RUMFORD — Claudia Marcellino is looking forward to a manicure, a pedicure and maybe even a massage at a “Pamper Yourself” event to be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 27, at Rumford Hospital.

“I think my daughters are coming with me,” she said. “We’ll make it a mother-daughter time.” Marcellino and her daughters, Maria Merrill and Karen Gurschick, are breast cancer survivors.

The event is a chance for cancer patients and survivors to lift their spirits. It is supported by the Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing and Rumford Hospital.

Professionals will offer manicures, pedicures, hair styling, Reiki, massage and sound therapy in the Specialty Clinics area on the second floor of Rumford Hospital. The professionals are volunteering their time and the pampering is free of charge. Guests will also be treated to refreshments.

“You feel good about yourself when you get pampered,” Marcellino said. She knows because Merrill gave her a gift of a manicure, pedicure and massage not too long ago.

“So many people get depressed when they have cancer,” she said. “Things like this make them feel much better about themselves. Even my husband says, ‘Put your makeup on everyday because it makes you feel good about yourself.'”

Marcellino thinks that being among others who share the experience of having cancer will help people to feel more relaxed and make the most of the pampering. She notes that the cancer support group organized by the Dempsey Center at Rumford Hospital makes participants feel that they are not alone.

Pamper Yourself is for cancer patients and survivors and participation is limited to the first 35 registrants. Although the event is being held at Rumford Hospital, reservations must be made through the Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing by calling 795-8250 or toll free at 1-877-336-7287.


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