Cancer survivorship focuses on the health and well-being of individuals living with and beyond cancer, from diagnosis through the rest of their lives. It encompasses ongoing care and support to manage health issues and emotional challenges, recognising that the journey doesn’t end when treatment does.
Yet, a key gap remains – survivorship is not always understood or recognised as a vital part of the cancer experience.
As someone who has lived with cancer for almost four years, I know that survivorship is about more than just being alive – it’s about how you live. It’s learning to navigate life after treatment, managing long-term side effects, staying connected, and finding new meaning and purpose.
That’s why I’m thrilled to be part of a new survivorship initiative called “What Now”, being launched by the CanSupport team at Northern Sydney Local Health District, led by Caelum Davis. This program is designed to walk alongside people from the day of diagnosis and beyond, offering real tools for healing and living well.
“What Now” will feature information sessions and a range of workshops that support the whole person – including creative outlets, mindfulness, movement, nutrition, and emotional well-being. It’s about empowering people to thrive, not just survive.
To help raise awareness and bring our community together, I’m hosting a special event on Saturday 17th May from 2pm–4.30pm at Hornsby Library. You’ll hear from local cancer survivors, Caelum, and myself about this new initiative, and take part in a creative wellness workshop.
I’m proud to contribute also as a Cancer Support Volunteer at RNSH and a member of the Survivorship Patient Advisory Committee helping shape “What Now.”
Please RSVP to karenhumphriesadvocate@gmail.com.
To register interest in future sessions, complete our survey https://qars.cec.health.nsw.gov.au/Survey?p=78925810 or email survivorshipnorthernsydney@gmail.com
Together, let’s build a survivorship community grounded in hope, healing, and connection.
