Sister Gefre Launches Caregiver Program

Minnesota-based massage pioneer Sister Rosalind Gefre has launched a new program to relieve “caregiver burden” for family caregivers.

Gefre, a Catholic nun, founded her first massage school in 1983 in Fargo, North Dakota. She is considered a pioneer in the massage field for her work promoting massage therapy as a health modality at a time when the public knew little about massage therapy, and vice squads often indiscriminately shut down massage “parlors.”

Today what Gefre refers to as her “massage ministry” (www.sisterrosalind.org) includes five massage schools, eight wellness centers containing massage clinics and the Sister Rosalind Massage & Skin Care line of products. She has been featured in TIME magazine’s 2002 article, “Massage Goes Mainstream,” and in numerous other articles, books and television programs.

The National Family Caregivers Association reports more than 50 million people provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or aged family member or friend during any given year.

Gefre’s Family Caregiver Programs will feature massage, aromatherapy, relaxation and education during weekend retreats in a peaceful, natural setting. The first program was held in October; the second is scheduled to be held in November.

“It has been my dream for many years to create programs where people can experience the healing of the body and mind in a beautiful and peaceful, natural setting,” Gefre said. “[My] programs are dedicated to supporting caregivers of those with chronic illness in a place where people can enjoy the healing power of nature and seek regeneration of body and soul.”