Facing the diagnosis of cancer and its treatments can be an overwhelming experience. A Helping Hand is a program designed by the nurses and practitioners at The Oncology Center to introduce a number of complementary techniques to assist patients and families coping with a cancer diagnosis.

These services are a complement to medical treatments, they are not meant to be a substitute. While these services are not the primary treatment for cancer, they have been shown to enhance the quality of life.

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils to help relieve daily stresses as well as alleviates many of the side effects associated with cancer and it treatments. These essential oils are steamed distilled from aromatic plants and contain many therapeutic chemical properties. A certified aromatherapist will assist in determining what essential oil is best and how it is applied. The essential oils may be diffused into the room or inhaled directly. The essential oils can also be massaged into the skin using a light stroking technique called the M-technique. Safety and education on the use of these oils is strongly encouraged because they are considered to be 100 times more powerful than the original plant.

Massage is widely used and accepted in the medical field as a treatment aid for a wide variety of symptoms. Improving circulation, relieving muscle tension, increasing range of motion and promoting relaxation are just some of the potential benefits of massage. There are several types of massage offered:

• Swedish Massage - a massage to relax muscles, improve circulation. Features long gliding strokes as well as rubbing, kneading and tapping or chopping movements.
• Therapeutic Massage - Using a variety of massage techniques to strengthen and improve muscle tone, improve circulation, soothe or stimulate the nervous system, enhance skin condition and enhance feeling of well being. The techniques include Swedish Massage; Trigger Point Therapy, (applying pressure to accupoints) and Therapeutic Touch (light massage or stroking above the skin to help relieve pain and promote relaxation.
• Reiki - An ancient technique of hands-on healing using the concepts of spirituality and human energy field. This technique can promote a sense of warmth and comfort as well as relieve pain and anxiety.

Stress can be the impetus for a variety of uncomfortable physical conditions. This discomfort can be alleviated by using a variety of relaxation techniques including meditation, guided imagery and progressive relaxation tools. A trained complementary therapy specialist can assist in developing your own inner resources to combat stress from cancer treatments or just from daily life.

• Meditation: The use of diaphragmatic (breathing) and centering to help still the mind and promote relaxation. Helps to counteract effect from stress.
• Guided Imagery: A trained practitioner teaches meditation techniques and methods of directed day dreaming to reduce effects of stress.
• Progressive Relaxation: Directed exercises developed to help you recognize the onset on stress and to promote control for relaxation.

An opportunity for patients or family members to utilize the complementary therapy room for a relaxation session. Take advantage of the stereo and soft lighting for a soothing effect.

The Oncology Center offers a variety of support groups for patients and family members. The programs are designed to promote conversation and a sense of camaraderie for patients and caregivers. Studies show the long- and short-term benefits of attending support groups throughout the course of illness and treatment. A calendar of The Oncology Center programs is available at the front desk or by calling 508-979-5858 Ext. 1001.

The Oncology Center Resource Library provides literature, general health information; research information and audiotapes on a variety of cancer related issues.

If you need help understanding, speaking or reading English, arrangements can be made for an interpreter.

Se precisar de ajuda compreendendo, falando ou InglLs, por favor diga B sua enfermeira ou a um membro do seu grupo de Cuidado de Sadde, para que se possa arranjar uma intJrprete para o/a ajudar.

Si necesita ayuda porque no entiende, no habla, ni lee inglJs, favor de inform rselo a su enfermera o a cualquier otro miembro del personal mJdico a cargo de su caso para que se le consiga un intJrprete que le ayude.

Southcoast Hospitals Group patients currently undergoing treatment for cancer receive complementary services free of charge. Family members, friends and the community are asked for the following fees:

• Aromatherapy (30 minutes) - $30
• Aromatherapy (1 hour) - $46

• Massage Therapy (30 minutes) $24
• Massage Therapy (1 hour) - $40
  (Therapeutic Touch and Reiki included)

• Aromatherapy Massage (30 minutes) - $30
• Aromatherapy Massage (1 hour) -$46

• Relaxation with Guided imagery (30 minutes) - $10

• Self Meditation Session (30 minutes) - $5

The Oncology Center staff has carefully screened the credentials of each of our complementary therapy specialists. All of our complementary therapy specialists are professional health care practitioners in such disciplines as nursing, physical therapy and social work. Each has additional certifications in complementary therapy.

Joanne Dupre, PT, licensed physical therapist; certified healing touch practitioner; certified aromatherapist; Reiki Master.

Janice Gagnon-Warr, RN, registered nurse; certified clinical aromatherapist; bodywork practitioner.

Vivian Gifford, RN, registered nurse; certified healing touch practitioner; certified aromatherapist; certified Reiki Master; MasterÍs Degree in Holistic Counseling.

Maria C. Moura, RN, registered nurse; certified Reiki Master; healing touch certification.

Edward Zabilski, MT, licensed massage therapist, certified Bowen therapist. Denise Nerney, certified reflexology therapist, licensed massage therapist.