Look Good...Feel Better program

Look Good Feel Better workshops offer women undergoing treatment a hands-on opportunity to learn techniques to restore their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

Look Good...Feel Better is supported by the cosmetics industry. Workshops are free of charge and run regularly in each of the three regions of the state.

Contact your nearest Cancer Support Centre to find out about the next program in your area.

Living with Cancer education program

Living with Cancer is a free four-week program that provides people diagnosed with cancer and their families with an opportunity to develop skills to improve quality of life. People learn about resources and support networks in their communities and exchange information with others. The program helps increase knowledge and understanding of cancer and treatments in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Weekly sessions run over two hours.

What the program offers:

• what cancer is and how treatment decisions are made
• various cancer treatments, symptoms and side effects
• doctor patient relationship
• how to access various services
• information on important factors such as diet and exercise
• myths about cancer
• unproven methods
• relationships, self esteem and body image
• coping with loss and grief

Grants and interest free loans

A cancer diagnosis and ensuing treatments can result in temporary or ongoing financial difficulty. Cancer Council Tasmania offers two financial programs to help families while they adjust to their changed circumstances.

The Small Grant Scheme offers once-off assistance to patients who encounter financial difficulties because of their cancer or treatments. The program is not available for medical treatment or funeral expenses.

The No Interest Loan Scheme terms provide loans of up to $1,000 to approved applicants. You may be eligible if you or a family member has had a diagnosis of cancer, is having ongoing treatment or is facing a recurrence.

The scheme helps people who may find themselves short of funds, and may not be eligible for other options of credit.

Contact the social worker at your treating hospital to find out about eligibility criteria and how to apply. Alternatively, contact your nearest Cancer Support Centre or call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.

External breast prostheses reimbursement program

This is a new Australian Government initiative to provide reimbursement of up to $400 for new or replacement external breast prostheses for Australian women who have had a mastectomy as a result of breast cancer. More ...