A special message from the President of S4OM to cancer patients,
their families, friends and caregivers - anyone affected by cancer ...
Welcome to the Society for Oncology Massage website,
We are here to tell you the good news about oncology massage. You will learn that S4OM members work with cancer patients and their caregivers at many of the finest hospitals/clinics and in private offices. That is because massage is enormously helpful in navigating cancer's 40 miles of rocky road.
We all know that stress reduces our ability to enjoy the good things in life and decreases our ability to cope with the tough ones. For patients and their caregivers, cancer is one of life's most stressful experiences. All at once, you are overwhelmed with new faces, new places, a new language, a new knowledge of your body and a frightening loss of control. Physical and mental effects of cancer are a double whammy and stress is the kicker.Massage is a proven antidote to stress. We first experienced the power of massage from our mothers touch. Comfort and reassurance received through touch is one of our most basic needs. Cancer patients and their caregivers have said things such as, "It's like a vacation from cancer.", "It's my place to be in control and do something for myself." and "I'm overcome by the most amazing feelings of acceptance and peace."
Oncology massage by a trained therapist is appropriate at every stage of your cancer journey: during and after treatment, in remission, cure or at the end of life. I encourage you to explore our website, especially the links directly above. Discuss massage with your medical team. Find a trained therapist in your area. One client summed up her own experience, "I'm glad I found massage - I don't know how I would have gotten through this year without it."
Namaste,
Meg Robsahm
President, Society for Oncology Massage.
