The Northern Beaches Community Cancer Care Association (NBCCC) today thanked its local community for their response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
The not-for-profit organisation said the action taken by Northern Beaches residents over recent days was vitally important to fellow locals with compromised immune systems.
People with pre-existing conditions and compromised immune systems, including cancer, are at increased risk of contracting coronavirus (COVID-19) and increased risk of a more severe infection.
It’s a risk that local Northern Beaches resident and NBCCC board member, Julian Henwood, knows only too well after contracting COVID-19 earlier in the year while having treatment for lower esophageal cancer.
Now, currently undergoing chemotherapy, Julian says he is immensely thankful for the response his local community has taken this week.
“I am so proud to be part of the Northern Beaches community. We are doing an amazing job in combating this virus. There are many people who are vulnerable to this nasty disease, people who are frontline healthcare workers, aged and frail and people who are receiving chemotherapy for cancer. People like me.”
“I know how devastating this virus is to people after contracting COVID in March and ending up at Northern Beaches Hospital. So I want to give a heartfelt thank you to those who are following New South Wales health advice. staying at home, wearing masks and doing whatever we can with hand hygiene and social distancing in trying to prevent the spread of this disease.
“I hope that like the rest of us that we can join our families soon wherever they may be and have a really Merry Christmas. So from the bottom of my heart – thank you,” says Henwood.
Today, the NBCCC also launched a Facebook Group for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and loved ones isolated on the Northern Beaches to connect, share their stories and offer and receive support from one another.
“I know when I was in isolation having my cancer treatment at this time of year, I was really looking forward to getting out of hospital and being able to see my friends and family,” NBCCC Secretary and Media Advisor Kate McQuestin said.
“And sadly, reunions with family and friends will not eventuate for many currently having treatment this year and they may be feeling even more alone with COVID-19 restrictions.”
“A situation made even more challenging for those who not only have cancer currently, but those who have had cancer in the past or are caring for a loved one with cancer.”
Help on the way
“So to try to help support and connect local cancer patients isolated during this difficult time, the Northern Beaches Community Cancer Facebook Group will be a safe place where members can express how they feel, whilst being surrounded by people who know and understand what it’s like to help each other.
“A place for those facing cancer in a COVID pandemic to go to ask for and provide support to other locals in a similar position this Christmas and beyond 2020,” said McQuestin.
The NBCCC has been formed by a group of volunteers touched by cancer. It is the first of its type in the region to work in conjunction with caregivers and relies on donations and corporate sponsorships.
Formally launching in February, it will conduct fundraising activities involving all elements of the Northern Beaches community throughout 2021 to support cancer patients through the delivery of much needed equipment, health research and initiatives.
To support the NBCCC, get involved and/or learn more visit: www.nbccc.org.au
See Julian’s video message on our social media pages.
