"The Oncology Rehab Program at Wantirna Health"

I would like to publicly thank the amazing staff at Wantirna Health for this program, in particular, Amy and Peter.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in late last year, I had surgery and radiation treatment. My radiation treatment was at Ringwood Private Hospital and on the first day, I was given a brochure which showed people in a gym exercising while awaiting their treatment. When I enquired, I was informed this only happens in one clinic in WA and not available in Victoria.  I was particularly disappointed because I firmly believe exercise to be a fantastic way to manage pain and anxiety - how much better for patients who are awaiting treatment, and are able to do some physical exercise instead of sitting glumly looking at one another in a waiting room. 

I was informed there was a program at Wantirna Health and after a phone conversation with Peter, I was able to start the 7-week, twice a week program immediately upon finishing treatment. I found the program to be of immense benefit and would urge Eastern Health to consider expanding the program to be available to more people and to be available to them while undergoing treatment, if possible for them to do so; it is now well documented that relevant exercise during treatment can greatly assist in recovery. 

The physical benefits of the program are obvious and importantly provided by people who are qualified in the particular problems associated with cancer patients and their recovery. The staff were amazing at designing my individual program and monitoring my progress. The program also provided important information through its education sessions and widened my knowledge of cancer in its many forms. Contact with people who have undergone similar experiences is another important aspect of the program and it was great to share with people who understand.

I can't recommend the program highly enough and again would urge Eastern Health to consider the long-term benefits to patients by expanding and developing the program.