During Anoula Galettis’ final days of her battle with lung cancer, she was surrounded and looked after by her family and friends, including Martina Clark.
Ms Clark tells 9 News how after Anoula’s death in 2015 at the age of 34, she pledged to create a special scheme to help carers of cancer patients.
In 2018, there were 2.6 million unpaid carers in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
“They have the same life as the patient but are not recognised as such,” Ms Clark told the broadcaster.
She has since created a website and app called Carers Couch. It aims to connect carers with people who can help make their lives easier.
It can be something as simple as putting them in touch with somebody to mow the lawn or cut their hair at home, as well as putting users in touch with other carers.
“They can go on the app, book experts directly, supporting the emotional, physical, economical aspects, and they can book them 24/7,” Ms Clark said.
Renowned hospital, Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation in Melbourne, is now trialling Carers Couch with lung cancer patients.
