Background and Context:
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the peak national organisation for people affected by breast cancer, representing more than 90,000 individual members across Australia. BCNA supports, informs, represents and connects people whose lives have been affected by breast cancer. Following research and consultation in 2012, BCNA has developed a strategy that will provide accessible and appropriate information and support to women with breast cancer from diverse cultural backgrounds.
In November 2012, Thuong Sobey was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer. Concerned about the lack of resources for women diagnosed with breast cancer in Vietnam and inspired by the resources of BCNA, Thuong established Breast Cancer Network Vietnam (BCNV).
Aim:
BCNV aims to provide education, information and social support to Vietnamese people affected by breast cancer and to raise awareness of breast cancer in Vietnam. As a part of the BCNA Cultural Diversity strategy, BCNA aims to provide breast cancer information and support to women with breast cancer from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Vietnamese women.
Strategy/Tactics:
Together, BCNV and BCNA collaborate to strengthen the capacity of BCNV and the Cultural Diversity Program of BCNA to provide support to Vietnamese women affected by breast cancer in both Australia and Vietnam. Joining forces and accelerating progress.
Programme/Policy Process:
BCNV and BCNA work together strategically to share and adapt relevant information and programs and to translate relevant resources.
Outcomes/What was learned:
Information and support provided to women diagnosed with breast cancer in Vietnam through establishment of BCNV
BCNA resources made available to BCNV for translation and use in Vietnam
BCNV founder, Thuong Sobey, participates in BCNA Community Liaison training in Melbourne
BCNA’s support for Vietnamese women in Australia is culturally strengthened
Establishment of Vietnamese breast cancer support group in Brisbane underway
Ongoing commitment to support and strengthen the work of each organisation