When a person is told they have a cancer they can feel a range of emotions from numbness to fear and anger. The complex series of treatment options offered may also be confusing. They can feel isolated and alone and wonder how they are going to cope. This has the potential to result in long term distress.

There will be many occasions when a person with cancer, their family and loved ones need Supportive Care.

Fortunately there are people, organizations and agencies that offer such support services in the Hume Region.

• What is Supportive Care?
• What are the main sources of Support Services?
• What about Support Services for Carers?
• How do I find Support Services?
• How are Support Services categorised in our Directory?

What is Supportive Care?

Supportive Care is a broad term used to describe any help that may be needed during cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

People with cancer may need a vast range of Supportive Care.

• For instance they may need assistance recovering from surgery in the form of a physiotherapist or stomal nurse.
• They may need guidance about diet during chemotherapy so they can maintain sound nutritional intake.
• Supportive Care in the form of a Social Worker or Psychologist may also be important as cancer can create distress for many patients and their carers.
• Beyond the clinical aspects of Supportive Care, there are also many practical issues, such as help at home, transport to treatment facilities or financial assistance.

This website provides you with an opportunity to explore the many types of services available in the Hume Region.

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What are the main sources of Support Services?

Support Services are available from a range of organizations; sometimes the most difficult task is finding out where to go for the support.

Many Support Services are provided by treating hospitals or you can look to your GP or treatment team for advice. In particular, Social Workers are a tremendous wealth of knowledge on the regional support options available for patients.

And then there are the many government and community agencies who provide support services.

Some people find that a self help support group offers them what they need, others find it helpful to seek spiritual support. In hospital you can ask a member of staff to arrange a visit by a member of the Pastoral Care team.

There are also a large number of health related organizations - with their websites - devoted to cancer. For instance, in Victoria we have the Cancer Council and its Cancer Helpline (with phone nurse counsellors), website, and Cancer Connect - a peer-to-peer support service.

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What about Support Services for Carers?

The Carers of people with cancer are another very special group who also need support.

Many of the practical and emotional Support Services that are offered to patients are also available for their carers and families.

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How do I find Support Services?

A good place to explore the many Support Service options is in the Hume Cancer Services Directory of this website.

The Hume Cancer Services Directory has hundreds of regional, state and national services. Simply search through all the options, you may be surprised at what you find is available to you.

Another useful resource is the Cancer Council Victoria, you can call them on 13 10 11.

Remember if there is a Support Service you cannot find or a particular type of assistance you need, please talk to a member of your treatment team.

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How are Support Services Categorized in our Directory?

Our Directory has divided Support Services into the following categories:

• Aids and Equipment,
• Allied Health and Associates,
• Body Image,
• Complementary Therapies,
• Emotional Wellbeing,
• Financial and Legal Services,
• Home Support,
• Local Councils,
• Medical,
• Multicultural Services,
• Nursing,
• Personal Support,
• Relaxation and Exercise, and
• Transport and Accommodation.


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