Give the gift of a smile: 'It does a lot for someone who is ill'

Not having to think about your illness for a while

For the ninth year in a row, February is all about Geef een Glimlach Cadeau (Give the Gift of a Smile). This special initiative is all about creating a moment of peace and relaxation, so that people with cancer do not have to think about their illness for a while. A small but powerful way to give them a positive feeling.

When someone is diagnosed with cancer, a period of hospital visits, treatments and physical changes often follows. This can be mentally and physically demanding. Monica van Ee came up with a unique concept to offer them a moment of relief. As director of the cosmetics brand hannah and chair of the Dutch Cosmetics Association, she saw an opportunity to give patients a luxurious pampering treatment.

Monica explains: “We had already been working with Look Good Feel Better, who give workshops in hospitals. In addition to their services, we thought it would be nice to invite people outside of the hospital for a treatment in a beauty salon. That is why we came up with the ‘Gift a Smile’ campaign, which many organizations are working on together.”

Beauty salons that make a difference

Every year, Monica uses her extensive network in the cosmetics industry to involve as many beauty salons as possible in this campaign. “The salons participate and the skin coaches and specialists love giving these treatments to these women,” she shares. “Of course, it's also in their DNA to want to take good care of people. We also always involve other cosmetics suppliers. This way, as many salons as possible can participate and many people can receive treatment.”

A boost for self-confidence and well-being

These relaxing treatments have a profound effect on both the specialists and the recipients. “It's great to see what treating these people does to the skin coaches. Even though they find it quite emotional to do it. The people receiving the treatment love it. An hour and a half of me-time and enjoyment: that does a lot for someone who is ill. When you have been through so much, you deserve it.”

One of the women who received a pampering moment last year agrees: “In a word, wonderful, what a sense of peace and relaxation. A wonderful treatment and I enjoyed the moment to myself. The beautician's encouraging words made me feel human again. With a lovely glow on my face and a dose of self-confidence in my pocket, I went home!”

Would you or someone you know like a gift of a smile?

Do you know someone who is currently being treated for cancer and deserves a moment of relaxation? Or are you looking for a way to recharge yourself? At GeefEenGlimlachCadeau.nl you can easily see which beauty salons in your area are participating in this campaign.

The campaign runs throughout the month of February, and with dozens of participating salons throughout the Netherlands, there is always a location nearby. A small gesture with a big impact – because everyone deserves a smile.