Donna Long is currently the Program Manager for the Regional Trials Network, Victoria and has a long history in the Oncology sector, starting in nursing while training at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. Donna was recently appointed Chair of the Study Coordinators Committee at ANZGOG.

Donna has over 34 years’ experience in Oncology including 12 years in the Gynaecological Oncology surgical unit at The Royal Hospital for Women in Sydney. Donna’s experience includes Palliative Care at Sacred Heart Hospice in Sydney, Breast Cancer Peer Support Coordinator at the Cancer Council NSW, 13 years’ experience as a Research Nurse/Study Coordinator at Border Medical Oncology Research Unit in Albury and experience as a Service Improvement Facilitator for the Hume Regional Integrated Cancer Service. Donna has been a member of ANZGOG and the study coordinators committee since 2005/2006.

Explain how you got into the world of clinical trials and the roles you have worked in…

After working in Gynaecological Oncology for years my family decided on a tree change. We moved from Sydney to Wangaratta in the North East of Victoria, I wanted to stay working in Oncology and a job came up in Albury as a Research Nurse/Study Coordinator, the joy was that I could still be involved in Gynaecological Oncology by taking on all the Gynae Oncology trials at the unit. (see bio for other roles)

How and when did you first get involved with ANZGOG?

In 2005 I went to my first ANZGOG ASM and was inspired to join ANZGOG and the Study Coordinators committee.

What do you think patients gain from involvement with clinical trials?

The advantage of novel treatments and drugs as well as the personalised care and support from a Study Coordinator and a team that are truly focused on improving patient outcomes.

Your favourite place in the world?

Egypt and Central America were my favourite places to visit, my favourite place to be right now is my garden.

A book that changed your life?

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix? LOL just kidding, I am a big Sci-Fi fan currently reading Leviathan Wakes. Life changing books are a different matter probably The Handmaid’s Tale.

Tell us something that fellow ANZGOG members may not know about you…

I am a keen Beekeeper. I played roller derby for a couple of years; my roller derby name was Hermione Grindya.

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?

Being nominated for Chair of the ANZGOG Study Coordinators Committee.