By KATH GANNAWAY
MOUNT EVELYN couple Bruce and Janette Watkinson know what it means when Cancer Council Victoria talks about life-saving research.
The former Healesville Primary School principal was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago. Within a week he had had his breast removed.
It was life-saving surgery in no small way benefiting from years of life-saving research.
On Thursday 23 May they are hosting a morning tea at Silvan as part of Cancer Council Victoria’s Australia’s Biggest morning Tea.
Their aim is twofold.
Janette, a retired occupational therapist who worked for many years in palliative care with people with cancer, said while breast cancer in men is much less common than in women, every man needs to be aware it can happen to them.
Bruce decided to see a doctor when he experienced changes to his nipple.
Not happy with his GPs advice to “keep an eye on it” he insisted on a biopsy which confirmed his fears.
“It’s an issue for all men,” he said.
“They need to examine themselves and if they see changes in the nipple, or other changes in the breast, it is time to do something about it,” he said.
Janette said Bruce at 74 is now doing well.
“It was frightening now knowing where else the cancer might have been,” she said.
“With wonderful support from the surgeon and the hospital team, all went well, but it does affect partners and family more than is spoken about,” she added.
In the meantime, they are throwing their support behind the Biggest Morning Tea
“Silvan is just beautiful in autumn and we can promise a warm welcome and a delicious morning tea,” Janette said.
The event is being held at Silvan Wesleyan Methodist Church, 265 Monbulk-Silvan Road, Silvan, at 10.30am.
For further information on Breast Cancer in Men, phone Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
