many effects of cancer and its
treatment. In her practice, Dr.
Valero notes that “there are many
people who are battling cancer
relatively alone, and for these
patients I make an extra effort
to make time for compassionate
and mindful touch, as this may be
the only time they can experience
it.”
afraid of doing the ‘wrong thing.’
It can also be hard for some
patients to receive the benefits
of touch, as some are advised
to stay away from children, and
avoid kisses from family and
friends due to the potential of
transmitting viruses given that their
immune systems are depleted
from conventional care. It is easy
to see how patients can begin
to feel isolated, which further
emphasizes the need for us to
reach out to them through touch.
It is also important to remember
that not everyone who is living
with cancer has the good
fortune of being showered by
support of family and friends.
In these instances, the support
they receive from practitioners
and health care providers, often
frames their overall experience
of navigating through the
Being diagnosed creates a frenzy
of emotion, especially fear. And
the process that follows is often
one filled with discomfort, pain,
and anguish. In whatever position
we are in, whether as a caregiver,
practitioner, family member or
friend, it is important for us to
remember that people suffering
from the effects of cancer can
benefit greatly from expressions
of kindness, compassion, and
empathy. The truth is that we all
need this level of touch in our lives
to truly heal and be supported.
Daniela.
Referenced:
Dr. Meighan Valero ND
Be Well: A Creating Wellness
Centre
Windsor, ON