More access to cancer support program

Cancer Support Sonoma has expanded its services to a twice-weekly schedule, with appointments available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays.

The program, which began seeing cancer patients in March, offers a range of complementary therapies to help ease the symptoms usually associated with conventional cancer treatments.

“Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture and massage, have been shown to help improve quality of life for patients undergoing conventional cancer treatments by decreasing physical and emotional symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, anxiety and depression,” said Pam Koppel, LCSW, program manager.

Therapies include acupuncture, massage therapy, Jin Shin Jyutsu (a form of acupressure), naturopathic medical consultations, nutrition counseling, guided imagery and meditation, Feldenkrais, and music/sound healing.

In addition, being in a supportive atmosphere with others who are on the same cancer journey can provide a great deal of comfort and lift their spirits, Koppel said. “Our program will do both – provide healing therapies, and do so in a supportive, healing environment

All therapy providers selected for the program have experience working with cancer patients. Patients also have the guidance of a Patient Navigator to assist them in choosing among the therapies offered and to provide support and resources as needed.

The program covers its costs through donations and grants, including a sliding scale fee for patients. According to Dave Pier, Foundation interim executive director, services will be made as accessible as possible in order to serve all who need them, and no one will be turned away because of inability to pay.

Cancer Support Sonoma is operated by the Sonoma Valley Hospital Foundation in partnership with the North Bay Cancer Alliance. The program is located on the third floor of Sonoma Valley Hospital, 347 Andrieux Street in Sonoma.