At Greenslopes Private Hospital, cancer patients are finding strength and healing through a holistic approach to recovery thanks to the Cancer Wellness Program. Funded by generous donations to Gallipoli Medical Research, the program helps patients navigate life during and after cancer with education, peer support and wellness activities.
Jenny Chaves joined the program in 2023 after undergoing chemotherapy and surgery. While now in remission, she lives with the lasting effects of her cancer treatment and ongoing inhibitor medication.
“Cancer changes every aspect of your life during and after treatment,” said Jenny. “This program helped me get back on track. The peer support from people who understand my experience has been absolutely vital to my health journey.”
Finding strength in shared experience
The Cancer Wellness Program brings together participants with a shared lived experience of cancer. Through peer group activities and expert-led sessions, patients can connect, reflect and heal.
“Cancer hits you like a tonne of bricks,” Jenny said. “In the group, we may not have the same diagnosis or treatment, but we all understand the emotional upheaval that comes with cancer.”
“People around you often expect things to go back to normal after your treatment ends. But it doesn’t work like that. In this group, everyone gets it. It’s a safe space where we are supported and can be ourselves.”
Empowering through knowledge
Early in her journey, Jenny attended the program’s survivorship education session, designed to help participants understand what comes after treatment and how to access additional support.
“When treatment starts, you’re just trying to get through each day. You don’t always have the energy or knowledge to take care of yourself properly,” she says. “The survivorship session was fantastic. It gave me knowledge to navigate my health journey and resources to get back on track” she added.
“In the group, we often share ideas on things like dealing with side effects. You have access to nurses and the program coordinator, and they also give ideas and connections to help you deal with whatever you’re going through.”
Wellness that heals in unexpected ways
Creative and mindful activities – like meditation and crafts – help participants process their experience and rediscover joy.
“Cancer is all-consuming. Your world shrinks to hospitals and side effects. Doing something creative – learning something new – pulls you out of that space. It brings you into the present moment and helps restore some balance.”
Over time, Jenny began giving back to the program. She helped run a Christmas craft stall, raising funds to support the program.
“It felt amazing to tell people that buying these crafts helps support someone like me. We recently made hundreds of poppies for the ANZAC Day stall. It might seem small, but it gave us a real sense of purpose.”
The power of laughter and connection
Just as much as the wellness activities, Jenny treasures the laughter and friendship in the group.
“We have such a good laugh! That sense of humour – of being seen and understood – is a real tonic. It lifts your spirit.”
“Having cancer has changed my whole perspective on life. Being part of this program has really helped with that. It seems strange to say it, but being with other cancer patients gives you a reality check.”
A message to future participants and supporters
Jenny has one message for anyone considering joining the program: “If you feel well enough, take that step. This program supports you through one of the biggest changes in your life. It’s vital that it continues – for all of us.”
For those who donate: your support changes lives. From education and emotional support to creative healing and connection, the Cancer Wellness Program gives patients like Jenny a place to belong, heal and hope.
Calling local artisans
Are you a maker, artist or creative who’d like to give back?
We’re looking to connect with local artisans who would be willing to donate their time and/or materials to run a workshop for our Cancer Wellness Program community at Greenslopes Private Hospital. Your skills could offer a meaningful, hands-on experience for people navigating cancer and create a moment of calm, creativity and connection.
If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to our program coordinator on 07 3329 4860 or email cancerwellnesscoor@ramsayhealth.com.au
To find out more about the Cancer Wellness Program go to gallipoliresearch.com.au/cancerwellnessprogram