations, such as the flu shot, to boost your immunity
Staying hydrated is also important. Drink plenty of fluids and keep your skin moisturised to prevent dryness and cracking, which can be more pronounced during winter. During your "nadir" period (the time after chemotherapy when your blood counts are lowest and your immune system is most vulnerable), make sure to be extra cautious about potential infections. Just be mindful if you do develop
an infection or illness, your treating team may delay your treatment until it is safe to give and you have recovered. Treatment for your lymphoma may also cause damage to nerves in your fingers or toes, known as peripheral neuropathy. Patients may feel tingling, burning or numbness in the hands and feet, often exacerbated by the cold. Dress warmly can help this - wear layers, a hat, scarf, gloves, and a warm coat when outdoors to protect against cold temperatures. By taking some of the above precautions, you can navigate the winter months safely while undergoing chemotherapy and minimise the risk of complications.
Save the Date – Go LIME this September! Get ready to Go LIME for Lymphoma Awareness Month. World CLL Day is on 1 September and World Lymphoma Awareness Day is on 15 September. Start planning your lime-green activities, get your team involved, and stay tuned for how you can help shine a light on lymphoma across Australia.
Making Medication Easier with Gloup®
Lymphoma Australia is grateful to include Gloup®, a medication lubricant gel, in our patient kits thanks to generous product donations. Gloup medication lubricant is a slippery gel designed to ease the swallowing of tablets, capsules, and powders—especially for individuals with dysphagia or pill aversion. Gloup works to reduce the risk of choking and may eliminate the need to crush medications, preserving their efficacy. Made from 100% natural ingredients, it has no known drug interactions and is available in 5 flavours and 2 thickness levels Gloup breaks down quickly in the stomach, ensuring
minimal impact on absorption. Suitable for ages 2yrs+, it’s a convenient solution that transforms medication administration into a smoother, stress-free experience.
We understand that being diagnosed with lymphoma or CLL, and living through treatment and beyond, can be overwhelming. Many people seek additional information to help make sense of their diagnosis and care options. At Lymphoma Australia, we’ve developed a wide range of easy-to-understand factsheets covering lymphoma subtypes, treatment options, and supportive care to help you feel more informed and empowered throughout your journey.
Everyone’s lymphoma and CLL experience is different. Our Specialist Lymphoma Care Nurses are here to help patients and families navigate the health system, access the most up to date information about lymphoma and to take the fear of the unknown out of the lymphoma journey. Please call to speak to one of our nurses on 1800 953 081 You can email us on nurse@lymphoma.org.au
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