At 19, Jackie Lawlor is juggling university and treatment for stage four cancer — but a chemotherapy appointment no longer has to claim her whole afternoon.
The Slacks Creek student is among more than 100 patients who have already benefited from Logan Hospital’s first specialist adult Cancer Care Services, bringing treatment closer to home.
For Ms Lawlor, who receives fortnightly chemotherapy just 10 minutes from home, the difference is more time spent doing what she loves.
“Being able to receive my treatment so close to where I live means I have the entire afternoon after my chemotherapy to spend time in the fresh air which is really important for my mental health,” she said.
The second-year university student was diagnosed with stage four Hodgkin lymphoma earlier this year after feeling unusually tired and not quite herself.
Despite the shock, she has continued to prioritise the activities that help her feel strong.
“Exercise and feeling strong is really important to me and helps me tolerate my treatment better,” Ms Lawlor said.
She said her faith had helped her navigate the experience.
“I haven’t really felt down about it because I trust that everything happens for a reason,” she said.
“Through this journey, I’m learning a lot about resilience and patience.”
For Marsden resident David Hyde, receiving treatment locally has meant less time on the road and more time on the golf course.
He previously travelled to Princess Alexandra Hospital for his cancer treatment.
“Being able to come to Logan means I am spending less time travelling and more time enjoying the things I love, like a round of golf,” Mr Hyde said.
The new service has 13 treatment chairs, two consultation rooms and a dedicated interview room, with further chairs planned when the latest stage of Logan Hospital’s expansion is completed in 2027.
Acting nurse unit manager Susan Hazlewood said the team was proud to deliver specialist care within the community.
“The new Cancer Care Day Services provides admitted day treatment and outpatient support for eligible patients requiring cancer therapies, helping meet the growing needs of the Logan–Beaudesert community,” Ms Hazlewood said.
“We offer a range of treatments including chemotherapy, cancer drug therapies and day therapy services that patients can access with a doctor’s referral, helping ensure they receive the right support in a safe and welcoming environment.”
The adult service follows the opening of cancer care services at Eight Mile Plains Satellite Health Centre in May 2024.
It operates alongside Logan Hospital’s existing Paediatric Cancer Service, delivered in partnership with Queensland Children’s Hospital since 2009.
Patients seeking access to the new adult service require a doctor’s referral, with treatment available to eligible patients.
Subscribe to stay up-to-date with news from across Logan. You’ll receive a link to our digital newspaper direct to your inbox each week. It’s free.
