Meet our new Flinders Outreach Nurse, Valerie

Our new Outreach Nurse Valerie provides face-to-face support and information to people living with cancer and their loved ones at Flinders Medical Centre.

Valerie has been a Cancer Council 13 11 20 nurse for the past two years, providing a listening ear to countless South Australians impacted by cancer over the phone, in addition to her work as an oncology nurse.

Now you can find Valerie at the Flinders Cancer Wellness Centre – a quiet space for people going through cancer and their families to relax, have a chat and a cup of tea.

“My role is to chat with anybody going through any stage of their cancer journey, from diagnosis to going through treatments, or just waiting on results – anyone wanting to have a chat. And we’re here not just for those with cancer but family and friends as well,” Valerie says.

“How do I manage how I’m feeling? “How do I tell people at work?” “How do I tell my kids?” are just some of the most common questions Valerie hears each day. Talking through these questions is just part of her role, Valerie explains. Providing a safe space to talk is so important.

“It takes a lot of courage for some people to say they’re scared, they’re afraid of what the future looks like. One of the most memorable comments I’ve ever heard is ‘cancer was just a word until it happened to me’, and this is true for so many,” Valerie says.

“To have someone let you into a place that’s so close to their heart and so intimate truly is a privilege.”

Within the Flinders Cancer Wellness Centre, Cancer Council SA’s Cancer Information Centre, provides access to free information and resources to help anyone impacted by cancer, helping them to better understand their diagnosis and the range of support services available.

If you’re at Flinders, pop into the Cancer Wellness Centre from Tuesday to Thursday to have a chat with Valerie over a cuppa. She is available to listen if you are having a challenging day and can connect you with information and services that can help.

If you need cancer information and support, our experienced Cancer Council 13 11 20 nurses are available Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.