In 2010, we hosted nationally renowned oncology massage trainer, Tracy Walton, MS, LMT, for a three-day intensive training session with twenty-three local massage therapist. As part of that training, each therapist agreed to provide volunteer time to our organization to help us launch our oncology massage program, Caring Touch. Beginning in July 2010, 30-minute massage appointments became available to clients and caregivers. The program has been so well received that we are bringing Tracy back in 2012 to train more massage therapists.

March 5 through 8, 2012, we will host an intensive massage training: Caring for Clients with Cancer: Simple Steps to Safe, Effective Massage Therapy. Participants will earn 32 hours of NCBTMB-approved instruction, as well as the benefits of oncology massage for cancer patients, which include reduced pain, anxiety, nausea, depression and fatigue.

Certified massage therapists interested in learning more about oncology massage are encouraged to register. The cost to attend is $200 and all participants must be willing to provide 16 hours of volunteer service to our Caring Touch massage program. Applicants must have completed a recognized professional training program in massage therapy and be certified by the state of Indiana. Registration is limited to 24 and there are only a few spots remaining.

We are also looking for clients to assist with the training sessions by being willing to receive massages from students the last day of training. If interested, contact Cheryl Dafforn at (260) 484-9560 or cdafforn@cancer-services.org.