Community Support Services

Epworth Freemasons is committed to offering a supportive and comforting environment through a range of community support services specifically designed for women.

Endometriosis Support Group

The Endometriosis Support Group aims to respond to a need for support expressed by patients of the hospital’s Women's Health Unit. While Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 Australian women, currently there is no support group available for women with the condition in Victoria.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the endometrium (that lines the inside of the uterus) also grows outside the uterus. These growths or "patches" occur most often in the pelvis and lower abdomen, commonly on and below the ovaries.

Symptoms include mild, moderate or severe pelvic pain, particularly during menstruation. Endometriosis occurs in women between the ages of 12 and 50 and is commonly associated with infertility. (Source: Royal Aust & NZ College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists)

The support group meets bi-monthly to provide a positive environment for women to exchange ideas, coping strategies and current treatment information.

The expertise of health professionals in the field is also available.
Being a community service, the group is open to all women, not just those treated at Epworth Freemasons.

The group meets bi-monthly on the last Monday of the month at 7.00pm. For more information contact Wendy Dawson at Epworth Freemasons on 0417 215 192 or email wendy.dawson@epworth.org.au.

Useful Links
QUENDO - Endometriosis Association (Qld) Inc
Endometriosis New Zealand

Breast Friends Support Group

Breast Friends is a support group open to all women under 45 years who have been diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

The group meets in the relaxed, informal atmosphere of a local pub so women can have a light meal and drink if they wish. There is no formal agenda, with the focus on bringing together a group of women of similar age and life experiences to share their stories and support each other through a very emotional and stressful time in their lives.

An email reminder is sent each month, which includes any news items of interest and any change of venue.

Breast Friends meets on the first Wednesday of each month from 7.30pm.
To find out more the Breast Care Nurse on 03 9483 3711.