The social workers at the Center for Cancer Care at Exeter Hospital offer counseling services to our patients and members of their family. Individual, couples, and family counseling are available to offer emotional support for all those involved in the treatment process. In addition, a variety of support groups and programs are offered to enhance coping skills, gain support, and learn anxiety reduction techniques for children, adolescents and adults.

Emotional well being is equally as important as the physical well being of our patients. The diagnosis of a serious illness, such as cancer, may be a time when emotional concerns may need to be addressed. In addition to counseling services, social workers are available to help patients become more familiar with community resources, answer financial and insurance related questions, and provide referrals to VNA and other home health care agencies.

For information about counseling, please call (603) 580-7336.

Support Groups

A Women's Perspective:

For women seeking support for various cancers.  Spend time connecting with other women for support and education.  This group provides participants with an opportunity to discuss new methods of coping with cancer while promoting stress reduction, hope and empowerment.  Please call for more information or to register at (603) 580-7084.

Exercise

The benefits of exercise in cancer care is well documented - Mild exercise during and after treatment can reduce symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, pain and depression.  Join us for a free 10- week session to support you through your treatment.

Complimentary Wellfit Program

Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9:15 A.M., 10:15 A.M. and 11:15 A.M.

Sessions consist of instruction in flexibility, strengthening, and cardiovascular exercises with appropriate monitoring by trained exercise professionals and meet in the Center for Orthopedics and Movement.

• Medical clearance is required for participation.
• All participants are evaluated by a physical therapist prior to enrollment
• Participants can start at any time during or up to 1 year after treatment
• The first 10 week program is free.  Additional sessions can be added on a pay per visit basis.
• For more information, contact the Oncology Rehabilitation specialists at 603-778-6548.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH REHABILITATION SERVICES

Exeter Hospital provides comprehensive rehabilitation services for Women (men with similar diagnoses are also eligible for these services).  Our skilled professionals provide treatment services for: Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, Urinary and Fecal Incontinence, Pelvic Pain and Dyspareunia., Oncology and Lymphedema Management, Pain related to Pregnancy or Post-partum.  Treatment modalities include EMG Biofeedback, Myofacial Release and Manual therapy, along with exercise and education . 

For more information call (603)580-6548, the Kingston Office at (603)642-9425 and Newmarket at (603)292-7285.
 

Individuals with a diagnosis of cancer often have special dietary concerns. Cancer treatment may cause side effects such as changes in appetite, eating habits or taste, fluctuations in weight, or nausea. Some dietary supplements and herbals can interfere with cancer treatments. Nutrition consultations with a Registered Dietitian are available.

A healthy diet supports cell repair and helps prevent infection. In fact, some cancer treatments are more effective if the patient is getting enough calories and protein before, during and after treatment. Programs are designed to ensure proper nutrition during cancer care, minimize the effects of cancer care on one's diet, and restore health through nutrition during recovery. For more information, please call our registered dietician Meg Merz, RD, LD, at (603) 580-7336.

Oncology Rehabilitation:

Treatment for cancer can sometimes lead to physical impairments.  Side effects from surgery, chemotherapy and radiation can happen at the time of treatment or after your treatment has been completed.  Our staff of Oncology Rehabilitation Specialists can help minimize cancer related disabilities and maximize quality of life during and after treatment.

Early side effects from treatment:        

• Fatigue                                                      
• Loss of strength and mobility                     
• Speech or swallowing difficulties               
• Incontinence

Late side effects from treatment:

• Lymphedema
• Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)
• Radiation Fibrosis
• Diminished cardiac or pulmonary function

As part of your treatment team, our rehabilitation specialists, lymphedema therapists, speech and language pathologist and pelvic floor therapists can address your needs in the hospital, at home or on an outpatient basis. Physician referrals are required for rehabilitation.  For more information, call 603-778-6548 to speak with an Oncology Rehabilitation Specialist.

The Center for Cancer Care has physical therapists on staff to provide immediate and ongoing screening for rehabilitation. Those individuals who need rehabilitation can receive Physical, Occupational and/or Speech Therapy during their hospital admission, in their home or on an out-patient basis. Treatment plans are established to meet the individual goals of the patient.

Physician referrals are required for rehabilitation; most services are covered by insurance. For more information call Nancy Potter, MSPT, at 603-580-6548. If recommended, patients may also participate in the Cancer Well-fit Exercise Program at The Center for Orthopedics and Movemen


 

Healing Arts Program

This weekly class is available to adults interested in learning basic art techniques and using the creative process as a springboard for their own personal, spiritual and healing growth. This class is designed for all levels of experience and you do not have to be a trained artist to participate. For more information, or to register, contact Kathleen Robbins, MFA at 603-580-7039.

One on One Art Instruction

While patients are here for treatment, our in house artist is available for art instruction in their area of interest. Some of the projects available are painting, drawing and craft related projects. One popular project is the memory book or "Life Book" where patients compile a chronology of their life story into a scrapbook with photo memorabilia, lettering and creative decor. Please contact Kathleen Robbins, MFA at 603-580-7039 for more information or to set up an appointment.

Oncology Massage Therapy

Performed by an oncology trained therapist, massage and other gentle forms of bodywork are safe and effective modalities for the multitude of physical and emotional discomforts that accompany cancer and its treatments.  

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be used to ease the side-effects associated with chemotherapy and radiation.  Symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, pain and anxiety may be lessened with hour-long treatments.

These services are provided free for patients on treatment who are interested in group acupuncture services. Please talk with a member of your cancer care team if you are interested in learning more about acupuncture.

Supporting Events

The Beyond the Rainbow Fund provides local oncology patients in need with financial assistance and support while undergoing cancer treatment. Since its inception, this fund has provided patients with immediate prescription assistance; subsidized rent, utility and fuel bills; purchased groceries; and assisted with additional needs that may have become unmanageable for individuals or their families during treatment.  This fund also provides patients with wellness/fitness programs and integrative therapies, such as massage, that further assists them in improving their quality of life as they focus on healing and recovery.  The impact felt by the recipients of this fund is immeasurable.

The Beyond the Rainbow Fund was founded in 2002 by Anne-Marie Viviano, a former Hampton, NH resident and Exeter Hospital patient, to help others in their fight against cancer.  Anne-Marie extended herself to the local community in many ways as she was committed to making a difference in the lives of others. In May of 2009, Anne-Marie passed away after a 14 year courageous battle with breast cancer.  Her remarkable journey, courage and resilience of spirit continues to inspire and provide hope to others through The Beyond the Rainbow Fund. 

Click here to view all Annual Events Supporting Beyond the Rainbow Fund