Robyn Wakefield, a Canberra mother whose son tragically died from cancer, is calling on the ACT government to establish dedicated child cancer treatment facilities in the capital. Currently, families must travel to Sydney for specialist paediatric oncology care, adding stress and financial burden during an already difficult time.
A Mother's Heartbreaking Plea
Wakefield's son, Jack, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at the age of 10. Despite undergoing treatment in Sydney, he passed away two years later. Wakefield said the constant travel and separation from family took a heavy toll on Jack and their entire family. She believes that if Canberra had its own child cancer centre, more families could stay together during treatment.
Current Situation in Canberra
Canberra Hospital provides some paediatric oncology services, but complex cases are referred to Sydney Children's Hospital or Westmead. This means families often spend weeks or months away from home, with one parent typically staying in Sydney while the other works in Canberra. Accommodation, travel, and childcare for siblings add significant costs.
Wakefield is not alone in her advocacy. The Canberra community has rallied behind her, with a petition garnering thousands of signatures. She has also met with local politicians, including ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith, to discuss the need for a dedicated facility.
What Would a Local Facility Mean?
A dedicated child cancer centre in Canberra could offer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care, as well as psychosocial support for families. It would also attract specialist doctors and nurses to the region, reducing the need for referrals interstate. Wakefield envisions a centre that provides holistic care, including play therapy, schooling, and sibling support programs.
Government Response
The ACT government has acknowledged the need for improved paediatric oncology services. In a statement, Minister Stephen-Smith said the government is investing in the expansion of Canberra Hospital, which will include new paediatric facilities. However, no specific timeline for a child cancer centre has been announced. Wakefield urges the government to act quickly, noting that every year without a local centre means more families endure unnecessary hardship.
- Petition: Over 10,000 signatures collected so far.
- Community Support: Local businesses and schools have held fundraisers.
- Cost of Travel: Estimated $500 per week for accommodation and fuel.
Wakefield's campaign has sparked a broader conversation about healthcare equity in the ACT. With a growing population, Canberra's health services must keep pace. For now, families like hers continue to make the arduous journey to Sydney, hoping that one day, no parent will have to choose between being with their sick child and supporting their other children.
