Supporting sick children and adults
‘Supporting quality of life when it really matters. At times of uncertainty and pain, we help to keep people feeling human again’
“We are so thrilled to be welcoming 2 of your excellent Jing practitioners onto our growing Sussex-based team, in this exciting partnership between Full Circle Fund Therapies and the Sussex Cancer Fund.”
– Suzanne Ruggles, Full Circle Fund Therapies
Full Circle are pioneers of holistic support in the NHS for people of all ages with life-challenging illnesses. They provide effective complementary therapies, free of charge, at the hospital bedside and through online resources. Their aim is to provide compassionate support when it is most needed, whether it be for a patient, their carer or a healthcare professional.
Sue Pasko
BTEC Level 6 Professional Diploma in Advanced Clinical Massage & Sports Massage
What inspired you to work with cancer patients?
Over the years, it is a Pathology that clients were presenting with more and more in my clinic, over all age groups. Most have been turned away by other therapists due to a number of factors. The Pathology module on the BTEC Level 6 gave me good knowledge and grounding to work with this client group, and in 2020 I did Susan Findlay’s Oncology Massage course which increased and deepened my knowledge further.
What key message do you want Jingers to know about using the Jing Method on cancer patients?
Although it’s very easy to get tied up in a “diagnosis”, it’s extremely important to listen and understand that everyone’s journey is completely different. You are treating the whole person, not just a symptom or diagnosis. Cancer patients crave that therapeutic touch that is absolutely missing from their lives.
What have you learned since starting with the Full Circle Fund?
In my clinic I generally see people pre/post op, post Chemotherapy/Radiotherapy treatment. In the hospital I will be seeing patients directly before and after treatment.
How does what you learned at Jing for the BTEC 6 feed into this type of work?
The Pathology module is absolutely key to working with this client group. Using the “decision tree”, excellent consultation and listening skills, the Bio-Psycho-Social model and understanding how to work within your scope of practice are vital for working with this client group.
What feels like the most rewarding part of this work?
Knowing that there is something you can do for nearly everyone you see. Never underestimate the power of a simple hand, foot or scalp massage.
Lindsey Simpson-Girling
BTEC Level 6 Professional Diploma in Advanced Clinical Massage & Sports Massage
What inspired you to work with cancer patients?
After a family member became ill with cancer, it became evident that a gentle, non medical, touch was really important to help feel more relaxed and ‘normal’. I realised the immense power of massage for cancer patients at this time.
Also, two of my absolutely fabulous friends from the wonderful BTEC 6 course had worked extensively with cancer patients and I was greatly inspired by them.
For me, working with cancer patients is tapping into my deepest desire to help people. At a time of great need I am able to offer a small something, love and nurturing, to hopefully improve their day a tiny bit.
What key message do you want Jingers to know about using the Jing Method on cancer patients?
A listening touch! Working slowly and gently is really important. Plenty of holding and intuitive fascial work, that is the backbone of the Jing method, is really valuable with cancer patients.
What have you learned since starting with the Full Circle Fund?
I started in mid January, so I’ve a lot to learn yet. But already I have seen that patience are required when starting work with the NHS, it’s a slow but steady process. I’m looking forward to working alongside the medical teams to learn from their expertise.
How does what you learned at Jing for the BTEC 6 feed into this type of work?
The BTEC gave me a level of confidence that has enabled me to work with cancer patients. Without the BTEC I would not feel equipped to work with such complex cases. With various courses since the BTEC I have built on my solid foundation and evolved to this post and the work that I do now.
The BTEC empowered me with knowledge from injury, recovery, the biopsychosocial model, etc. this has provided me with a springboard from which to jump into this specialised and complex area.
What feels like the most rewarding part of this work?
Seeing the relief and joy on patients’ faces after a massage is incredibly rewarding. Sharing a moment of calm and peace with them is wonderful.
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