Webinars

This webinar is designed to help you understand the important role that General Practitioners (GPs) play in supporting health & well-being while living with blood cancer / disorder.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing long-term care, this session offers valuable information to help improve your experience with the healthcare system and foster the GP / patient relationship.

You will hear about:

1. A general overview of the health system & funding
2. The role of the GP in supporting health & well-being
3. Tools & tips for patients & carers to engage with the GP
4. Opportunities to get the most out of the GP / patient interaction

Having a child with blood cancer affects the entire family. As a parent, you may wonder about what is reasonable to expect of an unwell child and how to balance that with the needs of other family members. This online seminar is for parents and caregivers of a child with a blood cancer or disorder.

You will hear about:

• Identifying common reactions and behaviours of children with blood cancer
• How to manage altered routines, discipline alongside medical needs
• Managing issues related to the end of treatment & after treatment
• What behaviours are age and stage appropriate
• Responding to difficult questions
• Available resources and support

Have you survived the first 6-12 months of recovery from an Autologous or Allogeneic Transplant & want to learn more about long term recovery & go beyond surviving, to thriving?

You’ll hear about:

• Health and wellbeing: Tips on managing your physical and emotional health
• Exercise: The important role exercise plays
• Long term effects: Information on common effects and strategies for managing

Join us for an insightful webinar that will delve into the key elements of estate planning, equipping you to make thoughtful decisions about your legacy.

Our panel will guide you through the essential aspects of laying out your final wishes, including writing a Will, making health directives, appointing a power of attorney, and other key decisions to help ensure peace of mind.

Along with expert insights, hear inspiring stories from individuals who are shaping the future of blood cancer support by choosing to leave a gift in their Will to the Leukaemia Foundation.

Meet the Panel:

John McLeod – Senior Research Consultant, JBWere
In 2001, John co-founded the JBWere Philanthropic Services team. John is recognised for producing leading research on trends within the for-purpose and philanthropy sectors, most recently authoring ‘The Bequest Report: Reshaping Australia by passing on more than assets’ which delves into an expected record-breaking intergenerational wealth transfer. The report highlights how inheritance planning can encourage thoughtful reflection on the ways one’s life achievements can leave a lasting impact.

Eleanor Davis – Senior Associate and Practice Manager, David Davis & Associates
Eleanor has been practicing law since 2012 in Victoria, with a focus on Wills, Estate and Business Succession Planning, and Litigation. A passionate writer and presenter, Eleanor has shared her expertise on Will drafting in various forums, including as a guest on the Leukaemia Foundation’s ‘Talking Blood Cancer’ podcast.

Lindsay Wilson – Managing Director & Financial Planner, Finassure
Lindsay’s career in financial services began in 1984. As a Certified Financial Planner, he has dedicated decades to guiding clients toward financial security. Lindsay began his journey of support for the Leukaemia Foundation in 2000 with a major donation. He is a deeply valued Gift in Will supporter of the Leukaemia Foundation and is planning his own lasting legacy of support for people living with blood cancer.

Jacqueline Williams – Head of Philanthropy, Leukaemia Foundation
Jacqueline is dedicated to achieving bold fundraising and engagement goals that advance the Leukaemia Foundation’s mission: zero lives lost to blood cancer by 2035. Jacqueline is committed to raising sustainable funding for the Leukaemia Foundation’s vital initiatives, and thrives on fostering genuine, lasting relationships with supporters.

A blood cancer diagnosis can have a significant psychological impact on your health and wellbeing. Feelings of anxiety, low mood, loss of control and fear are very common and can occur at any time after diagnosis. This can be difficult to talk about and hard to find the right support, especially when everyone says you are doing well.

Join us as we explore how your mental health can be affected by blood cancer and what you can do about it.

Guest Speaker: Dr Charlotte Tottman (Clinical Psycho-Oncologist)
Dr Tottman provides psychological treatment for cancer-related distress. Charlotte works with cancer patients, their family members, and carers, at all stages of their cancer experience.

You will hear about:

• Common psychological issues associated with a cancer diagnosis
• Immediate and long-term impact
• ‘Less known’ psychological effects, e.g: survivor guilt / loss of body confidence
• Strategies to support you and your family
• Resources available

This webinar is for anyone wanting to have conversations with their doctor about what a blood cancer diagnosis means for their quality of life and future. Knowledge is power that guides discussions and decisions about your treatment and how this affects you and those around you.

Guest Speaker:
Dr Ranjana Srivastava OAM (Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne)
Dr Srivastava is a Medical Oncologist & award-winning writer. She is a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia for her contribution to the field of doctor-patient communication. She specialises in the care of older patients with cancer.

You will hear about:

• How doctors communicate with their patients
• How to convey your communication preferences
• Talking about your values and preferences for care
• How to use these suggestions for your unique situation
• Managing future planning during recurrence / progression
• The importance of having an Advance Care Directive

This webinar is for anyone interested in learning more about starting or returning to work after a blood cancer diagnosis. You may be returning to work after a break, working during treatment, or wondering how to manage work and the side effects of treatment. This webinar will help you understand common experiences, your work options, and how to find the best support.

Guest Speakers:

Olivia Doidge (Occupational Therapist, Victorian Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Service, Melbourne)
Olivia provides Educational & Vocational Support at ONTrac at Peter Mac. She has worked extensively with both adults and adolescents with a cancer diagnosis.
Lachlan McGregor (Slater & Gordon Lawyers)
Industrial & Employment Law Solicitor

You will hear about:

• Common concerns about returning to work & how to manage them
• Employee & employer rights & responsibilities
• Things to consider when returning to work
• What to discuss with your treating team
• Support and services available

This webinar is designed for anyone interested in finding out more about education options after a blood cancer diagnosis. You may be returning to study after a break, studying during treatment, or wondering how to manage study and the side effects of treatment. This seminar will help you understand common experiences, your education options, and how to find the best support.

Guest Speaker:
Olivia Doidge (Occupational Therapist, Victorian Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Service, Melbourne)
Olivia provides Educational & Vocational Support at ONTrac at Peter Mac. She has worked extensively with both adults and adolescents with a cancer diagnosis.

You will hear about:

• Common concerns about returning to study & how to manage them
• Your rights as a student & someone with blood cancer
• Things to consider when returning to study
• What to discuss with your treating team
• Education support and services available

In this webinar, you will learn about mindfulness practice and how it can benefit your daily life while living with blood cancer / blood disorder. There will be an opportunity to take part in a short, guided mindfulness exercise to gain an insight into what it is all about.

Extensive studies have shown mindfulness has immense value managing some of the emotional and physical symptoms of blood cancer and treatment side effects e.g. depression, anxiety, pain and fatigue.

Guest Speaker:
Christopher Dickson – Chris has led the mindfulness program at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse in Sydney since 2014 and has studied and practiced mindfulness and meditation since 2005

You will hear about:

1. How to feel more centred in any situation
2. Learn some simple strategies to get started
3. How mindfulness can help manage symptoms & thoughts
4. How you can use mindfulness at any stage of life
5. What mindfulness isn’t about

Many people experience significant financial stress at the time of a blood cancer diagnosis. Personal and financial security can change, capacity to work can fluctuate and accessing insurance or support payments can create uncertainty and stress. Getting your financial affairs in order also includes planning for the future by making a Will

Guest Speakers:
Antony Mitchell – Former Financial & Legal Support Program | Cancer Council Victoria
Lee Hagipantelis & Natalie Dadisho – Brydens Lawyers | Leukaemia Foundation Partner

From diagnosis to death & beyond

In this webinar, we explore the common experiences of loss and grief.  Blood cancer has big and little losses, some are obvious, and some are not e.g. loss of identity / loss of a loved one / lost sense of security and future dreams. Learn how to recognise these losses and discover strategies for managing them.

Guest Speaker: Rosemary Watkins, psychotherapist and counsellor with a focus on loss, grief and trauma.

Many researchers are discovering new ways to treat blood cancer. You may have heard about Car-T and other forms of immunotherapy. You may have questions about it and wonder whether it could be for you. While there is a lot of information available, finding relevant and reliable information can be challenging.  Join guest speaker Associate Professor Ken Micklethwaite, (Clinical Haematologist and Car-T researcher, Westmead Institute of Research) as he speaks about what immunotherapy is, the benefits, side-effects, access and eligibility.

Major life changes can bring into focus what is important in life, what matters most and what brings relief & joy. However, it can also give rise to the fear of having little or no life purpose and meaning, especially in the face of blood cancer.

Research has found that the presence of meaning in a person’s life increases its quality and, in the setting of cancer can be predictive of wellbeing.

In this webinar we explore how to create meaning in your life in the face of uncertainty when living with a blood cancer / disorder.

Most people diagnosed with a blood cancer or disorder are over the age of 65. As we age, we are likely to have other medical conditions. It is important to have a good understanding of your health needs to advocate for your health and wellbeing. This webinar will provide you with the information, skills and confidence to help you manage this and live as well as possible.

Many people experience uncertainty being in a ‘holding pattern’, not knowing if or when they may need treatment. It can be hard to relate to others having chemotherapy or get the level of understanding or support from others you need. In this group, we will discuss the physical and psychological effects of this approach as well as strategies to assist in managing.

In this webinar Professor David Joske – Clinical Haematologist and founder of Solaris Cancer Care, discusses how complementary therapies are common and widely used alongside standard blood cancer / blood disorder treatments.

Topics Covered:

• Reputable sources of information
• Some of the most popular therapies
• The safe use of complementary therapies
• What to consider when deciding what’s right for you
• The difference between complementary therapies and alternate medicine

In this webinar Dr Charlotte Tottman speaks with warmth and passion as a clinical psychologist specialising in the cancer experience and as survivor of cancer. She brings a dual professional and personal experience to her presentations that focus on practical solutions.

You will hear about:

• Recognising your emotions
• Managing intrusive thoughts
• Being proactive in your ongoing care
• Post treatment adjustment
• Strategies for supporting mental / emotional & physical health

The diagnosis of blood cancer or disorder of a parent or caregiver affects the entire family. Your family may have young children and teenagers that have fears and concerns about your health. A diagnosis can feel overwhelming to discuss with others, particularly children. You may feel the need to protect them from this information. However, we know that talking to kids helps them to adjust and cope with the inevitable changes.

Topics discussed in the webinar:

• Talking about blood cancer / disorder at different ages and stages of childhood / adolescence
• What behaviours are age and stage appropriate
• How to manage altered routines and roles
• Responding to difficult questions
• Available resources and support

We were joined by an expert guest speaker:

• Christina Strouzas (Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre)

Gain an understanding of how you can be more active for better physical and mental health. Whether you’ve never been active, are currently limited or are a seasoned athlete, this webinar is for you!

Explore how to overcome barriers, learn useful tips to get started and how to stay motivated, at any age, at any stage.

Topics included:

• Understanding how to exercise safely
• Why exercise looks different for everybody
• How to set and achieve realistic goals for you
• How to help decrease cancer related fatigue
• How to find the right exercise professional for you

Our guest speakers:

• Dr Camille Short (University of Melbourne)
• Dr Shaza Abo (Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre)
• People living with blood cancer – Bernie, Tracey, Lachy and Kate

Many people report feelings of uncertainty after leaving the familiarity of hospital care. New questions arise as you take on more responsibility for managing your care at home.

• What is the new relationship with your treating team?
• What information will you need?
• Where do you start looking for support?
• Who will work with you to help manage your blood cancer and health now?
• What about if you live in a rural or remote area?

In this webinar we discussed some of these commonly asked questions and provided practical information on who to ask, what to ask and how to get started on managing your health and wellbeing at home.

Topics included:

• Understanding the role of your GP in ongoing care
• How to manage your own health and recovery
• What to consider when planning your future care needs
• The unique needs of managing blood cancer in rural and remote communities

Our guest speakers:

• Professor Jon Emery (University of Melbourne)
• Ron Middleton (Toowoomba Hospital)
• Fiona (Living with MDS)

The impact of a blood cancer diagnosis can mean having to make major decisions quickly that will have long term implications around future family planning. Having the right information prior to and after treatment can help navigate this complex and highly personal experience.

In this webinar we explored the practical, medical, and psychological impact of blood cancer on making decisions about fertility preservation in the face of treatment and the long-term effects of these decisions after treatment.

Topics included:

• Decision making issues / considerations
• Preservation options before treatment
• Future fertility after treatment
• Adjustment to potential / actual infertility
• Where to get reliable information and what to ask
• Procedures and costs related to fertility / pregnancy

Our guest speakers:

• Sophie (Blood cancer survivor, diagnosed with AML)
• Sage (Blood cancer survivor, diagnosed with ALL)
• Dr Genia Rozen (Consultant Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist, Melbourne IVF & Royal Women’s Hospital)
• Ms Ella Sexton (Clinical Psychologist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre)

If you have a blood cancer, it is possible to travel with ease within Australia or overseas with a little planning. We understand many people are nervous to go too far from home because it can seem too hard or expensive.

In this webinar we discuss the essential tips that can make your travel plans a reality!
Learn what you need to consider, how to prepare and get troubleshooting tips for common legal, medical, and practical issues. We also hear from a person living with blood cancer as they share their personal experience of travelling.

Topics included:

• Insurance considerations
• Reciprocal Medicare Rights
• Mutual obligations and avenues for complaint & redress
• What to consider when planning a holiday
• Practical strategies for managing health and medical needs
• Where to get reputable help to improve your travel experience

Our guest speakers:

• John Berrill (Berrill & Watson Superannuation & Insurance Lawyers)
• Jaye Manning (Clinical Content Lead, Leukaemia Foundation)
• Linda (Living with MDS transformed to AML)

Recorded as part of Blood Cancer Month 2022, we discuss and explore some of the common reactions and experiences that accompany life with blood cancer. These might impact our emotions, adjustment, relationships, expectations, and wellbeing.

Challenges can change how you think and feel about yourself and your life, no matter how long you’ve been living with blood cancer or what stage of life you’re at.

Topics discussed:

• Common psychological responses to blood cancer
• Managing expectations
• Communication, relationships and intimacy
• Fear of recurrence or progression
• Practical strategies for managing these common experiences

Our guest speakers:

• Dr Charlotte Tottman – Clinical Psychologist & blood cancer survivor
• Garry – Living with AML, shares his personal blood cancer journey

Food is such an integral part of health and our connection with family and friends. Learn simple ways to cook and enjoy foods for health and manage common issues associated with treatment and living with blood cancer. Our guests are passionate about nutritious, easy to prepare food that tastes delicious and can be shared.

Topics covered in the webinar include:

• Nutrition myth busters
• The principles of healthy eating
• Making easy, nutritious meals on a budget

Our guest speakers:

• Nathalie Cook (OAM) – Accredited Practising Dietician & Accredited Nutritionist. Nathalie herself lives with a blood cancer / disorder.
• Jason Roberts – Internationally known chef, cookbook author & television personality

Many people experience significant financial stress at the time of a blood cancer diagnosis. Personal and financial security can change and the capacity to work can fluctuate, plus accessing insurance or support payments can create uncertainty and stress.

Getting your financial affairs in order also includes making a Will and considering who will manage your financial affairs if you’re unwell or unable to. This enables you to shift focus to your emotional and physical wellbeing.

In this webinar we discussed the financial, legal and planning challenges that often arise after a blood cancer diagnosis and how you can make informed decisions for you and your family, now and into the future.

Topics included:

• Superannuation
• Insurance
• Access to income protection
• Death & Disability Cover
• Centrelink benefits
• Wills and what to consider when appointing a legal decision maker (medical / financial)

Our guest speakers:

• Leigh (Carer of her husband who had AML)
• John Berrill (Berrill & Watson Superannuation & Insurance Lawyers)
• Lori Hobbs (Social Worker, Haematology & Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at the Royal Melbourne Hospital)

Have you experienced changes in your memory, thinking or ability to multitask since living with blood cancer?

You may have heard the terms ‘chemo brain’ or ‘brain fog’ to describe this experience. This is a common phenomenon that is not well understood yet it can have a significant impact on your quality of life. In this webinar, you’ll hear about what ‘cancer related cognitive impairment’ is, why it happens and strategies to manage it.

Our guest speakers included:

• Mel (Living with myeloma)
• Professor Janette Vardy (Medical oncologist and clinician researcher, Concord Cancer Centre and the University of Sydney)
• Pippa LaBuc (Senior Occupational Therapist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre)

COVID-19: Winter 2022 update

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and we enter the winter flu season, you may be wondering how to best avoid infection and manage your health. It can be hard to keep on top of the new variants and ATAGI guidelines around vaccination, treatment, testing and isolation.

We know that many people with blood cancer are looking for trusted sources of information to help them make informed decisions. In this webinar we helped answer some of those questions and show you how to create your own COVID-19 Action Plan.

Our guest speakers included:

• Associate Professor Nada Hamad (Clinical Haematologist, St Vincent’s Hospital)
• Dr Krispin Hajkowicz (Infectious Diseases Specialist, Royal Brisbane & Woman’s Hospital)
• Deborah (Living with CLL)

COVID-19 developments: Fact and fiction

The COVID-19 pandemic is constantly evolving. In this webinar we discuss some of the current developments and implications for people living with blood cancer who are looking for trusted sources of information to help them make informed decisions and sort the fact from fiction.

Our guest speakers included:

• Associate Professor Nada Hamad (Clinical Haematologist, St Vincent’s Hospital)
• Associate Professor Antoinette Anazodo (Paediatric Haematologist/Oncologist, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital)

3rd dose / booster COVID-19 vaccination advice

Thanks to Associate Professor Nada Hamad from St Vincent’s Hospital we answer some of the important questions you’ve been asking about the recommended 3rd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for people with blood cancer.

Questions include:

• What’s the latest advice on additional COVID vaccinations for people with blood cancer?
• Who is eligible for an additional vaccination?
• Where do you get your additional vaccination?
• Should you finish your current blood cancer treatment or get the vaccination now?
• Will your response to vaccination change depending on your current blood cancer treatment?
• What else should I be doing to protect myself from COVID?

COVID-19 Vaccinations: Fact and fiction

We know that many people with blood cancer are looking for trusted sources of information to help them make informed decisions and sort the fact from fiction in relation to COVID-19 vaccines.

To help point them in the right direction, we invited infectious diseases expert, Associate Professor Paul Griffin and Haematologist, Associate Professor Nada Hamad to discuss:

• Why should I have a vaccine for COVID-19?
• Is it safe and what are the risk factors associated with blood cancer?
• Is it effective for blood cancer patients?

Plus they answer many of the other burning questions our webinar viewers had for them.

Palliative care is not well understood in the community. Many people think it’s all about dying when actually, it’s more about living. Many also think palliative care is only provided at end of life, when in fact, it’s an approach which can be initiated when a serious illness is diagnosed and can be provided for many years.

In this webinar, we discuss the role of palliative care and how it can help you live as well as possible with blood cancer. Wherever you are in your treatment, you and your loved ones may gain valuable information about how it can help. Topics covered include:

• The role of palliative care in blood cancer management
• Dispelling the myths about palliative care
• Initiating the palliative care conversation
• Finding meaning and purpose while living with life threatening illness

Every year on 22 September the blood cancer community unites to recognise people living with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and raise awareness, celebrate breakthroughs in treatment and acknowledge what still needs to be done.

In recognition of that day, we’re delighted to bring you Exercise Physiologist, Morgan Atkinson as he discusses the role of exercise for cancer related fatigue.

Heartfelt thanks to our partners for supporting Blood Cancer Awareness Month’s patient information and education series:

• BristolMyersSquibb – www.bms.com/au
• Novartis – www.novartis.com.au
• Abbvie – www.abbvie.com.au
• Janssen – www.janssen.com/australia
• Servier – www.servier.com.au

With advances in the management of blood cancer, people are living much longer. For many, this also means living with the long-term effects of the disease or its treatments. Whether you were diagnosed with acute or chronic leukaemia, myeloma, MDS, MPN, amyloidosis or lymphoma, the long-term effects may be impacting on your quality of life.

In this webinar, we discussed the long term and often chronic nature of blood cancer and its treatments, along with holistic approaches to manage the impact of these on the life of someone with a blood cancer. By changing the conversation, we hope to empower people living with blood cancer to take more control and subsequently help improve their overall quality of life.

Topics and speakers include:

• ‘Living your best life with blood cancer’ with Dr Cecily Forsyth (Clinical Haematologist, Central Coast Haematology)
• ‘Psychological effects of blood cancer’ with Jane Fletcher (Health Psychologist, Melbourne Psycho-oncology Service)
• ‘Fatigue and physical effects of blood cancer’ with Julie Allen (Physiotherapist and lymphoma survivor)

Plus our panel of experts answer questions from the webinar participants.

The impact of blood cancer on sex and intimacy is not always talked about openly and honestly. It’s a topic people living with blood cancer and health professionals often find difficult to discuss. However, the challenges arising from diagnosis and treatment can change how you look, think and feel about yourself and those around you, no matter how long you’ve been living with blood cancer or your stage of life.

In this webinar, our guest speaker Dr Amanda Hordern discussed:

• What we mean by sexuality and intimacy?
• The effects of the natural aging process
• The impact of blood cancer and treatments both physical and psychological
• Communication with those around us, including family, friends and health care professionals
• Practical strategies to assist you

We were also joined by Susan who is living with lymphoma. She shared her personal experience of navigating her sexuality and health after diagnosis.

Australia’s first ever National Strategic Action Plan for Blood Cancer has been launched, but what does it mean for you and your family? How will the plan improve things for Australians of all ages living with blood cancer?

Channel 9 presenter and Leukaemia Foundation ambassador, Alice Monfries, hosts our expert panel of speakers, as they take you through the ins and outs of the National Action Plan and how it’s set to improve blood cancer treatment and support.

• Learn more about the changes the National Action Plan will deliver, breaking down the barriers to blood cancer treatment.
• Find out what’s on the Blood Cancer Taskforce agenda for 2021 and beyond.
• The panel answers questions from the audience.

SPEAKERS

• Dr John Bashford – Director of Research, Icon Group; Private Cancer Physicians of Australia and Blood Cancer Taskforce Member
• Tim Murphy – General Manager Blood Cancer Partnerships at Leukaemia Foundation
• Kathryn Huntley – General Manager People Living with Blood Cancer at Leukaemia Foundation
• Bronwyn – living with blood cancer and sharing her personal experience

Clinical trials are essential to the development of new medical treatments, vaccines and diagnostic tests. They are a critical part of evidence-based medicine. The advancements in blood cancer treatment are a direct result of clinical trials. However, there are many misconceptions about them. Finding relevant and reliable information about clinical trials can be challenging. In this webinar we discuss the what, why and how of clinical trials to help you make informed decisions.

Our guest speakers included:

• Charlie (Living with myelofibrosis (MPN))
• Delaine Smith (CEO, Australasian Leukaemia & Lymphoma Group)
• Jennifer Harman (Clinical Nurse Specialist, Concord Hospital)

Whether you are newly diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, (AML) or have been living with AML for several years, this will be of interest to you.

Learning to live with AML can be challenging and stressful. In this webinar, we touched on the medical and emotional aspects of living with AML as well as hearing about current Australian AML research projects.

Our guest speakers included:

• Tim (Living with AML)
• Professor Paula Marlton (Clinical Haematologist & Researcher, Princess Alexandra Hospital)
• Professor Andrew Wei (Clinical Haematologist & Researcher, Alfred Hospital)

The Leukaemia Foundation and Amgen partnered to present ‘Current treatment & research in Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL)’ – an education webinar designed for adults and their carers living with a recent or longer term diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).

Guest speakers and topics included:

• Current diagnosis & treatment management of ALL in adults by Dr Matthew Greenwood
• Research snapshot: Precision medicine in adults with ALL by Professor Deborah White
• A personal perspective of living with ALL by Mark

Every year on 22 September the blood cancer community unites to recognise people living with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and raise awareness, celebrate breakthroughs in treatment and acknowledge what still needs to be done.

We’re proud to bring you a free, live webinar featuring CML expert Tim Hughes.

Professor Tim Hughes, haematologist, Blood Cancer Taskforce Member and international CML expert covers topics including:

• CML overview
• Blood Cancer Taskforce
• Current CML treatment
• TKI treatment
• ICMLF theme of ‘life without CML

To mark World CML Day 2020, Michelle shares her experiences living with a blood cancer called chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), including how she coped during the COVID-19 pandemic. Michelle talks about her hopes for better treatment and care for everyone with CML.

If you are preparing for or recovering from an autologous stem cell transplant, this series may be for you. We know this can be a challenging and overwhelming time. To arm you with the information you need, we have developed a 3 session online education series.

The first session focusses on preparing for transplant and we are joined by Nectaria Matsamakis (Autologous Transplant Nurse Consultant, Olivia Newton John Cancer & Wellness Centre) and Bernadette who is living with Myeloma.

If you are preparing for or recovering from an autologous stem cell transplant, this series may be for you. We know this can be a challenging and overwhelming time. To arm you with the information you need, we have developed a 3 session online education series.

The second session focusses on hospitalisation and beyond and we are joined by Dr Shirleen Sim, Haematologist (St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne) and Michael who is living with Myeloma.

If you are preparing for or recovering from an autologous stem cell transplant, this series may be for you. We know this can be a challenging and overwhelming time. To arm you with the information you need, we have developed a 3 session online education series.

The third session focusses on supporting health and wellbeing after transplant and beyond and we are joined by (Trish Joyce, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Myeloma & Autograft Stream, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre) and Michael who is living with Myeloma.

This is Part 1 of a 4-part live webinar series discussing allogeneic stem cell transplants in detail. These transplants present many unique challenges for those who experience them, so whether you’re about to embark on an allogeneic stem cell transplant or you’re several years down the track, this series may be helpful.

In this first session we will cover:

• The lived experience of a stem cell donor with Leon
• Donor experience with Dr Hung Yang (Medical Director, Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry)
• Pre-transplant work up with Taylor Jervois and Annette Barnes (Transplant Coordinators, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital)

Plus our panel of experts answer questions from the webinar participants.

This is Part 2 of a 4-part live webinar series discussing allogeneic stem cell transplants in detail. These transplants present many unique challenges for those who experience them, so whether you’re about to embark on an allogeneic stem cell transplant or you’re several years down the track, this series may be helpful.

In this second session we will cover:

• The lived experience of transplant and GVHD with Melissa (Allograft survivor)
• The first 100 days including hospitalisation and transition out of hospital to home & Graft Versus Host disease with Alexandra Rivalland, (GVHD Clinical Nurse Consultant, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre)

Plus our panel of experts answer questions from the webinar participants.

This is Part 3 of a 4-part live webinar series discussing allogeneic stem cell transplants in detail. These transplants present many unique challenges for those who experience them, so whether you’re about to embark on an allogeneic stem cell transplant or you’re several years down the track, this series may be helpful.

In this second session we will cover:

• Maintaining health and wellbeing throughout all stages of transplant with a particular focus on managing fatigue and the importance of exercise with Melanie (Exercise Physiologist)
• The lived experience with Melanie (Allograft survivor)

Plus our panel of experts answer questions from the webinar participants.

This is Part 4 of a 4-part live webinar series discussing allogeneic stem cell transplants in detail. These transplants present many unique challenges for those who experience them, so whether you’re about to embark on an allogeneic stem cell transplant or you’re several years down the track, this series may be helpful.

In this final session we will cover:

• Late effects of transplant including GVHD, medication side effects and broader health issues with Yvonne Panek-Hudson (Late Effects Nurse Practitioner, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre)
• The lived experience of chronic GVHD with Clinton (Allograft survivor)

Plus our panel of experts answer questions from the webinar participants.

World Marrow Donor Day is celebrated every year to thank blood stem cell donors worldwide. It’s also a day to raise awareness about the importance of registering as a stem cell donor and the impact of blood stem cell transplantation on a patients’ life. If you’d like to register to become a stem cell donor visit Strength to Give at https://strengthtogive.org.au

Annette Barnes – Transplant Coordinator. Presenting on the role of the Transplant Coordinator, tissue typing, bone marrow register, Australian and overseas donors as well as the patient lead-up to a transplant.

Heartfelt thanks to our partners for supporting Blood Cancer Awareness Month’s patient information and education series:

• BristolMyersSquibb – www.bms.com/au
• Novartis – www.novartis.com.au
• Abbvie – www.abbvie.com.au
• Janssen – www.janssen.com/australia
• Servier – www.servier.com.au

In recognition of Myeloma awareness month 2021, the Leukaemia Foundation & Myeloma Australia partnered to present Future Directions in Myeloma Management & Treatment – an education seminar presented by leading Australian myeloma experts

Guest speakers and topics included:

• New & innovative treatments in Myeloma by Prof. Hang Quach, St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne
• Lab tour and research update: Reducing side effects/toxicity in myeloma treatment – Dr Kate Van Dyke, SAHMRI, Adelaide
• My myeloma journey with Bernadette
• Treatment options, continuous therapy & PBS decision-making by Dr Nick Weber, Royal Brisbane & Woman’s Hospital, Brisbane

Jacqui Baverstock, Blood Cancer Support Coordinator with the Leukaemia Foundation sits down for a virtual chat with Patsy. Patsy was diagnosed with myeloma back in 2004 at the age of 45 and has experienced the highs and lows of a blood cancer diagnosis, including two stem cell transplants.

Patsy will take you through her journey of diagnosis and treatment and how she has managed her fears around relapse and side-effects. For her, taking care of yourself, having a good support network and understanding the disease are what gives her a sense of hope and positivity for the future.

Dr Hasib Sidiqi discusses updates on treatment options for Myeloma in Australia, outlining the current and possible future therapies utilised for early right through to advanced disease. Symptom and side effects management is an integral part of Myeloma care to minimise the impacts of treatment.

For a particular topic you can skip through the presentation to find what you’re looking for:

• Introduction (0:00 – 1:20)
• What is Myeloma and how is it diagnosed? (1:20 – 8:30)
• History and development of Myeloma treatment (9:10 – 21:40)
• Current Myeloma treatment in Australia (21:40 – 24:50)
• Symptoms and side effects of Myeloma and related treatment (24:50 – 34:30)
• The effect of treatment and Myeloma on the immune system (34:30 – end)

Dr Sidiqi is a haematologist at Fiona Stanley Hospital in Perth with an interest in myeloma and amyloidosis. He recently completed a 2-year fellowship at Mayo Clinic focusing on Myeloma, Amyloidosis and Bone Marrow Transplantation. He received his medical degree from the University of Western Australia in 2008 and completed his haematology through Sir Charles Gardiner and the Royal Perth Hospitals. He is a member of the Australian Amyloidosis Network and the Myeloma Working Party of the ALLG.

This special event was a joint initiative of the Leukaemia Foundation and WMozzies, designed to help patients with Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia (WM), in Australia and New Zealand, gain a better understanding of their disease.

Hosted by the Leukaemia Foundation and joined by an expert panel of speakers, they discuss:

• How treatment decisions are made
• Latest updates on treatments
• Research developments
• Insights and learnings from diagnosis with WM and involvement with WMozzies

Speakers include:

• Professor Constantine Tam – Clinical Lead for CLL and Low-Grade Lymphoma at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Professor of Haematology at the University of Melbourne.
• Prof Judith Trotman (MBChB, FRACP, FRCPA, Grad Cert Clin Trials Oncology) – Haematologist and Head of Department, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, University of Sydney.
• David Young – Team Leader of WMozzies

World Lymphoma Awareness Day on 15 September each year is a time to focus on increasing awareness for lymphoma, celebrating breakthroughs in treatment and acknowledging what still needs to be done.

We’re proud to bring you physiotherapist and lymphoma survivor Julie. Julie discusses exercise as treatment for lymphoma and her personal perspective.

Heartfelt thanks to our partners for supporting Blood Cancer Awareness Month’s patient information and education series:

• BristolMyersSquibb – www.bms.com/au
• Novartis – www.novartis.com.au
• Abbvie – www.abbvie.com.au
• Janssen – www.janssen.com/australia
• Servier – www.servier.com.au

World Lymphoma Awareness Day on 15 September each year is a time to focus on increasing awareness for lymphoma, celebrating breakthroughs in treatment and acknowledging what still needs to be done.

We’re proud to bring you Dr Glenn Kennedy discussing CAR-T cell therapy including an overview of CAR-T and its relevance to the lymphoma patient population.

Heartfelt thanks to our partners for supporting Blood Cancer Awareness Month’s patient information and education series:

• BristolMyersSquibb – www.bms.com/au
• Novartis – www.novartis.com.au
• Abbvie – www.abbvie.com.au
• Janssen – www.janssen.com/australia
• Servier – www.servier.com.au

Whether you’re newly diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) or have been living with MDS for several years, this webinar may be of interest to you. Learning to live with MDS can be challenging and stressful. We discuss the medical and emotional aspects of living with MDS as well as hearing about a current Australian MDS research project.

Our guest speakers included:

• Christine (Living with MDS)
• Associate Professor Melita Kenealy (Clinical Haematologist, Cabrini Hospital)
• Dr Ashwin Unnikrishnan (Biomedical Research Scientist, Lowy Cancer Research Centre)

MPN Awareness Day focuses on encouraging those living with MPNs to use their voice to inspire others. It’s also a great time for the MPN community to connect with one another and exchange information.

Along with MPN Alliance Australia, we’re proud to bring you this webinar featuring MPN experts and people with lived MPN experience.

Speakers

• Prof Andrew Perkins from Monash University.
  Topic: Current clinical and research interests – rundown on how diagnosis and treatment is progressing and emerging therapies.
• Prof Wendy Erber from University of Western Australia.
  Topic: Why do Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Progress to Fibrosis?.
• Prof Peter Baade from Cancer Council QLD.
  Topic: How does the burden of MPN in Australia vary by where people live?
• Helen from Sydney. Helen is newly diagnosed with PV and discusses her experience from a patient perspective.

Heartfelt thanks also to our partners for supporting Blood Cancer Awareness Month’s patient information and education series:

• BristolMyersSquibb – www.bms.com/au
• Novartis – www.novartis.com.au
• Abbvie – www.abbvie.com.au
• Janssen – www.janssen.com/australia
• Servier – www.servier.com.au