Support for you and your family through pancreatic cancer

When you’re faced with a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, you can’t do it alone. It’s a time when hope and comfort makes a difference and with Jo, Pancreatic Nurse Coordinator at the Jreissati Family Pancreatic Centre at Epworth, there’s help at every step.

Jo Crowther supports Epworth pancreatic cancer patients and families throughout their journey. She’s on the other end when you ring up about referral; and a familiar and consistent face at day treatment, hospital admission, and pre and post operative reviews.

“A cancer diagnosis is frightening,” Jo explains. “Every patient copes differently.”

“Some are philosophical, some are distraught, some are pragmatic and they all need support. My role as Pancreatic Nurse Coordinator is to be insightful to their needs, to be adaptable and available. I find often it is just taking the time to listen and validate and respect whatever their situation may be.”

Jo has been an important part of the Jreissati Family Pancreatic Centre at Epworth since its launch in 2021, with patients and loved ones describing her support as invaluable.

She feels “very privileged” to be there for patients, and most of all, she looks forward to making a difference in people’s lives with the specialist Centre.

“The work of the research arm of the Centre is exciting and it is especially gratifying to offer people the opportunity to become involved with clinical trials.”

Improving patient outcomes

An estimated 4,200 Australians received a pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2021. This is in contrast to where it sits in terms of mortality – estimated as the 3rd most common cause of cancer-related death last year.

“Sadly, I think pancreatic cancer is unique in terms of prognosis,” Jo says. “For that reason, the care journey is also unique. But in my experience, people with a cancer diagnosis just need to know they are supported, cared about, have the opportunity to have access to treatment and always have hope.”

Jo, who has worked in oncology for her entire nursing career, joins leading specialists and researchers at the Jreissati Family Pancreatic Centre at Epworth. Together, their mission is to improve survival outcomes and quality of life for people with pancreatic cancer.

Do you have a question about pancreatic cancer and the Jreissati Family Pancreatic Centre at Epworth? Jo can help you understand next steps for you and your family:

Mobile: 0428 658 039
Email: [email protected]
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