Healing Hands

Today I went for a massage. As someone who spends every day trying to make ends meet, massage is one of those things on my 'wish' list. It's something I strongly believe help us to heal.

I don't believe 'complementary' therapies are better than 'conventional' treatments, but I do believe the two go hand in hand. I also believe in positive thinking, it's got me through a lot in life so far.

I'm lucky, we have here a local support centre for cancer survivors, their friends and families. It's hard to see from the outside, being hidden above the bus station which is not a beautiful looking place!

Once through the doors of Harbour Cancer Support Centre however, you are greeted by people who should be strangers but aren't, such is the welcome. The decor is cheerful with views across the Solent, comfortable and casual, you can't help but feel relaxed.

I found it surprisingly easy to sit down at the big kitchen table and tell a lady I'd never met, about my cancer and some of my concerns. I didn't have to worry about upsetting anyone there and that alone was really helpful.
I was offered refreshment and told something of what was on offer there. You aren't bombarded with info and suggestions and there's no pressure of any sort.

I don't know what I had expected to find there but I certainly hadn't expected to be offered free massage!
I have received one weekly since then, the lady who gives them, (her time and skills are donated, like many who go there), leaves me feeling relaxed and somehow happier, even though I'm not aware of feeling different before treatment.
Stress is a funny thing, often well hidden.
Now, if I can just work out how to fit her into my holdall for hospital....