Oncology unit host Look Good Feel Better day
LADIES undergoing chemotherapy treatment have enjoyed a Look Good Feel Better afternoon of pampering hosted by the oncology unit at Mayo University Hospital.
The popular afternoon programme has made a welcome return to the hospital after a break of some years.
The programme was originally founded in the USA in 1987 when a consultant requested the provision of products to organise a makeover for a woman in cancer treatment who was experiencing dramatic visible side effects. Now established as a registered charity, Look Good Feel Better is a non-medical, brand neutral, free service that supports women with the visible side effects associated with cancer diagnosis and its treatments. The charity is rolled out in 26 countries and is availed of by thousands of women each year.
The service was available previously from the Irish Cancer Society and was ran in Mayo University Hospital, but unfortunately the programme was discontinued.
Look Good Feel Better was re-established in 2013 as a registered charity and has an established board of management and staff members Emily Dunne and Margaret Heffernan in the Irish branch.
Emily and Margaret have huge experience in the cosmetics industry and have worked with the charity for many years. Initial contact was made with Emily and after organising volunteers and several meetings later, the first programme was rolled out this month in Mayo University Hospital.
Explained Sinead Fallon, CNS oncology: “As a member of the oncology team for many years I had seen the programme being held in Mayo many years ago and seen the direct benefits the programme for the ladies. I was keen for the programme to restart in Mayo University Hospital.
“This programme is available to any woman on chemotherapy or starting chemotherapy and its aim is to provide a non-medical fun afternoon.
“The aim is to run four sessions a year, providing spaces for 12 ladies per session. This, of course, would not be possible without the support of local volunteers who adhere to a strict code of confidentiality during each session. A huge thanks to all our volunteers who kindly give up their spare time to impart with their expert knowledge.
“Our first programme was a huge success and was the first of many to come.”