Nundah man Anthony Doneley is among the first patients to receive treatment at the new state-of-the-art Icon Cancer Centre St Vincent’s Northside radiation oncology service, bringing advanced cancer care closer to home for patients in Brisbane’s north.
The new centre completes a fully integrated cancer care pathway at St Vincent’s Northside Private Hospital, allowing patients to access surgery, medical oncology, chemotherapy, haematology and now radiotherapy in one location, supported by a multidisciplinary team of specialists working together to deliver personalised cancer care.
When 64-year-old Anthony boarded a cruise bound for the United States in April this year, he had no idea that just days later he would be facing a cancer diagnosis.
Just 24-hours into the trip, Anthony suddenly found himself in pain and unable to urinate. After seeing the ship’s doctor, who initially suspected a blockage or prostate issue, a catheter was inserted. When the problem persisted, Anthony was flown home from Honolulu to Brisbane, where he presented to St Vincent’s Private Hospital.
Scans revealed two masses and led to Anthony being diagnosed with small cell carcinoma on 30 April.
I was told I had two masses, but I didn’t really take in straight away that it was cancer.
His cancer treatment began with chemotherapy, followed by a course of radiotherapy under the care of Radiation Oncologist, A/Prof Jim Jackson. While awaiting the opening of Icon St Vincent’s Northside in July, Anthony commenced his radiotherapy at Icon Cancer Centre Auchenflower.
For Anthony and his partner of 28 years, Barry, the change in location for Anthony’s radiotherapy made a significant difference. Anthony was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020. Being treated close to home has been particularly important as he manages the physical impact of his health conditions.
“I have my chemotherapy at St Vincent’s Private Hospital, so it was ideal to have all of my cancer treatment in the one location,” Anthony said.
“We wanted to make the process as seamless as possible. The team at Icon Auchenflower were great, but it was much more convenient to have radiotherapy treatment closer to home at Icon St Vincent’s Northside.”
The new centre provides access to specialist cancer care for people living across Brisbane’s northside, reducing the need for patients and their families to travel across the city for treatment.
An avid croquet player and artist, Anthony had to put his hobbies on hold while undergoing treatment. Despite the challenges, Anthony has remained determined to maintain a positive outlook.
“I’ve always said, ‘the cancer is not going to get me’,” he said.
“There have been good days and bad days. Barry has got me through those down days. Since my cancer diagnosis, he has stepped up and done everything for me. I don’t know what I would do without him.”
Icon St Vincent's Northside patients have access to world-leading technologies including HyperArc, an advanced stereotactic radiosurgery platform designed to treat brain tumours and multiple brain metastases with exceptional accuracy, as well as Surface Guided Radiation Therapy, which enables real-time patient monitoring and tattoo-free treatment for many patients.
Alongside advanced treatment technologies, the centre will also provide specialist support services, including access to a dedicated Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia credentialled Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse to support patients throughout their treatment journey.