When Tommy Deloach was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2014 he had one goal: to get better. But as his treatment ended, Tommy found he had more healing left to do. It was then his doctor recommended After the Bell, a free survivorship clinic at Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center designed to treat the physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects of life after a patient rings the special bell signifying the end of treatment.
After the Bell Survivorship Clinic is the only known survivorship program of its type in the nation. It offers patients free, weekly small-group sessions designed to reduce stress, boost the immune system and inspire a sense of overall well-being. Sessions include activities such as mindful living techniques, health and wellness coaching, yoga, nutrition and art.
“At first it didn’t seem like something I would typically be interested in,” said Tommy. “Every other time I would have said no, but I saw this as an opportunity to make a positive change in my life – I said yes.”
The program offers patients a place to foster healing and cope with change. Tommy credited the clinic with giving him the tools he needed to take steps toward a healthier life by providing nutritional counseling following his gastric surgeries as well as yoga and mindful meditation to strengthen his body and mind.
The program offers patients a place to foster healing and cope with change. Tommy credited the clinic with giving him the tools he needed to take steps toward a healthier life by providing nutritional counseling following his gastric surgeries as well as yoga and mindful meditation to strengthen his body and mind.
Everything this program has offered… I’m using it. I’m benefiting. After the Bell is a great asset to patients. I can’t say that enough.”