Zakim Center: A Patient’s Experience with Integrative Therapies

Introduction to the Zakim Center

Since its founding in 2000, the Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has dedicated itself to enhancing the quality of life for patients. The center provides a variety of non-clinical services, including acupuncture, nutrition classes, meditation, yoga, and massage. These services are available to everyone who walks through the doors of Dana-Farber, reflecting the center’s commitment to holistic patient care.

Conversation with Kathy Zarchin: Insights from a Patient

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Kathy Zarchin, a prominent figure within the Skin Cancer Champions community. Our discussion highlighted the significance of integrative therapies and how these services were instrumental in improving her quality of life during her cancer journey.

Kathy’s background as a lifelong medical professional provided her with a unique perspective on patient care. She began her career as an oncology treatment nurse administering chemotherapy and, after raising her three daughters, returned to the workforce as a hospice nurse. Kathy’s experiences in both oncology and hospice care, combined with her devotion to her husband when he was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in 2007, shaped her understanding of the importance of holistic care—addressing not only the clinical aspects of cancer but the needs of the mind, body, and soul.

Kathy’s Cancer Journey

Kathy was diagnosed with Marginal Zone Lymphoma in June 2019 and, three months later, with Squamous Cell Cancer (SCC). Her treatment plan involved multiple surgeries, followed by chemotherapy and radiation. Kathy’s cancer journey continues to this day, having had multiple Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCC) and SCC treated with multiple Mohs surgeries and immunotherapies. Although she is incredibly grateful for her collaboration with her medical team and for receiving the highest standard of care, side effects have had a major impact on her quality of life.

Lymphedema increased one arm to 18% larger than her other arm, putting pressure on nerve endings and pushing her pain level to between 8 and 10, to 10 on most days. Searching for relief and engaging in conversations with her medical team brought her to the Zakim Center as she sought relief from her lymphedema. Kathy speaks fondly of her massage therapists who work diligently but compassionately, providing lymphatic drainage massage that reduces the swelling and pain level in her arm. “Receiving integrative therapy is life changing,” Kathy notes. When Kathy receives massage therapy, her pain level reduces to between 6 and 7. 

Through her experiences, Kathy emphasizes the importance of a supportive environment and the power of compassionate care. She credits the Zakim Center's team for their responsiveness and willingness to listen and deliver therapies that meet her evolving needs. Having in-person and virtual offerings has allowed Kathy to remain engaged in her wellness journey, regardless of her treatment schedule or physical limitations. She encourages others facing similar challenges to explore these resources and to prioritize self-care as an essential aspect of healing.

Kathy’s Advice to Other Patients

Kathy advises that patients and their caregivers talk with their oncologist about all side effects. It’s not about complaining; it’s about reporting the side effects and asking for help. Don’t assume that there are no answers or that you must “soldier through” the treatment. Be your own relentless advocate and continually strive to find therapies and support that work for you. 

If one therapy does not help, she encourages maintaining an open dialogue with your oncologist and your therapist at the center, as they might suggest another therapy. Integrative therapies give you hope and not just physical relief but nurture your wellbeing.

Recently, Kathy had an appointment at the center and provided me with a group class schedule and brochure on all the services and hours of operation of the center. Kathy noted that the services continue to expand and many are available virtually. A list of therapies and class schedules are published on Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies| Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Final Thoughts

In closing, Kathy recommends patients and their caregiver find the time and prioritize these life changing patient centric integrative therapies into their treatment journey. Integrative therapies give you hope that you can control some part of your journey as you focus on your wellbeing. Integrative therapies are available in most cancer institutions and many hospitals around the world. Community members, we’d love to hear from you about your or a loved one’s experience incorporating integrative therapies into your treatment plan. Have you done so? What benefits are you feeling? What institution are your integrative therapies delivered at?