Discover how oncology massage and palliative care are transforming patient well-being in Italy—and why these healing therapies may change lives worldwide. In this inspiring episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton sits down with Daniela Panzeri, Italy’s sole regional champion for the Society for Oncology Massage, to explore her groundbreaking work integrating massage therapy into hospice and palliative care settings.

Daniela shares her journey from the Netherlands to Italy, detailing her unique role as the only massage therapist across three hospices, and reveals how compassionate touch can bring profound comfort to patients facing cancer, dementia, and chronic illness. You’ll learn about the collaborative power of combining oncology massage with music therapy, how Daniela is bridging the gap between healthcare professions, and her mission to educate both practitioners and the public—including writing a powerful new book that captures moving patient stories.

If you’re passionate about holistic cancer care, integrative therapies, or seeking inspiration from real-world innovators making a difference, this episode is packed with insights, encouragement, and hope for the future of supportive care. Tune in to find out how one woman’s dedication is shaping a new standard of care in Italy and beyond!

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• Expanding oncology massage in Italy
• Integrative care for palliative patients
• Collaboration with oncology aesthetics professionals
• Sharing patient stories through literature
• Education and networking in oncology massage

Click here to view extended shownotes

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

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Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of ‘Collaborative Connections,’ hosted by Ericka Clinton and sponsored by the Society for Oncology Massage and the Society for Oncology Esthetics, we feature Jill Cole, a licensed massage therapist and PhD candidate at the University of Kentucky.  

Jill shares her journey of becoming a PhD candidate in Rehabilitation and Health Science, focusing on her research in oncology massage, particularly a feasibility study she is conducting at the UK Healthcare Integrative Medicine and Health. She explains the crossover randomized control trial of massage therapy during cancer treatment and discusses the importance and challenges of touch therapy research.  

Throughout the conversation, Jill emphasizes the need for more biological and large-scale studies in the field and how empirical evidence can support the growth of the massage therapy profession. She highlights the collaborative nature of research and the critical role of massage therapists in advancing the profession through evidence-based practices.  

Topics discussed:  

• Innovative oncology massage research 
• Understanding the feasibility study framework 
• Effects of massage on pain and anxiety 
• Benefits of interdisciplinary PhD programs 
• Importance of touch therapy research 
• Research and growth in massage therapy 

Click here to read the extended shownotes

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of 'Collaborative Connections,' hosted by Ericka Clinton and sponsored by the Society for Oncology Massage and the Society for Oncology Esthetics, massage therapist and educator Kathleen Leeson returns to discuss breast reconstruction surgery. 

Kathleen, a certified lymphedema therapist, health coach, and yoga instructor, shares her expertise on different types of breast reconstruction surgeries, particularly diep flap and implant-based methods. She discusses the physical and emotional aspects of post-surgery recovery, including the importance of lymphatic drainage and scar management. 

Kathleen also addresses the disparities in access to breast reconstruction and offers practical advice for clients dealing with surgical scars and chronic pain. 

Topics Discussed: 

• Flap-Based Reconstruction Surgery 
• Diep Flap Surgery Details 
• Post-Operative Lymphatic Drainage 
• Surgeon Referral Importance 
• Swelling Management Techniques 
• Compression Garment Strategies 
• Managing Recovery Expectations 
• Use of Liposuction 
• Post-Surgery Concerns 
• Managing Scar Pain 

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Welcome  

02:07 Breast Reconstruction Surgery Overview 

03:12 Deep Flap Surgery Details 

08:03 Implant-Based Reconstruction and Fat Grafting 

11:30 Advocating for Better Outcomes 

12:13 Advances in Oncology and Fat Grafting 

13:03 Equity in Breast Reconstruction 

14:16 Innovations in Surgical Techniques 

16:19 Capsular Contracture and Pain Management 

19:24 Liposuction and Fat Transfer 

27:38 Lymphatic Drainage and Healing 

33:04 Scar Management and Emotional Healing  

More About Kathleen Lisson, LMT, CLT 

Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction  

Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema  

Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/ 

Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA. 

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of 'Collaborative Connections,' hosted by Clinton, registered massage therapist Janet Penny and curriculum specialist Rebecca Sturgeon explore their collaborative journey in writing 'Oncology Massage - An Integrative Approach to Cancer Care.' They discuss the inspiration behind their partnership, the challenges of compiling a comprehensive guide, and the balance between research and writing.

The conversation highlights key chapters such as the intake and therapeutic relationship, and emphasizes the role of community support, personal growth, and the aim to enrich the field of oncology massage. Penny and Sturgeon hope their work inspires others and integrates oncology massage into broader healthcare practices.

Topics discussed:  

• Effective Collaboration in Cancer Care
• Growing oncology massage awareness
• Challenges and breakthroughs in writing
• 
  

More About Janet Penny

Visit Janet's website

Janet Penny is a registered massage therapist in Ottawa, Canada. Her massage practice focus on people affected by cancer provides the challenges and inspiration that create deeply satisfying work. Janet provides S4OM accredited oncology massage training throughout Canada and is the co-author of Oncology Massage: An integrative approach to cancer care.

More About Rebecca Sturgeon

My clients and I decide together what is important in their session, giving my clients a sense of control that they may have lost. I create and hold a space where my clients are deeply listened to and their wishes honored. At my core, I am a teacher, and sharing knowledge with my clients, their families and other professionals is something I love to do.

I have advanced training in oncology massage and manual lymphatic drainage. I am also an oncology massage educator through Healwell (www.healwell.org), and a preferred provider with the Society for Oncology Massage.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of 'Collaborative Connections,' hosted by Erica Clinton, aromatherapist Nicola McGill shares her 25-year journey in aromatherapy and oncology massage. Starting her practice in England, Nicola later moved to Boulder, Colorado, where she provides integrative care to oncology patients.  

She discusses the inspiration behind her career, the significance of aromatherapy and manual lymphatic drainage, and the holistic benefits of essential oils on the human body. Nicola also touches on the importance of sustainability in aromatherapy and provides insights into how essential oils can support lymphatic health.  

Topics discussed: 

•  Training and Skills for Aromatherapy  
• Different Styles of Aromatherapy  
• Aromatherapy in Oncology Care  
• Risks and Safety in Aromatherapy 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome  

01:14 Meet Nicola McGill: Aromatherapist and Oncology Massage Therapist  

02:59 Nicola's Journey into Aromatherapy  

07:04 The Holistic Benefits of Aromatherapy  

14:41 Sustainability in Aromatherapy  

17:24 Nicola's Passion for Lymphatics  

21:13 Integrating Aromatherapy with Lymphatic Drainage  

26:34 The Chemistry of Aromatherapy  

33:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

More About Nicola McGill, LLSA, LMT, BCTMB, CLT-LANA 

Learn More about Nicola 

Nicola McGill, LLSA, LMT, BCTMB, CLT-LANA, has over 25 years of experience in the field of massage and bodywork both in the U.S. and the United Kingdom. She is a graduate of the London School of Aromatherapy and received diplomas in Reflex Touch and Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Professional Practice at Anglia Polytechnic University, U.K. Upon relocating to the U.S., Nicola received extensive training in the field of oncology massage under the instruction of Gayle MacDonald. In 2010, Nicola received her Lymphedema Therapy Certification through Klose Training and Consulting. 

She specializes in treating patients with Breast Cancer, Head and Neck Lymphedema. In her clinical practice, Nicola utilizes her bodywork skills as an aromatherapist and MLD practitioner to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Nicola has been on staff at Boulder Community Hospital (BCH) as an Oncology Massage and Lymphedema Therapist. She promotes education and lymphedema risk-reduction practices at cancer support groups and individual treatment sessions while working alongside the Rocky Mountain Cancer Center (RMCC) and the BCH team of healthcare providers. Nicola is also a team member of the Boulder Cancer Survivorship Program at Avanti Therapy where she provides lymphedema education and restorative and comfort-oriented bodywork treatments for individuals undergoing treatments for a cancer diagnosis and those who have completed their treatment. For the past 10 years, she has been an MLD Instructor with Klose Training and Consulting in Colorado. 

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton talks with Brian Morris, president of the Jojoba Company. Celebrating his 10-year milestone, Brian shares insights into jojoba, a liquid wax native to Arizona, and its remarkable benefits for skin care, particularly for massage therapists and oncology patients.

The conversation delves into jojoba's biocompatibility, non-allergenic properties, and its ability to promote collagen synthesis and reduce inflammation. Brian also discusses the company's focus on education and research efforts to expand the understanding of jojoba's capabilities.

Topics discussed:  

• Jojoba's Unique Properties and Benefits
• The Role of Jojoba in Sustainable Products
• Specific Benefits for Medical and Sensitive Skin
• Historical Uses and Modern Discoveries of Jojoba

More about Brian Morris and The Jojoba Company:

Shop The Jojoba Company website

Brian just celebrated his 10 year anniversary with The Jojoba Company. For the last five years, he has been the President of the company. Brian has had many careers in his life from running a video production company to developing websites, which is how he landed at The Jojoba Company. Honesty, simplicity, and curiosity are his guiding principals in everyday life and in business.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton interviews Xerlan Deery, to delve into the instrumental role of massage therapy within hospital environments. With over 35 years of experience, Xerlan brings a wealth of knowledge, sharing insights on how massage therapy can significantly enhance patient care and the growing acceptance of insurance coverage for this vital service. 

Xerlan and Ericka discuss the unique challenges that hospital-based massage therapists face, such as securing proper workspace and obtaining comprehensive hospital orientation. Xerlan underscores the importance of employing consultants to design effective and safe massage therapy programs, potentially enriching the community and easing the workload on nurses by addressing individual patient needs. 

Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted skill set required for hospital-based massage therapists, including the ability to navigate various medical conditions and integrate seamlessly within a healthcare team. Xerlan also touches on the need for robust patient feedback to help hospitals recognize the immense value and return on investment that massage therapy offers. 

Topics discussed: 

• The Importance of Massage Therapy in Hospital Settings 
• Challenges Faced by Hospital-Based Massage Therapists 
• Role of Consultants in Hospital-Based Massage Programs 
• Understanding Hospital Priorities 
• Benefits and Skill Sets for Hospital-Based Massage Therapists 
• Building a Hospital-Based Massage Therapy Program 

More About Xerlan Deery, LMT, BCTMB 

Visit Xerlan’s Website 

Follow Anatriptic Alchemy on Facebook 

Xerlan Deery is a Licensed and Board Certified Massage Therapist, Educator and Healthcare Consultant with a passion for integrating massage therapy into healthcare settings. With over 35 years of experience, Xerlan focuses on evidence-informed, safe and effective care for active and medically involved humans, and collaboration with healthcare teams. 

Throughout her career, Xerlan has held various roles, including working in hospitals as a massage therapist, foundational massage therapy instructor, continuing education provider, Hospital-Based Massage Consultant, and expert witness. Xerlan has also founded and owned a massage school and a multi-disciplinary practice. Xerlan's commitment to the profession is evident in her involvement in numerous organizations such as the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM), and Unite for Her (UFH). Her contributions to the field of massage therapy have been recognized through various awards, including the Healing Hands Award from the Y-Me Breast Cancer Network of Strength and the AMTA National Mentor of the Year Award. 

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of "Collaborative Connections," host Ericka Clinton welcomes Eleanor Oyston, founder of Oncology Massage Global and a trailblazer in the massage therapy industry.

With over two decades of experience and a robust background in health sciences, Eleanor discusses her pivotal research on the lack of mindfulness in massage education and the challenges facing massage therapists today. She emphasizes the necessity of research and proper funding, sharing insights from a successful scoping study in Scotland on oncology massage.

Throughout the discussion, Eleanor advocates for greater self-recognition among therapists and the importance of international standards to promote global consistency in the field. Tune in to discover how Eleanor's work is shaping a more recognized and respected future for oncology massage therapy worldwide.

 Topics discussed: 

• Research and Education Initiatives
• Importance of Research in Massage Therapy
• Global Expansion and Educational Challenges
• Advocacy and Recognition for the Massage Therapy Industry
• Global Collaboration and Regulations
• Challenges and Realities of Practicing Oncology Massage

More About Eleanor Oyston

Visit Oncology Massage Global's website

See more Oncology Massage Trainings 

Buy Eleanor's book: Touching Cancer by Eleanor Oyston

After over 30 years in medical technology, ten of which was in developmental neuroscience research at the John Curtain School of Medical Research, Australian National University and research diagnosing cancer, Eleanor attained a Dip RM and studied Bowen Therapy with Russell Sturgess. • Taught Oncology Massage in Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Hong Kong, Spain, The Netherlands. • Presented at international conferences in Australia, Munich Germany, Minneapolis USA and Barcelona Spain. • Developed in-hospital training at the Olivia Newton John Centre, Melbourne and the Life House, RPA, in Sydney Prof Caroline Smith and Dr Jennifer Hunter et al,began mapping CM in Australia. See reference in abstract. In 2017 Eleanor established Oncology Massage Global (OMG), an international consultancy designed to inform the development of oncology massage in hospitals and general practice clinics in Spain and Argentina. In March 2020 Eleanor was selected to join the Fellowship team with Prof Jon Adams at UTS of behalf of the BTFA: ARCCIM International CIM Research Leadership Program. Her Fellowship is ongoing.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton interviews Cindy Spence, a massage therapist specializing in oncology and hospice care. Cindy shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on the incredible impact of massage therapy in end-of-life care. From discussing the differences between hospice and palliative care to the unique skills and emotional resilience required for this work, Cindy's wisdom and compassion shine through. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the profound importance of providing comfort and support during life's final moments. Tune in as these two remarkable individuals engage in a heartfelt and enlightening conversation. 

Topics discussed: 

• Importance of hospice care in providing support and community for those at the end of life 
• The emotional and psychological aspects of caring for patients in hospice 
• Adapting Massage for Hospice Patients 
• Understanding the Difference Between Hospice and Palliative Care 
• Impact on the Massage Therapist and Self-Care 

More About Cynthia Spence 

Buy Palliative Touch: Massage For People at the End of Life 

Visit Final Touch Trainings website to see upcoming classes 

Follow Final Touch Training on Facebook 

Learn more about where Cindy works T-Boone Pickens Center 

Cindy Spence has been a massage therapist specializing in oncology and hospice care since 1999, after her father-in-law’s dying wish for gentle touch inspired her to attend massage school. In 2016, Cindy joined forces with her colleague and friend, Susan Gee, to create Final Touch Training, an endeavor devoted to top-notch education for professionals seeking to provide safe, supportive touch for people with advanced illness. “Susan and I are passionately devoted to this mission,” says Cindy, “because we have seen firsthand the extraordinary benefits of massage at the end of life.” 

With more than 40 years of combined experience in hospice care, Cindy and Susan offer a 20-hour CE class each June at the world-class T. Boone Pickens Hospice Inpatient Center in Dallas, Texas. Participants are supported on a three-day journey like no other, with sequence and pacing mindfully designed to reflect our approach to this soul-stirring work. The textbook for class, Palliative Touch: Massage for People at the End of Life, is available through Handspring Publishing, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. If you have ever wanted to support a loved one or client with advanced illness, we invite you to visit our website or Facebook page to connect with our blog posts, articles, podcasts, and 3-hour online training for beginners. Our class will be offered next month at the 2024 AMTA Texas Convention. As of this moment, five vacant spots are available to any massage therapist in the U.S. 

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn