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Bebe Tamberg's Personal Appearance Rehabilitation Service - Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center

 

 

Maintaining a positive self-image is vital to a patient's recovery. The Personal Appearance Rehabilitation Service is available at the Providence Cancer Centers at both Providence Holy Cross Medical Center and Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center.

Personal appearance rehabilitation is a concept that recognizes that when a person is receiving treatment for cancer, it's not just what is happening inside the body that matters–it's also what's happening on the outside in terms of the side effects on a person's physical appearance as a result of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. We understand that all these changes are important to the patient. 

A person can go to a lot of places to buy a wig or breast prosthesis, but many people selling these products may not understand the total body image issue, such as how treatments affect the hair and skin.The Personal Appearance Rehabilitation Service appearance therapist doesn't just give the customer a breast prosthesis, wig or turban.

The Appearance Therapist Helps the Patient Understand the “Hows and Whys”

  • Why gentle cleansing of the scalp is important and what type of shampoos are available.
  • How long it takes for re-growth of hair.
  • Why hair sometimes grows in curly when it was originally straight.
  • Where to find experienced and knowledgeable wig suppliers.
  • Why it is important to wear a breast prosthesis and have it properly fitted.
  • Why care should be taken to avoid over-exposure to the sun.
  • How easy it is to learn alternative cosmetic techniques at seminars held at the Cancer Centers.
  • How support groups help meet the emotional needs of the individual as well as family members.
  • What is available for hair, replacements and alternatives?

Other Services Provided with Understanding and Respect for Each Individual:

  • Hair alternatives for complete or partial hair loss
  • Scarf-tying techniques
  • Skin care and corrective makeup solutions
  • Breast prostheses, mastectomy brassieres and special clothing sources

The Personal Appearance Rehabilitation Service at our Cancer Centers is designed to help people build a bridge back to their normal, healthy world by addressing the needs of the whole person. All consultations with the appearance therapists are offered without charge. For an appointment, please call Bebe Tamberg, Personal Appearance Therapist, (818) 847-3213.