The Sunshine Coast Hospice Society is hosting a palliative massage workshop on May 6 in Sechelt.
Registered massage therapist Christine Sutherland will be teaching palliative massage techniques to family and friends, homecare workers, hospice volunteers, caregivers, massage therapists and health professionals who want to make a difference in the lives of those they touch.
"You don't need to feel helpless when a person you love is in pain or dying," said Sutherland. "You have the power to help them relax, prevent bedsores, relieve muscle pain, improve sleep and provide pain relief. In five hours I can show you techniques that will help both of you."
She will also be showing three short documentaries she has produced about her patients telling their palliative massage stories.
"Touch is vital for all people in almost all circumstances," Sutherland said.
The Canadian Institute of Palliative Massage believes that touch is especially vital for anyone who is chronically ill, disabled, or nearing the end of life. Sutherland's you-tube clip, "Massaging Mary: Hands on with ALS" is an example of her team building through the power of touch.
With 40 years in the field, Sutherland brings a rich resource to the Sunshine Coast. She will be providing two workshops, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 7 p.m. on Monday, May 6 at the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society's office at Kirkland Centre, 4602 Simpkins Road in Davis Bay. Suggested donation is $50 per session, and health care workers will receive course credits for their attendance. Workshops are open to everyone who wants to learn these massage techniques.
For more information or to register, contact Bernadette Richards, coordinator of volunteer services at 604-740-0475 or email: [email protected].
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