Belgium can take pride in having one of the best healthcare systems. However, in this chain of increasingly technological and advanced treatments, an important link was missing: the approach to the individual as a whole, the famous integrative medicine that combines conventional medicine with its latest developments and complementary therapies that have proven real effectiveness.
That was a little over ten years ago now: a doctor, Dr. Anne-Pascale Schillings, a radiologist and senologist, surrounded by colleagues but also patients, wanted to demonstrate the feasibility and necessity of patient support. From the moment of diagnosis, throughout the duration of treatment, and the year following the end of treatment.
We knew that there was no instruction manual for this concept, that we would have to manage this influx of knowledge and expertise. As Mark Twain said, “They didn’t know it was impossible, so they did it!”
Today, this patient house, “La Vie-là,” located in Ottignies (Belgium), a stone’s throw from St. Pierre Clinic, brings together more than 120 volunteers with genuine skills and modern empathy. Hundreds of patients have discovered the virtues and strength of physical and psycho-emotional support, as well as activities for sharing and creativity. It’s a source of life.
Every day, meaningful things happen at La Vie-là. Today, other patient houses have sprung up all over the country, doing the same essential work, collaborating and sharing experiences. They can welcome all oncology patients who wish for and need this kind of support. It’s thousands of hours and just as many points of support to overcome the heavy burdens of cancer.
The work continues, and more and more people want to engage in the development of this concept. We will gather scientific evidence to increasingly support the added value of our approach and its impact. Specialists in other pathologies are already inspired by the success of a similar approach among their patients.
We are proud to have been among the pioneers, along with colleagues in Great Britain, the Netherlands, France, and elsewhere.
Marie-Paule Meert
