How NSW Health is transforming cancer patient journeys through collaboration and compassion |
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Many of us have either directly, or indirectly, been personally affected by cancer – including being diagnosed, or caring for a loved one. In NSW, more than 50,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year. Despite huge strides in all areas, from screening to palliative care, it remains a leading cause of premature, disease-related death. While our cancer survival rates are among the best in the world, tragically a life is lost to cancer approximately every 30 minutes.
The NSW Cancer Plan guides the work by NSW Health and stakeholders to reduce the impact of cancer and save more lives. Led by the Cancer Institute NSW, it focuses on improving both the quality of care and overall quality of life for those affected.
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Yesterday on February 4, we marked World Cancer Day. For people living with cancer, NSW Health’s skilled, compassionate, multi-disciplinary teams are there every step of the way. Our world class, patient-centred care, encompasses family members too – a holistic approach, grounded in kindness. Thank you for your outstanding care and the passion you bring to work every day. Lastly, I am excited to share that NSW Health will participate in the 2025 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
This will be a tangible (and colourful!) demonstration of our leading role in championing equality, and supporting an inclusive workplace, where everyone is valued and respected. You can learn more about our Mardi Gras participation below. |
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Kind regards, Susan Pearce AM
Secretary, NSW Health |
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Personalised precision medicine |
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In December 2020, six-year-old Nicholas was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. |
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After ten months of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, Nicholas spent eight months at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead (CHW) and six more in isolation. In November 2023, his cancer returned. With limited options, the team turned to precision medicine.
During Nicholas' second bone marrow transplant, CHW's pharmacokinetics* lab carefully measured chemotherapy doses in real time. This personalised approach ensured effective treatment while minimising side effects. “It makes a significant difference in cancer care, making our treatments better and safer,” said Madeleine Powys, Consultant in Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy.
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Nicolas and his parents, Janet and Giuseppe, felt deeply supported by the team. “Madeleine was amazing. She involved me in Nicholas’ care, and together we worked as a team. Whatever my family needed, the team did everything they could to provide it,” Janet said. “She came to check on me every day. It made my day just seeing her face,” Nicholas said. Now cancer free, Nicholas is back in school, reconnecting with friends and playing soccer again. |
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“I am feeling great,” Nicholas said. “The best ever!” |
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*Pharmacokinetics – the study of how medications enter, spread through, break down and are eliminated from the body. This allows the doses of chemotherapy to be targeted for an individual patient based on how their body processes it. |
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When Jo-Anne Picker entered a national floristry competition last year, she drew inspiration from her personal journey at the Goulburn Cancer Centre.
“Like many things in life, you take inspiration from your lived experience,” said Jo. Jo has been a patient at the centre since 2000. She used her floral designs to honour the staff and patients she encountered throughout her treatment.
“My work came from attending the centre, which is filled with vibrant wildflower murals. It made me reflect on how nature can improve wellbeing,” she said Her competition entry, featuring a hand-tied bouquet and wearable piece, symbolises the importance of hope and support. |
| Jo-Anne Picker (right) with nurse Jane Robertson |
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| “The blue ribbon in my piece represents the oncology staff, who are the binding point in supporting patients and their families during their cancer care.”
The display also includes a bell, representing the tradition of celebrating cancer-free milestones. “I wanted to share a story about hope for new cancer treatments, and the collective hope we share, giving people the opportunity to ‘ring the bell’.” |
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In 2020, Ruben Hillier and his family moved from Sydney to Broken Hill for work for a year. Five years later, they’ve grown deep connections in the local community and show no signs of moving. |
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As a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse at the Far West Local Health District, Ruben Hillier provides vital support, education and care navigation to men with prostate cancer.
He collaborates with visiting urologists, consults with patients and their families, and facilitates a monthly prostate cancer support group.
“In Broken Hill, you’re serving people who could be your neighbour. Funnily enough, one afternoon I was on my veranda having a beer when a patient walked by.”
“At first I was shocked, but now I’ve really come to enjoy the tight-knit community lifestyle.” |
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Ruben has a golden rule when it comes to prostate health. “When men reach middle age, they should talk their GP about their risk of developing prostate cancer, including any family history,” he said. |
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Our inclusive pulse: healthcare for all |
Look out for NSW Health marching in the 2025 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. We'll be celebrating our commitment to inclusive healthcare, and our diverse workforce which makes participation possible.
Members of the NSW Health Pride network were invited to complete an Expression of Interest to march in the parade. The selected staff will represent NSW Health along with our Secretary, Susan Pearce AM in March. Watch Susan’s video message below.
You can also find out more about what Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging means to our staff on the NSW Health website. |
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Simone Smith is the first Aboriginal Cancer Support Coordinator for the Mid North Coast Local Health District. In this newly created role funded by the Cancer Institute NSW, she provides culturally safe support for Aboriginal cancer patients.
“I understand the importance of culturally respectful care and ensuring that our patients feel safe, supported and empowered,” said Simone. |
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Passionate about increasing cultural respect and action among staff, Simone is also focused on ensuring the healthcare environment is welcoming for Aboriginal people. “I hope to improve access to treatment and embed culturally safe healthcare for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mob on their cancer journeys,” she said.
Simone guides her patients through their diagnosis, coordinates care and connects them with community resources and healthcare providers to ensure that cultural considerations are integrated into their ongoing care.
“My goal is to ensure that each patient receives culturally informed care that respects their needs and promotes their wellbeing.” |
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Share your thoughts on NSW Health's Gender Equality Action Plan Join an informal online drop-in session and have your say on NSW Health’s Gender Equality Action Plan. Click on your preferred session below to download an Outlook calendar invite and be reminded when our drop-in sessions are running. All input and feedback will be kept anonymous. You can read our Gender Equality Action Plan Overview for more information, or visit our Gender Equality Action Plan SharePoint site. |
| Join us for a conversation about kindness in innovation
Join this rescheduled conversation with NSW Health Secretary, Susan Pearce AM and Associate Professor Dr Rebecca Deans as they explore Australia’s first uterus transplant. They will delve into the emotional isolation faced by patients, the ethical considerations involved, and how kindness and innovation are transforming healthcare.
Register here to join the conversation on Wednesday 12 February at 10am.
Contact the Experience Team with any queries. |
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Making a difference in the alcohol and other drugs sector |
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Aleesha Bourke is a clinical nurse specialist at Sydney Local Health District. She uses innovative, evidence-based skills and treatment to professionally support people asking for help with alcohol and drug use. “If I’d known what a great team exists within drug health services, I would have worked towards this my whole life,” Aleesha said.
Watch Aleesha’s video to learn about her rewarding career in the alcohol and other drugs sector. |
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The alcohol and other drugs sector employs trauma-informed practices and adopts a respectful, person-centred care approach. Interested in being part of a vibrant and professional team who listen to understand, not label? Find out more on the NSW Health website.
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Denise Hughes, affectionately known as the ‘Smoking Lady’, quit smoking 27 years ago. Now part of Northern NSW Local Health District’s Smoke and Vape Free team, Denise educates clinicians on nicotine replacement therapy. She also supports 25 Smokefree Champions – clinicians who are championing smoking cessation for people in the district. |
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Her journey began after her father suffered a heart attack while smoking and her close friend died of emphysema. “When I got to the hospital to see my dad, a very good friend of mine was also in hospital dying of emphysema. I promised her that day I would stop smoking, but I didn’t,” said Denise.
“It took many attempts for me to quit. My advice to smokers is never give up on giving up.”
In 2005, Denise’s sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, which spread to her lungs, brain and rest of her body. It was then that Denise became even more passionate about quitting smoking and helping others to do the same.
“I don’t want anyone to go through what my sister went through and what we went through as a family. |
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“Supporting people to quit smoking changes lives.”
For more information about services to help people quit smoking, visit the NSW Health website. Resources include expert smoking and vaping cessation information and counselling, and tools for health professionals. |
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Meet our people: Sarah Grdovic |
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Swimming with pigs in the Bahamas may not be everyone’s dream vacation, but it’s high on Sarah Grdovic’s wish list.
As Acting Cancer Care Coordinator at the Bangawarra Cancer Centre, she works closely with her colleagues at the South Eastern Local Health District to provide patient-centred care from diagnosis onwards.
“I enjoy being a cancer care nurse because of the special relationships we build with patients. I think that's something truly unique in nursing,” said Sarah. Watch the video below and hear directly from Sarah – from what she loves the most about her job to dream holiday destination. |
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In focus with Sheetal Challam |
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Q: Why is it important to normalise conversations around cancer in multicultural communities?
A: Normalising cancer conversations encourages people to share their experiences and seek help when needed. In multicultural communities, it’s especially important to recognise the unique challenges individuals face. By promoting an open dialogue, we can create a more supportive environment for those affected by cancer.
Beyond physical treatment, cancer patients often need emotional and psychological support, though sometimes this is not as readily acknowledged in certain cultures. Building culturally sensitive support networks and encouraging family involvement can help patients feel more comfortable and empowered throughout their journey.
The Cancer Institute NSW partners with local health district multicultural health services, not-for-profit organisations, healthcare providers and community leaders to help shape attitudes and behaviours. |
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This World Cancer Day, we collaborated with some multicultural not-for-profit organisations Co.As.It, Pink Sari, and SGL Charitable Society. These support activities aiming to normalise conversations and reduce stigma around cancer.
By encouraging open dialogue, our work seeks to empower and educate community members, helping them make informed health decisions and reduce the fear and isolation of a cancer diagnosis. Sheetal Challam
Principal Strategic Advisor, Cancer Institute NSW |
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Yarning About Quitting eLearning module The updated Yarning About Quitting eLearning module is now available. This updated module supports NSW Health staff working with Aboriginal pregnant women, women having Aboriginal babies and Aboriginal families in both mainstream and Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Services/Building Strong Foundations services to address smoking and vaping in pregnancy. It also has a strong focus on communication skills, such as how to: - Open a conversation about smoking and vaping
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Revisit the conversation over time (at other visits)
- Offer support and advice to help a woman make/sustain their quit attempts.
Find this course on My Health Learning using the course code 84056788.
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NSW Health acknowledges Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of NSW and pays respect to Elders past, present and future. |
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Feeling social? Follow NSW Health |
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