‘It was great to have a place to go where I could close my eyes and switch off ’
Straffan, Co Kildare, trained their staff in Made for Life Cancer Touch Therapy and offer a range of treatments, all using Made for Life Organics products.
But while some spas may not yet cater for customers with a history of cancer, local cancer care centres across the country welcome them with open arms and a healing touch.
“These are safe places where people can come and enjoy uplifting massage treatments by qualified therapists,” says Briga Gorman, Nurse Manager and experienced touch therapist at the Lakelands Area Retreat and Cancer Centre (LARCC) in Mullingar, Co Westmeath.
“We have Pamper Days where people can come on their own or with a friend or family member and enjoy a touch therapy massage, reflexology and meditation. They’re complementary treatments that help to ease pain and anxiety, and in some cases alleviate the side effects of treatment.
“It’s nice to be able to chill out and know that you’re in safe hands, with staff who are properly trained and up to date. We always get the consent of the individual’s consultant or GP, which gives the patient further reassurance that the treatments come with medical approval.
“Local cancer support centres like ours provide a sanctuary where people can take time out, enjoy some well-deserved pampering and be supported in their recovery and emotional wellMother-of-two being.” Irene Gilmore (left) says the touch therapy she received at the LARCC centre helped her cope physically and mentally with the rigours of medical treatment. Diagnosed with breast cancer last April, just before her 41st birthday, she had surgery two weeks later, followed by intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Each week throughout her treatment, Irene attended the LARCC for reflexology and other massages, and continues to this day with monthly sessions.
“Not only was it relaxing and good for my mental well-being, it significantly eased some of the physical side effects of the treatment,” she says. “I’d developed neuropathy, which included numbness in my fingers and toes, and massage helped that a lot. It was great to have a place to go where I could close my eyes and switch off. I slept better too.
“Every now and then I enjoy spa days with my friends, but I always call in advance to find out if the spa offers appropriate treatments by qualified staff. I’d like to see more spas having at least one therapist trained in cancer care. Meanwhile though, I think it’s important for anyone with cancer to disclose their condition and have that conversation before reaching the spa because what’s worse than being turned away is putting your
body in the hands of someone who isn’t qualified.”
According to the Irish Cancer Society, there is no evidence to suggest massage therapy can spread cancer, but direct pressure over a tumour should be avoided. Deep tissue massage is not advised, but gentle, therapeutic massage performed by a qualified and experienced therapist can help relieve muscle soreness, stiffness and spasms, aid relaxation and improve sleep. The society recommends that patients consult their doctor before opting for any massage therapy.