Find your paradise: Local masseuses offer oncology massages and more
Paradise Massage specializes in massages for those undergoing cancer treatment or remission
Sawyerhoff
Looking for paradise? Paradise Massage is the only massage parlor in the area that offers massages for cancer patients. (photo submitted)
If you or a loved one has or has had cancer, Chippewa Valley resources can provide some relief and relaxation. Laura Ellingboe, owner of Paradise Massage in Grazie Salon (4638 Golf Road, Eau Claire), specializes in tumor massage for cancer patients.
Ellingboe has been a licensed masseur for the past 12 years and entered the Grazie Salon space about three years ago. Due to her additional training and insight, she is a preferred provider for the Oncology Massage Association, allowing her to further understand the needs of cancer patients – especially those at high risk for lymphedema. Lymphedema is swelling, usually in the arms or legs, caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system.
“If you’ve ever had cancer or had lymph nodes removed, you’re always at risk for lymphedema,” Ellingboe explains. “I have clients who had breast cancer 20 years ago, so they don’t think they need oncology massage, but, yes, you do! I still need to treat it like cancer in that area.”
Ellingboe’s mother died of lung cancer in 1990 and her sister died of colon cancer in 2006. They are both only 51 years old. Her mother’s sisters also died of breast and ovarian cancer, while her cousin was in remission from colon cancer. Because her family was at risk for cancer, Ellingboe did her own genetic testing and found she, too, had the cancer-causing gene. Ultimately, she decided to undergo a total hysterectomy and a double mastectomy.
What her family has been through on her personal journey has inspired her to start a practice that benefits cancer patients.
“Sometimes (cancer patients) come here just for the painless touch,” Ellingboe explained. “When they go to the doctor, they get poked and pulled and then often get sick. So for me, it’s an hour of relaxation and comforting contact.”
Paradise Massage also aims to live up to its name through its setting, with massage rooms decorated in resort style to further enhance the experience. The theme and true mission of Paradise Massage will also continue to evolve.
Expansion plans for Ellingboe and Paradise Massage are on the horizon, as she hopes to open a day spa dedicated to cancer patients, offering specialty care patients often struggle to find. Through massages, facials, a yoga studio, wig and bra fittings, a nutritionist, and other spa services, she hopes to create a safe and calming space for cancer patients and their caregivers to enjoy gentle and relaxing care.
To learn more about Paradise Massage and to make an appointment, you can visit paradisemassageec.com. Follow Laura Ellingboe and The Massage Practice (@paradisemassageec) on Facebook.
