My name is Susie Benjamin and I am 80 years old.
For the past 28 years I have been running the CISS office (retired as Office Manager in October 2018) and supporting and counselling our members. My present title is Information & Support Counsellor.
From my first marriage I have 2 daughters and 1 grand-daughter and with Don (second marriage) I share another 4 step-offspring, 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandson.
After working in the public service and having my daughters I worked with a firm of psychologists where I completed 1 year of a 2 year psychotherapy course, and a 6 month Marriage course.
I trained and worked as a telephone counsellor with Telefriend and went to many personal growth courses and workshops. One of these, called Psych-K, I use with any member who wants to work on changing limiting beliefs. Another, called German New Medicine, I find useful in helping to identify possible emotional traumas that might have contributed to their cancer.
I have had several lots of psychological therapy for myself and this has enhanced my ability to help our members.
Other work experience included a stint with Hannans Insurance Brokers and several years in an Independent bookshop where I was the only member of staff who found any value in the Self Help section.
I enjoy reading, gardening, movies and theatre, bushwalking and spending time with family and friends. Each Christmas I sing in a presentation of The Messiah with a large choir.
It is a privilege for me to have this job and to do my best to help our people deal with their cancer. I hope we reach more of those who value CISS’ principles and want our help.
