About Us
About Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA)
Breast Cancer Network Australia is a 175,000 person strong network and Australia’s leading breast cancer consumer organisation. We provide information and support to those diagnosed and their supporters, opportunities to connect with others going through a breast cancer experience and work with government and health professionals to influence a stronger healthcare system.
About Sally Obermeder - SWIISH
I was diagnosed with Stage Three breast cancer the day before I gave birth to my first child. I had no family history of breast cancer. I was 38, healthy and felt amazing throughout my pregnancy. My diagnosis came as a complete shock.
The prognosis was not good, and that was one of the hardest parts - wondering if I would live to see my new baby grow up.
Within a week of giving birth I started chemotherapy which lasted almost 10 months. It broke me physically, mentally, emotionally. Outside of treatment I relied on the support of my husband, sister, family and friends. I was also extremely fortunate to have so much love and goodwill from the public.
Throughout my entire cancer journey – chemotherapy, radiation, double mastectomy and reconstruction - I was so grateful to have the resources and support of BCNA. When you’re thrown into the cancer wilderness, you need guidance and my family and I relied on BCNA. It helped us navigate through the cancer journey.
When I was about six months into my treatment, I also decided that if I survived, I wanted to create a business with Maha where together we would help people feel the healthiest and strongest version of themselves . That’s how SWIISH was born. That’s what SWIISH does.
To be able to create the SWIISH WALK4BCNA is a full circle moment, both Maha and I are incredibly proud and emotional to be doing this.
At the core of what we do every day is trying to make a difference, trying to help improve lives and trying to leave a mark. That’s what BCNA also does; this partnership is a combination of our forces as we support those with breast cancer. Because together with you, we can make a difference.
Why your support is so important
On average, 57 Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
In 2023, it is predicted that 20,428 women and 212 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
In 2023, it is estimated that 3,158 women and 36 men will die from breast cancer
The risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer over a lifetime is 1 in 7 for women and 1 in 555 for men.
How your fundraising helps
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) works to ensure that all Australians affected by breast cancer receive the very best care, treatment and support. Our impact means that we make a difference to EVERYONE with a breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of whether they been in contact with BCNA or not. All BCNA services and resources are provided for free.
Helpline
BCNA's Helpline is a free and confidential telephone service for women and men diagnosed with breast cancer, and their family and friends. Open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm AEST Monday to Friday, BCNA’s Member Support Services team can be reached on 1800 500 258.
My Journey
My Journey is accessible online or as a downloadable app and provides high-quality, evidence-based information and insights tailored to your specific needs at all stages of your breast cancer journey.
My Care Kit
My Care Kit is for women who have recently had breast surgery. It contains a specially designed Berlei bra and soft form/s, provided through a partnership between BCNA and Berlei. My Care Kit is available free of charge to women in Australia and is ordered by your health professional.
Information and Support
BCNA provides a variety of information tools and resources including fact sheets, information guides, forums, podcasts and webcasts, online network and The Beacon magazine.