Local MP Judith Graley spoke in parliament yesterday about her battle with breast cancer. It was the first time she had spoken in parliament since being diagnosed in January.By Callan Date
LOCAL MP Judith Graley made her long awaited return to State Parliament yesterday after a nine-month lay off recovering from breast cancer treatment.
Ms Graley, 51, spoke in the lower house about her experience dealing with the dreaded disease.
The Narre Warren South Labor MP, who has battled the cancer since being diagnosed in January, thanked her family, friends, colleagues and constituents for their support.
“I can not name everyone who sent messages of support, visited, called or prayed for me, but I appreciate each one,” Ms Graley said.
Ms Graley also praised the world-class medical care she received from the team of specialists and nurses who treated her.
“Cancer is increasingly a chronic disease to be managed, rather than a fatal illness,” she said.
The mother of two has been more active in the community over the last few months and has been able to attend various functions in her role as MP.
Ms Graley also welcomed the recent government initiative to spend $150 million on a Victorian Cancer Plan.
The plan is aimed at preventing 2000 deaths through improved screening and detection services, and by helping to convert research into new treatments.
Ms Graley issued a wry warning to government ministers, opposition members and her caucus colleagues
“You will be hearing a lot more from me. Be prepared,” she said.
