UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital hosted its first-ever Beauty Clinic, a special event to celebrate and uplift gynecologic cancer survivors and thrivers through a day of personalized care, connection, and empowerment.
Held in early summer the event brought together patients, clinicians, volunteers, and community partners for an afternoon torestore confidence, promote wellness, and support healing beyond the clinical setting.
More than a traditional wellness event, the Beauty Clinic was created in response to emotions that patients share – that cancer impacts not only physical health, but also identity, confidence, and overall well-being. In this supportive and uplifting environment, the event helped participants reconnect with themselves and celebrate their strength.
A Day of Care and Connection
Throughout the day, participants moved through a series of personalized experiences designed to help them feel refreshed, renewed, and supported. Services included hair and wig styling, makeup applications, nail care, facials, and massage treatments—each provided by generous community vendors and volunteers who donated their time and expertise.
Patients also spent time with one another, sharing stories and building connections with others who understand the cancer journey. Alongside these experiences, refreshments and a welcoming atmosphere helped create a sense of comfort and celebration.
Powered by Partnership
“This is such an important event as it gives us a chance to celebrate our patients as women and not just cancer patients,” said Lan Coffman, MD, PhD, associate professor, Hematology-Oncology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “As an oncologist, I don’t often get a chance to focus on critical quality of life challenges, particularly body image concerns, as I am so focused on how best to treat the cancer. This event allows us to focus on living well and helping our patients see how beautiful they truly are despite their cancer battle.”
Made possible through the collaboration of UPMC Magee clinicians, staff, and a dedicated group of local vendors and community partners, the event and its supportersplayed a critical role in its success —offering not just services, but compassion, encouragement, and moments of joy for every attendee, highlightings the power of partnership in transforming an idea into an impactful experience for patients and families.
Supporting the Whole Patient
Events like the Beauty Clinic reflect UPMC Magee’s commitment to caring for the whole patient—addressing not only physical health, but also emotional and psychological well-being. For many participants, the experience provided a meaningful reminder that healing extends beyond treatment. It created space for self-care, self-expression, and renewed confidence at an important stage in their journey.
Looking Ahead
Following the success of the inaugural event, there is strong interest in continuing and expanding the Beauty Clinic in the future, offering more opportunities for patients to benefit from similar experiences.
“As both an ovarian cancer survivor and a massage therapist, being part of this event meant everything to me. I received my care at Magee, and to come back and give back to other women on a similar journey was incredibly meaningful,” said Jennifer M. Banichar, Terra Therma Massage Associates.
“When you are facing cancer — touch, confidence, and connection can often be overlooked—but they matter deeply. Being able to offer that support to others is not only powerful for them, but also been an important part of my own healing,” added Jennifer.
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