About

Jo Bakal, LMT, NBC-HWC Oncology Massage Therapist & Cancer Coach.

Inspired by my late twin sister Amy, I became a Reiki Practitioner and massage therapist, discovering my love for bodywork and helping others heal.

Cancer has touched nearly every corner of my life. My twin sister battled kidney cancer for several years, and I remained by her side until her final breath.

Like many people, I have also experienced the heartbreak of losing too many friends and loved ones to this disease. These experiences inspired me to pursue specialized training in both oncology massage and cancer coaching so I could better support individuals and families navigating cancer.

Today, I work with people in active treatment, survivors, and caregivers, helping them find comfort, support, and practical tools for their unique journey. Oncology massage is a specialized therapy designed for individuals in cancer treatment, recovery, and survivorship.

Through gentle, individualized care, I help clients experience greater comfort, relaxation, and relief while addressing some of the unique physical and emotional challenges that accompany cancer and its treatments.

Sessions are tailored to each person’s needs and aim to ease symptoms such as pain, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, and soreness while supporting overall well-being and quality of life.

As a cancer coach, I help clients work through the many lifestyle, emotional, and practical challenges that can arise during and after treatment.

Together, we identify realistic strategies that support their health, resilience, and overall quality of life.

In my spare time, I volunteer at Moffitt Cancer Center as both a care companion and pet therapy volunteer alongside my therapy dogs, continuing my commitment to bringing comfort, connection, and moments of joy to those affected by cancer. Based in Tampa, Florida.