A stone is tossed into the lake and the effect extends way beyond the point of impact. . A monster named Cancer enters uninvited into a home. The medical staff focuses on the patient and his body, searching desperately for a cure. But the repercussions extend outward in concentric circles. The patient: his terror, his inability to cope, the family: devastation, anguish, despair, irrational feelings of resentment, neighbors, friends unsure of how to help…
Ezer Mizion cannot cure the cancer but, in keeping with its mission of making the challenges of others its own, will do its utmost to strengthen the spirit of the patient and others close to him.
Family togetherness can create an island of sunshine. The residents of the South who have been under the care of Ezer Mizion’s Cancer Division can attest to that fact when they were invited to a carnival of 15 play stations. There were brainteasers, family competitions — fun and more fun, plenty of opportunities to laugh, to share. A juggling show and pizza for all rounded out the day. Happiness was everywhere. All felt empowered. “We can do this! We can fight this battle. Strengthening each other. Together.”
Sometimes the repercussions of the battle extend even further than the neighbors. Even the family dog can play a part. The husband was terminally ill. The wife remained at his bedside. She worried about their pet who was at home alone with no understanding of what was happening. But she had no stamina to do anything about it. Miriam, a long-term Ezer Mizion volunteer and professional dog trainer, saw an opportunity and seized it. She would offer to walk the dog and invite the wife to come along. With the responsibility of the dog on the shoulders of another, the wife began looking forward to the outing. And so they walked – and they talked. Slowly, the wife began unburdening her soul. Another walk. And another. Soon the wife could feel the strength returning, her spirit revived. The dog indirectly became the source of its mistress’ therapy.
At times, a dog can be “hired” as a direct source of therapy. Pet therapy. The therapeutic abilities of animals having a positive effect on cancer patients who care for them is well known. Nana “worked” for Ezer Mizion’s Petting Zoo for eleven years. Recently Blue has taken her place. His “job” consists of allowing his young caretakers to take him for a walk. Upon their return, the puppy plays the role of student as the caretaker teaches him to run an obstacle course. Later on, Blue enjoys a brushing as the young cancer patient lovingly brushes its fur ending off with a rest and cuddle for both of them. Pet Therapy, Music Therapy, Craft Therapy all play a role at Oranit, Ezer Mizion’s Home for Cancer Patients and their Family. Professional psychologists provide therapy for patients and family members unable to cope with their fears. It’s a place of sharing, a place of healing and, most of all, a happy place where smiles abound.
