Cabrini pioneers unique brain cancer service: AFL legend tells his wife’s inspiring story

Cabrini’s ‘Neuro-oncology At Home’ service stands as the only one of its kind in Australia and one of only a few such initiatives globally, it’s revolutionising the way brain cancer patients receive treatment and support for primary malignant brain tumours.

Denise Bartlett’s story, shared by her devoted husband, Kevin, is a testament to Cabrini’s world leading service, and the team’s remarkable dedication.

Denise and Kevin shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, blessed with four children and nine grandchildren, before she passed away in March 2024. Denise was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour at the brain stem. It looked like she might need to be move to a care facility. However, Denise wished to spend her remaining time at home, surrounded by her loved ones. Thanks to the compassionate efforts of Cabrini’s staff, their home was transformed into a fully equipped hospital room, complete with a hospital bed, ramps, and specialised equipment, making her wish possible.

While home-based services continue to gain traction in the healthcare sector, Cabrini’s program evolves the model and brings chronic disease management and specialised neuro-oncology care directly to patients’ homes. This unique approach not only enhances the quality of life for patients but also represents a significant leap forward in personalised healthcare delivery.

Kevin recounts: “I thought Denise would have to go to a care facility due to her initial decline. However, Cabrini’s support in setting up in-home hospital equipment, including guidance around care allowed us another two years together. It wouldn’t have happened if Cabrini hadn’t facilitated everything.”

A key component of this groundbreaking service is Cabrini’s equipment bank, made possible by the generosity of Cabrini Foundation donors. This resource allows patients to borrow specialised equipment, enabling them to receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own homes. For Denise, this meant transforming a room in their house into a fully equipped hospital room with necessary medical equipment.

The program goes beyond just medical care. It includes weekly allied health sessions, (physiotherapy and OT) and through persistent encouragement and tailored exercises, helped Denise regain mobility and enjoy activities she loved, such as attending AFL games and going on family holidays. This holistic approach ensures that patients can live life to the fullest, despite their diagnosis.

“We were able to visit family, attend Tigers games, grand finals, concerts, and even go on a holiday to Queensland. All made possible by the nursing team, doctors and physiotherapist. The Cabrini team also attended Denise’s memorial service,” said Kevin.

The At Home program not only improves patient outcomes but also potentially reduces the strain on hospital resources. By enabling patients to receive specialised care at home, it may help decrease hospital admissions and emergency department visits, while providing a more comfortable and familiar environment for patients.

The success of this program is a testament to Cabrini’s commitment to patient-centred care and innovation in healthcare. It represents a significant step forward in the treatment and support of brain cancer patients, offering a model for other complex medical conditions.

At the heart of this pioneering initiative are Emma Daly, Neuro-oncology Clinical Nurse Consultant, and Neurologist Dr Ronnie Freilich, whose dedication and vision have been instrumental in developing and implementing this world-leading program. Their work, along with the wider Cabrini neurology, oncology and allied health teams, is setting new standards in patient care and demonstrating the profound impact of innovative, compassionate healthcare.

Kevin’s story and heartfelt gratitude highlights how the team’s dedication allowed Denise to live fully despite her illness. Their compassionate care enabled her to remain at home, surrounded by her family, until her peaceful passing.

Find out more about our brain cancer service.