Therapist brings comfort and relief
How Kirsty uses her massage skills to help people being treated for cancer
NAME: Kirsty Wales JOB: Specialist oncology and scar tissue therapist helping people recover from the side effects of cancer treatment and surgery
HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON THIS CAREER?
Working with cancer patients and seeing the amazing results massage had in easing their discomfort, I trained with the renowned Susan Findlay, an expert in the field of oncology massage. People with cancer understand how important it is to allow the body to focus on healing itself, and by using approved, specific and non-invasive oncology massage therapies, I am now able to really help my clients do that.
My day always starts by walking
HOW DOES A NORMAL DAY USUALLY GO?
my beautiful black Labrador; before traveling (when not in Lockdown!) to visit my patients in their homes. Many of my oncology patients are currently undergoing treatment, and I adapt each session to suit their needs on that particular day. Whenever possible, I include an exercise class in my daily routine and Pilates is one of my favorites. During lockdown, I am keeping in touch and providing my clients with regular help and advice via zoom; giving them tips for easing some of their soreness themselves.
WHAT GIVES YOU THE MOST JOB SATISFACTION?
I am proud to provide my services as a weekly volunteer each Friday at The Olive Tree cancer charity in Crawley; and I feel very privileged to be part of this incredible team.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
I want to be able to provide comfort and relief to an even wider audience, and aim to have a fully kitted out mobile treatment room, with a hydraulic ramp for easy access, as part of this. I see my hands-on oncology and scar tissue massage client base developing further, along with my current online FaceTime assistance.
■ Kirsty Wales Massage Therapies is based in Cowfold. She uses specialist post-operative and rehab massage therapies, to treat patients from the comfort of their own home in Horsham and Mid Sussex. For more information visit her website www.kwmassagetherapies. co.uk/