No doubt about it, facing cancer changes one's life. There is an oncologist going after your cancer tooth and nail, friends and relatives pray for you, and hopefully you have as wonderful a caregiver as I have. You need that support to get through the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation or surgery.

In addition, I felt the need to take an active part in getting well. I was turning into a couch potato when I learned about the FirstHealth Cancer Wellness program. I am highly recommending that service to all who find themselves in my position. I know there are a lot of patients out there because the 27 infusion chairs are often full when I go to the hospital for chemotherapy.

Cinnamon LeBlanc, at the Southern Pines FirstHealth Center, conducts this program. I was tested before and after to establish my needs and progress. Exercises were individualized to suit each participant. If an exercise caused pain, Cinnamon found a gentler exercise to achieve the same purpose. I am so impressed with Cinnamon's knowledge and caring attitude.

Each session included education as well as exercise. Avenues to address one's emotional, mental and spiritual needs were introduced in addition to one's physical needs. Speakers introduced us to many tools available to us.

When Dan Oates, librarian for the hospital's medical library, spoke to us, I found that the library is open to the community. FirstHealth is a member of the most reliable electronic databases. These are sites that I could not access on my own computer. Dan was very helpful in showing me how to use the library.

If you want to take an active part in getting well, call Cinnamon. You will be glad you did.

Hilda Mitchell

Pinebluff