|
|
|
Formation: This is a new support group started in February 2009 to serve the Western and Northern suburbs of Perth. However all are welcome. The group is affiliated
with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. The group will offer support and information to anyone. |
|
Activities: Our Support Group
A diagnosis of prostate cancer means having to make some daunting decisions. Many men initially suffer shock, and may feel angry, fearful or depressed. There are so many treatment
options and men often fear the risks of possible temporary or permanent incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Men and their families who have been affected by prostate cancer can feel reassured by sharing in the experiences of those who have “walked the walk”. To be able to talk about their situation in a relaxed
empathetic environment is very helpful. Members are usually surprised how much their attitude improves and confidence increases.
We strongly encourage Partners to come long. They are very much part of the journey. They are affected by what happens to the men in their lives and they can play a powerful role in
helping their men get through the physical and psychological impact of the disease by being involved and staying intimate.
To know the road ahead …. ask those coming back
We meet monthly with the exception of January. Meetings are advertised in the Post and Western Suburbs Weekly community papers where the details of any
special topic for the month are given.
Once visitors are welcomed and any official business is over, the meetings are in two main parts. A preliminary information or education section in which we will show video presentations
of interesting topics or have visiting guest speakers who will be specialists in their own area.
That will be followed by the Group discussion section. New visitors to the group will be invited to give us their stories and seek any information they might need. After that, members are free to discuss anything
and these discussions could go anywhere. These conversations are informal and private. We call it the “Circle of Confidence”.
We try to keep about 30 minutes for tea/coffee and biccies and an the opportunity for personal interaction and to arrange the follow-up any special needs.
We have a library of books, DVD’s and brochures on the many aspects of prostate cancer, its treatment options, the side effects and program of rehabilitation.
Meeting Dates:
We meet every second Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm for 7:00 pm in the Craft Room at the Wembley Community Centre, 40 Alexander Street, Wembley, excepting January. Please note that Alexander
St does not go though to Grantham St. If you are coming that way, you’ll have to go around the block.
All attending are assured of a warm, friendly welcome followed by a cup of tea or coffee and biccies. Meetings will usually close at about 9:00 pm.
Please check the community newspapers the week before the meeting for details of any special topic or guest speaker or contact either of the Co-Convenors. |
[TOP] |
