thank you so much. I am listening to Dr Liz O’Riordans book - the cancer road map at the moment. I didn;t realise she has a podcast too, I’ll check that out.
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thank you so much, I am scared about losing my hair. It is the one thing that feels so massive. I hadn’t though of a head band as well as wig so thank you for that.
The thing I’ve found about losing my hair is how much I feel it makes me identifiable as a cancer patient, especially as a woman.
While it can still be a big deal for men when they lose their hair through treatment, from a third party perspective I don’t think anyone really thinks it’s weird when they see a bald bloke, but seeing a bald woman can have quite a different impact as it’s pretty unusual.
It’s definitely affected me in that I’ve not been anywhere alone since it fell out as it makes me feel too vulnerable. I wear scarves and hats and have considered a wig to make me feel more normal and give me more confidence to head out alone, but I don’t really want to. So for now, I’m chaperoned everywhere. It’s working though as it gives me regular social time too even if my idea of partying now is a trip to the supermarket!
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I’m sorry you’re having to have chemo, I can understand your fear because I was in your shoes last October.
I won’t lie to you that there aren’t moments when it is tough. BUT there are more times when you will feel ok than not. Your oncologist and chemo team are there to make things as comfortable as possible. You will have access to medications to ease pain, manage nausea and gastric issues. If you’re struggling, talk to them. I do want to emphasise though that the times I felt really awful could be counted on one hand.
In the lead up to it, maintaining fitness is key. Once you’re on chemo, doing a short walk every day - even just ten minutes really does help. Ask for help and let people help you. If you’re not planning to cold cap, hang back on getting a wig. I bought 2 and wore neither. Your BCN can also arrange for talking therapy if you need it. Finally, the BCN ‘Someone Like Me’ service is incredible. I cannot recommend this highly enough.
Once you start chemo there will be a chemo starters thread for that month. I found it very helpful to connect with people there.
Lean on us. We’re here for you and no-one gets it more than we do. Sending love and support. xxx
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Chemo is hard but just relax and stay calm
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How do I find the forum for chemo now pls. Starting in a week. Thanks
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No one looks forward to chemo and so your reaction is entirely normal. When I felt rubbish I got through my trusting my body and trying to remind myself why I was doing it; to lower my chances of recurrence. The most important thing is to be kind to yourself, and accept all the help that is offered.
Put together a chemo bag with all the things you would like to have with you on the days of chemo. Plan your diary so you don’t have much on in the days immediately after chemo. think about all the foods you love and have those in stock for before and after.
Wishing you all the very best.
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