Wagga has finally received a prostate nurse after years of campaigning.
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The Daily Advertiser began a campaign to bring a specialist prostate cancer nurse to the region, as well as the availability of prostate biopsies in Wagga, in 2013.
Wagga’s Bob Bowcher, a prostate cancer advocate who suffered from the disease 12 years ago, was stoked over the decision to finally acknowledge the region’s need for this specialist position.
He began campaigning for a change in Wagga’s prostate care structure more than three years ago.
“We’ve been pushing and pushing, and we’ve written letters to all the politicians spelling out the importance that a prostate nurse be appointed,” Mr Bowcher said.
“The Jane McGrath foundation has four nurses in our area, and up until now we didn’t have one for prostate care. So you can see how excited I am.
“Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) saw a need for this nurse and formed and alliance with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
“We will see a prostate specialist nurse in the area in the next month or two, which is great.”
Mr Bowcher said the specialist nurse would be available to help recently diagnosed patients within 72 hours.
“The idea is for the nurse to sit down with the patient and their partner to go through options of treatment and help the patient make an informed decision,” Mr Bowcher said.
He said the position has been funded for two-and-a-half years, but was confident the job would be safe.
“I believe in years to come we will have to add more nurses,” he said.
“Twenty thousand men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year – this is why it has been important to push for this.”
Member for Riverina Michael McCormack has applauded the decision, saying it was a win for the Riverina.
“It’s a good outcome – the community has worked hard for this result and I’ve lobbied hard for this position,” Mr McCormack said.
“It’s good to see it become a reality. It will ease the concerns of people who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“It will add another layer of support to an already great service.”
Who is PCFA?
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is a broad-based community organisation and the peak national body for prostate cancer in Australia. It is dedicated to reducing the impact of prostate cancer on Australian men, their partners and families, recognising the diversity of the Australian community.
It does this by:
- Promoting and funding world leading, innovative research into prostate cancer
- Implementing awareness campaigns and education programs for the Australian community, health professionals and Government
- Supporting men and their families affected by prostate cancer through evidence-based information and resources, support groups and Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses
- PCFA received Government funding for specific projects and relies on the generosity of individuals, the community and partnerships, such as those with the Movember Foundation and Commonwealth Bank, to carry out our essential work.
