Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley has detailed her battle with breast cancer as well as reassuring local residents that they are still being By Callan Date
LOCAL MP Judith Graley has revealed how she drew support from local well wishers during the initial stages of her ongoing battle with breast cancer.
The Narre Warren South Labor MP was diagnosed in January and is continuing treatment while still attending to her elected duties as much as her health allows.
Ms Graley, 51, spoke with the News recently and talked about the mixed emotions she felt after the initial diagnosis that changed her life forever.
She said the people of Narre Warren South were being adequately represented during her illness and would not suffer in any way during her absence.
And any thoughts of quitting politics to concentrate on her health were quickly dismissed. “I’m holding a hard fought position here and I love what I do,” Ms Graley said.
“It was a huge shock and you go through a huge range of emotions.
“You think why me. And then I think you move on from that and accept it. You also feel anger and sadness.”
Ms Graley said the support she had received had helped her through the tough times.
“It’s been a demanding journey and one I wouldn’t want anyone else to go through. It is a very personal experience.
“I have been extraordinarily thankful for the support I have had from family and friends and constituents.”
Ms Graley is married with two daughters and a son.
“I have had the most beautiful cards with the most inspiring and heartfelt messages from so many people.”
The passionate Western Bulldogs member said she had been lifted by the promising start to the season by her beloved Doggies.
The whole DVD box set of political drama The West Wing has also helped Ms Graley during down times.
“There are definitely elements from The West Wing that are evident in real-life politics,” she said with a laugh.
Ms Graley, a former Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor, was elected into the Narre Warren South position at the November 2006 state election.
“The doctors have told me not to hurry back to work but just take it easy. You do wonder what impact the job has on your health.”
Her Princes Highway electorate office is still open, with staffers helping field inquiries from local residents while the MP is working on a part-time basis.
Colleagues have also rallied around her and will show their support by taking part in the Mother’s Day Classic on 11 May.
Several State MPs will don pink T-shirts and walk 4km in the breast cancer research fundraiser.
Ms Graley also stressed the importance of regular breast checks for women.
Research has revealed that one in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85.
“Get the checks. There is breast screening in Berwick. Just go and have a really frank discussion with your GP,” she said.
