Look Good Feel Better SA is proud to celebrate 10 years of helping women (and some men and teenagers) undergoing treatment for all types of cancer to look good, feel better and ‘heal’ better through improving their self-esteem so that they can deal with their disease and face the world with confidence.
This unique programme which began in US in 1989 is now offered in 26 counties globally. In 2004, the programme was introduced to SA under the auspices of the Cosmetic Toiletries and Fragrance Association and has been made possible by the incredible support and generosity of LGFB Members from the cosmetic industry.
From small beginnings, working out of a single minute room, the programme has evolved from supporting 49 patients at two venues in 2004 to now being offered to patients in seven of SA’s major cities, at 38 public and private hospital venues. To date more than 26 000 patients have participated in one of 2 500 LGFB workshops. The programme which focuses on the emotional and social needs and wellbeing of a cancer patient is non medical, free to patients and product neutral, and in SA is offered in English and five other languages.
280 trained and dedicated volunteers, many of whom have been involved with the programme since the beginning, offer two-hour interactive workshops to groups of patients using skincare and makeup products, donated by Members of the Foundation, as tools to address any of 26 possible appearance related side effects of cancer treatment such as dry, very sensitive skin; hair, eyebrow, eye lash loss; pigmentation marks, discolouration of nails. The importance of skin care is emphasised, even more especially while undergoing treatment when skin is delicate and infection is prevalent and dangerous. The products which are used in the workshop are then taken home so that the patients can continue to make the best of their appearance and feel and look good during their treatment.
Extensive research internationally indicates the significant benefit of the look good feel better factor in the holistic treatment of a cancer patient. Dr Carol-Ann Benn, Specialist Surgeon, Johannesburg, said, ”It is just as important for one of my cancer patients to attend a Look Good…
Look good feel better is dedicated to improving the self-esteem and quality of life of people undergoing treatment for cancer.