Returning: Catalyst

Catalyst returns to ABC next week with “Cancer: A Story of Hope” exploring the progress made in Cancer care and research.

A big take away from the episode is the role of exercise, muscle mass and the impact of chemotherapy on the body. In fact, some doctors now encourage those with a recent diagnosis to engage in a workout routine, to help prepare their body for chemotherapy. This is just one of the many discoveries coming out the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse providing greater quality of life for those diagnosed with the disease.

Cancer care is changing. As treatments become more effective, people are living longer with the
disease, even when it’s incurable. This transformation in treatment brings patient quality of life to the forefront. It’s not just about treating the cancer, it’s about treating the whole person.

Behind the scenes of the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse – a specialist cancer centre exploring innovative cancer treatment approaches – Catalyst follows the journeys of recently diagnosed Australians, all< undergoing different treatments.

Finding new, more effective ways to fight cancer relies on patient volunteers to take part in clinical trials. One of them is retired teacher Fiona. A healthy non-smoker, she’s agreed to an experimental therapy to boost the drugs that target her form of lung cancer.

Reducing the long and short-term impacts of surgery has become an important therapeutic focus.

41-year-old Erl faces a complex operation. To reduce time on the table, two highly-skilled surgical teams operate on him at the same time. Meanwhile, for 54-year-old Tony, the latest robotically assisted technology ensures that the impact of a kidney tumour removal is kept to a minimum.

This new holistic approach to cancer care includes complementary treatments with proven benefits. Music therapy offers not only a distraction but a moment to express feelings through song. For Julieanne, with stage 4b cervical cancer and undergoing intensive chemotherapy, massage and exercise have been essential, providing real relief from the anxiety and pain of her treatment.

Production Details
Produced and directed by David Symonds. Associate producer: Oliver Graham. Executive producer:
Penny Palmer. Head of Factual & Culture, ABC: Jennifer Collins.

8.30pm Tuesday 20 July on ABC.