MPA operates melanoma support groups in QLD, NSW, Victoria, the ACT & SA, as well as a patient focused website, forums and a telephone helpline. These services are designed to link patients with other patients to help them share information and support.
MPA is a community of support in a time of need.
Believe it or not, the organisation was actually 'born' over a game of pool. The Founders, Daniel Belcher and Brent Grace, had both diagnosed with Melanoma at a young age and felt that access to information, treatment options, and contact with fellow melanoma patients and survivors was limited.
On July 6, 2006 the organisation was officially launched at Govt House by Her Excellency Quentin Bryce AC.
Mission
‘Melanoma Patients Australia Ltd strives to touch the hearts of the many thousands of Australians affected by melanoma each year. Our organisation aims to provide information, inspiration and hope to melanoma patients and their carers and, in doing so, improve the quality and longevity of their lives. We also aim to reduce the incidence and severity of melanoma by advocating the prevention and early detection message and by aiding researchers.'
Goals
- To provide a forum for Melanoma patients to meet and share common experiences. Being diagnosed with Melanoma can be very isolating, confusing and frightening. By providing a website Forum, we hope to ensure that people feel supported and informed.
- To provide information, inspiration and hope to patients via general publications, and survivor stories. We view Melanoma Patients Australia as a stepping stone to information and support. An integral part of our support services are the melanoma support groups which we deliver in Qld, NSW, Victoria and the ACT.
- To raise the profile of Melanoma, and to highlight the necessity of prevention and early detection. Melanoma, if detected early enough can be treated through basic surgery. We aim to work in conjunction with existing Skin Cancer and Interest groups, to promote prevention and early detection and increase awareness of Melanoma.
- To provide a mechanism for people to participate in fundraising activities and to donate to Melanoma research and education.
My reason for choosing to support Melanoma Patients Australia is a personal one. My father lost his battle with melanoma in November 2010 and Chris and I also have a niece dealing with the disease.
Chris and I commented the other day that this fund-raising project may well be the best thing we've ever done in our lives.
Melanoma Patients Australia has full Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status and is classified as an Income Tax Exempt Charity (ITEC). MPA is authorised to fundraise in NSW: CFN/21701.
For more information about Melanoma Patients Australia, go to www.melanomapatients.org.
Melanoma Patients Australia has full Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status and is classified as an Income Tax Exempt Charity (ITEC). MPA is authorised to fundraise in NSW: CFN/21701.
For more information about Melanoma Patients Australia, go to www.melanomapatients.org.
