Oncology Recreation Therapy

The Oncology Recreation Therapy program is a component of the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program. It assists hospitalized adults with cancer and their families in adjusting to their cancer diagnosis, treatment, and hospitalization. Recreational therapy treatment sessions are facilitated by a licensed recreation therapist, who helps you and your family maintain and/or improve functioning and well-being physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively, and in your daily activities.

Our Services (One-on-One and Groups)

Low Impact Physical Functioning
Nintendo Wii Sports/Wii Fit, corn hole, and walking program

Stress Management/Relaxation Techniques
Guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, diaphragmatic breathing

Self-Image
Wig fittings, salon, and makeup consultations, and private self-image consultations

Legacy Building
Recordable storybooks, life stories, hand molds, scrapbooks, journals, voice/video recordings

Leisure Skill Development - Expressive Arts
Painting, knitting, journaling, drawing, and vision boards

Pet Therapy
Private therapy dog visitation. Meet our dogs.

Our Resources

Adult coloring supplies
IPad/tablet
Xbox One/PlayStation 4/VR
Arts and crafts supplies
Knitting/crochet supplies
Board games and jigsaw puzzles
Playing cards
Crossword, word search, and sudoku
Guitar and Keyboard
Journaling supplies
Audio books

Does it Cost Anything?

Oncology Recreation Therapy services are offered at no cost to patients. Most of the resources provided are made possible through donations and fundraisers.

Volunteers Make Our Program a Success

Duke's Oncology Recreation Therapy Program extends even further to support more patients and their families with the help of volunteers. Learn more about volunteer opportunities.