Cancer care grounded in respect and authenticity

Every day, Specialist Bowel Care Nurse, Jamie Linich supports patients through some of life’s toughest challenges. Working with patients from diagnosis to treatment and beyond, Jamie plays a key role in helping people understand their care, navigate the healthcare system and feel supported at every stage.

Funded by Bowel Cancer Australia, Jamie’s role based at Icon Cancer Centre Mackay, involves the coordination of care across Icon’s multidisciplinary team to support our patients with symptom management and works closely with patients and their families helping them to understand treatment options and next steps.

For Jamie, it’s the relationships built with patients that first drew her to oncology nursing.

“Oncology allows you to care for the whole person, not just the disease,” Jamie said.

“Supporting patients through difficult moments, and celebrating milestones with them, is incredibly rewarding. It’s why I became a nurse.”

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Specialised care

Bowel cancer care is such a broad and complex specialty bringing together surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, genetics and survivorship.

It’s because of this diversity that Jamie finds the role so rewarding.

A typical day can involve everything from coordinating appointments, educating newly diagnosed patients, hosting peer support groups, attending multidisciplinary meetings and helping patients navigate important treatment decisions.

“I enjoy empowering patients with knowledge and helping them regain confidence and quality of life throughout their treatment,” Jamie said.

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Helping patients feel informed and supported

For most people, a bowel cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Jamie helps patients to understand information about their disease and treatment plan, encouraging questions and guiding them with their healthcare decisions.

“Sometimes people simply need someone to listen,” Jamie said.

Central to what patient-centred care means to Jamie is recognising that every person has different values, priorities and goals. Every journey is unique.

“It’s about understanding the patient, respecting their choices and tailoring care to what matters most to them, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.”

Learning and supporting future nurses

Alongside her role at Icon, Jamie is currently undertaking postgraduate studies in Cancer Sciences, driven by a commitment to improving the care she provides.

“Cancer care is constantly evolving, and I believe lifelong learning is essential to providing the best care possible,” she said.

Jamie is also involved in supporting nursing students, finding purpose in helping future oncology nurses build confidence as they begin their careers.

“Nursing can feel overwhelming at first, so being able to support and encourage future nurses by sharing practical knowledge is incredibly rewarding,” Jamie said.

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A shared purpose

Jamie recognises the importance of a collaborative and coordinated approach to care, ensuring that it addresses both the medical and supportive care needs of each patient.

“At Icon, everyone shares a common goal of delivering exceptional patient care. There’s a genuine commitment to innovation, professional development and supporting one another,” she said.

“It’s rewarding to work alongside such passionate and dedicated colleagues.”

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The impact of kindness

Even on challenging days, Jamie stays motivated by the difference small acts of kindness can make.

Her advice to other nurses is simple – never underestimate the impact of kindness.

“Clinical knowledge is essential, but compassion, listening and effective communication are what patients remember most,” Jamie said.

“Stay curious, continue learning and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

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A commitment to balanced care

Outside of work, family is Jamie’s biggest motivation. As a mum of three, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and making the most of life’s simple moments.

“Finding a balance between family, personal growth and a career I’m passionate about helps me to bring my best self both to work and home.”

This Cancer Nurses Day 2026, we’re celebrating Jamie and all our cancer nurses across Australia recognising the expertise, compassion and impact they bring to patients, families and communities every day by providing best care possible, close to home.