Since 2019, the Breast Care Nurse Scholarship Program has been making a tangible difference at Western Health, thanks to the generous support of our Breast West donors. This program has created vital learning opportunities for nurses, strengthening the healthcare workforce and ensuring patients treated for breast cancer each year at Western Health receive the best possible care.
Marcus Storey, Surgical Operations Manager at Western Health, reached out to thank the Foundation’s supporters for their impact, highlighting the important role Breast Care Nurses play in guiding patients through their diagnosis and treatment.
“Whether it’s helping people understand their treatment options, breaking down complex medical jargon, or providing emotional support that reassures families that they are not alone, our Breast care Nurses provide this essential care and are making a real difference.”
Through the Foundation’s fundraising, four dedicated nurses have been supported to complete the program, with a fifth currently undertaking their studies:
2019/20 – Alysha Cockburn
2020/21 – Wendy Wu
2021/22 – Phillipa Sambevski
2022/23 – No recipient (program paused)
2023/24 – Claire Anstey
2024/25 – Sally Nguyen
Funds for this program come through in a variety of ways. In the early days of the program, a fashion show and dinner fundraiser were held, where more recently, community groups such as the Williamstown Imperials Cricket Club, have chosen to support the program through events like their Ladies Day, which raised $4760 in 2025.
The success of the program is evident in the career progression of recipients. Wendy Wu is now employed as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse at Western Health, while Claire Anstey recently secured a Breast Care Nurse Consultant position within the organisation. These achievements highlight the program’s role in developing skilled professionals who provide compassionate and specialised support to breast cancer patients.
“Thank you for the amazing support of our Breast Cancer community and for the Scholarship program,” says Marcus.
The Western Health Foundation’s commitment to this scholarship program is ensuring a strong, skilled, and compassionate breast care nursing workforce, ultimately benefiting our entire community.
Thank you to our donors and supporters for making this program possible – your generosity is truly changing lives.
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