McGrath Foundation launches six new breast cancer nurse positions for improved care

Up to 600 more breast cancer patients will receive access to specialised support in Victoria every year, as the McGrath Foundations bolsters its care program.

Up to 600 more breast cancer patients will have access to specialised support in Victoria every year, with the McGrath Foundation launching six new Breast Cancer Nurse positions.

It will mark a pivotal milestone for the foundation, which was founded in 2005 by cricket star Glenn and his late wife Jane McGrath and now has 200 nurses across Australia.

Melbourne woman Grace Lee, who was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time just months after her wedding last year, has seen the difference having free, personalised support makes.

The 38-year-old said navigating cancer treatment in 2015 — without a McGrath nurse — was challenging, and remembered writing down questions about treatment and symptoms between hospital visits.

Metastatic McGrath Breast Care Nurse Gurpreet Grewal and her patient Grace Lee outside The Alfred Hospital. Picture: Tony Gough

“I could only talk to someone when I was in the hospital,” she said.

“I was always calling the medical units trying to ask questions and get information.

“This time I can just message Gurpreet and she’s very quick to answer my questions.

“I feel like there’s someone out there to actually look out for me and I don’t feel like I’m burdening someone with my questions.”

McGrath metastatic breast cancer nurse Gurpreet Grewal has supported Grace since her diagnosis last year and was equally thrilled by the announcement.

She said she currently sees 60 women, and help ranges from answering their treatment questions and assessing whether symptoms require an emergency department visit to financial advice and emotional support.

The McGrath Foundation, launched in 2005 by ex-cricket star Glenn and his late wife Jane McGrath, now has 200 nurses across Australia Picture: AAP Image

“We give them a safe space to talk about anything,” she said.

“Patients can be very anxious when they see the oncologist to get scans or test results.

“I can come into the consultation with them to be their support person.

“If a patient is admitted into the wards, I can visit them.

“A lot of them say ‘I’m so glad to see you’, it’s a familiar face in the craziness of the wards.”

Five of the new nurses will be dedicated to supporting women with metastatic breast cancer, where treatment is focused on prolonging life and maximising quality of life.

Lee said they were “very lucky to have these people supporting us”.

“It’s a good place for women right now … with all the advancements, resources, new nurses.

“I approach life with hope.”

mcgrathfoundation.com.au/get-support/find-a-nurse