Waterford Place Program Guide Fall 2023 English

Page 1

FALL

2023

October, November, December

PROGRAM GUIDE PROGRAM GUIDE

Programs for Individuals Affected by a Cancer Diagnosis

Newly

Newly Diagnosed

Providing helpful tools, encouragement and support to empower those who are newly diagnosed

1310 Waterford Drive Aurora, IL 60504 (331) 301-5280 waterfordcrc.com Hours: Monday and Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Closed November 23 and 24 for Thanksgiving and December 22 and 25 for Christmas Waterford Place Cancer Resource Center provides services and support, at no cost to participants, to anyone affected by a cancer diagnosis. Educational Presentations Salon and Spa Programs TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Family Programs 2 Newly Diagnosed 1 3 6 8 Acupuncture: A Tool To Benefit Patients in Their Cancer Journeys 9 Support Programs 4 Mind, Body and Spirit Programs Wellness Programs

After a cancer diagnosis, many people find themselves in unfamiliar territory, navigating everything from physical changes to a host of different emotions. To help with this, Waterford Place offers several programs and services designed to provide helpful tools, encouragement and support to empower those who have newly received a cancer diagnosis.

Physical Limitations

It can be frustrating to be unable to do the things you previously could do. Sudden physical limitations can be a real challenge to cope with. Side effects — such as fatigue, neuropathy, dizziness and pain — can make it difficult to engage in daily activities and routines. Often, these limitations are temporary. Talk to your medical team if you are experiencing any of these issues to see what changes can be made and what options are available. It can also help to talk to loved ones and accept assistance when possible. Allow yourself to explore new or even old interests that do not require you to expend as much energy but still help you feel connected to the things you love. Whatever you pursue, remember to be compassionate with yourself as you go through this.

Emotional Rollercoaster

You may experience a wide variety of emotions as you go through cancer treatment. From sadness or anger at having to accept a cancer diagnosis, to worries and fears about pain or prognosis, to gratitude for the love and support of family and friends — all of this is normal. It can be a little unnerving if you are a person who usually does not experience such shifts in mood but, given the scale of what you are going through, it is certainly understandable that you would feel differently than you usually do. If you start to feel that the stress is overwhelming or the emotions are unmanageable, it may help to talk to a professional. Professional counselors are trained in providing tools

and support during challenging times in our lives and can make a big difference in helping you process this experience so you can feel better sooner.

Financial Stress

Cancer is costly and, for some people, working through treatment may not only be difficult but necessary. It is important to know your rights when it comes to issues such as employment, financial assistance and disability. Many organizations are dedicated to helping people with cancer avoid financial toxicity and protect themselves from discrimination. Some organizations focus on cancer type, while others may help based on where you live or other demographics. Talk to your oncology social worker if you have

concerns about finances, need help applying for aid or want more information on your employment rights. Ask for referrals to organizations that can help. Once you have the information you need, sit down and plan to solve the issues that are causing you stress. Feeling more in control can bring you more peace of mind. Some specially designed programs that can help those who are newly diagnosed can be found on page 2.

• The Benefits of Exercise Before, During and After Treatment of Cancer

• Practical Strategies for Managing a Cancer Diagnosis

• Tips for Navigating the Holidays

• Rehabilitation Services for Lung Cancer

NEWLY DIAGNOSED
1 Fall 2023

EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS

Personalized Financial Resource Consultation

By appointment only

Cancer not only affects your physical health, it also affects your financial wellbeing. Several resources are available to help you manage the financial impact of cancer, including federally-funded programs and private nonprofit organizations. Schedule a meeting with a financial navigator to learn what financial resources are available to you.

Welcome to Waterford Place

Orientation

By appointment only

All new participants are invited to attend an introductory orientation to discover the valuable resources available at Waterford Place.

Technology Consultation

By appointment only

Need help connecting to virtual programs through your personal computer, laptop or tablet? Schedule a virtual or phone consultation for assistance with setting up an email or installing and using the Webex application on your device.

Practical Strategies for Managing a Cancer Diagnosis

Thursday, October 5 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Laura Rollins, LSW, Oncology Social Worker RUSH Copley Medical Center

A new cancer diagnosis impacts life in

many ways. Learn some practical ways to prepare for a cancer journey no matter what types of treatment you are facing. Topics will include navigating employment issues, communicating effectively with family and friends, and understanding insurance coverage and other financial implications of a cancer diagnosis.

The Benefits of Exercise Before, During and After Cancer Treatment

Wednesday, October 18 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor For most people, exercise is safe and helpful before, during and after cancer treatment. This presentation will focus on the benefits of movement for the newly

FAMILY PROGRAMS

Hocus Pocus Family Focus

October 26 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Caring Arts Foundation

Bring the kids for some Halloween fun, artfully done! Enjoy spooky music while you and your family make masks and design your own Trick-or-Treat bags. Mad Zac, our resident mixologist, will help you create your own mocktail potion. Each child will receive a commemorative beaker

keepsake to take home. Wear a costume — we all will! Space is limited. Please register immediate family members only.

Family Holiday Photos

November 16 • 5 to 8 p.m.

Caring Arts Foundation

Pose for a holiday photo with your family, complete with a winter backdrop and festive props. Color holiday pages and

diagnosed, for people in active treatment and for cancer survivors. You will learn many new tools to stay active daily.

Tips for Navigating the Holidays

Tuesday, November 7 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Karyn Holtz, PT, MHS, CLT, CDNT RUSH Physical Therapy

The holiday season can be a joyful time, but it can also leave you feeling overwhelmed and a little stressed – especially when managing the challenges of cancer. This session will provide you with tips, tricks and a toolkit to help you make your well-being a priority while you enjoy special traditions and time with those you love.

Rehabilitation Services for Lung Cancer

Wednesday, November 15

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Karyn Holtz, PT, MHS, CLT, CDNT RUSH Physical Therapy

November is Lung Cancer Awareness

Month. Attend this session for an overview of lung cancer, treatment options and the importance of rehabilitation services.

When I go to Waterford Place, I know I will always find caring, supportive people helping to improve each participant’s day.

winter mandalas while you wait your turn. Refreshments will be provided. Space is limited. Register early.

Presents for Patients

November 30 • 6 to 8 p.m.

Take part in this festive, fun, family-friendly evening of gift-making for the person in your life who has cancer. All supplies and instructions will be provided. Enjoy light refreshments and entertainment, too.

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“ ”

SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Our groups allow participants to connect with others experiencing similar circumstances. Goals are to exchange information and strategies for decision-making, help navigate the cancer journey and allow participants to connect, share and exchange support. To ensure a meaningful group experience, at least five participants must attend for the group to meet.

Aurora Multiple Myeloma Networking Group (Virtual Only)

First Wednesdays: October 4, November 1 and December 6 • 6 to 8 p.m. Affiliated with the International Myeloma Foundation, this group is open to those diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and their loved ones. To sign up, please contact Valarie Traynham, group leader, at aurora@IMFsupport.org or (630) 423-6510.

Breast FRIENDs (First Resource in Experiencing and Navigating a Diagnosis)

Third Mondays: October 16, November 20 and December 18 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Facilitated by a licensed social worker and breast health navigator, Breast FRIENDs is for anyone experiencing a breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of treatment type or stage. This informal group provides support and a safe place to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges.

Survivorship Support Group

Third Mondays: October 16, November 20 and December 18 • 6:30 to 8 p.m. For those looking for support as they transition into life after treatment, this informal group provides a safe place to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges.

Family and Caregiver Networking Group

Second Wednesdays: October 11, November 8 and December 13 6:30 to 8 p.m.

In this group, family, friends and caregivers of cancer patients will receive support for themselves and network with others in similar circumstances. The group is facilitated by a licensed social worker.

Soul Tending and Support Group

First Thursdays: October 5, November 2 and December 7 • 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Soul Tending and Support is a cancer support group related to faith where healing and meaning can be found in the cancer experience. In a supportive and confidential meeting space, you may share and hear how faith and reliance on a higher power can help in coping with cancer. Facilitated by a social worker or chaplain.

Gyne SISTERs (Sharing Inspiration and Support Through Education and Resources)

Second Thursdays: October 12, November 9 and December 14 • 3 to 4:30 p.m. Open to those who have had a gynecological cancer diagnosis, Gyne SISTERs is co-facilitated by a licensed social worker and a registered nurse.

Men’s Group

Fourth Tuesdays: October 24, November 28 and December 26 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.

For men who have had a cancer diagnosis, this informal group provides support and a

safe place to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges. A light dinner will be provided.

COUNSELING

Oncology-Focused, Short-Term Counseling

By appointment only

Short-term counseling to address cancer-related issues is available to those diagnosed with cancer and their families. Up to five sessions are provided to address sadness, worries, communication, returning to work, body esteem and other similar issues as they relate to a cancer diagnosis.

Grief Counseling

By appointment only

Provided through a partnership with AccentCare

For many, the grief experience that results from the death of a loved one can generate a myriad of feelings, confusion and questions. Talking with a bereavement specialist one-on-one about this can assist in the coping process.

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MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT PROGRAMS

Vibrational Sound Therapy

By appointment only

Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist

Vibrational sound therapy is a one-on-one service using Himalayan singing bowls gently placed on the body to promote total relaxation and decrease the effects of stress on the body and mind. The tones and vibrations combine to produce an immediate state of tranquility as sound waves act like a massage for the nervous system.

Reiki

By appointment only

Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master, and Karen Jendruczek, Reiki Practitioner

This one-on-one service is an energetic relaxation therapy that offers stress reduction, mental clarity, relief of pain, improved sleep and other benefits.

Guided Meditation

Mondays: October 4, November 1 and December 6 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation

Oncology

RUSH Copley Medical Center

This guided imagery experience incorporates cleansing breathwork and an array of relaxation techniques designed to balance emotions, decrease physical and psychological distress, and promote the practice of living in the moment.

Giving Back Society

Fridays: October 20, November 17 and December 15 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Lisa Lapinski

Are you looking for opportunities to pay it forward by helping other cancer patients on the journey? Join the Waterford Place Giving Back Society to brainstorm ideas and participate in activities that make a difference in the cancer community.

Craft and Chat

Wednesdays: October 11, November 8 and December 13 • 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join us to chat, drink tea or coffee and work on your crafting project. Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, coloring or whatever project you are working on. This informal participant gathering is not led by a facilitator.

Sound Healing Meditation

Tuesday, October 24 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master Experience a deep relaxation and meditation when you attend this sound healing session. Immerse yourself in healing sounds designed to promote relaxation and balance for both body and mind.

Halloween Pumpkin Bracelet

Tuesday, October 10 • 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master

Get ready for Halloween season with a beautiful beaded pumpkin bracelet. All materials will be provided.

HeartMath Meditation

Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation Oncology

RUSH Copley Medical Center

Thursday, October 19 • 1 to 2 p.m.

Thursday, November 16 • 1 to 2 p.m.

Thursday, December 21 • 1 to 2 p.m.

Discover HeartMath Meditation, a simple, yet powerful, meditative technique that uses heart-focused breathing to improve clarity, harmony of the mind and body, and balance. It can help you shift your emotional state and calm your mind. The same class is offered each month; choose the date that fits your schedule.

4 Fall 2023

MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT

Mixed Media Art Class: The Autumn Landscape

Tuesday, October 24 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Barbara Weigand

Caring Arts Foundation

We all appreciate the beauty and serenity of autumn color. Capture that beauty in landscapes created in your choice of paint or pastels in this relaxing art activity easy enough for beginners. Image examples provided or bring a favorite photo to work from. Acrylics, watercolors, pastels and other materials are provided.

Mixed Media Art Class:

Thankfulness and Joy

Tuesday, November 28 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Barbara Weigand

Caring Arts Foundation

What are you thankful for? What brings you joy? Express it in a work of art, either realistically or conceptually, your way. Guidance and example ideas will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring an image to work from. All materials provided.

PROGRAMS

Bilingual Art Class

Dive into a cultural journey as we invite English-speaking participants to join our Spanish art classes. This will be an opportunity to embrace multicultural experiences and forge connections through the universal language of art. Whether you're a novice or an art enthusiast, come together with fellow learners to create a vibrant, inclusive community that transcends linguistic boundaries. Join us and let the colors, shapes, and stories of art speak to you, no matter what language you speak.

Mixed Media Art Class: An Americana Winter

Tuesday, December 26 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Barbara Weigand

Caring Arts Foundation

From Norman Rockwell to the folk artists of New England, we’re all nostalgic about winter

scenes of sledding, skating and snowmen. Create that type of imagery using your choice of art media, whether it’s paint on canvas or watercolor or colored pencil on paper. All materials and sample imagery provided.

Mixed Media Art Class: Spooky

Halloween Cauldron

Tuesday, October 10 • 6 to 7 p.m.

Erica Arteaga

Get into the Halloween spirit by making a cauldron centerpiece. Transform your spooky ideas into frightful fun.

Mixed Media Art Class: Fall Paper Wreath

Tuesday, November 14 • 6 to 7 p.m.

Erica Arteaga

Decorations are a great way to get

your home ready for the season. Join us to make a wreath that will bring fall into your home.

Mixed Media Art Class: Christmas Memorial

Tuesday, December 12 • 6 to 7 p.m.

Erica Arteaga

Make a memorial frame to help remember loved ones who have passed. Create a remembrance frame that will be treasured forever. The perfect gift for a loved one!

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WELLNESS PROGRAMS

Tai Chi/Moving Meditation

Mondays • 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.

Kristi Niedzwiecki, ACE Certified Fitness Instructor

Center yourself as you become aware of your own energy, while relaxing and strengthening your body without injury or strain. Tai chi is an ancient form of meditative exercise that helps to harmonize mind and body. A simplified routine is taught with traditional postures and slow soft movements.

Group Movement: Level 2

Mondays • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor

Designed for those who have completed treatment, this class offers a mix of exercise, yoga and Pilates to help you gain or regain strength, mobility and endurance. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, this class is a step above in intensity in comparison to the other classes offered at Waterford Place.

Group Movement: Level 1

Mondays • 12:30 to 1 p.m.

Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor

Designed for those who are newly diagnosed or in active treatment, this class will help you feel better physically, mentally and emotionally. Physical activity can reduce fatigue, increase endurance, boost energy levels and improve mood. With the use of bands, light weights and other props, you will build or rebuild strength and stamina.

Gentle Yoga

Tuesdays • 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Kate Fleming, Yoga Instructor and Yoga Therapist, ERYT-500, C-IAYT

Achieve a higher state of mindfulness while

WEEKLY MOVEMENT PROGRAMS

Mondays

9:30 to 10:15 a.m. — Tai Chi/ Moving Meditation

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Group Movement: Level 2

12:30 to 1 p.m. — Group

Movement: Level 1

Tuesdays

5:30 to 6:30 p.m. — Gentle Yoga

Wednesdays

10 to 10:45 a.m. — Gentle Pilates

11 to 11:45 a.m. — LymphedemaFocused Movement

5 to 6 p.m. — Restorative Yoga

Thursdays

12:30 to 1:15 p.m. — Chair Yoga and Mobility

building strength and balance. This gentle yoga class will help you manage cancer by tapping into your mind-body connection to improve overall wellness. Modifications are offered so that everyone can participate safely.

Gentle Pilates

Wednesdays • 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor

Low impact Pilates is a series of exercises

that develop the body’s strength, flexibility and control.

Lymphedema-Focused Movement

Wednesdays • 11 to 11:45 a.m.

Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor

This class will address cancer-related lymphedema through gentle movement and stretches for both the upper and lower body. Modifications are offered so that everyone can participate safely. A yoga mat is recommended.

Restorative Yoga

Wednesdays • 5 to 6 p.m.

Chitra Singh, Certified Yoga Instructor

Restorative yoga is a gentle, calming, therapeutic yoga that cultivates relaxation and balance and uses props to support the body. Each restorative pose will be held for five to six minutes to release tension and deepen relaxation.

Chair Yoga and Mobility

Thursdays • 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.

Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor

This all-level class includes breathwork, meditation and gentle movement to enhance mobility and strengthen muscles and bones.

Nutrition Consultations

By appointment only

Michelle Cordes, MS, RD, LDN

RUSH Copley Medical Center

Nutrition consultations are available for anyone diagnosed with cancer at any stage of diagnosis. Our registered dietitian will discuss meal preparation and current diet trends, help you manage treatment-related side effects and choose healthier foods.

6 Fall 2023
No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Caregivers are encouraged to attend with the person living with cancer.

Healing Kitchen

Michelle Cordes, MS, RD, LDN

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Thursday, October 12 • 6 to 7 p.m.

This colorful salad is a great side dish to include with your meals. The ingredients provide protein, healthy fats and one third of the average person’s daily fiber intake.

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Thursday, November 9 • 6 to 7 p.m.

November is the month for all things pumpkin. A rich source of carotenoids, pumpkin provides alpha and beta carotene, fiber and 100% of your daily vitamin A. Made with a whole grain pasta, this unique twist on a classic comfort food makes a great fall dinner.

Eggplant and Quinoa Bake

Thursday, December 14 • 6 to 7 p.m.

Effortlessly quick to prepare, this dish boasts a rich abundance of complete proteins, making it a superb addition to any meal. It is a great way to use cooked quinoa, which moves it beyond a salad or side dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa

1 cup water

3 cups unsweetened

almond milk, plus more

2 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks

Directions

Dairy-Free Quinoa

Pudding

½ cup golden raisins

1/3 cup honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ TBSP ground cinnamon

½ cup sliced almonds

1. Place quinoa in a strainer, rinse with water and let it drain for a couple of minutes. Transfer quinoa to a large sauce pan and add water, almond milk and cinnamon sticks. Bring to boil over medium-high heat, reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

2. Add raisins, honey, vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Stir to combine and remove from heat. Let cool to room temperature or refrigerate. Add more almond milk as needed if pudding gets too thick.

3. Serve with sliced almonds and chopped fruit, if desired.

7 Fall 2023 WELLNESS PROGRAMS

SALON AND SPA PROGRAMS

Simply Beautiful Skin

Friday, October 13 • 10 a.m. to Noon

Friday, November 10 • 10 a.m. to Noon

Friday, December 8 • 10 a.m. to Noon

Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Esthetician

Developed to help you manage skin changes during cancer treatment, this class will demonstrate how to implement a skin care regimen with safe products to enhance your natural beauty. The same class is offered each month to accommodate different schedules.

Simply Beautiful Hair

Monday, October 16 • 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Monday, November 20 • 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Monday, December 18 • 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Jenny Burns, Licensed Cosmetologist and Medical Hair Loss Expert

If you need help managing hair changes related to cancer treatment, this class is for you. Topics to be covered include initial hair loss, wigs and head coverings, hair regrowth and safe products that can help with achieving your hair care goals. The same class is offered each month to accommodate different schedules.

Put the Glow Back in your Skin and Soul

Wednesday, October 11 • 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Esthetician

Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist

Join us for a relaxing facial and sound healing experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. Sit back in our zero gravity chairs with a BelMondo facial sheet mask, especially created for cancer patients. Mask will stay on during the sound healing. Please let us know if you are allergic or sensitive to any ingredients.

Waterford Place Wig

Boutique and Salon

By appointment only

Jenny Burns, Licensed Cosmetologist and Medical Hair Loss Expert

To help you feel comfortable and confident, salon services are available for those experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatments. Services include addressing treatment-related hair changes, customizable complimentary wigs, wig care, options for head coverings, and assistance with styling hair as it grows back.

Oncology Massage

By appointment only

Michelle Haugen, LMT, CLT Rachel Cordova, LMT

Experience the healing benefits of oncology massage. Designed to address treatment-related side effects, reduce stress and pain, and enhance your overall quality of life, oncology massage combines compassion with special massage treatments. Our skilled therapists provide gentle and nurturing touch, ensuring your comfort throughout the session.

Oncology Skin Care Consultations

By appointment only

Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Estheticians

Individual consultations are available to help you manage skin changes due to cancer treatment. Services include a comprehensive review of products and cosmetics, recommendations for oncology-safe products, and addressing skin-related issues.

Oncology Facials

By appointment only

Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Estheticians

Cancer treatments may leave the skin dry, sensitive and lacking proper nutrients, and traditional skin care methods and products can sometimes do more harm than good. When skin is compromised, it needs products that are safe and gentle to bring it back to health. Geralyn or Kate will assess your skin care needs and provide appropriate treatment to help restore and maintain healthy skin.

Reflexology

By appointment only

Rachel Cordova, Certified Reflexologist

The practice of reflexology involves massaging or applying pressure to various acupressure points on the foot to reduce stress and support overall health.

Acupuncture

By appointment only

A Touch of Ginger

Acupuncture is a holistic approach that focuses on the interconnectedness of body, mind and spirit, aiming to restore harmony and well-being. This technique helps to promote and maintain overall health, improve quality of life, alleviate symptoms related to cancer, and enhance the body's natural healing mechanisms.

8 Fall 2023

Acupuncture: A Tool To Benefit Patients in Their Cancer Journeys

Acupuncture has been practiced in Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and now it has come to Waterford Place Cancer Resource Center.

Acupuncture can benefit patients as they go through cancer treatment, helping them relax, reduce nausea and stomachaches, improve sleep patterns and energy and deal with pain.

“We can help with whatever side effects they’re having,” says Ginger Michels, acupuncturist and owner of A Touch of Ginger, which is providing the service. “We help them keep their energy levels up as best as they can.”

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the use of very fine needles — some as thin as a strand of hair — on the surface of the skin to stimulate specific points on the body. It helps free the movement of blocked qi, says Michels, who describes qi as the energy or life force that powers the body to perform its functions. Qi moves through pathways throughout the body, she says, but disease, trauma and other factors can block or disrupt its flow.

Through placement of needles, acupuncture is used to tell the body where the problem is and to activate the body’s own ability to heal itself, she explains. The needles move energy to restore function to the part of the body where the system is struggling to do its job.

Individual treatments last about an hour and involve speaking with the patient for 10 to 20 minutes to determine their needs before placing the needles. She typically

places four to 12 needles, which takes five to 10 minutes. The person then rests with the needles in place for 15 to 30 minutes.

Do the needles hurt? It’s a unique feeling to each individual, Michels says, but the needles should never feel sharp. Most patients describe it as pressure, pulling, pushing or aching.

“Once the needles have been placed into a stream of energy, patients are very comfortable and feel more relaxed as the treatment gets the flow of energy moving in the right direction,” she says. Many patients nap.

Helping patients feel better Omar Ramos, program development and operations manager at Waterford Place, says he wanted to bring acupuncture to the center because it is a safe, proven method to address treatment-related side effects. Many participants are trying it for the first time, and they’ve expressed an improved mood and greater sense of well-being.

Michels is honored and excited about sharing acupuncture with Waterford Place participants.

“I feel it’s two giant steps,” she says. “First, we’re getting this treatment to people who would really benefit from receiving it. Second, they’re receiving it at no charge.” Like all the services provided at Waterford Place, acupuncture is free of charge to anyone affected by cancer.

Michels says the best part of her job is watching someone feel better. Many patients come to her saying, “I’ve done everything. I’ve seen doctors, tried medicines and surgery and I still don’t feel better. I don’t know what else to do.”

Following an acupuncture treatment, they tell her the pain is gone or they haven’t had a migraine in a week.

“It’s so exciting — so incredibly rewarding — to watch that moment that someone feels better,” she says. “It’s so amazing to impact people’s lives and help them feel better than they have in so long.”

9 Fall 2023
Needles help activate the body’s ability to heal itself

Get Started with Us

Call (331) 301-5280 to schedule a virtual individualized consultation and orientation, available in English or Spanish. Next, please complete a Participant Information form available online at waterfordcrc.com. Registration is required for all programs. How to register:

• Online at waterfordcrc.com

• Call (331) 301-5280

Contact Us

Monday and Friday • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Closed November 23 and 24 for Thanksgiving and December 22 and 25 for Christmas.

Phone: (331) 301-5280

Email: info@waterfordcrc.com waterfordcrc.com

Waterford Place is located at 1310 Waterford Drive • Aurora, IL 60504 Online at waterfordcrc.com Call (331) 301-5280

For more virtual programming, view and subscribe to Waterford Place’s YouTube channel.

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