Free massage treatments for those with a cancer diagnosis

Now offering Reiki treatments for cancer patients.  Reiki is a gentle energy that comes from the universe.   The client is fully clothed while the practitioner either places hands on the body or hovers over and the energy is passed to them.  Reiki goes to the area of greatest need. The Reiki energy is very gentle and much like how you feel after a massage.  Reiki treatments have had positive effects on clients both physically and mentally. 

Jan 2010 - We will continue this program into 2010.  This last year has introduced me to many affected by cancer.  Some of them lost their fight with the disease, some continue to suffer the after effects of their treatment, some are undergoing treatment today.  Each person has their own story their own needs.  With the feedback that I have received from my clients this past year, there is no way I can not continue this program.  I never imagined that what I was doing would have such an impact on them.  I thought perhaps it would just help them relax a bit and get through another day. KLJB Fox 18 new reporter Kurt Liske did a story on my program yesterday.  He asked if I had an cancer patients that would be willing to speak on camera.  I had a couple take me up on the offer.  Not knowing exactly where the interview was going Kurt spoke to each of them alone and then spoke to me.  I was able to hear what they had to say and lets just say it brought a little tear to my eye.  I do not do this for financial gain.  I do it because it is the right thing to do.  If you had the opportunity to help someone because you had the necessary skills or means wouldn't you?

Jan 2009 At the time of year when everyone is making their new years resolutions I have thought about why I decided to take the path of massage therapy.  The root of my decision was my desire to help people feel better. One of my clients early in my career asked if I could work on him? He had undergone extensive radiation and chemotherapy. For the good part of year he was relatively immobile and his body was stiff and achy. I wanted to help him feel good again. I had requested he get permission from his physician and asked that his physician point out any areas that I would need to avoid. It took some time for the doctor to get me the form back but eventually he did. Although my client felt a little better, I felt as though I could do more. I researched anything I could on massage for cancer patients and came across the Society for Oncology Massage. Through their association I found the training courses that would help me to better treat my client. Of all the clients that I have been able to work with, I personally found the most rewarding to be this particular client. Of all the people in the world that need a massage, and nearly everyone does need a massage, I find that those touched by dis-ease need to go to the top of the list. One of my goals is to allow you one hour where as you to feel like a regular person and not a person with cancer and all that goes with that title.

Cancer is a very costly disease.  Not only the medical costs alone but add in the lost wages from missed work and the emotional stress that it creates and the cost is overwhelming.  Most insurance providers will not cover the cost of therapeutic massage treatments, yet there are so many benefits.  No one with a cancer diagnosis will ever pay for a massage treatment at our office!

This is what Vickie C had to say about Michelle...

The massage was great. Michelle worked on my shoulders, arms,neck,my head,my back and my lower back,my legs and feet. When I got off the table I felt light as a feather. Before the massage. I went in with my knees and ankles hurting real bad. When I left they did not hurt. And I can bend my knee with no pain. I recommend Stress Rx.

Lynn had this to say...

The massage was helpful but the knowledge Michelle gave really gave insight to my needs and my condition. I cannot thank you enough for your kindness and time you gave. I can't wait for my next appt. I recommend Stress Rx to anyone and everyone

Why is it important to have a massage therapist that is trained in oncology massage?

Your body has undergone extreme treatments in some cases and requires a more guided protocol.

There could have been lymph nodes removed or treated with radiation that are no longer at 100% of capacity. Different medications have different side effects. You could be on a blood thinner that will make you susceptible to easy bruising. Your current treatment may have its own side effects. Chemotherapy can wipe out your energy levels.

There are so many scenarios I can't begin to list them all, however, for most symptoms there are adjustments to your massage treatment that can be made by someone that knows what to look for and what questions to ask.

How the program works

To become eligible for the free massage treatments, you must register with Stress Rx. To register you may stop by Stress Rx in downtown Davenport and fill out a health intake form.  Meet with Michelle and a treatment plan will be set up specifically for you.  It's that easy.
Client names will never be released without written consent.  And treatment confidentiality will never be breached.

For the client with the cancer diagnosis

What to expect at your first massage treatment

A detailed health history will be taken. Including a physical assessment of your Range of Motion to better know your limitations.

Based upon your current health situation and the reason you are seeking a massage treatment – a treatment plan will be laid out for that session. The massage session will be conducted at a relatively gentle level of pressure until your "new normal" is defined. During your massage if at any time you are uncomfortable, or need to readjust you simply say so, it is your body and the intent of my massage treatment is to make you more comfortable.

After your massage treatment you will be asked a few questions regarding how you are feeling, anything that you really enjoyed, and anything that you could do without.  I prefer to work in conjunction with your medical team. I will provide them reports as to your progress and the work that we do. I will abide by their requested restrictions and will not proceed into areas without their approval.

There is no set protocol to how long the massage should be or how often you should have a massage. Each person is their own individual. Each appointment may be focused on a different area if needed.