For medical oncologists, the impact of melanoma is not only measured in treatments and clinical outcomes, but in the lives of patients and families they walk alongside every day. In this interview, Adelaide-based oncologist Dr Rachel Roberts-Thomson reflects on joining the Adelaide Melanoma March for the very first time alongside colleagues, patients, friends, and family as part of Team Cancer Care Adelaide.
As a medical oncologist working closely with melanoma patients, what does participating in the Adelaide Melanoma March personally mean to you?
This was my first Adelaide Melanoma March although I have been aware of this important community event over the years. I was a little uncertain as to whether this was the right thing to participate in as a treating doctor but I am so glad that I did because the community coming together felt very powerful and positive and it was a very enjoyable day that felt like a lot of wonderful forward steps were being achieved.
“There needs to be continued momentum to look at why we are still losing people to this diagnosis and focus on innovative strategies and obtaining access to these.”
Your team “Cancer Care Adelaide” has been one of the leading fundraising teams in Adelaide. What inspired your team to get involved so passionately?
It really didn’t take much for the Team to agree to come together for the March. The Team on the day consisted of Clinical trial co-ordinators who support the work on Melanoma clinical trials, one of Adelaide’s wonderful Melanoma nurse specialists, a Medical Oncology colleague, a valuable administrative staff member, and our families.
Fundraising is important to be able to improve on outcomes in Australia with regards to all things melanoma whether it be prevention strategies, early detection and awareness strategies or treatment strategies. All of these important areas need funding and supporting.
From your perspective, how far has melanoma research and treatment come in recent years? What gives you hope for the future of melanoma care?
There has been progress over my career which has been immense. It has been exciting to witness the treatments improve and evolve. Nonetheless there needs to be continued momentum to look at why we are still losing people to this diagnosis and focus on innovative strategies and obtaining access to these. What gives me hope is knowing that there are very dedicated people in Australia working in laboratories and clinics and in advocacy roles towards a coveted zero deaths from Melanoma future.
“I believe that if we look out for each other by reminding regularly our friends, families and communities to wear sunscreen and drive sun-safe practices this is such a valuable step.”
How can everyday Australians help make a meaningful difference in the fight against melanoma?
I believe that if we look out for each other by reminding our friends, families and communities regularly to wear sunscreen and drive sun-safe practices this is such a valuable step. Putting up that sunshade and encouraging everyone to group under it may seem a small thing to do but does make a difference on that day and for those around you.
What is one thing you wish people knew about melanoma?
I would like people to know how common melanoma and other skin cancers actually are in Australia. Melanoma can take people by surprise and so good lifestyle practices over time will help protect you against this way too common and often preventable cancer.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of melanoma research in Australia?
For me this question is broad but I hope that we can identify why some people respond so well to the treatments we have and why others don’t and so we can hone in on features of this to be able to manipulate the tumour or host environment to improve on responses. I would also like to be able to better predict side effects that can occur to treatments and find ways of navigating this space with these predictors.
On the day itself, what was your favourite part of the Melanoma March experience?
I really enjoyed seeing how dedicated and committed those who attended were and how this event brought people together; people with their own personal experience, family members and those of their treating and supporting communities. It really was a lovely morning with great energy and togetherness.
“Fundraising is important to be able to improve on outcomes in Australia with regards to all things melanoma whether it be prevention strategies, early detection and awareness strategies or treatment strategies.”
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