Reflexology Treatments on the BHOC Teenage and Young Adult Unit.
“More than just a welcome distraction. It was an uplifting experience”
“Felt relaxed and slept so well that night”
“It felt lovely to feel ‘normal’ in what is unusual circumstances”
“I felt temporarily distracted from my cancer”
“The reflexology was amazing!!”
“Claire is good at putting you at ease and explained what reflexology is very well”
“The reflexology definitely soothed my aches and pains, I felt less tense afterwards”
“I felt less stressed after a session of reflexology”
“Lovely foot massage, afterwards I felt like I was floating”
The data from the past year aligns with these comments, with average wellbeing scores from participants elevated from 5 to 9 out of 10 following treatments, and 98% of patients, relatives and carers reporting that reflexology improved their overall hospital experience. Claire’s sensitivity and kindness as a practitioner are integral to the success of the reflexology session within the TYA community. Claire says:
“I continue to absolutely love my time on the TYA ward. It isn’t just about the reflexology, it’s time to relax, recharge and feel a sense of calm in what is usually a very stressful time.
Many of the family members I meet also use the session to either talk about what their loved ones are going through or talk about things totally unrelated to their current situation. Generally, they find it helps them to both off-load their anxieties, discuss their feelings or as one recent parent stated ‘feel normal’. I follow the recipients wishes, if they want to talk I listen and reply. If they wish to have the time to completely switch off and relax then I remain quiet. What is important is that ‘the receiver leads the way’.”
“Reflexology on the TYA unit has a huge impact on wellbeing. It helps patients manage pain and some of the physical side effects from treatment, as well as the emotional side effects such as boredom, anxiety and low mood. It is also very popular with carers and parents and enables them space for relaxation and healing. It has played an essential role in being able to support patients and families who are long term hospital inpatients, has increased their resilience and made their days and treatment journeys more bearable.
Families going through cancer are facing financial pressures from all directions and the reality is that they would not be able to afford complimentary therapies outside of the hospital. Other hospitals in the region have witnessed the positive effect that this service is having in Bristol and are now seeking to input similar services.” -Suzie Holmes, Young Lives vs Cancer Social Worker on TYA
The reflexology project wholeheartedly aligns with the Friends’ mission to improve the environment in which patients are treated and provide comfort and support to them and their families.
Thank you to Claire and the Teenage and Young Adult Unit.
The Friends of BHOC blog includes personal stories from patients, carers and staff to provide support and inspiration. These stories are unique and not representative of all peoples’ experiences. The content is for information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Stories are shared with consent and, whilst we aim to be as accurate as possible, medical information and practice can evolve and change over time. Third-party links are for convenience and not endorsed. By reading, you accept this disclaimer and can contact friendsbhoc@uhbw.nhs.uk with concerns.
