Pinky Budhrain-Shani (nursing) is seeking participants for a study to learn if a movement and breathing control exercise program called “Qigong” can support increased mental and physical well-being among caregivers of cancer patients. The study is in conjunction with a $534,000 National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant Shani received for her research on “Caring for Caregivers with Mind-Body Exercise.” The project will be the first to combine all aspects of an intervention study into a web-based protocol. It also is believed to be the first-ever study related to the practice of Qigong for caregivers.

Participants in the study will receive free mind-body relaxation classes as well as a $125 gift card. Participants should be between the ages of 35 to 75 years of age and be the spouse, partner, family member or friend providing emotional, physical and/or financial support to a person with cancer. Persons are asked to complete a survey to determine their eligibility for the study. Those who are chosen will be randomly assigned to an in-person exercise program, an internet-based exercise program, or a self-directed program.

For more information, contact Shani at pbudhrani@twu.edu or 84-2193 or research assistant Kristin Raeesi at kraeesi@twu.edu or 84-2395. (9-4-19)