Paul lives in regional Western Australia, where specialist cancer care often means travelling long distances. After being diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic melanoma, his journey included immunotherapy, managing side effects, and ongoing care between Kalgoorlie and Perth.
Sue speaks openly and honestly about her journey with Melanoma, as she shares her experience of accessing care in regional Australia. Sue lives in Bundaberg, a regional city in Central QLD, and explains “We are lucky that we have visiting oncologists from Brisbane. Not all the treatments can be done here, but a lot can.”
Support has been essential for Ingrid who lives with metastatic melanoma, and Melanoma Patients Australia has played a significant role along the way. She joined the MPA Facebook support group in 2017 and, nearly nine years on, continues to give back as a Brisbane Support Group Facilitator.
I was first diagnosed with Melanoma when I was 18 years old ... I am constantly asked where I got the scar on my arm and given weird looks when I tell people it was melanoma (I think a lot of people are shocked especially because I am ‘young’).
"Watching someone you have given birth to and nurtured all their life being consumed by an insidious, cruel, painful melanoma really tore my heart out.... We are meant to protect our children, but it was out of my hands". Lynette Green - Mother and Carer for Sarah Green. *Please note, this story contains details that may be confronting. Reader discretion advised.
I believe that carers do go through the stages of grief - denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
Melanoma Patients Australia recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Australia, and we acknowledge, respect and embrace their continued connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging.
We recognise, value and celebrate diversity and act in the spirit of inclusion.
