Cancer treatments can be life-saving, but they can also cause changes to the way you look and feel. Hair loss, skin sensitivity and new wellness needs are a few things that may affect you.

Small Stones Wellness Center supports the healing process by enhancing patients’ appearance, boosting their self-esteem and promoting optimal health and well-being. While you concentrate on your health, let our skilled and compassionate staff help you look good and feel better — with personal, one-on-one service to meet your special needs. Small Stones Wellness Center is available at multiple locations; hours and services vary somewhat per location.

Wellness Services to Enhance Your Treatment

Products and services at Small Stones Wellness Center are designed as an extension of your medical care at the Clinical Cancer Center. Our professional staff understands the medical issues surrounding cancer care and the need for extra precautions. You can feel confident that the services you receive are consistent with the high standards of care at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin locations.

  • Because hair loss is a common issue for cancer patients. Hair loss due to cancer treatment is dependent on the type of chemotherapy used. During your chemotherapy teaching appointment, your medical team will be able to tell you if any hair loss is expected, and whether it may be total hair loss, or partial. At the beginning signs of hair loss the scalp may be sensitive or painful. Once hair starts coming out, you might choose to have your head shaved, which can make the hair loss easier to manage. It is best to use an electric shaver instead of a razor. Our in-house wig specialist will expertly guide you through the detailed process of selecting a wig — so you end up with the perfect style and color. Options are also available for those who may not experience full hair loss but excessive thinning. Hair shaving is a complimentary service, performed in the Small Stones Wellness Center or at your bedside.

    Synthetic and natural hair wigs for cancer patients are available. Many health insurance policies cover wigs for patients who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment or other medical causes. Health insurance sometimes reimburses for a wig with a prescription from a doctor. If it will not, you can deduct the cost of your wig as a medical expense on your income tax. Please contact Small Stones Wellness center for other options available to you if the cost of the wig is unaffordable. Check with your insurance provider to learn more.

    If hair loss is expected with your cancer treatment it is likely that you will also lose hair on the rest of your body. Small Stones Wellness Center staff can teach you makeup techniques using our mineral makeup line that will help enhance your look and masque the effects of hair loss.

    A Wig Loan Program and wig services are available at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital. The Wig Room at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital is on the second floor or the Women's Center. Call 262-257-5004 for program hours and to schedule an appointment.

    Our Wig Loan Program is also available at both Small Stones locations at Drexel Town Square Health Center and the Cancer Center at Froedtert West Bend Hospital.

  • Want to change your style? We also carry high-quality, fashionable scarves, hats and other head coverings. Brands include Betmar, Cherie Accessories, Turban Plus, Buff, Hats with Heart, Parkhurst and many more. Let our staff teach you how to tie a scarf or pick the right hat for your needs.

  • Skin changes due to cancer treatment vary depending on the type of treatment you are receiving. If you do notice changes to your skin, we have a variety of products available to help with symptom management.

    Cancer treatments can leave your skin dry and irritated. Choose from a variety of face, body and nail care products that will be gentle to your sensitive skin. We carry IS Clinical Cancer Care — designed specifically for patients undergoing cancer treatments — as well as Blue Lizard, EltaMD, Deep Steep, Zoya and other brands that have been carefully selected for their natural ingredients and effectiveness.

    Browse our large selection of Jane Iredale mineral-based cosmetics. Ask our aesthetic wellness coordinator for tips for makeup application.

    The loss of fingernails and toenails also varies depending on treatment. We recommend keeping your nails short, using a file instead of a nail clipper. We have nail products available that do not contain the chemicals found in most nail polishes. These products will help if you are experiencing thin nails, or dry/brittle/cracking nails.

  • Small Stones service providers have experience and knowledge in working with cancer patients and their specific needs. Many services are available to help ease the side-effects of cancer and its treatment.

    Acupuncture: Acupuncture, a component of traditional Chinese medicine, can be helpful in providing support to patients at all stages of the cancer journey. Acupuncture uses needles to stimulate the natural healing process of the body and aid in restoring health and balance. Many patients say they experience a deep state of relaxation and renewal and that they feel happier. Needles used in acupuncture are very thin, about the thickness of two human hairs. Studies suggest acupuncture may:

    • Reduce symptoms such as peripheral neuropathy, headache, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, depression, fatigue and hot flashes.
    • Help stimulate appetite and reduce unintended weight loss.
    • Reduce pain associated with cancer and surgery.
    • Help reduce side effects of radiation therapy.

    Aromatherapy (Essential Oils): According to the National Cancer Institute, “Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants to support and balance the mind, body, and spirit. It is used by patients with cancer mainly as a form of supportive care that may improve quality of life and reduce stress, anxiety, and nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Aromatherapy may be combined with other complementary treatments like massage therapy and acupuncture, as well as with standard treatments, for symptom management.”

    Essential oils can serve as a complement to traditional medical treatment. It is extremely important that you use them properly so as not to interfere with your treatment protocol. Prior to using essential oils it is important for you to understand dosing, usage, properties or possible contraindications of the oil. We advise that you seek out the advice of a Certified Aromatherapist. Certified Aromatherapists are trained in the chemical constituents, bio-energetics, proper blending techniques, and safe use of essential oils. 

    Reiki: Reiki is a noninvasive Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation, which also promotes healing. The practitioner uses gentle touch or hovers the hands close to the body. Reiki is based on the idea that an unseen life force energy flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If the life force energy is low, we are more likely to get sick or feel stress. If it is high, we are more likely to feel happy and healthy. Reiki works in conjunction with medical or therapeutic approaches. Its relaxing influence can help relieve side effects and promote recovery.

    Massage: Massage can be particularly beneficial for cancer patients. It can help relieve treatment-related side effects, stress, headaches and backaches. It also reduces pain and stiffness and increases relaxation and mobility. Massage therapy is offered by licensed massage therapists to cancer patients and their caregivers.

  • To keep you and your family safe, classes may be limited. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Please check back often for class updates.

    Small Stones Wellness Center hosts wellness classes on relaxation, healthy living and other topics, designed specifically for patients undergoing cancer treatments. We understand that participants will have special considerations and will need modifications. Experience is not required for any of our programs and we highly encourage beginners! Try-it sessions are available.

    Yoga: Gentle, restorative yoga poses, breathing techniques and deep relaxation are designed specifically for patients undergoing and recovering from cancer. This form of yoga aims to help you regain strength and flexibility. It can also stimulate lymph flow, help manage treatment side effects, assist you in coping with stress and help increase mental focus and inner peace. We partner with community resources in West Bend and Menomonee Falls to offer yoga.

    Exercise Programs: Small Stones wellness center partners with many area facilities to offer exercise programs that meet the needs of cancer patients. Please see our community calendar or talk with one of our Aesthetic Wellness Coordinators about more opportunities that are convenient and right for you.

    Art Therapy: Regular workshops and open art studio sessions available. Learn more about art therapy.

    Journey to Wellness Support Group: Small Stones Wellness Center partners with the facilitators of this all-cancer support group to provide monthly topics. The topics are focused on providing education and resources for patients and their family members or caregivers.

    Cancer Wellness Events and Specialty Classes: Special classes and events are offered throughout the year. Visit our classes and events calendar for current offerings.

  • The center also carries a selection of informative and inspirational items for patients, family members and friends:

    • Essential oils
    • Cancer awareness pins and wristbands
    • Inspirational gifts, greeting cards, sunscreen and other bath and body products

    Can’t decide on the perfect gift? Gift cards are available.

Recognized as High Performing by U.S. News & World Report

Froedtert Hospital is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as high performing in three adult specialties and 16 procedures and conditions, including cancer.