Chris O'Brien Lifehouse

05/05/2026

𝐓𝐡𝐲𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡

Thyroid cancer can develop quietly, often without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s what makes awareness so important.

May is Thyroid Awareness Month, led by the Australian Thyroid Foundation, a time to shine a light on a disease that is often overlooked and support earlier recognition of symptoms.

The thyroid is a small gland at the base of the neck, but it plays a big role in regulating heart rate, body temperature and weight. When cancer develops here, it may not cause obvious changes until it begins to grow.

In 2025, Cancer Australia estimated that 4,355 Australians would be diagnosed with thyroid cancer, with a 1 in 78 lifetime risk by age 85.

So, what should you look out for? A lump or swelling in the neck, changes in the voice such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or a sensation of tightness in the neck. Some people may also notice swollen lymph nodes or ongoing pain in the neck or throat.

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but they are worth checking. If something doesn’t feel right, a conversation with a doctor can make all the difference.

01/05/2026

𝐔𝐕 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐞𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

This May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder that sun protection belongs in your daily routine, even as the seasons change. At least 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, it's our most commonly diagnosed cancer.

Sun protection is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk, and it's never too late to start. Follow Cancer Council Australia's 5 sun-safe steps every day: Slip on protective clothing , Slop on SPF50+ sunscreen , Slap on a hat, Seek shade, Slide on sunglasses.

UV is invisible and present even on cool, cloudy days.

Know your skin. Notice any changes in a spot's size, shape or colour? See your GP or if you spot any of the following skin check services near you, drop in for a check Australian Skin Cancer Foundation Skin Check Champions DermScreen

30/04/2026

This is a powerful reminder of what blood donation means to patients like Ali at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, where transfusions are an essential part of care for many people living with cancer.

We are deeply grateful to every Australian Red Cross Lifeblood donor whose generosity brings strength, time and hope when it is needed most.

For those living with cancer, a blood transfusion is more than just a medical procedure - it is a gift of time, energy and hope. One of our brave recipients, Ali, shared this reflection from her journal -

“Before I receive a blood transfusion, the unit of blood hanging above me, I look up and thank the beautiful human who donated it. I feel gratitude towards that person, whom I will never know.”

It is the truest form of charity - giving a piece of yourself to sustain the life of another. To every donor who has ever given life, please know that there is someone out there feeling gratitude that words can barely reach.

28/04/2026

𝐃𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐎’𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr David Wilson as Director of Neurosurgery at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.

Dr Wilson is a highly regarded neurosurgeon with a specialised focus on spinal oncology. His clinical work is centred on improving quality of life for patients with complex spinal tumours, supported by a strong interest in advancing minimally invasive surgical techniques. Known for his thoughtful and collaborative approach, Dr Wilson is committed to ensuring surgery is considered as part of a broader, multidisciplinary model of care.

Reflecting on his work, Dr Wilson shared: “One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is being able to provide hope to patients who are often in terrible pain and facing difficult diagnoses.”

Having trained across leading centres, including Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Dr Wilson has worked alongside many respected colleagues and brings both depth of experience and a clear vision for the future of neurosurgery at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. His approach aligns closely with our commitment to patient-centred care, with a focus on outcomes that extend beyond treating the disease alone.

We would also like to acknowledge Associate Professor Brindha Shivalingam for her leadership as Director of Neurosurgery at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. During her tenure, she has played a key role in developing a world-class neurosurgery program and fostering a strong culture of clinical excellence and collaboration.

Please join us in welcoming Dr Wilson to this leadership position.

24/04/2026

𝐀𝐧𝐳𝐚𝐜 𝐃𝐚𝐲

This Anzac Day, the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse community will pause to honour and remember all those who have served in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions around the world.

Lest we forget.

21/04/2026

𝐓𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡

Testicular cancer is the second most common cancer in Australian men aged 20 to 39, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer. In 2025, an estimated 1,040 men were diagnosed, with the average age just 36, as reported by Cancer Council. While survival rates are high, a diagnosis at a young age can have lasting impacts.

Research is helping change that.

Professor Peter Grimison, Medical Oncologist at COBL, is part of the CLIMATE study, a new clinical trial led by the Australian and New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate Cancer Trials Group (ANZUP) and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. The trial is exploring a simple blood test that may help predict whether early-stage testicular cancer is likely to return.

As Professor Grimison explains:
“When we see a young man with what appears to be early-stage testicular cancer, he needs to be followed closely for five years, as there can be up to a 50 per cent chance of it coming back. We do not want to give unnecessary chemotherapy to young men who do not need it because of the long-term side effects, which is why research into early detection tools is vital for better patient outcomes.”

This blood test could help identify who needs further treatment and who can safely avoid it.

Regular self-checks are important. If something does not feel right, speak to a healthcare professional. Early action makes a difference.

15/04/2026

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤

🎶 This World Music Therapy Week, we’re celebrating YOU.

Thanks to the generosity of our COBL donor community, our Christmas Appeal raised over $195,000 to keep music therapy free for patients at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.

“It’s wonderful to see how people really understand the power and value of our Music in Health program.”

World Music Therapy Week showcases how music therapy can transform lives, support mental health, and create a meaningful impact through sound and rhythm. It is an evidence-based practice offered at COBL, with 2026 marking the 10th year of the program!

Inspired by the 2026 theme, “Connecting Borders,” music therapy offers patients opportunities for self-expression and meaningful connection through a supportive creative framework.

Read more in our latest OpenHouse : https://donate.mylifehouse.org.au/OHAW26

09/04/2026

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐏𝐬𝐲𝐜𝐡𝐨-𝐎𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐃𝐚𝐲

World Psycho-Oncology Day serves as a global reminder that cancer care is about more than treating the disease, it’s also about supporting the emotional and psychological wellbeing of people affected by cancer.

A cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty, distress, and significant life changes for patients and those close to them. Navigating these challenges often requires support that goes beyond medical treatment.

At Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, our Psycho-Oncology Service provides specialised counselling and psychological support for patients, carers, and families facing the emotional impact of cancer, treatment, and palliative care.

“The experience of living with cancer is like throwing a rock in a pond, and everyone copes differently. For many of our patients and families, attending a Psycho-Oncology appointment allows them to have a space that they are able to be present to all the emotions that arise, and to identify things that will help them manage through it all”. Toni Lindsay, COBL Senior Clinical Psychologist.

Today we recognise the progress made in psycho-oncology and continue to advocate for accessible psychological support as a vital part of comprehensive cancer care.

07/04/2026

𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡

A cancer diagnosis at any age is life-altering, but for young people it can bring unique challenges during one of the most formative stages of life. In 2025, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that around 1,213 young people aged 15 to 24 were diagnosed with cancer.

This April we recognise Youth Cancer Awareness Month. Organised by Canteen, this year’s theme is “Too young. Too serious. Too urgent.”
A diagnosis at this age can affect every part of a young person’s life. Many experience disruption to study, work and friendships, and families are often navigating the impact alongside them.

At COBL, young people are supported through the You Can Cancer Centre, a purpose-built space designed with their social wellbeing in mind. The centre offers adolescents and young adults aged 14 to 29 a safe and comfortable place during treatment, with lounge areas, apartments and shared living spaces available for patients and their families.

Patients can also access dedicated adolescent and young adult-focused medical care, psychological support and the guidance of a clinical nurse specialist.

No young person should face cancer alone. Youth Cancer Awareness Month helps raise awareness and highlights the importance of ensuring young people receive the care and support they need every step of the way.

05/04/2026

We would like to extend our warmest wishes to our Chris O’Brien Lifehouse community this Easter. May this be a time of renewal, reflection, and joy for you and your loved ones. Let us cherish the hope, love, and new beginnings that this season brings.

01/04/2026

💛 Meet Specialist Nurse Niamh.

With over a decade of experience in cancer care, Niamh Mulvey is part of the compassionate specialist nursing team at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and a familiar, reassuring presence for so many of our patients.

Niamh guides patients through our LivingRoom’s evidence-based holistic services, helping them manage side effects with therapies like oncology massage or exercise physiology, and empowering them to take charge of their wellbeing.

You can read more about Niamh’s impact here: https://donate.mylifehouse.org.au/OHAW26

For people navigating cancer treatment, having a single point of contact can make all the difference. Someone to call. Someone to text. Someone who understands.

More soon on the incredible impact of specialist nurses at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. 💙

30/03/2026

𝐂𝐎𝐁𝐋 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲: 𝐂-𝐑𝐚𝐝 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞

The Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Radiation Oncology Department has recently been recognised as a C-RAD Centre of Excellence. This significant achievement highlights the expertise and precision of the radiation therapies delivered at COBL, as we are Australia's first clinical site to receive this recognition.

The department utilises several pieces of C-RAD equipment, enabling patients to receive fast and highly accurate radiation therapy. C-RAD develops advanced Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) systems that support clinics to deliver safer, more precise and more efficient radiation treatments.

These technologies form part of an integrated approach to care, supporting our multidisciplinary teams to plan and deliver treatment with exceptional accuracy while enhancing patient safety and comfort throughout the course of therapy.

We are proud to receive this recognition as a Centre of Excellence, which reflects the dedication of our Radiation Oncology team and our ongoing commitment to providing leading, patient centred cancer care.