Chief Executive Officer
CurrentCancer Wellness Support is a local organisation supporting people diagnosed with cancer in the Blue Mountains, Penrith and Hawkesbury communities. Founded by Robyn Yates OAM in 2005, we operate two wellness centres in Penrith and Leura, providing an average of 5,500 subsidised therapies annually. We currently support over 700 clients and carers through their cancer journey, by offering a holistic program of 27 complementary therapies, focused on:* improving physical and mental wellbeing* educating and empowering clients to proactively self-care* providing respite from an impersonal world of hospitals and clinics* introducing clients to a supportive community that understands their needs.Our community-based model harnesses the skills, knowledge and care of a network of highly qualified therapists, counsellors and trained volunteers. We aim to lift the burden of care from families and create a personalised, compassionate atmosphere that helps clients cope with the demands of cancer treatment and regain strength and wellness.Clients can access care through every stage of cancer: from the first vulnerable days after diagnosis, through the treatment phase of surgery and chemotherapy, and continuing into long-term symptoms management and recovery.Therapies offered include Acupuncture, Expressive Art Therapy, Counselling, Hypnotherapy, Lymphoedema Management, Massage, Meditation, Naturopathy, Qi Gong, Reflexology, Reiki, and Yoga, as well as facilitated support groups for clients and their carers.Importantly, the therapies we offer do not seek to replace medical treatment for cancer, but to help reduce the worst effects of the disease.The majority of our funding comes from the generosity of our community via our two Op Shops at Penrith and Katoomba, added to the heartfelt service of our practitioners and volunteers, and the dedication of the team - demonstrating what can be achieved when we come together for a common purpose.
