From the Executive Director
The latest writings from Steve Gordon, Executive Director of the Hand to Heart Project.
We’ve Expanded Our Service Area to Southwestern Vermont
Great news. We are growing! Earlier this summer, we decided that thanks to the generosity of our donors, we had the resources to do more than we were doing. So now, The Hand to Heart Project is offering the comfort of massage and compassionate touch to people with cancer in 15 towns in southwestern Vermont. As …
We’ve Expanded Our Service Area to Southwestern VermontRead More
What to Expect During a Home Visit
We work in a calm, and tranquil setting. There is no “hurry” or stress. Just like a “normal massage” – wear clothing if you would like, or don’t. Our experienced massage therapists will make you feel comfortable and cared for. We will address problem areas during the full body massage. If there are any areas …
Scenes from a Home Visit
For your comfort and convenience, the Hand to Heart Project massage therapists come to your home. We set up a portable massage table. And discuss the therapy we intend to provide. Photos by: Abby McCoy, Hand to Heart Project Administrative Assistant
Touch at the End of Life
Some years ago, I was trying to explain to my grandmother what I do for work. She knew that I was a massage therapist, but knew little about The Hand to Heart Project. So I told her about providing massage and the comfort of touch to people who are sick, in many cases people who …
Poetry, and the Tree of Life
Some years ago, I recited a poem/blessing called “Beannacht” to a client who was going through an especially difficult part of her cancer experience. It was written by the late Irish poet and philosopher John O’Donohue, and it is, in part, a gently powerful summation of how the physical, emotional and spiritual pain of life’s …
A Match from the Byrne Foundation
There can’t be a source of philanthropy that has done more for more people and organizations in our region than the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation.This year, the Byrne Foundation not only provided the same level of support it’s been providing for years, it also offered an additional $10,000 if we could match it.
Dogs, Dogs, Dogs
I’ve always been a dog person, so it was a pleasant surprise after Hand to Heart was launched in 2007 that one of my favorite parts of doing in-home massage with our clients was getting to meet their dogs.
Soul of a Caregiver
When you work closely with people who are very ill, often people nearing the end of life, you will sometimes see the human spirit at its most amazing.
Welcome
If you’re reading this, then you have found your way to the new website for The Hand to Heart Project. Thanks for coming.