A cancer diagnosis can be traumatic, and so can life-saving treatments. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can harm health and cause serious medical problems that interfere with daily function and well-being. Survivors sometimes show fatigue, weakness, insomnia, memory loss, fear, anxiety and depression. South County Hospital’s Oncology Rehab Program offers important physical and psychological rehabilitation—most of which is covered by insurance—so survivors can recover more quickly and more completely than they otherwise would.
We serve all survivors, whether they are beginning treatment, finished with treatment, or experiencing late effects or unresolved issues from long-ago treatment. Our program is open to everyone no matter the prognosis, cancer stage or phase of recovery. Newly diagnosed patients may want to increase their strength and endurance and prevent future medical problems; survivors living with cancer as a chronic disease may come to us for help managing treatment-related conditions; and individuals who are cured or in remission may enroll in our program with the goal of boosting their immune systems so that they can heal as well as possible.
Our rehabilitation care, based on conventional medicine, is offered to patients by a knowledgeable and sensitive staff, specially trained to treat survivors of all forms of cancer. They are experts at the top of their fields and comprise a variety of disciplines:
Rather than using a “problem-oriented” approach and tackling each health issue as it arises, we address the full spectrum of post-cancer care. When evaluating a patient, in addition to focusing on his or her health conditions and symptoms, we take into consideration: diet, sleep issues, existing pain, endurance, strength, exercise habits and emotional outlook. All of these factors have an important effect on physical healing.
After undergoing a thorough evaluation by a physician, a “team” of specialists is assigned to each patient according to his or her individual needs. The healthcare “team” creates a personalized rehabilitation plan, with the goals of increasing strength and energy, alleviating pain, improving physical functioning, achieving emotional balance and boosting the immune system. Each team member provides his or her expert guidance and training.
When someone has cancer, their life changes. But life also changes for those who help the patient through their cancer journey. Reliable caregiver support is crucial to the physical and emotional well-being of those with cancer. In this support group, you'll find caregiving tips, advice, and camaraderie. Share, vent, laugh, and feel less alone in this private space. All are welcome: spouses, partners, siblings, children, friends, etc.
Last Monday of every month from 1-2:30 p.m. Cancer Center Patient Consult Lounge. For more information, please email Lawrence Grebstein at lgrebstein@southcountyhealth.org
A free class for survivors and caregivers every Tuesday from 1:00 – 2:15 p.m. at All That Matters in Wakefield. www.allthatmatterswellness.org
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