Finding your way through your treatment can be a stressful time.
The following are some useful suggestions for you to consider which may help you with your chemotherapy sessions. Its a personal checklist of things to bring with you to make sure you bring a little bit of home to the hospital. All of the suggestions come from people who have gone through rounds of chemo themselves, as well as from experts.
The following guidance has been produced by Live Better With Cancer
To Help You Rest
Blanket and Pillow
Many patients have said you get cold during chemo so it helps to keep warm with a blanket and pillow
"Spray your blanket with your favourite perfume to make it feel like home" Karen
Top Tip
Sleeping Mask and Earplugs
- If you want to be able to nap bring a sleeping mask with you to block out the light.
- If you want complete peace and quiet dont forget to pack your earplugs
What to Wear
- Dress in several layers as you can't predict the temperature of the room or how hot or cold you'll feel during treatment
- Dont forget to ensure your clothes allow easy access to the "line" for your chemo- ask a nurse or doctor in advance where your "line" will be
- Bring your own slippers from home as they will be more comfortable than shoes
- Bring a warm hat in case your head gets cold . It can make a big difference
What to Eat and Drink
- You might like to bring your own drinks like cartons of juice,a bottle of water or a flask of tea;
- You might suffer from a dry mouth during chemo so sucking on hard sweets such as a boiled sweet or a mint can help with this;
- Bring anything that you personally enjoy snacking on. Lots of patients suggest making snack boxes with small amounts of different foods so that you can choose whatever you fancy. Snack foods with lots of energy include nuts, fruit and chocolate.
Top Tip
"I bring fruit ice lollies in a small cooler bag to keep refreshed".
Toby Age 48
Things to Do
Music
- Make a playlist on your phone or music player with songs to help you to relax if you plan on dozing or some upbeat songs to lift your spirits.
Top Tip
"I asked my family and friends to make me playlists so that I could enjoy new music each time.I have discovered some new bands".
Phil Age 51
Crossword Puzzles, Sudoku, or Other Mind Games
- Mind games or puzzles can help distract you and also keep you alert.
Top Tip
"Reading during chemo makes me sleepy so I shut my eyes and listen to an audiobook on my tablet".
Dennis Age 71
Laptop or Tablet or E-Reader
- Bring your laptop,tablet or E-Reader pre-loaded with your favourite films,books audiobooks and games - endless possibilities with these devices.Dont forget the earphones.
Other Suggestions
Activity Books
- Creative drawing ,crosswords or wordsearch etc books offer a creative opportunity.
Bring a Friend
- If you're a person that would like company, ask the nursing team if you could bring a friend to chemo.
Maybe you have a friend that you enjoy spending lots of time with or want to invite a different friend or relative each time.