Be Chemo Savvy:

Tips for surviving chemotherapy from a seasoned chemo survivor.

By Chris McHugh ©

Try to relax while taking treatment. Headphones or good conversation can take your mind off the drugs. Embrace the drug. Don't think of it as toxic, let it do it's work.

Pamper and reward yourself! Even something small is special. Maybe a goal after your chemo journey, like a trip or weekend away. Why wait!? Break up the rounds of chemo with a "chemo-get-away" or "retail therapy" (shopping). You will come back refreshed.

*Important* You will NOT get all of the symptoms listed on the chemo handouts.

When life hands you lemons, drink lemonade! Drink some lemonade or suck on lemon drops. It's really refreshingand I could taste it. Sucking on hard candy when they flush your mediport or line is helpful. Also remember to drink plenty of fluids after treatment.

Cut a fresh lemon in half when scents around the home make you fell "urpsy". The neutralizes the unwanted odors. Also, mild soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste can be found in your local grocery store.

If smells from the kitchen send you running, have someone bring you in a meal. It will allow someone to fell good about helping you out. Eat whatever sounds good or tastes good to you. Now is NOT the time to diet. (Try to remember comfort foods from your youth.

Stay ahead of the nausea. Don't wait to feel sick before taking your anti-nausea drugs. Listen to your nurse or pharmacist for scheduling your medicine. Anti-nausea drugs can cause headaches and constipation. Make a mental note of your week and adjust your next treatment accordingly.

If you are tired, rest and let people help you. Remeber it helps them too, as they feel helpless. When you are over-tired, everything seems worse. Life is worth the fight!

Get many hugs from all. Hugs heal!

This is a "germ free zone"! Wash your hands often when your white cell count is low. It's not a bad idea to have all your guests wash their hands as well.

Talk to others undergoing chemo. It really helps to share information and know that you have the same feelings and symptoms. A support group is a great resource or your hospital's learning library.

The best advice I ever received was "to remember to set short-term goals and take it one day at a time. Do or take whatever you need to get through this time, and most importantly, "Choose Hope."

Courtesy of Chose Hope, Inc.

***These tips and hints ARE NOT intended as a substitute to professional medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult your physician.