Bev Noble

I have been a member of IMPACCT for several years and I have also been an executive member of Cancer Voices NSW, a Cancer Advocacy Group formed in 2000 by Sally Crossing for Cancer Consumers to have a voice. 

I was a carer for my partner, Fred, who endured multiple cancers in his prostate, bladder, bowel and lung, before succumbing to a brain tumour, which ultimately claimed his life. I am also a breast cancer survivor.

During Fred’s illness, I was able to set up all the necessary home services - personal care, respite care, and an assessment for palliative care. When it became apparent that I could no longer provide the complex care required, he was admitted to hospice care.

I hold a Diploma in Welfare and during my working life I worked for Home Care as an Assessor under the Health and Community Scheme to set up services for consumers with health problems to remain in their own homes under the HAAC Scheme Northern Sydney, Central Coast and South West Area Health Service.

Since Fred’s death, I have focused on palliative care issues representing Cancer Voices at NSWOG Palliative Care Meetings, as well as attending Hammond Care and Northern Sydney Area Health Meetings.

I have been motivated by seeing firsthand the need for greater patient empowerment and involvement in healthcare management, especially in end-of-life care. 

By being involved as a consumer representative, I am able to help better educate clinicians and carers to bridge the gap between patient needs and palliative care service delivery to ensure people are treated in a timely and compassionate manner.

What matters most in palliative care is having open discussions about what services and support are available for patients with life-limiting illness. It’s important that both patients and their families are aware of their options and able to discuss their preferences with healthcare professionals.