Prison praised for helping breast cancer sufferers

20/10/06
Bandyup Women's Prison has been acknowledged for its contribution to women suffering from breast cancer in the lead-up to Pink Ribbon Day.
In just 18 months, prisoners have manufactured nearly 300 cushions designed to keep a person's arm away from a wound following breast surgery.

The silk and embroidered cushions are given to women's group Zonta International, who provide them free to post-operative women.
Visiting the prison workshop today, Corrective Services and Women's Interests Minister Margaret Quirk said the project was a good example of how offenders could give back to the community.
"This is a case of women helping women regardless of their social standing or background," Ms Quirk said.
"The staff and prisoners at Bandyup are happy to be able to use their skills to supply a practical product which provides so much comfort."
Zonta's WA co-ordinator Ros Warrick, who also visited the prison today, said her group was extremely grateful for the help from Bandyup.
"The cushions are an innovative and practical way to help women overcome the physical and emotional discomfort and trauma of breast cancer surgery," Ms Warrick said.
"They help make everyday activities such as driving, shopping and sleeping possible after surgery so women can get on with their lives."
Ms Quirk said breast health was an important part of the overall health message in WA women's prisons.
"Workshops and information sessions are held to teach prisoners and prison officers what signs to look out for," she said.
"They are also given practical advice and support on risk factors such as smoking.
"The workshops are very well received and we have had some positive results.
"One prisoner in her early fifties had never been taught anything about breast health.

"She went back to her cell after an information session and found a lump which was found to be malignant.
"Thankfully, treatment was effective and she is now a cancer survivor."
Pink Ribbon Day, on October 23, will be acknowledged at Bandyup Women's Prison and Boronia pre-release Centre for Women with staff talks, prisoner workshops and fundraising events.

Minister's office - 9213 7000