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Brief HistoryThe Society was developed initially as one of the Cancer Council Victoria’s cancer support groups. It was founded by a social worker in response to a request from the Cancer Council Victoria to address a need for culturally and linguistically appropriate services for Chinese people who have a cancer experience. Over the years more cancer survivors and volunteers joined the Society to offer support to others. It has evolved from a small support group that conducted monthly peer support meetings to an information and support service for people affected by cancer. Immigration and lack of familiarity with the language and health systems are some of the difficulties for Chinese people affected by cancer. A lack of understanding in mainstream hospitals and health services as well as cultural differences in perceiving cancer sometimes create barriers for Chinese patients in accessing mainstream services. In this context, the Society provides information and support in which cancer sufferers and their carers can access services in a user-friendly environment, and support each other in an atmosphere where they can talk and share their experiences openly. Today the Society remains a Cancer Council Victoria Accredited Support Group. Its services are free, as is membership. CCSV 2010 President's Report [PDF] |