Cancer centre would be a first for NZ
It is a place one can go for serenity and support.
There is no rushed clinical atmosphere, no medical machinery, no clinical jargon – just warmth, comfort and tranquillity. This is the $6.5 million vision of New Zealand’s first Cancer Wellness Centre, a place of holistic healing for the mind, body and soul. Patients would have access to relaxation and massage therapy, counselling services, yoga and nutritional advice. The concept comes from the Hawke’s Bay Cancer Society, which recently changed location in Hastings to be closer to Hawke’s Bay Hospital.
‘‘A colleague talked to me about how we might change the design of the new centre and we took into account the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness Centre in Melbourne and the Maggie’s Centres in the United Kingdom and how they work for cancer patients,’’ project director Trudy Kirk said.
‘‘We wanted to plan a place where people felt they could come in any time, a place that was without a clinical side and somewhere you can always have someone to talk to, someone who understands what you are going through. There are no centres like this in New Zealand.
‘‘We believe it is a model that should be replicated throughout the country. When we look at the cancer statistics in Hawke’s Bay, we have over 1000 people a year who are diagnosed with cancer and we know a lot of those people are not well supported.
‘‘A lot of people don’t know where to go for support. Research also shows us that cancer statistics are going to to increase by 50 per cent in 15 years, so it is really important we plan now for that increase.’’
With a taboo still surrounding the word ‘‘cancer’’, Kirk said the wellness centre would have support services in place to help those recently diagnosed.
‘‘A cancer diagnosis is shocking, you are traumatised, a lot have described it as a kick in the guts and that is exactly what it is.
‘‘It is hard to take in information when you are told you have got cancer, not really understanding what that means.
‘‘Although the medical treatment gets wrapped around you and it is fabulous, it is a lot to take on board. Then there is the emotional side, people are falling apart around you because they are worried. A cancer wellness centre will be a place you go if you have a high suspicion of cancer, if you have a diagnosis or someone you love is going through cancer.’’ Kirk said the centre would also have counsellors, and yoga and massage facilities. She said patients undergoing treatment would often have to change their diet, a major adjustment for some.
‘‘We can teach people about healthy living and what that involves. Exercise is another important part of cancer prevention but also while undergoing treatment. Many people have successfully come out the other side of cancer but still need to be supported.
‘‘Cancer can leave physical and emotional deficits and we are here to help them get back up and get back to their life again.’’
‘‘We believe it is a model that should be replicated throughout the country.’’ Trudy Kirk, right