he Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition (BCAC) provides a united voice for New Zealand women who have experienced breast cancer. Together we work to make world class detection, treatment and care accessible to all those affected by breast cancer in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

We provide information, support and representation, empowering those with breast cancer to make informed choices about their treatment and care.

BCAC TODAY:

Committee member attends iconic US meeting

BCAC committee member Chris Walsh recently attended the 12th Annual American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Scientist – Survivor Meeting in Washington D.C. 

The meeting offers survivors and advocates the opportunity to hear about cutting-edge cancer research as well as opportunities to meet prominent cancer researchers and advocates from around the world.  To read about Chris’ experience click here. 

Breast reconstructions on offer in Hutt Valley

If you live in the Central or Nelson Marlborough district and have been waiting for breast reconstruction surgery, then your wait may soon be over.

The Hutt Valley District Health Board (HVDHB) have received additional funding which has allowed them to start accepting referrals for delayed breast reconstructions and are hoping to do 100 reconstructions each year for the next 3 years to clear the backlog of women waiting in the district.

If you, or someone you know, are eligible then please contact your breast surgeon or GP who can explain more and put you forward for surgery.

In praise of BCAC's former treasurer, Sue Guthrie

Sadly, BCAC recently lost its former treasurer, Sue Guthrie, to breast cancer.

Sue was a strong and proud advocate for better breast cancer treatment and care in New Zealand. She made an outstanding contribution and recognised that this work could literally save lives.

Click here to read more about Sue's involvement to transform breast cancer care in this country.

Recent submissions

BCAC have recently responded to the Review of Access to High Cost and Highly Specialised Medicines in New Zealand. To read our submission please click here.

BCAC in the news

Committee member Moana Papa talks about her breast cancer experience in a recent issue of New Idea (Pacific Magazines). Click here to read. (PDF file)

Congratulations to BCAC committee member, Dr Chris Walsh, who was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for her services to women's health in the New Year's Honours. Click here to read more.

BCAC chairperson, Libby Burgess is interviewed in an article 'Walking the Pink Path' (Fairfax Media) discussing how other cancer advocacy groups are learning from the pink path. Click here to read. (PDF file)

Committee member Moana Papa is interviewed in a recent
Sunday Star Times article talking about how to help a friend with breast cancer. The article also includes comment from chairperson, Libby Burgess. Click here to read. (PDF file)

Get all the latest breast cancer news and information in the BCAC Winter 2010 newsletter [July 2010] (PDF file)

We believe the new national guidelines on the management of early breast cancer will help to save lives. To read the Management of Early Breast Cancer guideline click here.