Your cancer journey

Whether you’re readng this because you have a received a diagnosis, or one of your loved ones does, the reasearching into what other support is available can be a scary place to be wandering. Whilst it can make things seem that little bit more real, it can also highlight things that you can do to make this time just a little easier.

For some there can be a feeling of loss of control and autonomy as doctors decide on the plan: the schedule, the medicines or operations that will happen to your body. Whilst that must happen, for some people that loss of control can be difficult.

Therapeutic massage

Massage can help give a little of that back, even if it’s just for an hour, with the time just to pause. It provides vital human connection that allows a focus on the individual- to enjoy some relaxation, to allow touch to ease some of the anxiety and to free themselves of the often invisible burden of being emotionally strong for others. Touch can help to reduce pain and fatigue associated with medical treatment and help you to feel a little more like you again.

Who can have oncology massage?

Anyone who has has or has had cancer, whatever stage of their care. It includes the following: people with a new diagnosis; those in active treatment; those receiving palliative care; and those in remission. Everyone experiencing a cancer journey deserves nurturing and therapeutic touch and research has evidenced that massage can reduce symptoms of nausia, fatigue, anxiety and depression.

I have provided therapeutic massage for many men and women at home and in hospice. Every situation is unique and massage is tailored for each person, ensuring your care and treatment is uncompromised.

Finding a therapist

It is important to find an oncology trained therapist; one that is aware of how cancer and treatments can affect the body, how to work safely around active cancer or post-operative sites and medical devices . It is equally important to have one that will respect your approach and listen to your needs, providing a safe space where you can talk or simply just relax. If you are considering oncology massage and have further questions please just message using the link below.

Next steps

An initial phone or video call is important for you to establish whether I am a good fit as a therapist for you. You are free to take some time to decide whether you would like to proceed. Upon this we would establish a full history including information about your current medical treatment and establish a date for the first session. Massage therapy will be different for each individual, depending on their stage and current treatment schedules. Please be assured that session will be personal, private and confidential. If you have any further questions before proceeding or would like to book, please contact us using the link below.

Fees

Further support services

There are many organisations that can support you and you family if you have cancer. They offer a variety of services, offering information on cancer, information on medical diagnostics and treatments, practical advice on what services you can access and emotional support groups. The most well known are Maggie’s and Macmillan Cancer Support but there are various others that specialise by cancer type.