Massage and cancer
Wed, 11/03/2009 - 11:21
Massage is one of the most popular complementary therapies and there is now a lot of evidence to suggest that gentle massage can be very beneficial for people with cancer or recovering from it. Cancer Council has recently won a Polo Ralph Lauren Pink Pony Campaign grant to help pay for women with breast cancer to have massages by professional therapists. As program coordinator, I'd like to let you know about the new program in case you are eligible or you know someone who is. The grant is specifically for women with breast cancer who live in either Shoalhaven Shire or Tweed Shire, NSW. Women need to be in active treatment for breast cancer, either receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy. They are able to have up to three massages at a cost of only $20 each. Cancer Council will pay the remaining costs. Cancer Council has selected qualified massage therapists in both regions who have many years of experience and have worked with people with cancer. By participating in the program, women will be able to experience the benefits of massage, which might include a reduction in pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and nausea. Women will need to call NSW Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 or 02 9334 1497 to apply. If the program is successful, we would like to be able to roll it out to other regions and make it available for all people with cancer. The funding we have is available until May 2009. For more information, call Helpline or post a message here. Thank you! Vivienne O'Callaghan Massage for Women with Breast Cancer Program Coordinator
Wed, 11/03/2009 - 11:23
#2
Massage and cancer
PS - We are now able to offer massages to women who are having Herceptin. If you are having chemotherapy, radiotherapy or are on Herceptin and have been diagnosed within the past two years, please ring the Helpline on 13 11 20 if you are interested in having a relaxing massage. The other program requirements still apply - it's for women living in Shoalhaven City or Tweed Shire, who are in treatment for breast cancer.
Sun, 13/11/2011 - 14:15
#3
Re: Massage and cancer
I suffer from lymphedema. Is massage suggested still?
Tue, 15/11/2011 - 12:01
#4
Sat, 05/05/2012 - 16:12
#5
Re: Massage and cancer
I have found that I can't get a massage when I explained about the Hodgkins, they would say sorry we cant massage people with cancer. One of them explained that they believed a massage would spread my cancer.
Sat, 05/05/2012 - 21:18
#6
Re: Massage and cancer
That's really strange. I had massages while I was on chemo and my masseur did not mention any worries.
Mon, 07/05/2012 - 11:03
#7
Re: Massage and cancer
Hi All,
There are a wide range of options for people affected by cancer wishing to take advantage of the therapeutic and relaxation benefits of massage.
An excellent source of information for those interested in massage is Cancer Council's booklet 'Massage and Cancer':
http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Massage-and-C...
For any specific questions about massage and cancer you may have, please phone the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 in your home State or Territory.
Kind regards,
Felix
Cancer Connections Coordinator
We have some new therapists on board for the program. In Tweed Shire, therapists are now located in Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads, Banora Point and Tumbulgum. Women living near the southern border of Tweed Shire can also go to Brunswick Heads or Mullumbimby if this is more convenient. In Shoalhaven City, therapists are at Swanhaven, Milton, Cambewarra and Toolijooa. Call Helpline 13 11 20 for more information.