WA Docs in Frocks: Frocking Up for Ovarian Cancer Research
This Frocktober, a group of general practitioners (GPs) from The Garden Family Medical Clinic in Perth, WA, stepped into the spotlight for the first time as the ‘WA Docs in Frocks’ team.
Comprising Dr Emilie, Dr Ramya, Dr Lauren, Dr Shanil, and Dr Jess, this fabulous team is frocking up together to raise awareness and funds for vital ovarian cancer research. Together, they aim to inspire their colleagues and the wider community while making a meaningful impact.
A Fashionable Introduction to Frocktober
Frocktober is Australia’s most fashionable month-long fundraiser, encouraging individuals to wear their best frocks to spark conversations about ovarian cancer. For the WA Docs in Frocks team, this marks their inaugural journey into the world of Frocktober. “We decided to frock up together to share inspiration for Frocktober and raise awareness of ovarian cancer research,” the team shares.
Frocktober also provided the perfect excuse for these GPs to come together, “it’s such a fun way to raise funds for an important cause; there are so many people keen to see what we are wearing each day!” This month-long event not only allows them to dip into their wardrobes, but also strengthen their bond as colleagues and friends.
Connecting Through Ovarian Cancer Care
As healthcare professionals, the WA Docs in Frocks have a unique connection to ovarian cancer. Each member of the team has encountered patients who have been affected by this insidious disease. Whether it’s patients expressing concerns about their own risk, or discussing the impact on family and friends, they witness the ripple effects of ovarian cancer daily.
“We have the privilege of building long-term therapeutic relationships with our patients, and we often see multiple members of the same family. This experience gives us insight into how ovarian cancer can affect not just the individual but everyone around them.”
Their personal experiences drive their commitment to raising awareness and funding for ovarian cancer research. “We want to give our patients the most effective and personalized preventative care,” they emphasize. “Currently, there’s no easily accessible or accurate screening test for ovarian cancer, unlike the tests available for breast and cervical cancer. We hope that continued research will lead to effective screening options in the future.”
Tips for a Fabulous Frocktober
As they dive into their first Frocktober, the team has gathered some useful tips to make the most of the experience:
1. Plan Ahead: Preparation is key! Think about what frocks and accessories you have on hand and make a plan for how to incorporate them throughout the month.
2. Get Creative: Don’t hesitate to borrow dresses, explore second-hand shops, or even repurpose items from your existing wardrobe. The goal is to have fun while raising funds!
3. Engage with Others: Use this opportunity to connect with colleagues and friends. Sharing your outfits and experiences can inspire others to participate and contribute to the cause.
The team also created a pamper pack which they will raffle for any of their colleagues who make a donation to their fundraising page.
Advocating for Women’s Health
With their frontline experience, the WA Docs in Frocks are also passionate about empowering women to advocate for their health. They emphasize the importance of building a relationship with your GP and attending regular check-ups. “GPs focus on preventative care; keeping our patients healthy and detecting health concerns early is crucial. We encourage all women to discuss their health concerns with their GP openly.”
As they don their frocks, the team aims not only to raise funds but also to foster important conversations about women’s health and the significance of research in improving outcomes for ovarian cancer patients.
The Power of Community
Frocktober is not just a month of fashion; it’s about community and connection. For the WA Docs in Frocks, it’s a chance to rally together for a cause that deeply impacts their lives and those of their patients. “It’s been a great way to bring us together as colleagues and friends,” they reflect. “In the busy world of general practice, we often don’t get a chance to catch up during the week. Frocktober has given us a fantastic reason to connect every day.”