Cancer Center Plans Expansion

Clinical Cancer Center Articles

Small Stones Wellness Center Will Focus on Needs of Cancer Patients

Many cancer patients experience changes in personal appearance. Hair loss, surgery and other issues can add to the burden of disease and treatment. When the new Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Clinical Cancer Center opens in May, it will include a special space devoted to helping cancer patients manage these changes and regain confidence about their personal image.

This unique space will be known as Small Stones Wellness Center. It is located on the second floor of the Clinical Cancer Center, next to the Jeffrey C. Siegel Quality of Life Center (named in memory of an individual whose generous family helped make it possible) and near the Interdisciplinary Cancer Clinic. Patients will be able to visit Small Stones Wellness Center for a variety of appearance related services.

Individuals experiencing hair loss can make an appointment with a specially trained hair stylist or wig consultant.
Staff will provide instruction on improving or restoring appearance through use of concealers, garments and makeup.
Patients can receive special skin care treatments and natural nail care services.
A certified mastectomy fitter will be available to work with women who have undergone full or partial breast removal.
Small Stones Wellness Center will also offer a selection of health-related retail items, including head coverings, skin care products, cosmetics, books, CD’s and other high quality items geared to the needs of cancer patients and survivors.

What makes Small Stones Wellness Center different is that it is integrated with the medical care provided at the Clinical Cancer Center. “It is not a salon, but an extension of the excellent care we provide,” said Sue Derus, executive director of cancer services for Froedtert & Community Health. “Doctors and nurses will recommend the Wellness Center to patients for certain products and services, which will be safe and appropriate to the patient’s health status.”

The staff at Small Stones Wellness Center are aware of medical issues surrounding cancer care and the need for extra precautions. “Patients can be confident the services they receive will be consistent with our high standards of care,” Derus said.

While services may be part of an individual’s formal treatment plan, any patient can choose to visit Small Stones Wellness Center.

Date: March 28, 2008

Online Editor(s): Rich Petre