A Belmont cancer survivor and three renowned experts on the disease have joined forces for a forum on the benefits of research this month.
Geelong Region Cancerians will host the free event featuring the expertise and stories of Tom Jobling, Karl Najjar, Rachel Delahunty and Maureen O’Keeffe.
Ms O’Keefe grew up in Belmont and last year doctors diagnosed her with endometrial cancer.
But after seven months of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy she appeared to be in remission, Geelong Region Cancerians founder Phillipa Challis said.
“After a couple of months to recuperate, a scan in November 2018 showed no evidence of disease!
“While this is excellent news, monitoring for a recurrence is now the norm with three-monthly check-ups scheduled for the next five years.”
Prof Jobling is the director of gynaecological oncology at Monash Medical Centre and his expertise includes radical surgery for ovarian cancer and robotic surgery for gynaecological malignancy.
Dr Najjar is a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist who has trained in open, laparoscopic and robotic surgeries.
Dr Delahunty is an oncologist and has overseen extensive clinical trials for cancer research.
The panel will discuss early detection, prevention and research at Geelong Library and Heritage Centre from 6.30pm to 8pm on 19 March.
More information is available at geelongregioncancerians.com.au.
