Thousands of studies confirm that psychological health directly affects the course of tumors. Prolonged stress, anxiety and depression not only worsen patients’ quality of life, but can modulate immune responses and inflammatory processes, which in turn play a role in the mechanisms of tumor growth and progression.
According to recent research published in international oncology and psycho-oncology journals, interventions that reduce stress and enhance personal resources – from psychotherapy to contact with nature – can help improve clinical outcomes, psychological well-being and social functioning.
It is precisely from this awareness that it arises “Patients on board”, project promoted by We Will Care in collaboration with the Caprera Sailing Center Foundation. The idea is simple but powerful: using sailing, nature and integrated psychotherapy to accompany women facing cancer on a path of personal growth and strengthening.
The sea that heals
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For 2026, 75 cancer patients they will be able to enjoy a seven-day experience, spread over four weeks from 6 June to 19 September. Each day combines theoretical sailing lessons, group psychotherapy sessions and practical outings at sea, creating a context that stimulates attention, decision-making and collaboration, all fundamental elements for recovering confidence and motivation.
“Sailing boats force you to stay in the present and make decisions in real conditions, offering patients the possibility of finding an active role in their life and treatment journey,” he explains. Gabriella Pravettonifull professor of Psychology at the University of Milan and Director of the Psycho-oncology Division of the IEO.
The stay on the island of Caprera is immersive and authentic: living far from the daily routine, in an essential natural context, allows participants to regenerate and rediscover their internal resources.
Benefits proven by science
The data collected in the 2025 edition of Vela Rosa showed concrete and measurable results: significant reduction in anxiety and depression, improvement in self-efficacy and interpersonal relationships. A particularly interesting result was also the reduction of low-grade systemic inflammation three months after the conclusion of the operation, confirming how the integrated experience of psychotherapy, physical activity and contact with nature can positively impact the body, as well as the mind.
Ketti Mazzoccoassociate professor at the University of Milan and Director of the Decision-Making Psychology and Health Promotion Unit at the IEO, explains: “This project represents an innovative model of integrated intervention, in which the psychological well-being it’s not just support, but necessary part of the treatment strategy“.
The experience it’s not a holiday: it’s a structured and targeted journey. Sailing lessons teach collaboration and concentration, group psychotherapy offers concrete tools to manage anxieties and fears, and contact with nature promotes psychophysical centering and balance.
Who can participate
The call is open to all adult female cancer patients, regardless of the type of diagnosis, even without sailing experience. It is required to know how to swim and to have completed any chemotherapy cycles; other ongoing treatments do not represent a limit. To apply: [email protected].
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