Deborah (Deb) Fryers has had a long-standing career in the arts and entertainment industry, spanning over 25 years in publicity, and film production. During this time, she has contributed her skills to four not-for-profits on a project-by-project basis.
In July 2019, Deb was diagnosed with Primary Myelofibrosis, a rare form of blood cancer. Since 2023, she has been actively involved in consumer engagement with both the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the Leukaemia Foundation, advocating for the needs of patients like herself. As a moderator of the largest MPN (Myeloproliferative Neoplasms) patient Facebook group in Australia and New Zealand, she provides support, information, and a sense of community for those navigating similar diagnoses.
Driven by curiosity and compassion, Deb brings a wealth of lived experience and insight to her work, with a strong commitment to ensuring patient voices shape health policy and contribute to meaningful improvements in healthcare and well-being.
Of her involvement in the Community Advisory Committee, Deb says:
"What a true honour it is to be a part of such an important committee. Since my diagnosis I wondered what on earth I would do with myself given I could no longer work in my chosen career. Being part of the Community Advisory Committee gives me a lot of meaningful purpose; it allows me to advocate for those voices that might otherwise be overlooked and to help bridge the gap between community needs and institutional decisions."