The notion of improving the patient experience and helping patients relax in a “retreat” setting has been an incredible impact on patients thus far. Ideas continue to emerge for the expansion of the wellbeing retreat concept throughout the center.
Contributions and additions made possible by the Patty Boyko Foundation include:
“You can’t imagine how wonderful a warm blanket feels. It is like being in a spa or getting a hug.”
Cancer Center Patient
Music Therapy
Research has clearly demonstrated the healing power of music and its effect on physical and mental health including pain and anxiety, blood pressure, heart rate and more. With the help of our generous donors, UH Parma was able to hire its first, board-certified music therapist.
“Just wanted to express how much I appreciate music therapist Danny Rose. On my first day of chemo treatment I was an emotional mess. I was literally in tears and had so much anxiety over the path ahead of me… Danny showed up. He asked where my favorite place was and I just closed my eyes as he played soothing guitar music while taking me to the beach. He is so talented and I now look forward to my treatments.”
“Meditation Station” (NEW: Under Development)
Meditation uses techniques to help focus the mind, aid in relaxation, reduce anxiety, stress and pain.
The Meditation Station concept integrates meditation with the cancer center Wellbeing Retreat; offered in an on-the-spot practice. Tools such as music and video guided meditation using an electronic tablet, solar or battery-operated candles and other support will be offered wherever and whenever needed by patients AND health care workers in various nooks and locations in the center.
“Hydration Inspiration” (NEW: Under Development)
Cancer patients often struggle with the risk of dehydration that can result in a visit to the emergency department and hospitalization for IV therapy. This can occur from the physical effects of treatments, loss of appetite and, and other factors. The oncology social worker and oncology dietitian are developing a program to help patients prevent dehydration though education, tips, tools and self-care motivation. Water bottles, nutritional beverages, educational materials and other techniques will be shared with patients. This will help them to become more deliberate about staying hydrated and more inspired to do so even when it is difficult.
Lighting and artwork
The staff and foundation have a vision of adding artwork, lighting and ambiance that will enhance the environment where patients are cared for and finally transform the environment of care. These additions combined with the other offerings outlined here will help patients forget that they are in a clinical setting receiving treatment, it will take them to another place!
Supportive & Integrative Oncology
• Physical health and symptom management, including nutrition and rehabilitation
• Psychological care like music and art therapies, as well as stress management and yoga
• Social services that focus on community outreach and education
• Spiritual services that provide access to spiritual counseling
Patient Quotes:
“The Wellbeing Retreat is a Godsend. I don’t know how I would have gotten this far in my treatment without it.”
“Massage therapy provides me with relief so that I can keep up with my daily life.”
“I look forward to my massage appointments more than anything.”
“I want to thank everyone for the great care I have received. With your help, compassion and encouragement, I am not only a survivor, I am living again.”
“It was so nice to be able to get a cup of coffee and sit in one of the massage chairs while I was waiting for my tests. I did not feel so much like a ‘sick person’.”
