Newcastle community called to help improve the outcomes for women with gynaecological cancer

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What if your story could save someone else’s life? 
Newcastle community called to help improve the outcomes for women with gynaecological cancer  

Every day in Australia, 19 women are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer including ovarian, uterine/endometrial, cervical, vulvar or vaginal cancer, and tragically six lose their lives. For women living in areas such as Newcastle, the path to diagnosis and treatment can often be challenging, with delays that can have devastating consequences for individuals and families. 1 

The Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG) is working to change this through its powerful Survivors Teaching Students® (STS) program.  

This deeply impactful national initiative brings the voices of women who have experienced gynaecological cancer directly into university classrooms. These courageous volunteers share their personal stories with medical and nursing students to help shape a more compassionate, informed and responsive generation of healthcare professionals. 

Since launching in 2017, STS volunteers have reached more than 20,000 students across 22 universities in Australia and New Zealand. Their stories help future doctors and nurses better understand the signs and symptoms of these diseases to reduce delays in diagnosis, and embed empathy, good communication and respect into the care of every woman affected.  

“Survivors Teaching Students was by far one of the most memorable and impactful experiences I had during medical school. The program not only provided me with important clinical knowledge about gynaecological cancers but also emphasised the profound and life-altering impacts the diseases have on those diagnosed and their families,” said Nikita Rosendahl, Medical student at the University of Queensland. 

With plans to expand the program’s reach, ANZGOG is now calling on women from regional and rural communities, including Newcastle, to join the STS network, in a volunteer capacity and help change outcomes for women with these cancers. 

“We’re inviting women to be part of this remarkable initiative. Your story could be the one that helps a future doctor or nurse recognise the signs of gynaecological cancer and save a life.” said Alison Evans, CEO ANZGOG. 

No public speaking experience is required, just a willingness to share your personal story in a safe, supportive environment. Volunteers consistently report that participating in STS is not only rewarding but empowering, giving meaning to their experience and creating lasting impact.  

STS is made possible through ANZGOG’s fundraising arm, WomenCan, and supported by a network of over 100 community volunteers across the country, who are determined to change the future for women diagnosed with gynaecological cancer.  

To learn more or register your interest, visit: www.anzgog.org.au/sts or to support STS, you can make a donation by visiting WomenCan.org.au.   

Media inquiries: Monique Cerreto: T: 0416 282 464, E: [email protected]  

About ANZGOG: The Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG) is the peak national gynaecological cancer research organisation for Australia and New Zealand. Our mission is to improve outcomes and quality of life for everyone with a lived experience of gynaecological cancer by conducting and promoting clinical trials and multidisciplinary research. 

** The Survivors Teaching Students program is under license to ANZGOG from the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance in the USA. 

1. www.anzgog.org.au/GCTI