A letter to our community

Dear MIOG Community.

Well there goes another week where the themes are physical distancing, anxiety and uncertainty. It can be very stressful time for oncology patients, especially with treatment - induced immune effects and changes to your current treatment plans and options. 

The results of efforts are looking promising, and the distancing measures are succeeding at "flattening the curve". We are, however, still at the beginning of a long road ahead. Ipatien encourage everyone to stay patient, and rationally cautious and calm. We know what to do and what not to do - let's promote kindness within our community, share resources (especially with our elderly or isolated neighbours) and ensure that we stay low-risk. While we are practicing social distancing, let's enjoy a little more self-care.

At MIOG, we want to ensure you that we will continue to support you as best as we can. We are classed as an essential business, and are open and operating. Whilst we have closed the clinic doors to minimise people entering the premises, behind the scenes we are business as usual: our Naturopaths, Nutritionists and Psychologists are still doing consultations (via zoom or phone), and our friendly reception staff are available for a chat or to answer any questions you might have. Please ring us if you urgently need to pick anything up and we can make arrangements for you, otherwise we are posting out supplements. However we are already experiencing stock shortages due to backlogs from our suppliers on some items but we're doing our best to have a steady flow of supplements. Australia Post also seems under the pump, and we are finding that even express satchels are being delayed.

Unfortunately, massage and acupuncture appointments need to be suspended for the time being on site. Our Physiotherapist Sachini is offering telehealth consultations for any Lymphoedema related issues, and our other practitioners will be offering free webinars for home care.

We are working to support you, our patient community as thoughtfully as we can at the moment. Psychological support is more important than ever, and the government is implementing various ways to increase access to these services. If you need guidance, support or just an ear that listens, please remember we are here to help.

See you soon (virtually that is!)

Kindest thoughts for you and your families.

Sam, Margo, Belinda, Jane, Shala, Christine, Sachini, Teresa, Vivian and Tanya.