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Mesothelioma support that makes a difference – here’s how we help

Imagine receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis. 

Imagine hearing that you only have 6-18 months to live.  

Imagine being told you have a rare cancer that you have never even heard of.  

What do you do? Who do you turn to for practical advice without the medical jargon? Where can you find support from those who have walked this path and truly understand? 

This is where we come in.  

With over 150 active clients, including those diagnosed (our clients), their caregivers and those bereaved, our team is there when we are needed most.  

Our support team offers much-needed understanding, reassurance, and practical guidance during what can be an incredibly isolating and overwhelming experience. 

Here we explain more about our specialist mesothelioma support services, how we fill a critical gap in mesothelioma care, and why it matters to the West Australian community.  

A nurse who understands: Lizz Clarke’s role in mesothelioma support 

Lizz is our dedicated Support Nurse Coordinator. If you have met her, you will understand why she is perfect for this role, with her unique and deeply personal perspective having lived experience with mesothelioma.  

As a registered nurse, Lizz combines clinical knowledge with genuine empathy. From diagnosis to treatment, Lizz ensures each client receives the right care at the right time. With empathic support and respectful guidance, she bridges the gap between medical jargon and meaningful understanding, and advocates for her clients.  

It’s this level of support, commitment and understanding that Reflections has come to be known for.  

Read on to find out about the mesothelioma support services we offer to those diagnosed, their caregivers and families.  

Mesothelioma Support Services  

A mesothelioma diagnosis is life-altering—not just for the person diagnosed, but for their loved ones too. That’s why our approach extends beyond clients to include their caregivers, families and those who are bereaved. 

Reflections mesothelioma support services include: 

• One-on-One Support: personalised support in person, over the phone, or via email. We provide the support you need, or you think you need, when you need it.  

• Peer Support Groups: we run regular support sessions for those diagnosed and their caregivers, and for those who are bereaved. Connecting with others who truly understand this journey can be a source of comfort and hope. For those outside of the Perth metro area, we can arrange a video call for the session.  

• Mesothelioma Resources and Information: ensuring clients and caregivers have access to trusted, accurate and relevant information about the disease, what to expect, treatment options, palliative care, and coping strategies is a key part of what we offer. The Hope Companion is our comprehensive mesothelioma support pack endorsed by medical professionals and supported by Cancer Australia.  

• Bereavement Support: several members of our team have lost a loved one to mesothelioma, so we understand firsthand the anguish and grief this creates.  Standing by families and loved ones as they navigate loss and helping them find hope and joy for the life still to be lived, when they are ready, is what we are here for. Our Life After Loss to Mesothelioma e-book is a go-to guide for navigating the journey.  

Why Mesothelioma Support Really Matters in WA 

As a rare terminal cancer, mesothelioma can often leave individuals and families feeling confused, fearful and uncertain about what lies ahead. Our goal is to ensure that no one has to face this journey alone. 

WA has some of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world.  

This asbestos cancer is not going away any time soon. In fact, we’re experiencing a third wave of asbestos-related diseases.  

We’re proud to be there for our clients and appreciate their immense gratitude for the comfort and reassurance they receive, knowing they have someone to turn to at any stage of their journey. 

Looking Ahead 

As Reflections continues to grow, so too does our commitment to those we support. You can read some of their stories here. We are constantly seeking new ways to expand our reach, improve our services, and ensure that everyone impacted by mesothelioma can access the care and guidance they need. 

If you or someone you love has been affected by mesothelioma, know that you are not alone. Reflections is here to help so please reach out.  

We do not receive any government funding and wholly rely on donations to provide our support services. If you are able, you can make a tax-deductible donation to Reflections here.