Member Profile: Gayle Elmer
1. Describe your current practice and how long you have been a massage therapist.
My practice is a work in progress. After graduating from massage school almost 13 years ago and working at the same place since then, I just started my own private practice in May. It is a bit overwhelming, but I am sure that it will give me the opportunity I need to grow my very eclectic, part-time practice in a new direction. The best part of my week, however, is the half-day I spend as a volunteer at the Regional Cancer Center. For the past five years I have been the only massage therapist there, and have the privilege of providing hand and foot massage to the patients receiving chemotherapy.
2. What led you to an interest in oncology massage?In 2000, I took a weekend mastectomy massage class from Cheryl Chapman, loved this very special work, and wanted to learn more. While looking through Massage Magazine one day, I saw an advertisement for the oncology program taught by Gayle MacDonald and Sandy Canzone. It was an "Aha!" moment for me, and this education was exactly what I had been seeking. I immediately applied, was accepted, and three years later, graduated from this amazing program.
3. Can you describe in one word how you feel doing this work?I believe working with cancer patients is a calling. You will know in your heart if it is right for you. There is no one word to describe how I feel doing this work. Take your pick: blessed, inspired, honored, privileged, or humbled. It feeds my soul and gives me great joy to be able to touch cancer patients in such a special way.
4. Do you have some advice for massage therapists who are just starting to work with oncology clients?As a very wise teacher once told me, "Remember, each session is all about the client." Each client is different and each deserves to have her time with you be the very best it can be.
5. What is your favorite CD to massage by?I love anything by Enya, but I try to choose music that I think the client will like.
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