Reiki Share to Benefit ‘Reid’s Ride’ – Raising Funds for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

July 7th. ‘Community Reiki Share’ to Benefit ‘Reid’s Ride.’ 

‘Community Reiki Share.’ 5:15 pm – 8:15 pm at the Manchester Community Center. 40 Beach St. Manchester-by-the-Sea. On the MBTA Train line; wheelchair accessible. Reiki Sessions ‘By Donation.’ $20.00 suggested donation. ($10.00 for Seniors.) Make Checks Payable to ‘Reid’s Ride.’

To find out more about Reid’s Ride and how you can participate and donate – http://www.firstgiving.com/Reidsride/2015-11th-annual-reids-ride. Join Lorraine and Deb Sacco and their wonderful group of organizers and participants!  Just being there is energizing!

Each month a local charity is designated to receive a portion of the proceeds. Using ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’ to select which charity to team with, the first step being – Basic Physiological Needs (Air, Water, Food, Shelter.) The steps to ‘Realizing One’s Full Potential!’ 

Maslows Hierarchy Of Needs.svg

Charities we have partnered with include – Open Door Food Pantry, Beverly Boot Straps, (January,) Wellspring House (February,) Action Inc. (March,) Cape Ann Animal Aid (April,) SeniorCare, Inc. (May,) Relay for Life, Cape Ann (June,) and for July – Reid’s Ride. 

July 19. Teams participate and bicycle from Lynnfield to Stage Fort Park Gloucester MA to raise money to support the Reid R. Sacco Foundation for Adolescents and Young Adults – http://www.cancerinyoungadults.org/about-the-alliance/

Too many lives…, my family, friends, neighbors, and patients have been touched by this disease. Join us and help raise money for this important cause while enjoying some ‘peace, comfort and calm’ at the July 7th Community Reiki Share! 

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Despite Torrential Rain, NSMC Cancer Walk a Success!

NSMC 25th-Logo

A Good Day for Ducks, Fund Raising and Lots of Enthusiasm! Sunday’s weather brought torrential rain, but it didn’t keep participants from walking at the 25th Anniversary North Shore Medical Center’s Cancer Walk.  Over 2,000 people walked in the midst of the storm.

Lynn Daily Item Report – http://www.itemlive.com/news/cancer-walk-rains-in-money/article_c8aed3c4-1e18-11e5-aee9-2bfc34f2cd78.html

Most people planned ahead and prepared for the rain …,

NSMC Cancer Walk 2015 Enthusiastic Wet Crowd

A Wet But Enthusiastic Crowd.

NSMC Cancer Walk Wet Dog FullSizeRender

Seeking Shelter From the Rain.

NSMC Cancer Walk Finish Line FullSizeRender

Congratulations!

…  but a few were caught out in the cold in just shorts and a tee-shirt. One lucky dog was able to snag a poncho and find shelter under a table.

Congratulations to all the walkers! Some were walking for themselves, others in memory and in honor of loved ones. One woman told me after she, “I lost 50 pounds to get in shape for the walk,” and was “walking in memory of her father.” He must be so proud!  One thing for sure ….

NSMC Cancer Walk Never Lose Heart

You’ve Got to Have Heart

and HOPE Never Stops!

HOPE

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. ~ Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~
~ Commemorating survivors. ~  With Gratitude. ~

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NSMC Cancer Walk – Celebration of Life, Hope and Courage. This is Worth Going Over the Bridge For!

NSMC 25th-Logo
A Celebration of Life, Hope and Courage. NSMC Cancer Walk. Sunday. June 28th. 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.  At the Salem Willows.
This Year is the 25th Anniversary of the North Shore Medical Center’s Cancer Walk. Money raised from the North Shore Cancer WALK/RUN will support the construction of the new inpatient oncology unit at North Shore Medical Center as well as wellness services and support programs at the Mass General/North Shore Cancer Center in Danvers, MA.
This event is worth going ‘over the bridge’ for! Cape Ann/Gloucester has a wonderful oncology department at Addison Gilbert, but many Cape Ann and north shore residents also use the facilities at MGH/NS Cancer Center in Danvers for cancer treatment and follow-up.
For information on this event, to participate or donate –
 Sample Reiki Sessions from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the ‘Wellness Tent.’  Free to participants of the Relay. ‘By Donation’ for others. (100% of Donations to Benefit the NSMC Cancer Walk.) Come and enjoy a sample of Reiki for ‘relaxation, rest and renewal.’ (Massage Therapists will be there too!) Dreamtime Wellness™ will be there, along with nurse Nancy Earabino, a Reiki Teacher and Reiki Provider for NSMC Wellness.
Reiki – (ray-kee) is a Japanese Healing Method/Art that began in 1922 with founder, Mikao Usui Sensei. Reiki sessions are offered through light (or non) touch and without manipulation. Generally considered safe, Reiki is offered in the oncology settings as part of comprehensive integrative medicine departments. Preliminary studies indicate a potential for relief of anxiety and pain with Reiki. More rigorous, larger studies are needed.
Reiki at NSMC FB

Reiki in Hospitals and Healthcare

Integrative Healthcare – Key words – Collaborative, Comprehensive, Safe, Effective, Care.  In the oncology setting, complementary integrative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, meditation, Reiki and yoga are offered primarily as supportive care for symptom management, such as:
  • Relief of anxiety,
  • Improved sleep,
  • Improved comfort,
  • Improved quality of life,
  • Greater sense of wellbeing.
Note – Reiki and other Complementary Therapies are not meant to replace or ‘take the place of” conventional (western/mainstream) medicine, but are best offered ‘in combination’ and after rigorous studies have been done to verify safety and effectiveness. “Integrative medicine“combines mainstream medical therapies and Complementary and Integrative medicine (IM) therapies for which there is some high-quality scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.”
Ask your physician/oncologist beforehand about using CAM. Start the conversation – If you are using CAM therapies, let your physician/oncologist know. **Some supplements/herbs/over the counter medications may interact with and/or negatively affect your treatment. ‘When in doubt, check it out’ and talk to your physician! Trust, rapport and open communication are important for safe, effective care. 
Sources and more information on Reiki Therapy and other Complementary & Integrative Therapies for patients undergoing treatment for cancer and how to choose a qualified provider  –
Having offered Reiki as the RN/Reiki Provider at NSMC for 12 years and the MGH Cancer Center for 9 years, this event is especially close to my heart. During that time, I saw many of my friends, neighbors and their families when they were there for cancer treatment. It was an honor and a privilege to help support them through their care and hopefully make their treatment more bearable, and their lives a little more comfortable.  ~ Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Reiki Provider & Teacher
Patients receiving Reiki while undergoing treatment for cancer have often relayed “a greater sense of HOPE.”   

“Hope is the thing with feathers– That perches in the soul– And sings the tune without words– And never stops–at all…” – Emily Dickinson

Bird feather on water surface with free space for text

HOPE Never Stops

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. ~ Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~
~ Commemorating survivors. ~  With Gratitude. ~

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Reiki Teacher/Shihan, Tobacco Treatment Specialist. In addition to a private wellness business, Karen has been employed as the RN/Reiki Provider and Hypnotherapist at NSMC, RN/Reiki Provider at Mass General Cancer Center (Danvers and Boston,) and currently is the RN/Reiki Provider at Lahey Danvers Outpatient Center/for the Pain Management Integrative Healthcare. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Since 2000. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit. More information can be found at –www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Disclaimer: This blog pro­vides gen­eral infor­ma­tion and dis­cus­sion about health and related sub­jects. The words and other con­tent pro­vided in this blog, and in any linked mate­ri­als, are not intended and should not be con­strued as med­ical advice. If the reader or any other per­son has a med­ical con­cern, he or she should con­sult with an appropriately licensed physi­cian or other health care worker. Never dis­re­gard pro­fes­sional med­ical advice or delay in seek­ing it because of some­thing you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a med­ical emer­gency, call your doc­tor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and web­site have no rela­tion to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other insti­tu­tion with which the authors are affiliated.

 

Evidence-based practice looking to collaborate on a research project

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

I have an opportunity for an ‘evidence-based’ research grant. I am looking for a Cape Ann healthcare facility or school to collaborate with on a pilot study. Please contact me if you have an interest in research.

What exactly does ‘evidence-based’ mean?  

According to the American Holistic Nurses Association, “evidence based practice (EBP) is the conscientious use of the best available evidence combine with the clinician’s expertise and judgment and the patient’s preferences and values to arrive at the best decision that leads to high-quality outcomes.”  (Dossey, B.; Keegan, L. (2013.) Holistic Nursing: A Handbook for Practice. 6th Edition. Burlington MA: Jones and Barrett Learning.)

Once known as the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM,) there has been a name change to reflect the current trend in healthcare to use a more ‘integrative’ approach to healthcare.

Established 16 years ago by the National Institutes of Health, the center funds research projects that provide important and even vital information on the safety and effectiveness of conventional, complementary, and alternative therapies, herbal (botanical) and supplement products that are widely used and readily available. (http://www.nccih.nih.gov.)

Integrative Healthcare – defined as a comprehensive and often interdisciplinary approach to treatment, prevention and health promotion. The use of an integrative approach to health and wellness has grown within care settings across the United States, including hospitals, hospices, and military health facilities.

The goal of an integrative approach in health care is to enhance overall health status, prevent disease, and relieve symptoms such as anxiety, pain, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

“The mission of the National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) is to define, through rigorous scientific investigation, the usefulness and safety of complementary and alternative medicine interventions and their roles in improving health and health care.”

The Strategic Plan of the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Healthcare​ is encouraging:

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Partnerships
  • Expert practitioners in CAM disciplines and interventions
  • Biomedical and behavioral research scientists

Sources – https://nccih.nih.gov/sites/nccam.nih.gov/files/objective1.pdf and https://nccih.nih.gov/news/press/12172014

Feel free to contact me with questions. Comments are welcomed. Let me know if you have specific healthcare interests you would like to see addressed.  Wishing you a healthy and happy weekend.   ~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC.  Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. info@dreamtimewellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

 

Disclaimer: This blog pro­vides gen­eral infor­ma­tion and dis­cus­sion about health and related sub­jects. The words and other con­tent pro­vided in this blog, and in any linked mate­ri­als, are not intended and should not be con­strued as med­ical advice. If the reader or any other per­son has a med­ical con­cern, he or she should con­sult with an appropriately licensed physi­cian or other health care worker. Never dis­re­gard pro­fes­sional med­ical advice or delay in seek­ing it because of some­thing you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a med­ical emer­gency, call your doc­tor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and web­site have no rela­tion to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other insti­tu­tion with which the authors are affiliated.

Are You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

Dreamtime Wellness ™ Photo copy

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

 

March is Colon-Rectal Cancer Awareness Month! Too many of my friends, relatives, patients, and clients have been affected by this disease. March 5th was National Colon Cancer Day. That date came and went, but I could not let the month pass without bringing attention to the importance of Prevention, Screening, and Early Detection of Colon-Rectal Cancer.

Prevent. Screen. Treat. Early Detection Saves Lives.

Prevent. Screen. Treat. Early Detection Saves Lives.

Cancer of the colon and/or rectum (colorectal cancer) can begin without symptoms, which is why early screening is important. Pre-cancerous and benign polyps can be removed before they become cancer. While routine screening often begins at 50, screening for those at higher risk may begin as early as 30’s. Having a family history of colorectal cancer puts you at higher risk. Increased Risk of Colorectal Cancer –

  • Family history of colon and/or rectal cancer
  • History of colorectal polyps
  • Obesity
  • Lack of Physical Activity
  • Smoking 
  • High-Fat (Saturated/Trans-fat) Diet
  • Alcohol Use

Colon Cancer Facts from the American Cancer Society –

  • Approximately 5%,  (1 in 20 Americans) will be diagnosed with cancer of the colon or rectum in their lifetime.
  • Second Leading Cause of Cancer Deaths in Men and Women
  • Approximately 9o% Cure Rate When Caught Early!

3d rendered illustration of a polyp removal

The Good News – Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment Improves Outcomes and Saves Lives!!  ** Ask Your Doctor About Screening!

Colorectal Screening Includes (but not limited to):
  • Colonoscopy
  • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
  • Fecal Occult Blood (FOB) (*Easily performed at home or in the doctor’s office.) **
  • Stool immunochemical test (FIT) **
  • Stool DNA test (sDNA) **

** According to the American Cancer Society, if these tests are positive a colonoscopy is recommended. Video of Katie Couric and a screening colonoscopy –  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbUesuxT1IE

 “An Ounce of Preventions is Worth a Pound of Cure.”  Though at the time, this quote by Benjamin Franklin referred to fire fighting, the advice rings as true today as it did in the 1700’s
Decreasing the Risk of Colon-rectal Cancer
(Many of the ‘cardiac risk factor reduction’ recommendations mentioned in earlier posts apply to ‘colorectal cancer risk reduction.’)
  • Physical Activity (of 30 minutes, 5 x a week)
  • Maintain Healthy Weight
  • Avoid Smoking
  • Minimize Alcohol (2 Drinks for Men, 1 for Women; per day. No need to start if you don’t currently drink.)

**Diet may also play a role in preventing colon cancer, but the study results have been mixed. Some dietary recommendations that may help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer:

    • Minimize Red and Processed Meats
    • Limit Saturated Fat in Your Diet
    • Diets Higher in Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains may be beneficial

** Talk to your physician about colorectal screening and prevention!

** TREATMENT for Colorectal Cancer – Conventional Treatment for Colorectal Cancer May Include:

  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation

‘Integrative Health Therapies’ for Added Support – Integrative Health Therapies are complementary therapies offered ‘in addition to’ (not in place of,) conventional therapies for supportive care and to minimize side effects of treatment. Integrative therapies may include: acupuncture, massage, meditation, reiki, tai chi, and yoga. To learn more about supportive, integrative therapies offered during cancer treatment –  www.nccih.nih.gov.  Many hospitals now offer integrative therapies as part of comprehensive health care programs. Ask your physician about incorporating integrative therapies in your plan of care.

Finding an integrative health provider – https://nccih.nih.gov/health/howtofind.htm. and  https://nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/selecting Warning: Some complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies may not be recommended with your condition. Some herbal and over-the-counter (OTC) products may even interfere with your treatment! ASK Your Oncologist, before pursuing complementary, alternative and integrative therapies. Let your physicians know if you are using CAM therapies or herbs/supplements.

The ‘Integrative Health Model’ is meant to incorporate conventional medicine with complementary therapies that have been demonstrated to be safe, effective and potentially minimize negative side effects, improve outcomes, and increase patient satisfaction.

Sources and More Information: American Cancer Society – http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/@nho/documents/document/colorectalcancer.pdf

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health –
Nip Colon Cancer in the Butt!  Prevent, Screen, Detect and Treat EARLY!
Wishing you the Best in Health,   Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.
Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™  Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199
Disclaimer: This blog pro­vides gen­eral infor­ma­tion and dis­cus­sion about health and related sub­jects. The words and other con­tent pro­vided in this blog, and in any linked mate­ri­als, are not intended and should not be con­strued as med­ical advice. If the reader or any other per­son has a med­ical con­cern, he or she should con­sult with an appropriately licensed physi­cian or other health care worker. Never dis­re­gard pro­fes­sional med­ical advice or delay in seek­ing it because of some­thing you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a med­ical emer­gency, call your doc­tor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and web­site have no rela­tion to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other insti­tu­tion with which the authors are affiliated.