ANZGOG’s new podcast ‘On the Down Low’ won ‘Best New Podcast’ at the Australian Podcast Awards, which celebrate the nation’s best audio talent and creativity.
The podcast features raw and inspiring stories from women with ovarian cancer and their caregivers, who speak in intimate detail about the challenges of living with cancer, and make a powerful call for advocacy, awareness and change.
Titled ‘On the Down Low – speaking up about ovarian cancer’, the podcast was also nominated for ‘Best Health & Wellness Podcast’ at the Australian Podcast Awards and is a Finalist in the upcoming NSW Volunteer of Year Awards. The podcast features raw and inspiring stories about the disease, which affects more than 1700 women in Australia annually and has a five-year survival rate of just 48 per cent.
“People say it’s the silent killer, but I don’t believe that. I think it’s the ignored killer. We have to stop ignoring ovarian cancer.”
Jacinta, psychotherapist, wife, mum of two, given a terminal ovarian cancer diagnosis
On the Down Low was only made possible through the sheer will, determination and passion displayed by its volunteer team, spearheaded by Podcast Host Alison Dance and Producer Nyasha Nyakuengama. The nine cast members, all ovarian cancer survivors and carers, demonstrated both bravery and candour in their stories, hoping that by sharing their experiences they could help save lives in the future.
Further volunteer support was donated by Saatchi & Saatchi Wellness, who expertly designed the powerful but playful brand, and Liz Cotter who produced professional shots of the cast members. We thank each and every one of our volunteer team members for their generosity and dedication to the cause.
Congratulations to the whole volunteer team and everybody else involved for this significant recognition.
Podcast Creators – Nyasha Nyakuengama, Helen Gooden and Alison Dance
Podcast Host, Alison Dance, wanted to reduce stigma around gynaecological cancers to boost awareness after her mother, Pauline Dance, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer three years ago, a deadly disease the family previously hadn’t heard of.
“We need to talk more openly and honestly about the disease if we stand any chance of improving the statistics. Ovarian cancer hasn’t seen the same improvements in survival rates as other cancer types” Ms Dance said.
“We need the community to rally with us in support of research and fighting for fair funding to keep inspirational women in our lives – they can start by listening to our stories.”
Alison Dance, On The Down Low Podcast Host
‘On the Down Low’ is produced by the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group with funding provided for this first season through the Westfield Local Heroes program.
ANZGOG is looking for funding to support a second season, as part of their ongoing commitment to public education activities. For more information, please contact George Gill (ANZGOG Communications Manager).
‘On the Down Low’ is available on the ANZGOG website https://www.anzgog.org.au/on-the-down-low/ and wherever you access your podcasts.
