Support takes many forms depending on the needs of each patient and his or her family. Many people find that information helps provide a degree of control in the face of a frightening diagnosis. The Medical/Oncology Unit features a resource library that provides education and materials on types of cancer, treatments, support groups and more. The library offers Internet access, and the oncology staff is available to assist in assessing cancer resource websites and clinical trial information. Many brochures are free of charge and other materials are available for loan.

Support groups can provide a source of information and emotional strength, and Reston Hospital Center offers several groups.

Look Good - Feel Better® is a program for women who are currently undergoing cancer treatment. The American Cancer Society program is designed to help women receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy cope with the cosmetic side effects of treatment.

Rehabilitation

Physical rehabilitation is often vital for patients who are preparing for or recovering from cancer-related surgery. Reston Hospital Center offers comprehensive rehabilitation services on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.

Reston Therapy and Fitness Center on the campus of Reston Hospital offers both traditional outpatient rehabilitation and specialized services including treatment for patients who are diagnosed with lymphedema.

Lymphedema is swelling caused by abnormal accumulation of fluid due to deficient lymph drainage. Through a technique called Complete Decongestive Therapy/Manual Lymph Drainage (CDT/MLD) a certified therapist with skilled intervention can direct the lymphatic fluid to intact lymph nodes, reducing the swelling.

"Lymphedema may be diagnosed following a mastectomy or prostate cancer treatment," says Kanchan Akmanchi, a registered occupational therapist who is trained in CDT/MLD. "The ultimate treatment goal is to help patients become independent in the management of the condition."

Contact Reston Therapy and Fitness Center at 703-689-9250 for more information.