Collaborative Connections Podcast | Conversations on Cancer Care for Oncology Massage Therapists & Estheticians Society for Oncology Massage & Esthetics

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton interviews Cindy Spence, a massage therapist specializing in oncology and hospice care. Cindy shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on the incredible impact of massage therapy in end-of-life care. From discussing the differences between hospice and palliative care to the unique skills and emotional resilience required for this work, Cindy's wisdom and compassion shine through. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the profound importance of providing comfort and support during life's final moments. Tune in as these two remarkable individuals engage in a heartfelt and enlightening conversation. 
 
Topics discussed: 
Importance of hospice care in providing support and community for those at the end of life The emotional and psychological aspects of caring for patients in hospice Adapting Massage for Hospice Patients Understanding the Difference Between Hospice and Palliative Care Impact on the Massage Therapist and Self-Care 
More About Cynthia Spence 
Buy Palliative Touch: Massage For People at the End of Life 
Visit Final Touch Trainings website to see upcoming classes 
Follow Final Touch Training on Facebook 
Learn more about where Cindy works T-Boone Pickens Center 
 
Cindy Spence has been a massage therapist specializing in oncology and hospice care since 1999, after her father-in-law’s dying wish for gentle touch inspired her to attend massage school. In 2016, Cindy joined forces with her colleague and friend, Susan Gee, to create Final Touch Training, an endeavor devoted to top-notch education for professionals seeking to provide safe, supportive touch for people with advanced illness. “Susan and I are passionately devoted to this mission,” says Cindy, “because we have seen firsthand the extraordinary benefits of massage at the end of life.” 
 
With more than 40 years of combined experience in hospice care, Cindy and Susan offer a 20-hour CE class each June at the world-class T. Boone Pickens Hospice Inpatient Center in Dallas, Texas. Participants are supported on a three-day journey like no other, with sequence and pacing mindfully designed to reflect our approach to this soul-stirring work. The textbook for class, Palliative Touch: Massage for People at the End of Life, is available through Handspring Publishing, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. If you have ever wanted to support a loved one or client with advanced illness, we invite you to visit our website or Facebook page to connect with our blog posts, articles, podcasts, and 3-hour online training for beginners. Our class will be offered next month at the 2024 AMTA Texas Convention. As of this moment, five vacant spots are available to any massage therapist in the U.S. 
 

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!
Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)
Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos
Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter
LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton interviews Becky Kuehn, founder of Oncology Spa Solutions, to delve into the field of oncology aesthetics. Becky, a licensed master aesthetician, shares her inspiring journey from her personal cancer diagnosis to becoming a passionate advocate and educator in the field of oncology aesthetics. With over 40 hospitals now providing oncology-trained aesthetic services, Becky's vision of ensuring that every cancer patient receives compassionate care is becoming a reality.

Listeners will gain insight into the specialized training and skills required for aestheticians to provide safe and personalized spa treatments for clients undergoing cancer treatments. From managing medically reactive skin to the impact of touch and personalized care, Becky highlights the vital role played by oncology-trained aestheticians in enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. Additionally, she shares her dream of universal access to supportive care for all individuals navigating cancer, regardless of their background or means.



Topics discussed:


Impact and Growth of Oncology Esthetics
Supporting medically reactive skin during cancer treatment
Expanding the Field of Oncology Aesthetics
The Future of Oncology Aesthetics
Partnership between S4OM and Oncology Aesthetics



More About Becky Kuehn

Visit Oncology Spa Solutions website to learn more

I started this journey in 1978 when I was diagnosed with cancer.  I will never forget the day I received the call from my doctor – the sense of fear was overwhelming, as I was faced with uncertainty about my future.

I noticed the way the nurses and staff cared for me and saw the impact it had on my husband and family as they traveled the journey with me.

A cancer diagnosis changes a person forever – forming me into the person I am today.  I found solace in God and my favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13 (I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me) in order to get through this part of my life’s journey.

I love to share with each class the life lessons I learned throughout my personal cancer experience and the things I’ve learned from the many clients whose lives have touched mine. We have the opportunity to use the talents and gifts that we as Spa professionals have, to care for those that are facing cancer.

I have been working with clients now since 2008 – while working both with and directing two local hospital programs and helping grads get into cancer centers or hospitals in their area.  I am so happy to share that we now have over 46 different locations in the US with oncology-trained Estheticians that are offering skincare and wig services to cancer patients.

I am so passionate about patient care and all the wonderful things that we as oncology-trained estheticians can do to help and assist in the healing process.  I will continue to learn and add more to the training as the industry moves and changes, you will have all the up-to-date and current information.  That way you can also become a valued and beneficial part of the circle of care.  I hope you join us in changing the world for a client going through the cancer journey.



To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!
Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)
Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos
Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter
LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

Lymphedema can be a challenging condition to live with, and it's important for clinicians to help their clients access their inner wisdom and find a sense of peace. The following meditation, recommended by Kathleen Lisson, can help your clients feel more centered and calm when they come to your office for a massage or treatment.



By incorporating this simple meditation into your intake process, you can help your clients feel more relaxed and open to the healing power of massage. Remember that lymphedema can be a challenging condition, but with a little bit of self-compassion and kindness, your clients can learn to find peace and acceptance within themselves.



More About Kathleen Lisson, LMT, CLT

Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction

Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema

Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/

Email Kathleen (lisson@gmail.com) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (only valid during December 2023)



Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!
Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)
Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos
Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter
LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

Stress can be debilitating, and it's essential to find ways to manage it effectively. In this bonus episode, Kathleen Lisson, walks us through a breathing technique known as "five, five breathing." This technique will involve inhaling for five seconds and then exhaling for five seconds, repeated for a total of five breaths.

Practicing breathing techniques like the "five, five breathing" technique can help you reduce stress quickly. It's simple, easy, and requires no expensive equipment. You can practice this exercise anywhere and share it with your clients to foster a collective sense of relaxation. Start practicing conscious breathing techniques today and experience how they can transform your physical and mental well-being.



More About Kathleen Lisson, LMT, CLT

Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction

Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema

Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/

Email Kathleen (lisson@gmail.com) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (only valid during December 2023)



Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!
Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)
Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos
Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter
LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton is joined by guest Kathleen Lisson, a board-certified massage therapist, lymphedema therapist, health coach, and yoga instructor. Kathleen shares her insightful expertise on the impact of stress on chronic illness, focusing on guided meditation and stress reduction techniques for clients with lymphedema and cancer history. Together, they delve into the importance of treating the whole person, integrating massage therapy, and stress reduction practices for optimal care. Their conversation also touches on the distinctions between certified lymphedema therapists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, as well as addressing the differences between lymphedema and lipedema. With personal anecdotes and professional expertise, Kathleen Lisson and Ericka Clinton deliver an informative and inspiring discussion geared towards empowering healthcare providers in their support of clients with chronic illnesses.



Topics discussed:


Importance of Stress Reduction for Clients with Chronic Illness
Supporting Clients with Lymphedema
Addressing the Impact of Cancer and Lymphedema
Stress on the lymphatic system and wound healing

More About Kathleen Lisson, LMD, CLT

Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction

Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema

Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/

Email Kathleen (lisson@gmail dot com) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (S4OM Preferred praactitioners only, only valid during December 2023)



Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!
Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)
Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos
Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter
LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

ABOUT THIS EPISODE:

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton sits down with special guest Davonna Willis, founder of 419 Education and Training. Davonna shares her journey as a massage therapist and discusses her role in organizing the first-ever Black Massage Therapist conference, which took place in October 2023. They delve into the importance of creating a sense of community and support for black massage therapists, addressing issues such as discrimination and isolation. Join us as we explore the goals and vision behind this groundbreaking conference and how it aims to uplift and empower black massage therapists.



Topics discussed:


Building a Community of Support
Addressing Challenges and Empowering Black Therapists
Growing and Evolving Together
Future Plans for the Black Massage Therapist Conference

More About Davonna Willis

Learn more about the Black Massage Therapist Conference

419 Training and Education, www.blackmassagetherapist.com,

Follow @4nineteeneducation

As a respected health and wellness practitioner, an acclaimed entrepreneur, and educator, Davonna Willis is a passionate advocate for her clients and students. She has a masters in health education and bachelor’s in athletic training. Davonna has over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness field. Starting in the Bronx and moving her way west, Davonna is a well rounded business professional especially accomplished in the area of holistic physical rehabilitation therapy. As the Owner of two businesses, Blue Skyes Massage & Wellness Center and 4 Nineteen Education & Training, Davonna is committed to establishing and sustaining high quality standards of care in the industry.

As the leader of an award winning practice, Davonna is widely known as someone who cares deeply about client relationships and practitioner integrity. 4 Nineteen Education & Training is a nationally accredited CEU school for massage Therapist and Athletic trainers through the NCBTMB & BOC. Davonna facilitates a variety of massage curricula and also offers consulting on marketing and strategy to new business enterprises. Davonna is committed to the health and recovery of her clients and to the development of her colleagues and students. She is an advocate in elevating the way massage is perceived in society so that people fully recognize the power of healing in an expert’s human touch. She recently received a Certificate of Excellence from MT Banquets in. Davonna is Founder of the Black Massage Therapist Conference in which the inaugural event took place on October 14, 2023 in Charlotte, NC. Last, but not least she is a alumni of the Swedish Institute class 2003.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!
Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)
Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos
Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter
LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn