On Oct. 15, enthusiastic racers will line up for The Summit Challenge, which combines the rigors of an obstacle course run with an uplifting festival atmosphere. Event proceeds support the Comfort Project’s efforts to support a better quality of life for cancer patients.

 On Oct. 15, enthusiastic racers will line up for the Summit Challenge, which combines the rigors of an obstacle course run with an uplifting festival atmosphere and a chance to support a better quality of life for cancer patients. The event is designed to be a community builder and accessible to all.

While much of the discussion that surrounds cancer is focused on medical issues and treatment protocols, the Comfort Project addresses the elements of care that transcend surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

According to 20-year breast cancer survivor Dr. Elizabeth Nikol, Director of Behavioral Health at Summit Health, there are many nonmedical aspects of cancer treatment that are integral components of the recovery process. Dr. Nikol freely shares the story of her own struggle with cancer, starting with her diagnoses at age 29 and including her participation in this year’s Summit Challenge.

“It would be wonderful if people who hear the story of someone who has made it through cancer get a little bit of hope and think … I can make it, too,” she said. “My position as Director of Behavioral Health gives me some flexibility in my caseload so that I am always working with at least a few cancer patients. I’ve been told by patients that it is very helpful and comforting to talk to a therapist who has been through the cancer experience and who understands the language, terminology and procedures. That’s why we continue to staff our team of clinicians with therapists who are specialists in cancer patient care.”

The funds raised by the Summit Challenge for the Summit Health Cares Foundation will be channeled to patients at Summit Health through nonmedical services that frequently enhance the effectiveness of the other treatments they are receiving. Dr. Nikol noted that amenities such as pet therapy and the “comfort cart,” which is driven around the chemotherapy rooms with treats and other items, lift the spirits of cancer patients.

“When you think back five years or 10 years about your own treatments, a lot of the memories are gone … especially if you’ve had chemo,” Dr. Nikol explained. “The things that you tend to remember are the kindnesses you received on those days when you really needed them. That’s what inspires people to tell others, ‘Oh, my gosh … I got the best treatment at Summit Health. It wasn’t just the doctors … although they’re incredible. Everyone at Summit Health really cared about keeping my spirits up.”

While much of the discussion that surrounds cancer is focused on medical issues and treatment protocols, the Comfort Project addresses the elements of care that transcend surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

 Among the programs that make up the Comfort Project’s suite of service are pet therapy, therapeutic music and artful healing. Body, mind and spirit sessions include a variety of disciplines such as reiki, healing touch, healing circles meditation, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Pilates and Movement and Mindfulness (formerly yoga/chair yoga). The Comfort Project also holds writing workshops that help patients engage their minds and communicate their feelings.

The Comfort Project’s Patient Resource center offers the assistance of care navigators who direct patients to numerous resources, including transportation to medical appointments, help with insurance documents, nutrition counseling, beauty services and caregiver information. Summit Health Cares also offers a Patient in Need Fund that helps qualifying patients with some nonmedical expenses.

The funds raised by the Summit Challenge for the Summit Cares Foundation will be channeled to patients at Summit Health through nonmedical services that frequently enhance the effectiveness of the other treatments they are receiving.

In addition to supporting all the good work of the Summit Health Cares Foundation, The Summit Challenge gives participants the opportunity to overcome hurdles that include inflatable obstacles, ropes, rings, jumping, crawling, balancing and climbing. The course is enjoyable for racers at all physical fitness levels.

Onlookers at the Summit Challenge will have fun, too. They will be able to cheer on their friends and family while enjoying a family-friendly festival that features music, food trucks, an activity-filled kids zone, physio-massage therapy and a vendor area.

The Summit Challenge will be held on Sunday, Oct. 15 at the Mount Carmel Society, located at 56 River Road in Berkeley Heights. Individuals and teams still have time to register. For more information, visit takethesummitchallenge.com.