Lauren’s cancer journey gives rise to special bond with radiation therapist

At just 30 years old, Lauren Gribble had her world turned upside down when she was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Within weeks of her diagnosis, Ms Gribble started radiation therapy at Townsville University Hospital (TUH).

“You go from planning when you’re going to have your next holiday to planning when you’re starting your treatment for cancer, which is a very drastic shift in mindset,” Ms Gribble said.

“I didn’t know what to expect with radiation therapy, but I was lucky that I didn’t experience much pain and discomfort during the treatment.

“I also had an amazing team looking after me; they explained in great detail how all the procedures worked, and they made me feel really comfortable during every radiation therapy session.”

Ms Gribble said she formed a special bond with her radiation therapist Laura Baker during her five weeks of treatment.

“I met Laura on the first day of my treatment, which was nice because I was then able to go through this entire journey with her alongside me.

“Laura and the team went above and beyond in making me feel comfortable; they even played Taylor Swift for me.

“I’m a huge Taylor Swift fan, so having her songs blaring during my radiation treatment made me feel so much more comfortable.”

Given colorectal cancer generally affects older people, Ms Gribble decided to start sharing her cancer journey online to help other young people who’re going through the same experience.

“When I was first diagnosed, it was very overwhelming because there’s very little information about young people with my type of diagnosis.

“I started sharing my journey online so other young people in the same situation as me won’t feel alone, and it also encourages people to get symptoms checked.

“It’s daunting putting yourself out there, but the response I’ve had has been very positive, and if it helps just one person then it’s worth it.’’

Townsville Hospital and Health Service radiation therapist Laura Baker said her favourite part of the job was forming special relationships with patients like Lauren.

“As radiation therapists, we have two split roles; the first role revolves around developing a treatment plan for the patient, and the second is about delivering the radiation therapy to the patient,” Ms Baker said.

“What’s really special about delivering the treatment is that we get to be with the patient throughout their journey and see them every single time they come into the hospital.

“I was lucky enough to work with Lauren from her very first appointment when we did an education session and an initial CT scan so we could work out how to administer the treatment as accurately as possibly.

“We were then able to support her and make her feel comfortable as she underwent her treatment over the subsequent weeks.”

The role of radiation therapists and radiographers is being celebrated this National Radiographers and Radiation Therapists’ Week.

“There’s often a misconception between our role as radiation therapists and the role of radiographers,” Ms Baker said.

“Essentially, radiation therapists are responsible for planning and delivering radiation treatment, such as those used in cancer therapy.

“Radiographers use X-rays to produce radiographs of patients in order to help diagnose a medical condition. A medical radiation professional works in three main areas: diagnostic radiography, radiation therapy and nuclear medicine.

“It’s so important to recognise that a multidisciplinary team works together to care for patients like Lauren.

“That includes radiation therapists, radiographers, doctors, nurses, admin staff, allied health professionals and so many others.

“It’s great to have so many members of the team working together to improve the lives of our patients.”