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Pink Ribbon Day in Parliament
25-October-2010
Today is Pink Ribbon Day, the Australian Cancer Council’s allocated day to help promote awareness about breast cancer, as well as raise funds towards research, education and patient support programs.
Speaking during a Private Members motion this morning in Federal Parliament, Member for Farrer, Sussan Ley, joined with several other MP’s to recognise the importance of this day, particularly in regional Australia.
The local MP paid tribute to our region’s numerous support and lobby groups labelling them the real champions in the fight against all cancers.
“A thankyou to all those who get behind Pink Ribbon Day each year and, particularly a note of thanks to all for the record numbers of people who turned out at the weekend’s Cancer Council fundraiser, the Border Relay for Life, at Wodonga.”
Ms Ley also specifically mentioned the efforts of the Bravehearts on the Murray organisation which built and regularly race their own Dragon Boat (by chance winning gold and silver in a Regatta at Bendigo this past weekend) as well as the important work of the Breast Care Nurses provided through the wonderful McGrath Foundation.
Ms Ley said “that breast cancer is the most common cancer for Australian women only highlights the need for early diagnosis and prompt treatment. We need more breast care nurses, especially in regional areas, to support patients and families through diagnosis and treatment”.
“I also remain very concerned at poor cancer survival rates in rural Australia compared with our capital cities. This is surely due to the lack of services and the challenges of distance”.
“Governments must continue to do all they can to break down the barriers and close the gaps that remain in holistic care for rural cancer patients,” Ms Ley said.