Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when we come together to raise awareness, support, and hope for those affected by breast cancer. Being told "you have cancer" is a life-altering moment that can leave you feeling overwhelmed with a range of emotions, from shock and anxiety to anger and fear. It's important to recognise that these emotional responses are a form of grief and that finding help and guidance during this challenging journey is essential. Here are some key things Cancer Rehab at our Clinic can help with!
· Having someone to talk with:
One crucial aspect of coping with a cancer diagnosis is having a supportive healthcare team. They are there to provide guidance, support, and treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Emma, our Lead Physiotherapist has undergone specialised training to support individuals affected by cancer. She approaches each patient as a unique individual and works with you for targeted treatment and rehabilitation that aligns with your stage of recovery. Her focus is on addressing your individual needs and improving your overall quality of life and well-being.
It's essential to have a robust support network throughout your cancer journey, not just during active treatment but also as you navigate life beyond treatment. Cancer treatment is challenging, and its side effects can be even tougher. Cancer rehabilitation is not solely about returning to exercise and fitness; it encompasses a wide range of aspects, including managing fatigue, pain, and personal barriers. We provide individualised care because we understand that your goals and challenges are unique.
· Having a Rehab Plan:
We work with you to determine what matters most to you in your journey towards recovery. We offer holistic support and recognise that you are more than just your cancer diagnosis. Our rehab plans aim to enhance your quality of life, alleviate pain and muscular tension, and improve body confidence and control. Shifting your focus from illness to wellness and moving forward from the harrowing affects Cancer treatment has had on you. We also offer emotional support to decrease stress, promote enjoyable activities, and assist you in getting back into the things you love to do. We address cancer-related fatigue and provide strategies to manage it effectively.
Our ultimate goal is to reduce the long-term side effects of cancer treatment, optimize your overall function, and maximize your recovery at every stage of your journey—whether you've been told your cancer is cured, you're in remission, or you're living with cancer as an ongoing disease.
· Support & Funding for Rehab Services Available:
If you or your loved ones are affected by cancer, please don't hesitate to reach out for help and support. As Certified PINC (Womens), STEEL (Mens) & NEXT STEPS (Exercise Rehab) Cancer providers, we are committed to spreading awareness and assisting people during this life-altering time.
While private rehabilitation sessions may not be affordable for everyone, there are funding options available to support you:
- Breast Cancer Foundation NZ (BCFNZ): BCFNZ fully funds 4 Physiotherapy sessions for anyone in active treatment for breast cancer. To access this funding, please visit their website.
https://www.breastcancerfoundation.org.nz/support/cancer-rehab/physio-application
- PINC & STEEL: PINC & STEEL provide funding for physio services in times of financial hardship. Apply for this through their website.
- Targeted Cancer Rehab Classes. For those in the later stages of their cancer journey, we now offer Targeted Cancer Rehab classes at our Clinic. These classes, guided by our Cancer Rehab Physio, focus on strengthening, stretching, and mindfulness training to address common side effects from cancer treatment, including deconditioning, fatigue, anxiety, and muscular weakness. We've scheduled these classes at 4pm Mondays to accommodate more people, as we understand that 50% of cancer patients need to return to work at this stage of their recovery. This service is generously funded by the PINC & STEEL Foundation. Please email us to get help with applying for this funding.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of support and understanding for those affected by breast cancer. At Physio Pilates we are dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalised care to help you navigate the emotional and physical challenges of your cancer journey. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and support and explore the funding options available to you. Together, we can work towards a better quality of life and improved survivorship for those affected by breast cancer.