A cancer diagnosis is life-changing. For people living in regional communities, it often comes with an added burden: regular travel for treatment, time away from family, and the financial and emotional strain that follows. Since 2008, the Cancer Support Foundation of Milton Ulladulla (formerly the Cancer Outpatients Appeal) has been helping ease that burden. Entirely community-funded and volunteer-driven, the charity provides practical support to people across the Southern Shoalhaven.
Based in a purpose-built facility in Milton, the Milton Ulladulla Cancer Care Centre offers chemotherapy treatments three days a week in specialist treatment chairs, delivered by experienced oncology nurses. Patients also have access to a Breast Care Nurse Practitioner, an Oncology Nurse Practitioner, and a visiting Palliative Care Physician, via both clinic appointments and home visits throughout the region.
For Foundation President Peter Still and Vice President Tom O’Callaghan, the organisation’s work is deeply personal. Both are cancer survivors who have received treatment at the centre. Peter joined as a volunteer after his wife, Christine, became involved with the charity. He became President in 2015. Christine also encouraged Tom to volunteer while he was undergoing treatment himself.
The Foundation supports patients in countless practical ways. It subsidises transport to medical appointments, lawn mowing, house cleaning and a wig and turban service, while remedial yoga classes help patients regain strength and wellbeing. Financial assistance is also available for essentials such as food, fuel, electricity, council rates and medical expenses—helping ease some of the pressures that often accompany treatment.
In 2017, the Foundation negotiated with Illawarra Health to establish a dedicated Palliative Care Ward at Milton Hospital and contributed significant funds towards building the ward, creating a peaceful space where patients and their loved ones can spend precious time together. A monthly Men’s Health and Cancer Support Group offers friendship and encouragement in addition to organising grants for public defibrillators in Milton and Ulladulla.
Every service the Foundation provides is made possible through the generosity of the local community. Upcoming fundraising events include the Annual Charity Golf Day at Mollymook Golf Club on Friday 4 September and the Melbourne Cup Fundraiser at Cupitt’s Estate on Tuesday 3 November. Whether you volunteer, donate, join the committee or attend a fundraising event, every contribution helps ensure local people facing cancer can access compassionate care close to home.
A. 106 Princes Hwy, Milton | P. 02 4454 9164
E. info@cancersupportfoundation.org.au | W. cancersupportfoundation.org.au