ACCORDING to oncology nurses, the most commonly asked question when a woman is diagnosed with cancer and under-going chemotherapy is not “Am I going to die?” but rather “Am I going to lose my hair?” The hallway of the Oncology Ward was full and buzzing with optimism during the week, as Bourke Street Health officially opened the Wig Library and Education Room.
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Founded for the purpose of providing a comfortable and secure atmosphere for women battling cancer, the Wig Library aims to aid women suffering the side-effects of chemotherapy to preserve dignity and control over her life.
Volunteer and founder of the Wig Library, Kerry Chalker said “being able to help (a woman) with a wig gives back her identity, often enables her to continue work during treatment and gives her some control over what is happening on the outside of her body when she has no control over what is happening on the inside.” Inspired by the memory of her Mother’s journey with cancer, Mrs Chalker established the idea of a Wig Library ten years ago and after discussion with oncology nurse at the time, Sandy Parry, the ‘Look Good, Feel Better’ program began.
A fundraiser was held to kickstart the initiative, and over the years the collection has grown to contain options of over 200 different wigs.
“Thanks to the many wonderful women’s groups in Goulburn and their donations I’ve never had to fundraise since. They continue to donate every year,” she said An unsuspectingly bright room, complete with pink walls and fresh flowers, is home to the library, with the wigs hidden away to encourage a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere during fittings.
Plans are in place to officially name the Library the Robin Burrows Oncology Wig Library, in memory of her mother.
The Education Room is fitted to compliment the Wig Library, boasting an admirable collection of patient education material and support services.
The Education Room began with a generous raffle by Janarie Micallef and ‘Something Special’, with the Oncology and Palliative Care Support Group donating their time to support the cause.
Clinical Nurse Specialist at the Goulburn Oncology Clinic, Sue Sloane, said “Oncology patients and families have donated money to help make the room more comfortable, enabling it not to have that clinical look.” The Education room is supported by the Cancer Council, Leukaemia Foundation and various pharmaceutical companies, to provide education material to family and patients.
The official opening of the two rooms was held on Tuesday August 21, with many patients and family present to celebrate the day.
