Glenn and I were inspired to create the McGrath Foundation in 2002 after my initial recovery from breast cancer, so we could help support other Australian women touched by breast cancer.
However, it was in 2003 when I was re-diagnosed that I realised the importance of having a breast care nurse, something I was fortunate enough to access to for the first time. Someone who could answer the questions only a nurse could answer whilst also being the support I needed to unload my frustrations and emotions.
Having access to a breast care nurse allowed me to be Jane McGrath, the friend, the mother and the wife - not just Jane McGrath, the breast cancer survivor.
Through my experience with breast cancer, two main objectives for the McGrath Foundation became clear: to raise money to place McGrath Breast Care Nurses in hospitals throughout rural and regional Australia as well as educating young women to become ‘breast aware’.
I was only 31 when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer. I feel very passionate about empowering women under 40 to take control of their health by conducting regular breast checks - early detection saves lives.
Breast cancer doesn’t care how old you are, where you live, whether you’re a career woman or a mother. Breast cancer is a disease that currently affects one in eight Australian women of all ages and backgrounds1. Please help the McGrath Foundation support Australian women.
Together, we can make a difference.
Jane McGrath
Founder
McGrath Foundation
References: 1. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and National Breast Cancer Centre 2006. Breast cancer in Australia: an overview, 2006.
