The Real Me at JoeD

Explore Our Pediatric Image Enhancement Center (The Real Me at JoeD)

Cancer treatment and recovery can take a devastating toll on a young patient’s physical and emotional well-being. Surgery, chemotherapy and other types of treatments can cause hair loss, skin discoloration, amputation or changes in body weight, which can alter a child’s appearance, wreaking havoc on their confidence and self-esteem.

The Pediatric Image Enhancement Center for Cancer Patients—also known as The Real Me at JoeD—is an integral part of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. Modeled after the Image Recovery Center® at Memorial Cancer Institute, which serves adult patients, we designed our pediatric program based on suggestions from our patients and families.

Located within the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, pediatric patients receive personalized consultation and support services relating to self-image, including necessary tips on scalp care after hair loss, beauty and skin care techniques, camouflage makeup and more.

Services Offered

Our highly trained cancer support staff work closely with patients, their families and the medical team to develop a personalized appearance plan that focuses on promoting wellness and restoring dignity, helping young patients feel better and improve their quality of life. We provide personalized service in a spa-like setting, including:

• Appearance consultation
• Cosmetic solutions for scars, brow and lash loss
• Gift bags with healthcare products, scarves/hats and educational materials
• Hair replacement alternatives for complete and partial hair loss
• Hair/wig cut, style and blow dry
• Head and hair shaves
• Nail polishing
• Skin care assessments and therapy
• Therapeutic manicures/pedicures
• Therapeutic massage, reflexology and aromatherapy

Our support staff also educates young cancer patients and their loved ones about the possible side effects of treatment and how to prevent or address any specific concerns. When a patient is first diagnosed, a dedicated pediatric oncology patient navigator sits down with the family to discuss the disease, provide educational materials and answer questions. An oncology Child Life therapist also meets with patients and families on a regular basis to help them maintain normal living patterns and minimize any psychological trauma associated with treatment.