 
Ezer Mizion Provides Rx:Fun
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By Chani Miller
Published on Thursday, July 24, 2008 -
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Ezer Mizion has created a unique positive reinforcement therapy, called Rx:Fun. This approach in “mind-body” healing is just another facet of the seamless networking of Ezer Mizion’s medical outreach programs. Ezer Mizion operates an innovative program for women suffering from all forms of cancer. “Fun” isn’t part of the usual lexicon of young mothers suffering from cancer. However, fun time spent with good friends amid merriment and laughter is known to have a positive effect on the complex creation called the human body.
As a break from the strain of coping with their illness while caring for their families, Ezer Mizion designed a “pampering and fun filled” getaway in London. This trip’s purpose was to give them strength to handle their complex situation. Certainly these women could let go in the magic of this amazing city, and indeed they did!
As the group of 19 mothers—all of whom were either between treatments or had just finished their treatments—spontaneously broke out in dance on the streets of London, onlookers were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and grateful tears. Watching in awe, they realized that these women, who view every minute of life as precious, were dancing in celebration of being alive. Tears from onlookers flowed uncontrollably as they sensed the dynamics of this special moment.
“This trip gives me something to dream about,” says Cheli from Holon. She bears the dubious title of “senior member” among the women in the “club.” Cheli has been fighting colon cancer for five years.
In keeping with its policy of positive reinforcement therapy, Ezer Mizion frequently arranges trips for those enduring day after day of blackness and despair. Mothers suffering from cancer were invited together with their families, to participate in a special “nature trip” organized by Ezer Mizion.
The first stop was a water park in the picturesque Hefer Valley, where children and parents cavorted happily as if they had no concerns in the world. After a pleasant hike through Kfar Witkin’s Pecan Forest, they were brought by tractor to a stream, where they had the rare chance of feeding deer.
The day, which included seeing a computerized barn and arts and crafts activities, concluded with a festive meal at Netanya’s Gaucho restaurant.
Rivka Friedman, Ezer Mizion’s service and activity coordinator for mothers with cancer, explains that positive experiences have measurable effects on the patients’ immune system. “At the end of a trip like this, even their blood counts show improvement!” The constant looming fear of the future was temporarily relieved during the trip by the “letting go” of these women, whose lives have been so devastated by their illness. The much-needed break from the trials of treatments for breast cancer, leukemia, or intestinal or other forms of cancer provided renewed strength for the women as well as for their families.
And if mothers can benefit so much from Rx:Fun, it is certainly a positive experience for children. A sick girl who was about to undergo surgery wanted, more than anything, to visit a chocolate factory. Following a call by a professional at Ezer Mizion’s Oranit center, Elite, Israel’s veteran chocolate company, invited the girl, together with a friend from the oncology department, to visit their premises and see first-hand how chocolate is made! The two girls enjoyed a dream day touring the plant, where they saw how the raw ingredients were transformed, emerging as the famous “red cow” chocolate bars and other products. Naturally, the girls indulged themselves with the mouthwatering delicacies.
Like so many boys his age, Neria is enamored by the police force. “When I grow up, …” he announces with shining eyes. Ezer Mizion staff listened. Ezer Mizion staff heard. Their own eyes shone with tears wondering if he will grow up. Neria had a wish and Ezer Mizion had a goal: to bring deep joy to this brave, little boy, thereby raising his spirits and helping him fight his battle.
Ezer Mizion’s Oranit staff approached Sergeant Beni Ba’adani from the Petach Tikvah Police precinct with a request. The city’s police commander, Chief Superintendent Alon Aryeh, graciously accepted the challenge and arranged a visit for Neria, accompanied by his excited parents and Ezer Mizion staff.
The visit started in the office of the police station commander who presented Neria with a real policeman’s cap, Border Police beret, and a policeman’s shirt. The blissful Neria sat on the chair of the station commander dreaming his dreams. Neria was then welcomed by the commander of the Civil Guard, Superintendent Hilah Chamu, who presented him with a miniature police car. The police demolition expert allowed Neria to operate the police robot by remote control, and all this was topped with a ride through the city in a police car with its siren wailing.
“Officer Neria,” policeman for a day, ended his dream day with promises to all his new friends to return when he grows up…and so may it be! ♦
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