Buena Vista Regional Medical Center’s Look Good Feel Better workshop, hosted in December 2023, provided an opportunity for patients fighting cancer to pamper themselves.
“If you look good, you feel better. It’s true,” says workshop attendee, Joleen Dentlinger.
Years ago, Dentlinger was told a piece of wisdom that she’s applied to her life every day since. “Wash your face and put your makeup on—every day, no matter what, because it makes you feel good,” says Dentlinger.
The Look Good Feel Better workshop was paid for by donations to the BVRMC AWARE fund to help patients fighting cancer. Patients receiving cancer treatment at BVRMC were able to attend this program at no cost to them. They received a complimentary makeover and skin care session from an Independent Beauty Consultant along with a makeup and skin care kit from the Look Good Feel Better program.
Dentlinger mentioned that Mary, Independent Beauty Consultant based out of Aurelia, started out the program by saying, “We’re going to show you how to brighten your lives.”
“We all got bad news, but I’m still going to go out and try to look my best,” says Dentlinger.
During the program, they learned different techniques and tools they could use to apply skincare items and makeup. This program was made specifically with cancer patients in mind, helping them manage appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment and build their confidence.
“She showed us some things that I’ve never done,” says Dentlinger. “It’s a wonderful program because the Look Good Feel Better workshop gives out nice products that are donated by name brand makeup companies. I’d recommend this program to anybody.”
Dentlinger also spoke about how impactful it has been to have her chemotherapy treatments close to home. “There is something to be said about small, community hospitals. It’s a feel-good thing to walk into a place and have them know your name,” says Dentlinger.
“The Look Good Feel Better program has had a positive impact because it can allow our patients to feel more like themselves, bond with other cancer patients and have some fun,” says Zena Olerich, BVRMC Social Worker and Patient Advocate.
To learn more about the Look Good Feel Better Workshop hosted at BVRMC and to get more information about upcoming sessions, please contact Zena at 712.213.8671.
To learn more about how BVRMC’s AWARE fund benefits local cancer patients and how you can help support this effort, visit www.bvrmc.org/give or contact Katie Schwint, BVRMC Executive Director of Community Development, at 712.213.8601.
