05 November 2021
When Meekatharra local Nick Wren was diagnosed with prostate cancer in April he discovered that there were no local support groups for men, like himself, going through treatment.
In an effort to change that, he decided to start up the town’s first prostate cancer support group.
The group, supported by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), will meet on the first Tuesday of each month at the Community Resource Centre. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 7 December at 5.15pm.
“When I looked at support options, I found the nearest group was over 550km away. Support can make a big difference, so I put the word out and started one here,” he said.
“Being told you have prostate cancer and going through treatment can be a bit hard mentally, so it’s important to find others you can relate to. You realise you’re not alone and it gives you the network you need.
“I’ve decided to open it up further so that men with any form of cancer can join too.”
The Meekatharra support group is now one of 130 groups across the country supported by PCFA. Locals interested in joining can get in touch with Nick via 0437 488 363.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia CEO Professor Jeff Dunn AO said peer support played an important role in improving mental health and wellbeing.
“Some men with prostate cancer experience symptoms of anxiety and depression, and struggle to cope with the challenges of diagnosis and treatment,” Prof Dunn said.
“Having a support network of people around them can make a tangible difference to their wellbeing and be a source of strength when they need it most.”
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men, with over 18,000 men diagnosed each year.
“Men living in regional and rural areas of Australia face significant disparities, with men more likely to be diagnosed at a late stage. In addition, those living regionally face a 24 per cent higher risk of death,” he said.
“Having local volunteers on the ground providing support and bringing awareness to the disease, like Mr Wren, will help save lives.”
To find out more about PCFA’s services and support options, call 1800 22 00 99 or visit pcfa.org.au.
ENDS
Media contact: Laura McKoy | M. 0435 094 788
