Today, the Enliven Centre for Self Care opened an office to continue its support for people living with cancer.
Two years ago, Allie Chisholm-Smith, instructor and owner of Ahimsa yoga studio, and Joanne McLean, co-owner of Soapstones, created Enliven to help ensure that no one — not those with a cancer diagnosis nor their caregivers, not cancer survivors nor those grieving loved ones who have died from the disease — feels alone.
Their goal is to provide self-care services and support through workshops, programs and other resources, and to reduce social isolation for those going through an extremely difficult time.
“We believe that in normalizing the conversation around cancer, people will feel less powerless and victimized. Our workshops strive to educate people in options on all levels — physical, mental and spiritual, and on allopathic, alternative and integrative medicine,” said Chisholm-Smith.
Enliven is principally funded through grants and crowdfunding donations. Participants in the programs can also donate if they are able to, although they don’t require payment.
“This has been a really busy time for us with emails and phone calls from people needing support — from grieving widows to patients with difficult diagnoses,” said Chisholm-Smith.
Local skincare business, Soapstones, recently created a line of products called Enliven and donates a percentage of sales to the Enliven organization.
As of November, the Soapstones Enliven line has raised over $2,500, funds that have already been put to use to establish the office.
The Enliven office has an open-door policy — anyone who needs support is welcome to drop in — and will be open Thursdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
“Cancer issues need face-to-face, not just online support,” said Chisholm-Smith. “Now we can offer people a friendly face, an open space with resources and a safe place to be. We have had a lot of calls and emails over the Christmas period and so having an open door is priceless!”
For more information about Enliven or to sign up for a workshop or program, visit enlivenmuskoka.ca.
If you are interested in volunteering or becoming a part of Enliven, also visit their website or call 705-787-5459.
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