It’s something you take for granted in Charm City. When you live in a region with the Baltimore area’s caliber of premier health care institutions and resources, you’re no stranger to the many innovative technologies and programs developed year after year. Here is a look at just some of the latest developments at area hospitals.
The Barbara L. Posner Wellness & Support Center at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center offers an array of integrative therapies — including acupuncture, massage, Healing Touch therapy, yoga and more — to address the needs of those diagnosed with cancer and other chronic illnesses.
These needs can range from physical and psychological issues to social challenges and spiritual seeking.
“Our integrative approach to health and wellness is important, and we’re able to do that here because of all the different services we have to help someone to be well physically, mentally, emotionally and socially,” says Virginia A. Jump, a certified registered nursing practitioner and lead survivorship coordinator at the Posner Center. “All of those things that are important to make up your overall health and wellness.”
Barbara Jackson first became acquainted with the Posner Center when she was undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Today, Jackson, a 69-year-old Parkville resident, is cancer-free but still returns to the center as a participant and volunteer.
During the early months of her cancer journey, she says, “I was writing my own death sentence. I went into a very dark place.”
Jackson turned to the Posner Center and worked with a Healing Touch therapist. Healing Touch is an energy therapy using gentle hand techniques that are believed to re-pattern an individual’s energy field and promote and accelerate the healing of the body, mind and spirit. Patients report that the therapy promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure and improves breathing.
“In a million years, I wouldn’t have thought anyone could have brought me out of my head and the horrible place I was in,” Jackson recalls.
A year after finishing her treatment, Jackson still goes to the center for twice-a-week yoga classes and to volunteer. “There isn’t anyone there who isn’t grateful for the immense amount of support we all have received,” she says.
A former longtime Baltimore resident, Carol Sorgen is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon.
John Singer wants to help Marylanders of all economic backgrounds to afford ankle foot orthoses.
Colorectal cancer rates are climbing among young people and Ashkenazi Jews.
The donation will be directed to help foster research conducted by faculty at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and to advance innovative treatments.
The founder and owner of Catonsville Dental Care, "Dr. B" maintains a spirit of optimism that inspires friends, colleagues and patients.