We need your help to raise $350,000 by 30th June
Your generosity will help people to live well with and beyond cancer
Every donation, no matter the size, empowers someone facing cancer to take control of their journey. Your support ensures that crucial, evidence-based therapies like exercise physiology, lymphoedema management, and oncology massage are accessible to all patients at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse.
$100
Exercise therapy consultation
Secures a personal exercise therapy consultation and session where our experts can address their symptoms and create a tailored program.
$120
Massage therapy access
Allows a patient to receive a massage to help alleviate their anxieties, pain and reset their nervous system.
$200
Lymphoedema therapy
Supports a new patient to access lymphoedema therapy to address their swelling and provides the tools to manage it from the comfort of their own home.
You can make a difference
Help transform cancer care at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse
At Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the disease. Our unique LivingRoom provides evidence-based, supportive care services to manage and alleviate the debilitating side effects of cancer treatment. Many of our treating clinicians and allied health professionals are also involved in supportive care research, which continues to evolve and improve our standard of care.
Your support can make the difference between someone living with life-altering side effects, or being empowered to live well with cancer.
Exercise Physiology
Exercise physiology at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse is a cornerstone of integrative cancer care, where accredited exercise physiologists like Dr. Shelley Kay work closely with patients to mitigate the physical toll of cancer treatments. By developing personalised programs tailored to the needs of each patient, our specialists help enhance physical strength, improve endurance, and maintain healthy body composition. These programs cater to patients at various stages of their cancer journey, whether they are actively undergoing treatment or focusing on recovery.
Patients engaging in these programs report significant improvements in managing symptoms such as fatigue, balance issues due to peripheral neuropathy, and changes in heart health resulting from cardiotoxic therapies. Dr. Shelley Kay emphasises the benefits, expressing, "Exercise is a powerful treatment. It not only helps to reduce the severity of side effects but also improves the overall quality of life."
Key Benefits:
- Enhanced Strength and Endurance: Builds resilience and capacity for physical activity, vital for recovery and long-term health.
- Effective Symptom Management: Specifically targets side effects of cancer treatment, helping patients lead more comfortable lives.
- Support for Independence and Daily Functioning: Enables patients to maintain their lifestyle and daily activities as much as possible.
Lymphoedema Therapy
Lymphoedema, a common complication of cancer treatments, often results from the removal or damage of lymph nodes during surgery or radiation. Led by Sandy Templeton, our Lymphoedema Research and Education Officer, the LivingRoom provides specialised services aimed at early detection, education, and proactive management of lymphoedema. Through individual assessments and educational workshops, our team helps patients understand their condition and equips them with practical skills to manage symptoms at home.
Our comprehensive approach includes manual lymphatic drainage, fitting of compression garments, and personalised exercise routines designed to promote lymph flow and reduce swelling. Sandy Templeton highlights the critical nature of early intervention: "Addressing lymphoedema early is crucial for maintaining quality of life and reducing the risk of further complications."
Key Benefits:
- Proactive Management of Swelling: Helps prevent the progression of lymphoedema, minimising discomfort and mobility issues.
- Empowerment Through Education: Educates patients on self-care techniques to help manage their conditions.
Oncology Massage
Oncology massage is a specialised therapy tailored to meet the unique needs of cancer patients. At Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, certified oncology massage therapists like Lizzie Milligan apply gentle, modified techniques designed to alleviate the physical and psychological burdens of cancer treatment. These sessions are customised based on the individual’s current health and treatment stage, ensuring that all patients, regardless of their condition, can benefit from massage therapy.
Lizzie Milligan describes the core philosophy behind oncology massage: "Massage therapy is integral to the holistic care we provide. It helps to elicit a relaxation response, allowing the body's restorative processes to function more effectively." Patients often feel immediate relief from common symptoms such as nausea, pain, and fatigue, which provides a comforting break from their rigorous cancer treatment schedules.
 Key Benefits:
- Alleviation of Treatment-Related Symptoms: Offers relief from pain, nausea, and other discomforts.
- Enhanced Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Aids in mental and emotional recovery, promoting a calm and restorative state.
- Support for Emotional and Mental Health: Provides a compassionate touch, which can be profoundly comforting
Patient Experiences
William
When William was diagnosed with prostate cancer, his world was turned upside down. Despite an initially successful surgery, his relief was short-lived as he soon learned that his cancer had spread, necessitating aggressive additional treatments. The side effects of radiation and hormone therapy were severe, causing fatigue, muscle loss, and changes in body shape
During these difficult times, William discovered more hope through the services of the LivingRoom at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse. Generous donations from our community enabled him to participate in a tailored exercise program specifically designed for prostate cancer patients. These sessions not only helped him manage his physical symptoms but also fostered a strong sense of community among fellow patients. "There is camaraderie; you all become friends," William recounted. "It’s about keeping each other accountable and supporting one another through the journey."
Toni
Toni, a dedicated mother and high-level executive, faced her biggest challenge when diagnosed with breast cancer. The rigorous treatments, including six months of chemotherapy and five weeks of radiation, were physically and emotionally draining, impacting her ability to care for her children and perform at work. However, Toni found a vital support system through the exercise with access to the LivingRoom.
Having accessible care using the living room at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse enabled Toni to engage in regular exercise routines, which were crucial for managing the side effects of her treatment. "The LivingRoom helped me to feel strong and clear my head," Toni shared. Participating in exercise before her chemotherapy sessions significantly reduced her symptoms and prepared her mentally, making a profound difference in her overall treatment experience.
