“During treatment, the mask had to be screwed down to keep me immobile, with the plastic pressing tightly against my skin.”

 

 

• CONFRONTINGFEARI

Undergoing treatment for a life-threatening condition takes its toll on our minds as well as our bodies. Medical advances have improved survival rates for diseases such as cancer. But the psychological impact can be felt long-term after treatment has finished.

Fear of side effects and uncertain outcomes of the treatment itself are common. With patients now living longer, cancer centers are increasingly providing psychological and emotional support alongside life-extending treatments such as radiotherapy.

• MY THOUGHT

This work presents what is, at first, a cold medical object. However, with the addition of sound, it begins to evoke strong emotions; in that moment it is no longer just an object, but a story. The technology is designed to save lives, yet the process can feel like a form of force, because people experience a loss of control over their own bodies.

This radiotherapy mask enables precise treatment and helps to save lives, but at the same time it can make people feel afraid. It carries hope, technology and protection, while also holding a set of conflicting feelings.

 

Radiotherapy masks and moulds

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/radiotherapy/external/planning/moulds-masks?utm_source