Cancer Support Services Directory launched  

On August 25, the Cancer Support Services Directory was launched at Hutt Hospital. The directory is a collaboration between Capital & Coast, Hutt Valley and Wairarapa District Health Boards and is a one-stop-shop for those affected by cancer and their whanau to find the support that they need.

Dr Andy Simpson, Clinical Director for the Wellington Blood and Cancer Centre acknowledged the great impact that the directory will have on people affected by cancer. "A resource like this invaluable.  One of the greatest things we can give to our patients and their families is knowledge, and this directory does just that. By giving people who are, or have been, affected by cancer, a resource to help them cope with the specifics of their illness, it not only allows them to focus on getting better, it gives them easy access to some answers during a stressful time."

The directory was launched by Phil Kerslake, from Hutt Valley District Health Board. "When you need answers fast in the heat of an encounter, you can find yourselves trying one avenue and another without getting the direction, support or solution you urgently need. If only we knew that support was provided in many forms, and where it was provided, we could find some much needed relief.

"For these reasons the creation and availability of New Zealand’s first Directory of Cancer Support Services is to my mind, a Godsend. Over time it will relieve the suffering of innumerous New Zealanders, and quite likely help save some Kiwi’s lives too. Information is power – and empowerment – and a problem shared is a problem greatly reduced when it comes to a cancer encounter."

The directory is available on the Hutt Valley District Health Board website >