Hi guys I would really value your help and advice. My lovely, dearest and oldest friend has just been diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer. Obviously we are all reeling with shock and fear and, because it’s such an aggressive, fast moving cancer, she will be starting chemo next week.
I really want to help her on a practical level as well as emotional and thought I would put together a box for her with things that she might need or would help her through the process. For eg I’ve heard your lips get very dry so I was thinking a good lip balm. Also, maybe a special water bottle with a straw? Is there anybody on here who has gone through or going through chemo who can advise on any items that will help her during this time? I’d be so grateful for any insight and help.
Hi AnnieB, I’m sorry to hear about your friend. I also presented with inflammatory breast cancer symptoms in March 2017 stage 3 with lymph node involvement (this diagnosis is standard for IBC). I am now one year with no evidence of disease after chemo, surgery and radiotherapy. If you would like to have a look at my blog you should be able to get lots of ideas of things which would help your friend. lifeafterlola.com/
If your friend would like to chat with others in the IBC community there is a specialist facebook closed group: facebook.com/groups/ibcsupportuk/
Hi
How lovely of you
I’m round two of my chemo
Lip balm for me is a must, also bath salts like Epsom to help with the aches and pains, maybe a nice warm fluffy blanket for sofa days, and generally just being the good friend that you obviously are
My family are good and cook a few meals for the week I have chemo and then I feel better each day and manage most myself , does she like books or films as these will help pass the time x