Wing Foundation Offers Financial Support for Healing Therapies

By Hacienda Network Staff Writer

Sandra Wing has experienced the marvels of modern medicine first-hand. Thanks to a five-month course of chemotherapy, the Pleasanton entrepreneur has been living cancer-free since April 15, 2007. Wing is also very familiar with the challenges of undergoing these treatments, echoing the view articulated by Dr. Julia Rowland, Director of the National Cancer Institute's Office of Cancer Survivorship: "Probably the most common symptom that we see in individuals diagnosed with cancer is anxiety... Stress relaxation [and] cognitive behavioral therapies are incredibly helpful tools not only for getting through your cancer experience but managing stress, period."

In the course of her own treatment, Wing found healing therapies like acupuncture, acupressure, therapeutic massage, guided/visual imagery, and deep-breathing meditation of immense help in alleviating anxiety and improving her overall well-being. When she realized that many cancer patients lack the financial resources to avail themselves of these complementary therapies, she established the nonprofit Sandra J. Wing Healing Therapies Foundation to help them obtain this comfort. The foundation is under the fiscal sponsorship of the Tri-Valley Community Foundation, located in Hacienda.

"So often, funds for cancer foundations are designated for research and development and to find a cure," Wing points out. "This foundation is different as the funds are designated for the cancer patient's immediate relief."

The foundation provides grants to Tri-Valley residents with cancer - regardless of age, gender, or type of disease - to pay for healing therapies that their insurance provider does not cover. Applicants must be going through conventional treatments of chemotherapy and/or radiation and have their doctors' approval. The initial grant period has opened, and Wing encourages local patients to apply.

Fundraising is an essential part of foundation activities, and the organization's events are as unique as its mission. The month of October will see the debut of "Party Palooza 2009," an array of eight different themed parties designed for fun and relaxation.

The series kicks off with the "Pinot Palooza," a wine-tasting with gourmet food for 14 guests on October 3. The Brazilian Extravaganza, a Sunday lunch on October 25, recreates "the extraordinary sounds, scents, and tastes of Brazil" with a feast of national dishes and drinks. The other food-oriented party, on October 24, puts soups on the table - a sampling of notable dishes from around the world, along with a selection of wines and beers, and, of course, dessert.

For adventure-lovers, the highlight is undoubtedly "Cruisin' With the Blue Angels on San Francisco Bay" on October 10. A 41-foot sail boat will depart from Point Richmond with six guests for an insider's view of Fleet Week festivities. A casual gourmet feast follows once back ashore.

Other parties include "Healing Oasis" on October 17, "Your Hollywood Hot Shot" (hair, make-up, and photography sessions) on October 18, a day of Feng Shui immersion on October 24, and a "Do Your Own Thing" donation opportunity.

For more information on the foundation, grant applications, or events, call Wing at (866) 862-7270 or visit www.healingtherapiesfoundation.org.

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