AMTA Massachusetts Chapter members Karleen Kenney and Jamie Thompson provided chair massage at the 2012 Hospice and Palliative Care Federation of Massachusetts Education Conference in Norwood, MA on October 16 and 17. More than 250 nurses, home health aides, clergy, social workers, spiritual care coordinators other caregivers from all areas of Massachusetts attended the event.
Hospice and palliative care clinicians have a calling to assist those who are facing end of life, treating patients with the greatest respect and dignity. Unfortunately, these caregivers often experience stress and burnout as a result of placing their own self-care on the back burner. Several education classes were aimed at teaching self-care techniques.
Massage Organizer Karleen Kenney said of the event, "It was a great chance to celebrate National Massage Therapy Awareness Week a little early and a wonderful opportunity for Jamie and I to share the many benefits of massage therapy with clients so deserving."
Casper Funeral Services sponsored the booth space for the massage therapists in the exhibit hall, allowing attendees to experience massage at no cost.