Location: Newcastle region, outreach to Maitland

Phone: 0417 819 547

Email: HNELHD-BrainCCC@health.nsw.gov.au

Roster: Wed/Thurs/Fri

Hi, My name is Alisha Gooley and I am one of the brain cancer care coordinators based here at John Hunter Hospital.

My role is focused on caring for and supporting patients/families through a primary brain tumour diagnosis.

I have been in this position since 2017 and what keeps me returning is the opportunity to meet, assist and witness the strength people emanate when faced with such an incomprehensible, life changing event.
I get great satisfaction in creating a connection with patients and their families and find it inspiring to see the positive impact that research has had and will continue to have on this devastating disease.

On the weekends you will find me at the park with my family, off camping in the caravan or playing league tag with friends.

Location: Newcastle region, outreach to Maitland

Phone: 0417 819 547

Email: HNELHD-BrainCCC@health.nsw.gov.au

Roster: Mon/Tues/Wed

“I’ve worked with brain cancer patients for the past 10 years in a surgical capacity, and I’ve always found them an exceptionally resilient group of people,” Sophie says. “It was always a privilege to work with them and their families and be with them throughout their journeys.”

Sophie will be job-sharing with Alisha Gooley, and while the team is based at the John Hunter Hospital, they’ll be visiting patients and their families at the Mater, Gateshead, Lake Macquarie and Maitland.

Although the majority of their work is face-to-face, a phone call can offer provide the support and reassurance a patient or carer needs. “Our days can be spent talking to patients on the phone in the car between site visits, seeing people in person, or meeting people at their bedside.”

“The MHF has an incredible reputation and I’ve been privileged enough to see the Brain Cancer Care Coordinators at work from their very first inception,” Sophie says. “I’ve watched all the girls come through and seen the incredible work that they do with patients and their families and I’m very excited to be a part of it.”

Location: Tamworth and outreach to Armidale

Phone: 0407 556 837

Email: HNELHD-TamworthBrainCCC@health.nsw.gov.au

Roster: Mon/Wed/Thurs

My name is Natasha Malcolm and I am the Brain Cancer Care Coordinator for the New England area. I am based in Tamworth, but also visit Armidale Oncology unit and consult patients up to 300km away, from towns such as Glenn Innes, Inverell, Narrabri & Moree. I have been in the role since June 2020, working 3 days a week.

Supporting patients and families through this most difficult journey is incredibly rewarding. Being the first Brain Cancer Nurse in this area  fills me with immense pride.  Brain cancer patients often have complex needs, so having  a dedicated specialist nurse has provided such a valuable service for those in the area.

Brain Cancer is such a devastating diagnosis and does not discriminate age or gender. Life can literally change overnight, both physically and mentally and in many circumstances the person they once were prior to diagnosis has been changed forever. Having a dedicated brain cancer specialist nurse for patients and families during this unbelievably difficult time has proven such a valuable service to have to brain cancer patients in our area.

The aim of this role is varying, from patient advocate, education, clinical advice, emotional support for both patient and families. I accompany majority of patients in there Oncologists consults here at the North West Cancer Centre and arrange and book treatment schedules, as well as arranging for follow-up investigations and assisting with referrals for any financial assistance that they may require. Assessing patient’s needs, referring to appropriate services when required and working with other multidisciplinary teams to ensure all patients and family’s needs are met. And often, just being that person on the other side of the phone to listen when people just need to chat can be just as valuable and any physical assistance you provide. Brain cancer patients often have very complex needs, so acting as that contact person between patients and specialists can help them better understand and comprehend things that are taking place.

I have taken great pride in starting the Brain Cancer Coordinator position for the North West area. The multiple kind words and thanks that I receive from patients and their families is endless and they always are so appreciative of any assistance they receive, even if it is just a person to listen when times get emotionally tough. I have been a Registered Nurse since 2003 and have held multiple positions throughout my career, but without a doubt this position has given me the most work satisfaction and enjoyment than any previous. I feel so privileged to be a part of my patient’s lives and always go to the absolute most to guide and help them thought this most devastating diagnosis. None of this would be possible if it wasn’t for the generosity of the Mark Hughes Foundation in funding this position and giving me the opportunity to help the people of the North West.

Location: Port Macquarie and outreach ton Coffs Harbour and Taree

Phone: 0428 903 111

Email: MNCLHD-BrainCCC@health.nsw.gov.au

Roster: Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs

I became an oncology nurse after my husband was diagnosed with a haematology cancer when we were young. I remember how overwhelming and daunting that time felt, and it inspired me to be the kind of calm, supportive presence I once needed. I’ve now worked in oncology for over 13 years, including the past 6 years as a Brain Tumour Care Coordinator, guiding patients and families through complex and life-changing journeys. I do this work because I understand how frightening a cancer diagnosis can feel. If I can ease even a small part of that fear and bring clarity to confusion and comfort during uncertainty, then I know I’m making a difference.

Newly appointed Translational Research Coordinator, to bridge the gap between research and brain cancer patients and their families.

Sandy’s been a part of the team for 8 years as a Brain Cancer Care Coordinator and she’ll now be working at the MHF Centre one day a week as the Translational Research Coordinator, to bridge the gap between research and brain cancer patients and their families.

“I am looking forward to supporting the vital work our researchers are undertaking in finding a cure for brain cancer,” Sandy says. “Seeing first-hand the devastation this disease causes to patients and their families, the MHF Brain Cancer Research Centre is providing hope to those who need it most. It is a privilege to be part of this incredible team.”