Consumer advisors are involved in all aspects and at all stages of our research. They work in partnership with researchers and are generous with their time and sharing their diverse experiences as patients and caregivers. Each person is unique and has a unique story.
Bev's story
"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."
Imelda's story
"I wasn’t sure how my life experience would be of use to researchers and whether I would be able to converse and collaborate with them, given that I don’t have an academic background. I was very happy to discover that I didn’t need to know the technicalities of the research to be able to make a valuable contribution."
Nadine's story
"Seven years on from my journey as a survivor of cancer, I continue to volunteer and advocate for the delivery of culturally and spiritually appropriate services, and equitable healthcare, as well as creating a positive roadmap, experiences, and journeys for these communities where their values, needs, and preferences are honoured."
Padman's story
"I was a carer for my wife, Rathi, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in mid-2014 until she reached remission in early 2015.
"I continued to support my wife during her after-cancer-care including treatment for lymphoedema and diabetes."
Stephen's story
"I first heard about consumer representatives through a friend who had become a consumer representative, and one of his roles was with Safer Care Victoria (SCV). I soon became interested in the role and thought it was something I also could enjoy doing. My friend kindly referred me to SCV and after a chat, I was invited to join one of their committees, which focused on issues affecting the elderly."
Sue's story
"I have undergone treatment for breast cancer and I was a carer for my mother, who had chronic extensive peripheral venous ulcers and related health issues for many years. It becomes easier to accept previous difficult life events and outcomes if insights from these can be applied for the benefit of others."