Dieticians can help

Community Health Centres often have a dietician, so ask at your local centre.

The Dietitians Association of Australia can direct you to an accredited practicing dietician in your area or to one who has experience in particular problems. Call 1800 812 942 or go to their website. Dieticians in private practice may also be listed in the Yellow Pages.

If your doctor refers you to a dietician as part of your Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan, you are eligible for a Medicare rebate. Some private health insurers provide a rebate.

At the Sydney Cancer Centre you can contact:

Merran Findlay
Senior Oncology Dietitian
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
Missenden Road
CAMPERDOWN NSW 2050
Phone: +61 (0)2 9515 8053
Pager: +61 (0)2 9515 6111 (x80723)
Fax: +61 (0)2 9515 5047
Merran.Findlay@sswahs.nsw.gov.au 

Refer to the Concord Hospital website for Dieticians at the Concord Hospital.

Help for carers

Preparing food for someone with cancer can be frustrating. There are many reasons why the person may not be able to eat what you have prepared. Some people just don’t feel like eating.

You may feel you have tried everything without success. Many people experience this and there is no easy solution.

To understand your feelings a little better, remember we often express our love or feelings for someone by giving food. If this food is not accepted, for whatever reason, it is natural to feel upset. If you try to make food less of an issue, it can reduce stress for everyone. There is no need to follow a strict eating plan – simply provide what the person feels they can comfortably manage.

Call the Helpline for information on cancer support and/or advocacy groups. Carers NSW also offers support and information for carers. Call 1800 242 636.