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Peggy and Bob had been together for 34 years when she developed breast cancer. Shortly after her beginning treatment they learned of the Touch, Caring and Cancer project and decided to participate. Peggy shared her comments after they completed the NCI-sponsored study in which Bob used the instructional DVD prorgam to learn safe and simple techniques of massage for her comfort at home. Through sharing in this form of support they not only found reduced symptoms and side effects of cancer treatment for Peggy, they also discovered unexpected benefits for their relationship. Peggy shared her comments after they completed the study in which they used the Touch, Caring and Cancer program for four months.

"Thanks to you and your staff for allowing us to be a part of the Caring and Cancer Project. The benefits we received from being a part of the program were immeasurable. I was the partner that experienced the cancer and the treatments. I honestly believe that the Project was instrumental in helping us stay focused on each other instead of the side effects of treatment.

"There were many weeks that my husband had to work 60-70 hours just to make ends meet and we literally didn't have any time for each other with him gone and me being sick when he was home. The commitment he made to provide loving care for me because of program kept us from losing touch with each other during this difficult time. He was able to reconnect with me on a regular basis and I knew that at a certain point in the week that someone close to me was going to share some gentle touch. It truly helped us stay connected until I could slowly begin to give more to our relationship.

"Each week when we would reconnect through massage... it helped me focus and relax. Because of that I was able to realize that I was not alone in this and could better tackle the week that lay ahead whether I was facing chemo or radiation. I was more prepared because I was able to refocus in a beneficial way. (Each session) brought us closer instead of farther apart and added a sweetness to our lives that would have been missed otherwise. Our relationship is much stronger and there is a deeper trust that has developed between us. Being involved in the program has bonded us and given us memories that will stay with us forever.

"I appreciate so much the training... I believe the Project helped me recover at a faster pace and kept me healthier during my treatment. I am now three months out of treatment and am walking five miles a day.

"Touch shows Care. Through Care flows Strength. Strength leads to Healing so that we can Touch the lives of others. Thank you for Touching and Caring for us."

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