When Mousa Abulhawa was diagnosed with cancer in early 2025, life quickly became a cycle of appointments, scans, and an intensive treatment plan. By April, he had begun a 7-week demanding schedule with five days a week of radiation alongside weekly chemotherapy.
It was during this time that he was introduced to Cancer Wellness Support through a trusted practitioner. “Many companies spend a fortune on advertising, but Cancer Wellness Support is so well known locally through word of mouth. It’s a real credit to the work they do”, he says.
Walking into the Robyn Yates Centre was a turning point, both for its convenient location and the sense of calm it offered. A place he had passed many times on the street suddenly became a vital part of his support network.
From day one, Mousa’s experience was grounded in care and professionalism. Welcomed by intake nurse Liz, he was guided through a comprehensive and compassionate introduction in a private, comfortable setting. Together, they discussed his diagnosis and treatment plan. With clarity and empathy, Liz introduced the range of therapies available, tailored to support Mousa through what would be an intense period.
Mousa had always been open to complementary therapies, and he quickly found a rhythm that worked for him. Starting with naturopathy, he then incorporated acupuncture and lymphatic drainage massage into his routine. The impact was immediate. Side effects from treatment were eased, and symptoms became more manageable.
A buildup of lymphatic fluid had caused a painful lump in his neck, making swallowing difficult. Through regular lymphatic drainage massage, this discomfort was significantly reduced. Acupuncture sessions focused on the head, nose and back helped relieve side-effects including persistent mouth sores/ulcers, dry mouth and mucus build-up caused by treatment.
More recently, Mousa has begun attending sound bath sessions, something he had experienced elsewhere but now enjoys within the familiar and supportive environment of Cancer Wellness Support. As he transitions into the next phase of his recovery, he is exploring additional therapies such as Bowen therapy to support his strength and posture post treatment, along with group art therapy to nurture his emotional wellbeing.
“The entire experience at Cancer Wellness Support, from the professionalism and knowledge of the therapists to the serene environment, makes you feel supported. It’s calm, welcoming, and you’re always greeted with a smile by all of the friendly staff. It really makes a difference when you’re going through something like this.”
Mousa shares about how the warmth of the team, the thoughtful spaces, and the simple comforts like a cup of tea, fresh fruit, and a quiet place to sit all contribute to a sense of belonging. Being close to home has also made it easier to stay consistent with his care.
Importantly, Mousa highlights the accessibility of Cancer Wellness Support. With many complementary therapies often costing upwards of $100 per session, the subsidised service delivery model ensures that more people can access the care they need during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives.
Mousa’s hope is simple: that more people, everywhere, can access this kind of care when they need it most.
