Personal Care and Services

Personal Care Area. We established our Personal Care Area to help patients reclaim confidence in their outward appearance and regain a sense of themselves during or after undergoing cancer treatment. Many treatments can cause temporary or permanent physical challenges like hair loss, differences in the look and feel of the skin and, in the case of those who’ve undergone a mastectomy, the loss of a breast or breasts. Though the side effects of cancer treatment can be difficult, they don’t have to be devastating. By providing patient and family focused care, complimentary cosmetic and prosthetic services and innovative products in a comfortable, private setting, we treat more than the body—we restore the mind and spirit as well.

Our Staff. Here, you will encounter a staff of individuals with a great deal of understanding. You’ll benefit from their personal experiences. And you will become you, again. The Personal Care Area is overseen by a former Clinical Nurse Specialist—and cancer-survivor—who has been with Saint Mary’s for over 27 years and who was instrumental in setting up one of the first hospital based post-mastectomy and breast service programs in the country. There is no better individual to lead our expert staff and dedicated volunteers—all either licensed cosmetologists or certified prostheses fitters.

Our Services. The Personal Care Area provides complimentary hair, prosthetic and cosmetology services by licensed cosmetologists and certified prostheses fitters. Our committed staff is willing to work with you for as long as it takes for you to feel comfortable with your appearance. Salon offerings include:

• Hair and wig styling
• Hair shaving
• Scalp massage
• Facials
• Special manicures and pedicures designed for those undergoing chemotherapy

Our Products. We offer an exceptional array of difficult-to-find items designed to help cancer patients regain their outward edge. Should an item be out of stock we will have it shipped to you within two days. These products include:

• Various prostheses
• Breast forms/prostheses
• Bras, camisoles and swimwear from such trusted brands as Anita, Amoena and American Breast Care
• Wigs, scarves and hair alternatives for women of all ethnicities
• Skin Care Products by Nioxin
• Sun protective clothing
• Products that help guard against lymphedema

The Personal Care Area is located on Level One of The Lacks Cancer Center. To learn more about our products or services call (616) 685-5200. To set up a personal hair or makeup consultation, or to schedule a prostheses fitting call (616) 685-5030.