cancer, massage and money - advice?

[khorat k]

An accquaintance of mine has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has just started with chemo this week. I don't have experience with massaging people who are "really sick" but today I have thoroughly read through this entire thread and first thing tomorrow morning I am going to buy the book "Medicine Hands" which has been recommended by so many readers here. I think that, because I know the woman in question and because I am comfortable with the situation, etc, I should be alright with regard to technique, communication, that sort of stuff. My question, to get to the point, is about what to charge. It is difficult for me to ask full price for a massage (or maybe better call it a "session" because I thought of incorporating light breathing excercises and meditation - I have been studying yoga for several years now), because of the circumstances. My conscience tells me that because she is sick she should pay less, maybe she needs me more than once a week, I dont think that this type of help should be priced as a luxury. Gosh I dont even know how to ask for money for something like this at all! (talking like a newbie? thats because I am! have been massaging for just under a year now)I was thinking of taking 20 percent off of my hourly rate, and maybe say that this is for a session of up to 1 hr (I figured maybe on some occasions it would be shorter because she might be tired or not feel well). Also, I tend to think that 1 hr might even be too much for someone undergoing chemotherapy.I would greatly, Greatly appreciate advice on this subject.peace & love,Daphna.p.s Sorry that my first ever post here is 7 miles long!p.p.s  I live in Holland and the going rate for massage here is probably different than in the U.S, so maybe it's better to keep away from numbers and stick to the theory/perceneforum.xxxes?

 

[RenegadeAngel]

cancer, massage and money - advice? - oops

when I said I have read through the entire thread I meant "topic"! sorry, prett new to forum terminology! :-[ ;D

 

[Pompal 09.]

Daphna,My recommendation would be to have a dialogue with the client regarding what you generally charge for a session and your willingness to work on  a sliding scale for her if necessary.  (She may be perfectly able to handle your regular fees so it may be a moot point)  If you need to provide a discounted rate for your services make sure it's a number you are comfortable with.  Set the minimum fee in your mind before you talk to the client.  That way you will know what your comfortable negotiation range will be.   There is no right or wrong answer here as everyone's comfort level is different.  Bear in mind that you have no reason to feel guilty for charging anyone the going rate for your services.  Bodywork of any kind is not merely a luxury, it is an important component in the lives of many people for maintaining good health.  As a professional in this field you have a responsibility to yourself, your clients and the industry that you represent to set your fees according to the value of the service you offer.   In my mind, an hour is an hour regardless of whether you are giving a massage or doing meditation/guided imagery/energywork, etc.  I happen to offer both types of sessions for clients and I charge the same amount for either.   I hope this is of some help to you.  JD

 

[Rainbow Child]

cancer, massage and money - advice?

hi JD,thanks, reading your reply I got more of a perspective about the situation. It is a good idea to talk to her openly about this and I will do just that. I appreciate the advice!God Bless,Peace,Daphna.

 

[denise t]

cancer, massage and money - advice?

Hoi Daphna,I will be in Dordrecht at the end of August. Where are you located? I would love to go get a massage! You could PM me, if you like.Sorry to hijack a bit.I would let your first session be your guide. Obviously, you'll be talking a bit the first time. Perhaps you could give her an introductory rate, then afterwards discuss if its something she'd like to pursue regularly. Base your rates on how frequently & how long you might work, as well as how long during each treatment you'll be working hands on/how long you are guiding breathing, relaxation, etc.Maybe 25% off the first session & then come up with a good 'package rate'... even if they are paying per session, etc.Beste,Jill/Sagetherapist

 

[Alisha]

cancer, massage and money - advice?

The advise you've received has been excellent. I commend your desire to help your friend. However...(yeah, there's always a however) make sure you've touched bases with her primary care or oncology doctor to make sure it's okay with them that you work on her. They may also have a suggestion or two (probably not) on what they'd like you to do.Good luck.