Observer-Reporter, March 6, 2008
By Nicole Hagy
Loss of hair, complexion changes and nail discoloration can sometimes occur when a person is going through chemotherapy and radiation.
The American Cancer Society is sponsoring two-hour classes entitled "Look Good, Feel Better" for women of all ages experiencing these frustrating effects of cancer treatment. Classes are offered locally at both Aultman Hospital and Mercy Medical Center.
"The name of this free service sums up its purpose," said Al Stabilito, Northeast Ohio public relations director of the American Cancer Society. "Chemotherapy and radiation are necessary at times to treat cancer, but it may cause a woman to be concerned about her appearance. Learning how to use wigs and turbans, cosmetic techniques and other beauty tips are some things we teach women. When a woman looks good, she feels better about herself."
Those participating in the courses receive a free kit of beauty supplies valued between $250 and $300 with products donated from more than 20 companies. Cosmetologists work with the women to fi nd make-up to best fi t their complexion.
"The emotional impact of having to deal with cancer is enough, let alone having to worry about how to make your physical appearance look presentable," Stabilito said. "We want every woman to know this program is available at no charge, regardless of where she lives or the type of cancer she has."
Patty Begue, coordinator of the "Look Good, Feel Better" program at Aultman Hospital and a registered nurse, believes that the program helps women with ways to improve their appearance, but she also sees women connecting and serving as each other's support systems by listening to one another's cancer experiences.
"Getting the support is the second benefit from the program," Begue said.
She enjoys seeing the women trade contact information with their fellow classmates following the session to keep in touch. Class sizes can range from two to 12 women at Aultman.
Begue said that women can choose from a variety of wigs during the session. "We have hats, wigs and scarves to address hair-loss issues," she said. "We get a lot of donated wigs. We have a pretty nice wig bank."
Dianna Ellison, coordinator of cancer support programs at Mercy Medical Center, believes that the name of the course is well-fitting. "The women really do look good and feel better when they leave," Ellison said.
Ellison said any cancer patient wishing to attend the program is welcome. "We work closely with the American Cancer Society, and I wanted to be able to provide the program for people here at Mercy, but it is open to everyone in the community," she said.
All cosmetologists volunteering for the "Look Good, Feel Better" sessions are licensed and are required to attend a four-hour certification class to become a "Look Good, Feel Better" instructor.
Registration is required for each session. For more information on this program and others sponsored by the American Cancer Society, go to www.cancer.org
