*Please be aware that this episode discusses childhood cancer, death of a child and Voluntary Assisted Dying.
Circa 2021, Liz Habermann appeared on ABC TV and in the media, but not due to being a famous actress. Unfortunately Liz’s name became known to many across the Nation due to her heart breaking experience of losing her teen son, Rhys, to cancer. That wasn’t the only reason her name became memorable because Liz also became a fierce advocate for Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD), spurred on by Rhys’ strong support for the option; one he unfortunately didn’t legally have access to.
Take care when listening to our chat. It is emotional, but also insightful. Above all, it is a recount of Liz’s experience and Rhys’ wishes. VAD is not something that everyone is comfortable with or agrees with. It is a relatively new option for people in South Australia, enabling eligible people to voluntarily access and self-administer, or in some circumstances have a doctor administer, a medication that will cause their death, in accordance with the process set out in the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2021 (SA). Although it is an overwhelming choice to be given, it is ultimately a choice that did not exist a few years ago.
Not necessarily connected to a cancer diagnosis, but if you are concerned about someone who is struggling and finding it difficult to see their way out of grief or mental challenges, then we highly recommend Question. Persuade. Refer. QPR training, which Emma and Lain talked about in the first episode of Season 1. You can access the training here. Type in the code CSA to take the training free of cost. This training is funded by Country SA PHN. We thank them for their support in the Suicide Prevention space- an area we believe is important to put energy towards.
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*MFEP+ME is a project created within the program Mentally Fit EP (MFEP). MFEP aims to empower people to take charge of their lives and to build mentally fit, connected communities. We believe mental health is everyone's business!
Thank you to our NFP organisation, West Coast Youth and Community Support, for making MFEP a possibility! A rock star organisation with rock star staff!
Thank you to our Season 3 Sponsor, Lincoln Rural, for supporting Mentally Fit EP for many years through fundraising. Their efforts and dedication have supported the EP community in a variety of ways and for that we are grateful!
A big thank you to the Cummins and Port Lincoln Community Banks for supporting Mentally Fit EP through their grant programs.
Helpline Numbers and EP Counselling services are pinned to the top of the Mentally Fit EP Facebook page
Lifeline 131 114
Regional Access 1300 032 186
Suicide Call Back 1300 659 467
