We don't want anyone to have to deal with cancer. But until that wish comes true we want to help you any way we can.

This short podcast series introduces you to the common types of treatment you might be undertaking as a new cancer survivor.

We’ve talked to the experts, we’ve talked with other ordinary survivors. We’ve collected the information we think you might be able to use but this podcast doesn’t replace conversations. You need to take control of your own survivor journey, to talk to your doctors and specialists. Chat with your nursing team. Discuss ideas with your family and friends. Cancer can feel like a lonely journey but it’s not something you have to take on alone.

This podcast was designed and created by the Grampians Integrated Cancer Service Consumer Advisory Group (CAG) a group of dedicated volunteers who have had cancer, or cared for someone with cancer.  This group wants to make the experience of having cancer as good as it can be.

The podcasts are presented by Penny Johnston, a member of the CAG team. 

"As a cancer survivor, when I was first diagnosed I didn’t want anyone to know I was sick. I didn’t want to be ‘the cancer person’. I spent some time researching other people's cancer survivor stories. I didn’t always want to know too much!  But there were some people I could really count on. There were some stories I clung to like a life raft. I started to build a tribe of reliable people who I could talk to, ask questions of.  People who convinced me I could get through this.

I loved my treatment team (many of whom you meet in this podcast series) and I found my survivor tribe."

The CAG don't want anyone to have cancer but until that happens we want you to feel you can do what you need to do to get through it.

Best wishes through your experience with cancer,

Penny Johnston, Grampians Integrated Cancer Services Consumer Advisory Group.