Inspire Program Brings Hope

Cancer changes us—emotionally, psychologically and physically. While many people emerge from their cancer journey stronger, the ordeals along the road can seem almost too much to bear. No matter how much we may strive to keep ourselves whole, we will deal with feelings of loneliness, sadness, fear and low self-image.

To address the physical and psychological changes associated with cancer, the OSF Saint Anthony Center for Cancer Care has offered the “Inspire: Body & Mind” program as a free service to Cancer Center patients for the past two years.

Under this program, Terri Johnston, owner of the Inspiration Salon in Rockford and founder of the Inspiration for Hope Foundation, meets with patients to offer information on and help with medically related hair loss, skin care and breast prostheses.

As a cancer survivor herself, Johnston also provides understanding, compassion and kindness to those undergoing cancer treatments. She visits cancer patients to listen, provide suggestions for coping and offer emotional support. “An important part of the program is just holding someone’s hand,” Johnston says.

Recently, the Inspire program has gained national recognition. As an invited speaker at conventions nationwide, Johnston cites OSF Saint Anthony as a model in offering support to cancer patients. She discusses the importance of building a cancer patient’s self-esteem and strategies for helping patients through the challenges of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

“OSF Saint Anthony is at the forefront of this movement to help patients who are faced with appearance changes and the physical and psychological changes brought on by treatment,” says Johnston. “The program is intended to help patients feel as much like themselves as they possibly can.”

By helping patients look and feel better, the program inspires hope, courage and strength during a time when they are most needed.