Cancer patients at McLaren Port Huron now have access to a program designed to help them manage the appearance-related effects of treatment.
The hospital is offering the Look Good Feel Better program, which provides resources and instruction to help patients cope with changes caused by cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
The program aims to improve patients’ confidence and self-image through educational workshops. Participants learn practical beauty and self-care techniques during interactive, step-by-step classes using products donated by the cosmetic industry, according to a community announcement.
The workshops are available online and will be in-person later this year.
“Cancer treatment can affect more than a patient’s physical health — their emotional wellbeing, confidence and even their identity can be impacted by their diagnosis,” Karynn Carrell, McLaren Port Huron director of philanthropy, said in the announcement. “Bringing the Look Good Feel Better program to Port Huron, we are taking steps to further expand our patient support services and helping them to feel empowered in the midst of a serious life event.”
The workshop is currently available as a one-hour, live, interactive session that allows patients to participate from home. This summer, the program will be expanded to include two-hour sessions hosted at the Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Port Huron, led by licensed cosmetologists and aestheticians, according to the announcement.
The workshops cover a range of topics, including skincare and makeup application, wigs and head coverings, body image and styling, scarf-tying techniques and nail care. They provide guidance on common treatment-related concerns such as dry skin, uneven skin tone, hair loss, brittle nails and changes in body image. Instruction on selecting and styling wigs, using scarves and hats creatively and enhancing confidence through wardrobe and accessory choices is also included.
Funding to bring the program to McLaren Port Huron was made possible through the McLaren Port Huron Foundation Little Black Dress Event, held March 6 at the Blue Water Convention Center. The event welcomed more than 700 attendees and raised tens of thousands of dollars in support of cancer services provided through the Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Port Huron, according to the announcement.
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Patients interested in attending an in-person workshop can register at lookgoodfeelbetter.org/programs/program-finder and search for “McLaren Port Huron.” Patients can register to attend the virtual workshop at lookgoodfeelbetter.org/virtual-workshops.
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This article originally appeared on Port Huron Times Herald: Appearance support program available for cancer patients in Port Huron