Cancer and Cartwheels

There is more cancer than cartwheels in Dr. Jo Prendergast’s show although cartwheels have been part of her life since childhood. The story focuses more on her experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer, the journey through treatment and final vindication of the efficacy of that treatment  when she could, once again, do a perfect cartwheel.

While cancer is not normally a vehicle for comedy Jo has presented her story with a light hearted touch, video clips, musical numbers, and humour. For a while the theme morphs into menopause, as early menopause can be a side effect of chemotherapy.  Again she clothes the effects in a humorous narrative. You don’t have to have had cancer, had association with a cancer patient, or been through menopause to appreciate the comedy in this show. It has a very light touch

Underlying the comedy, which had the audience laughing enthusiastically, there is an important  message – be aware and alert. Cancer caught early is more easily treated. People with cancer do not have to be  treated as ’brave warriors’. It is better to acknowledge their fear, pain, the unpleasant aspects of the treatment, and the emotional  challenges after treatment. As a doctor she has seen both sides of the story, the need for the ‘medical practitioner’ and the support of family and friends. But, beware the ‘friendship’groups giving advice about treatment on the strength of ‘something they read’.

You can hear my interview with Jo Prendergast on the Kaleidoscope program first broadcast on 12th March.

Jo is also partnering with with Breast cancer Network Australia and audience can support this fund with a donation.

The Howling Owl, Vaughan Place Adelaide

11-15 March