Redesigning As A Treatment

It's good to be back, although it was more fun to relax and enjoy a Mendocino County honeymoon. Now it's back to regular life and everything that goes with it.

I don't usually look forward to going to the doctor's office, but I might make an exception this time.

Sure, I'm scheduled for an octreotide shot — which could make sitting very difficult — but I'm curious to see the new decor at Marin Cancer Care in Greenbrae.

Nancy Ballard sent an e-mail recently regarding her work with RoomsThatRock4Chemo. Ballard and her cohorts started planning Aug. 10 to help redecorate a chosen room at Marin Cancer Care.

"RoomsThatRock4Chemo enhances chemotherapy waiting rooms in hospitals and clinics by revamping bland spaces into vibrant, warm and colorful environments," she wrote. "The mission is to create positive and uplifting spaces that will spiritually support cancer patients who much endure chemotherapy."

The patients could use a bright, entertaining surrounding while going through treatment. The room is nice enough as it is and the chairs look comfortable, but there's always room for improvement. 

It turns out, this could be good therapy for the patients and for the people redesigning the rooms.

"I received a call from what sounded like a young girl who wanted to help. Her uncle died of cancer, she loves art and wanted to help," Ballard said. "She is a senior at Tam so I partnered her up with an artist in Mill Valley who will, I believe be a wonderful mentor for her."

By the way, check out Wednesday's psychoneuroimmunology healing course at Marin Cancer Care.