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Clea's Self-Care Essentials While Going Through Chemo

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Continue shoppingSo, here’s a not so fun fact: One of the side effects of chemotherapy, specifically Taxol, is neuropathy (aka nerve damage). To avoid this, they recommend cold therapy, which is when these ice mitts enter the chat. I deeply dislike wearing them but they get the job done. They also make me look like that Bernie Sanders meme, which I guess you could say is a plus.
Another cold therapy product that I deeply dislike but gets the job done.
When all I have to do is unzip my shirt to get chemo, it’s less effort for me and also my nurses. Care + Wear is my favorite brand so far. They are extremely comfortable, pair well with yoga pants, and come in a variety of colors. They even have a designer line from Oscar De La Renta. If I’m getting chemo, then I might as well make it chic. FYI: These shirts are also perfect for someone who is breastfeeding.
As much as I love my wigs, headwraps are easier to manage when I’m on zero battery. Not surprisingly, I have one in every color and it’s only a matter of time before I give them names and personalities. Stay tuned.
If I tell you about a cozier pair of socks, I would. But I can’t. These are worth every penny.
I give this one a 10/10 considering it keeps me warm when I’m wearing LITERAL ICE ON MY HANDS AND TOES.
Much more practical than a bathrobe. (Sorry, Joanna!) Here’s my recent go-to. It looks and feels identical to Barefoot Dreams but is a lot more affordable!
The plant extracts in these lollipops help reduce nausea. Not sure the science behind it but whoever invented them deserves some kind of award. Honestly, I suggest everyone keep a few on hand at all times.
Chemo can also make your skin super dry, so it’s smart to go back to basics and stay away from anything with essential oils or a harsh fragrance. Aquaphor is my favorite because I’m all about an all-purpose solution. I use it on my entire body, even as a lip balm. Right now, I have my purse Aquaphor, my home Aquaphor, and a car Aquaphor. Thankfully, it’s affordable and available in multi-packs! (Side note: I’m weird about texture and thought I would hate anything that described itself as an “ointment” but I’m pleasantly surprised!)
Stoney Clover Lane is one of my favorite brands of all time. They sent me a personalized bag right when I started chemo and it makes me happy everytime I look at it. But most importantly, it fits everything I need to take back and forth from treatment.
It’s impossible to go anywhere these days without someone recommending Colleen Hoover books. So, here I am, recommending them. They are suspenseful and interesting, which makes them the perfect distraction. I read them all on my Kindle but here are links to the physical copies for the paper people:
I’ll never leave the house without my emergency purse snacks, specifically tortillas. You just never know! These are my go-to pouches for keeping food fresh and avoiding any spillage.
True crime podcasts have always been my favorite way to unwind. I listen with AirPods due to the fact that some people are disturbed by the gory details? Hm, can’t relate. Another plus: Since they are cordless, I can wear them under my headwrap and nothing gets in the way during treatment.
My rock, my queen, my everything. We’ve been through some tough times together and she always has my back. Even though mine is a rental from a medical supply store, she’s family nonetheless. Linking one from Amazon if you want to go that route.
I could keep going with this list but I’m tired and need a nap. If you have anything to add, please share in the comment section below! And once again, thank you to everyone for your continued support - it means the world to me and my entire family. This community has been more of a self-care essential than any of the items I listed above. Love you, mean it!
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Thoughts welcome!
Lauren Linn (September 12, 2022 at 12:37PM)
God Bless you. I am coming up on my 8 years cancerversary. Be well and be kind to yourself.
Rosie (September 07, 2022 at 12:45PM)
Prayers for wellness. In this journey, may you find the blessings that are hidden along the path. Be perfectly present and at peace with yourself; it is a breathing exercise to relieve stress and empower you.
Lori (September 07, 2022 at 12:45PM)
Thank you for the list. I see my med oncologist for the first time on the 15th after I see the surgeon on the 7th. I have been wondering what I will need without making me look like I am setting up shop. Those lollipops look like something I will need.
Tracy (September 07, 2022 at 12:45PM)
I was just diagnosed with breast cancer. This is so helpful. I added many of these items to my cart.
Kerri (September 07, 2022 at 12:45PM)
Did you lose your eyebrows and eyelashes? You look fabulous!!! Can you share what you use if you did lose them? I’m assuming you did…but whatever you are using looks like you did not! For me, losing my hair was okay….but the eyelashes and eyebrows really made me sad:(.