Preparing for Chemo

Over the years I have spoken to many Survivors getting prepared for their first chemo treatment. They are so afraid stepping into the unknown and what to expect. One thing you can do is to take a dry run to the Infusion Center. You will find it to be a very welcoming place, and very busy. The staff in the Infusion Center are very kind, caring and helpful. They will comfort you.

Here are some of my tips I think might help, they helped me.

It’s good to know that most Survivors feel no different after their first round of chemo. You expect to feel different especially after all those drugs being inside of you now but you feel exactly the same when you walk out. That was helpful to me.

· Know your plan of action. The Nurse Navigator will go over it with you so you know where you are supposed to be, when, and what time. They want to make sure you understand, so ask any questions you might have. If you don’t understand something when you get home, you will get a telephone number you can call, use it.

· Before beginning your treatment you will have a complete physical, to make sure you are fit to begin the treatments.

· Go to your Dentist, chemo can cause problems if you have any teeth or gum issue.

· Side Effects-There are many, some Survivors get a few and some get none. Your Doctor will go over possible side effects. If there is something unusual call your Doctor.

· If you are going to have chemo, my best advice to you is to get a port. It is a Must!

· It is important to eat healthy. You can ask to meet with a nutritionist if you think you need help selecting the correct foods to be eating at this time.

· Stay hydrated-ALWAYS!

Everyone gets to know their cycle; the days after treatment that you feel good and the days that you are dragging. When you feel good push yourself a little, get things done that are on your To-do list, when you are real tired, rest, listen to your body-it knows what you need. Try to go for short walks as often as you can.

Always get a good night sleep. Lights out, phone down, and TV off. If you like Lavender, spray some on your pillow. Lavender is very relaxing. Short meditations are great and breathing exercises do it for me.

Here's a few special tips:

Bring some of your favorite snacks

Bring a good book

Bring your cell phone and ear buds

I brought some family pics, they made me smile

You will be given pillows and blankets

Say a few prayers for strength and peace

Breathe nice and deep

If you would like to discuss, please call Kathy at 484-408-0770.

Good Luck & Know You Are Not Alone

Kathy

...To cherish a desire with anticipation.

The Lehigh Valley Sole Sistas is a non-profit organization that supports ALL cancer Survivors in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas.

Our mission is to counsel Survivors, and when safe, drive Survivors to their treatment and also to make sure everyone has enough to eat. Food insecurity has hit our neighbors. When Survivors are in treatment it is imperative they eat healthy. We are fortunate to have organizations in our area that help us to feed those who cannot afford the proper food.

The Sole Sistas never say "no." If a Survivor has a problem or a need we will try our best to fix it. If we cannot, we will reach out to other organizations for help. We never give up. Our goal is to make the Survivors' journey as comfortable as possible.

We want Survivors to know they are not alone. We share our intimate experiences so Survivors are Hopeful. I like to think that whether we are driving a Survivor, feeding a Survivor or counseling a Survivor we give them Hope!

If you need counseling, transportation, food or any other assistance please call Kathy at 484-408-0770. you can email us at solesistas@ptd.net

Welcome

...To cherish a desire with anticipation.