CANCER Council WA patron Tonya McCusker and her daughter Mary (3) visited the council’s helpline last month to see how Daffodil Day funds helped people with cancer.
They met some of the nurses who answer almost 1000 calls to the service every month.
Helpline manager Shavita Patel said most callers were people who had been diagnosed with cancer, or family and friends of cancer patients.
“Most people are looking for general information or treatment management advice, which we can provide over the phone or by sending pamphlets and brochures,” Ms Patel said.
“But many are looking for emotional support, so our nurses are able to refer them on to our counselling services.
“We can also link people with practical support around the home, such as child-minding or gardening, or provide financial assistance for those experiencing hardship because of their cancer diagnosis.”
A team of registered nurses with oncology experience, a counsellor, community services co-ordinator, financial assistance officer, dieticians and inquiries officers staff the helpline.
Daffodil Day is on this Friday, August 24 and the Cancer Council WA aims to raise $820,000.
To volunteer, call 1300 656 585.