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Reminder Assistant Editor WESTFIELD In the absence of most physicians' bedside manor, the Cancer House of Hope and the American Cancer Society are finding ways to treat the patient, not just the disease. On Oct. 22, the American Cancer Society will host their second, "Look Good.Feel Better" seminar at the Cancer House of Hope located at 86 Court St. This free, two-hour seminar will teach women currently undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments alternative ways to "look good and feel better." The seminar will be run by licensed cosmetologists who will teach the women about proper wig care, how to use scarves and turbans, and multiple skincare and makeup techniques such as penciling in lost eyebrows and makeup removal. "The program is really what it says, a one-time support service for women who are going through a treatment so they can really look good and feel better about themselves," Arlela Bethel, Community Executive for Cancer Control at the American Cancer Society, said. "We want to create for them a moment in time where it's all about them and they can look good even though they are going through one of the scariest times in their lives." Cheryl Gorski, executive director of the Cancer House of Hope, said programs like this are extremely important in combating the traumatic effects hair loss can have on a woman. "Treating the cancer is just one piece of it and we help treat the emotional and psychological impact that cancer really has," she said. Gorski added that this seminar is a great way of helping women to "make the most of the way the situation is for them right now." Bethel noted that each seminar allows only three to 10 people to make sure that each of the women receives personalized attention. Those attending the seminar will also take home a cosmetic kit filled with various products worth $250. Bethel said this educational seminar is vital to letting those receiving cancer treatment know that they are not alone. She said that more often than not those even with strong support systems at home still feel that fighting the cancer is a personal battle, one that is only affecting them. Bethel added that while some women feel that hair-loss is an embarrassing experience, others embrace their "youthful hair" and chose not to cover up their heads with wraps, scarves or turbans. Regardless of each woman's individual preferences the seminar will provide them with techniques suitable to their lifestyles, while seeing that there are many women experiencing the same hardships. "We're not about doom and gloom [at the Cancer House of Hope] but feeling good while you are here and feeling better when you leave," Gorski said. She added that "feeling better" is a "critical component" to the mission of the Cancer House of Hope. Gorski said that if she hears laughter behind the doors of a support group or instructional class she feels that the facility is accomplishing its goals in serving those who have cancer as well as their families and friends. Between the two locations in Westfield and Springfield, Gorski said the Cancer House of Hope provides free services to over 300 people per month. Services include support groups, educational seminars and informational seminars for cancer patients, their families and friends. Services like Reiki Therapy, Yoga and relaxation groups help those with their physical healing. Various support groups are available for those who are first diagnosed, for those diagnosed with melanoma or prostate cancer, or for those grieving for the loss of a loved one. According to Bethel, the American Cancer Society also provides many services such as their Reach to Recovery Program, which pairs a cancer survivor with someone currently undergoing treatment. The cancer survivor or mentor is someone who has been out of treatment for over one year and reaches out through phone calls or visitation. Another program offered by the American Cancer Society is the Road to Recovery Program, where trained volunteers offer transportation for those receiving cancer treatment to and from their appointments. "I'm like most people I know who have had family and friends with cancer, so it's very personal," Gorski said. "I understand what they are going through and you want to help the person and do the right thing and do as much as you can. For all of us who work, volunteer and council here, the one thing that is different here is it is not a sad place. People come here and they feel happy and are able to connect with others going through the same things." For more information on the "Look Good.Feel Better" seminar or the Cancer House of Hope call their Westfield location at 562-0110 or visit their Web site at www.cancerhouseofhope.org. For more information about the American Cancer Society visit their Web site at www.cancer.org or call their information line at 1-800-ACS-2345. | ||||||
