Men diagnosed with prostate cancer across the Hunter region now have access to dedicated specialist support closer to home, with the appointment of a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse (PCSN) at Icon Cancer Centre Maitland.
The role is designed to help patients and their families navigate the complexities of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, providing ongoing education, care coordination and personalised support from diagnosis through to survivorship.
Icon Maitland PCSN, Mistie Honeyman, says prostate cancer can have a significant impact on all aspects of a patient’s life, making access to specialist support an important part of their care journey.
“Many men face not only the physical effects of prostate cancer treatment, but also emotional and practical challenges that can affect both them and their loved ones,” Mistie says.
“My role is to provide a consistent point of contact throughout their treatment and beyond, ensuring patients have someone they can turn to for information, support and reassurance when they need it most.”
The new PCSN role was made possible thanks to a generous donation to the Icon Cancer Foundation from TV personality Charli Robinson and her husband, race car driver Liam Talbot. Charli grew up in the Hunter region.
“I think everybody knows someone who’s been through cancer in some way, and having someone to turn to, like a qualified nurse, during that time is essential.
“This donation is possible through my partner Liam Talbot and his late father Ken Talbot. It is a legacy he would be proud of to support those going through this trying time,” Charli says.
“I’d heard about Icon Cancer Centre and what they do, and I was so grateful for the care and innovative support they give to so many from my home area of the Hunter region. It felt right to support them.”
The addition of a PCSN is welcome news for Port Stephens resident Neil Hansford (77), who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in February 2023 after elevated PSA readings prompted further investigation.
Following his diagnosis, Neil underwent 20 radiotherapy sessions at Icon Cancer Centre Maitland, alongside hormone therapy.
Neil, who underwent treatment prior to Mistie’s appointment, believes access to a dedicated specialist nurse will provide an additional layer of support for future patients.
“Since medical professionals run to such overly tight schedules, access to a specialist nurse will allow patients to talk to a person with specialist knowledge and access to records,” Neil says.
“The Icon Maitland staff have always filled the advice component well, but now there will be a specialist able to provide additional guidance and counselling when patients need it.”
Looking to the future, Mistie hopes to see continued growth in survivorship care and support services for men living with and beyond prostate cancer.
“Cancer care doesn’t end when treatment finishes,” Mistie says.
“I’d like to see an even greater focus on supporting the long-term physical, emotional and psychosocial wellbeing of men with prostate cancer, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.”
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia.
PCSN’s are registered nurses who have received additional training from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia to make them an expert in prostate cancer care.
Image Caption: From left to right: PCSN Mistie Honeyman, Icon Maitland Radiation Oncologist Dr Kate Martin and Icon Maitland prostate cancer patient Neil Hansford.
