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The Laryngectomy Support Group has been established to support people who have undergone specific head and neck surgery. The group is facilitated by a Speech Pathologist working in ENT. This program offers a supportive environment to talk about experiences and gather information on a range of topics eg Communication, Swallowing, Diet and Nutrition, Radiation Therapy, Exercise.

Swallowing and communication difficulties that result from radiation and surgery to the head and neck can occur during treatment or may develop or continue long after treatment has ended. Speech Pathology provides a dedicated service to assess and help manage changes in swallowing and communication after treatment. Speech Pathologists can provide advice and information on the safest and/or most comfortable foods and drinks to consume, organise further investigations of swallowing difficulties and develop rehabilitation plans with a goal to improve swallowing function. The speech pathologist can also complete assessment of communication changes and develop plans for rehabilitation or implement different communication options or strategies that may assist. Your GP or treating medical team can provide a referral to this service.

The program is being conducted with Molly (a certified delta therapy dog) and Sally her caring owner. Molly is available for cuddles, pats and chats with our inpatients and their families.

The Leisure and Activity Maintainence Program (LAMP) is a formalised program operating on the Ward 2E inpatient unit that assists our inpatients with the management of their cancer related fatigue and lengthy hospital admissions.

There are a range of physiotherapy and occupational therapy services at the Princess Alexandra Hospital which assist people who have developed lymphoedema as a result of cancer or its treatment. These services offer education, treatment and ongoing support for eligible people diagnosed with lymphoedema. Please ask your doctor or nurse about a referral if you are experiencing symptoms of lymphoedema.

A select team of volunteers now offers gentle hand or foot massages to patients on Ward 2E and in Day Care Oncology. This new service is being trialled on Tuesdays and Thursdays, in the morning and afternoon.

Exercise has been proven to assist in the reduction of the symptoms of cancer and cancer treatment. It can improve strength, endurance, flexibility, balance and reduce fatigue, aches and pain. The Cancer Physiotherapy Service offers a 6 -12 week exercise program for any people living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis.