Regional consumer Kathleen Wilkins has been actively involved in cancer consumer committees and steering groups for many years, first with the VCCC Alliance, and now with Every VoiceCAN, a consumer advisory network for the ReViTALISE project.
“I wanted to give back. The care my husband received while going through throat cancer treatment was appreciated and we were really happy with it. People tend to think that working in the cancer space is depressing and horrible, and not something that they want anything to do with – but it can be really interesting, particularly in research and clinical trials."
Kathleen founded the Every Voice Consumer Advisory Network (Every VoiceCAN) to facilitate information sessions and empower consumers to actively share their experiences and ideas with ReViTALISE. Having lived in Melbourne previously, she now resides in Albury Wodonga, and understands how different the cancer journey can be for people living in regional and rural areas.
"A consumer's lived experience can tangibly assist researchers, clinicians and educators to improve the way we conduct clinical trials and research in regional Victoria," says Kathleen.
Regional consumers play an important role in bringing their perspective into ReViTALISE initiatives, focused on improving clinical trial access and research, while bringing treatments and trials closer to home. This collaborative effort between consumers, researchers, clinicians and health services help to achieve better outcomes for all Victorians living with cancer.
What is a cancer consumer?
A cancer consumer is someone with lived experience of cancer or someone living with cancer. A consumer could be a cancer survivor, a carer or family member.
Consumers help shape the future of cancer care, because no one knows cancer like someone who’s been on the journey. Effective consumer engagement ensures our work in clinical trials and research is patient-centric and well-informed.
What’s involved?
- Consumers share their experiences, generate ideas or advise on research projects across our sites and initiatives.
- Review online resources created for regional/rural cancer patients and the cancer workforce.
- Participate in online meetings every 8 weeks (approx. 1 hour)
- Remuneration may be offered and out-of-pocket expenses for your participation can be reimbursed.
Every VoiceCAN is always looking forward to welcoming new consumers to the network. For further enquiries, please contact: Kathleen Wilkins at EveryVoiceCAN@gmail.com