A conversation with Sara, Practical Support Program Manager

Tuesday 13 March, 2018

How long have you worked at Cancer Council Victoria and how did you get involved in practical support?

I started working at Cancer Council Victoria in 2014. This role appealed to me as it involved all aspects of my previous supportive care roles that I thoroughly enjoyed. I also recognised that there was an increase in the need for practical support once a person was diagnosed with cancer and there was value I could add to this area.

What does practical support mean?

Practical support includes financial and legal issues as well as other aspects, such as returning to work.

Describe a typical day at Cancer Council Victoria.

No two days are the same. My role involves providing phone support directly to those with a cancer diagnosis or their families, liaising with health professionals across the state and preparing presentations for community groups.

I work with a variety of professionals in different careers such as; lawyers, financial planners, financial counsellors and other volunteers.

What do you enjoy the most about your role?

Being able to use my financial planning qualification and share the skills I have gained towards a program which supports people affected by cancer. Making a connection between my knowledge of cancer and supportive care and my prior education allows me to assist clients.

I also enjoy the variation of the role. I can bring together my knowledge of cancer and supportive care and my financial planning qualifications to assist clients who are anxious and overwhelmed.

Are there any new initiatives for your programs in 2018?

In 2018 we are looking to bring our current programs together to develop a program of ‘Financial Resilience’.

This will provide education to both people with a cancer diagnosis and health professionals. We are hoping to increase financial understanding and literacy with a view to being able to develop long term strategies to manage the financial burden of cancer from diagnosis to life after treatment.   

To find out more about the programs Sara manages, click here.

Keep reading

The impact of Lyall's legacy on mesothelioma research

Dr Milad Ghomlaghi is continuing the legacy of the late Lyall Watts, to find a way to silence mesothelioma and stop it in its tracks. Read more

Arabic community champion cervical cancer elimination

With one of the lowest cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates in Australia, Victoria is a world leader in cervical cancer control. Read more

30 Years of SunSmart: Transforming childhood behaviours to tackle the burden of skin cancer

Since the introduction of the Victorian SunSmart Schools program 30 years ago, 100 per cent of students wear hats. Read more

Uncovering the secrets behind who gets cancer and why

With the number of Australians diagnosed with cancer expected to increase by 72 per cent by 2040, it has never been more important to understand who gets cancer and why. Read more

Transforming lives through compassionate care

People with cancer living in regional and rural communities will now have access to two life-changing clinical trials thanks to a project led by oncology physiotherapist Catherine Williams. Read more

Transforming lives through compassionate care

You can’t manage a cancer diagnosis without addressing the mental health challenges that come with it. Cancer impacts every part of a person’s life, and psychological support is essential. Read more

Talking bubbles icon

Questions about cancer?

Call or email our experienced cancer nurses for information and support.

Contact a cancer nurse