Appreciation for my chemo support crew

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1 October 2019


These warrior women from SCU Private Hospital's oncology unit came into my life five months ago to help me kick cancer to the curb - Shelley, Hannah, Donna, Lou and the absent Emma (not pictured because she's in labour having a baby today!). 

I entered into chemotherapy treatment as an anxious and hesitant breast cancer patient. I was terrified of medical procedures and was freaking out about the unknown of what lay ahead. This team of oncology nurses showed patience, understanding, empathy, respect, professionalism and kindness...as well as administering and managing my chemotherapy treatment. 

They took my phone calls back in the early days of the Red Devil (doxorubicin) when I lamented about feeling like an anaemic, geriatric sloth after being smashed by severe fatigue. They took my calls about sleepless nights and major anxiety, encouraging me to take the prescribed Lorazepam - it was indeed better than diamonds and became this girl's new best friend. 

Above all, they have supported me through this shitstorm and they will continue to do it long after I've left the building. Lucky for me these lovelies will remain in my life as I continue to receive Herceptin treatment from them every three weeks until July 2020. 

They create a welcoming and happy environment with laughter and love, despite working every day with cancer patients who are facing the fear of their own mortality. 

Today, my final day of chemotherapy, also marks the first day of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so my son and I baked delectable booby cupcakes to show our appreciation and to remind others about the importance of having a mammogram. (If your own nipples look like these edible raspberries, you should probably get checked out!)

Thank you to the SCUPH Oncology team for accompanying me on this journey.

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