EVERY LIFE MUST BE SAVED BECAUSE EVERY PERSON MATTERS

More women survive their diagnosis of breast cancer following treatment than ever before – 1,000 more women this year in Australia compared to 20 years ago.

This is the life-saving power of breast cancer clinical trials research – research supported by the Breast Cancer Institute of Australia (BCIA).

Unfortunately, this progress doesn’t mean much to Graham Ivin right now. His wife Lynn was diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago and sadly lost her courageous battle just over a month ago. For Graham and his family, their grief is raw and their feeling of helplessness is overwhelming.

“Lynn was someone who mattered,” said Graham. These simple yet powerful words will resonate with many families this October during Breast Cancer Awareness month as they remember loved ones lost to breast cancer.

“Lynn was a loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother, and her friendship was sought by many because of the love and care she poured into everything she did. She made a difference to people’s lives, and her loss has changed lives forever,” he said.

Despite significant progress, seven dearly loved women still lose their lives to breast cancer every day in Australia. Each of them is “someone who matters”.

Clinical trials research is the critical step that proves new treatments are safe and effective before they can be used widely to treat women with breast cancer. Clinical trials research is the only way to get new and promising breast cancer treatments to those who need them most.

Julie Callaghan, BCIA General Manager, encourages everyone to support this vital research and show that Lynn’s loss and every life lost to breast cancer matters and won’t be forgotten.

A marriage of friendship, great love and respect; four children who know what it is to be loved, supported and cherished; seven beautiful grandchildren; and a million wonderful memories is Lynn’s legacy. “I wish I could have had another 36 years with Lynn,” Graham said.

“Support for breast cancer research will ensure that progress continues so that the celebration of life can become a reality for every family – because every person matters,” said Julie.

Donations to the BCIA can be made at www.bcia.org.au or by calling 1800 423 444.

Or purchase the 2014 Australian Women’s Health Diary for just $14.95 from Commonwealth Bank branches, newsagents, selected Woolworths supermarkets, BIG W and Avon Representatives.

Media contact:
Anna Fitzgerald,
ANZBCTG Communications Manager
Phone: 02 4925 5255 or 0400 304 224
Email: anna.fitzgerald@anzbctg.org