People who face cancer need more than the best technology and state-of-the art treatments. The stress of coping with the diagnosis, deciding on treatment options, and dealing with the treatment process and its side effects can be very challenging for patients and take a lot of energy.

Support services include symptom and side effect management, nutrition advice, family counseling, psychological care, stress management, and support groups. Excela Health’s Nancy G. Hoffman Complementary Health Services is also helping cancer patients cope with appearance-related changes as well as mental and emotional distress that can accompany cancer care.

Named in memory of a woman who faced her own cancer diagnosis with a passion for life, seeking all the intellectual, spiritual and complementary services available to maintain a sense of wholeness, Nancy G. Hoffman Complementary Health Services gives patients the ability to maintain hope, comfort, strength and control.

Radiation Robes

Women undergoing radiation therapy first benefit from these complementary health services when scheduling their course of treatment. To restore a sense of dignity to patients who must repeatedly wait their turn for radiation therapy, the thin hospital gowns have been replaced with handmade radiation robes. Crafted by volunteers, the robes are of thicker material in a wide variety of patterns. These robes are given to patients when they begin radiation therapy and are theirs to keep.

Post-Mastectomy Services

In collaboration with Wigs 'N More, a boutique display is conveniently located at the Arnold Palmer Pavilion to help patients find individual solutions to hair loss, skin conditions and post-mastectomy issues. Cancer center staff are familiar with the options available and also can refer patients to a specially trained cosmetologist.

Wigs, turbans and hats in a variety of styles and colors are available as well as special hair care products made especially for chemotherapy patients. It also is common to develop sensitive skin when being treated for cancer. Several physician-approved over-the-counter skin creams are available for patients to sample along with a variety of Derma-blend cosmetics specially designed for problem skin conditions to provide natural looking coverage for face and body.

Women who have undergone mastectomy will find breast prostheses to match many skin colors along with a variety of bra styles. Cancer center staff can assist patients in making an appointment to more thoroughly explore their options. At that appointment, certified fitters will explain how the prosthesis should fit, work to assure patient comfort and answer any questions, including insurance coverage.

Massage Therapy

Many cancer patients also experience some degree of tiredness and lack of energy as a result of treatment. This can affect how they feel about themselves. Massage therapy is offered to cancer patients to help reduce the physical and mental effects of stress and anxiety. In a number of studies, research  suggests that massage therapy has a positive impact on immune function. The known benefits of massage include enhancing general relaxation, reducing muscular tension and associated discomfort, reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and increasing feelings of well-being. These benefits are invaluable when facing an illness and coping with the associated feelings of fear and helplessness.

Yoga

Yoga has similar health and relaxation benefits. Class instructors can assist patients in mastering exercises that stress awareness of each movement of the body, concentration on breathing, and applying the mind to each task.

Mind-Body Skills

A Mind-Body Skills Group is available to cancer patients to help promote relaxation and self-control. Techniques employed include meditation, guided imagery, autogenic training, biofeedback, breath work, movement and self-awareness. Mind-body skills groups meet throughout the year. To attend, call the Excela Health Call Center, toll free, 1-877-771-1234.