By Taylor McKnight
Facing chemotherapy and other forms of cancer treatment can be daunting, to say the least. Consider stocking up on a few helpful products before your first chemo session to make treatment feel a bit more calm and comfortable. You can use a tote bag or backpack to bring these products to treatment with you.
Ready to get started? Continue reading for some ideas on what to bring with you to cancer treatment.
Items for Your Care Bag
Calm your mind
Pack a small notebook where you can make lists of activities you want or need to get done. There will be down days, but on the days you feel well, you’ll want to use your energy to the fullest.
You can also use this notebook as a journal, which can help relieve stress and anxiety you may be feeling as you are in treatment.
Soothe your skin
Invest in quality lip balms and lotions, and consider unscented products to avoid irritation and unfamiliar fragrances. Your skin and lips will need extra moisture, and your sense of smell may be altered during your treatment.
Engage your mind
Load a great audiobook onto your phone or create a playlist of tunes that cheer you up. There may be a television playing in the room where you get chemo, but if TV isn’t your thing, you can ask for a chair that looks out a window for your treatment while you enjoy tunes and stories from your phone. Don’t forget headphones!
You might also like a puzzle book and pens and pencils. You may not have room to spread out a coloring book with pencils and pens, but a series of crossword puzzles or number puzzles will help you pass the time.
Warm your body
You might feel chilly during chemo, especially if you’re sitting in a chair for an extended period of time. Bring a wrap and a soft scarf so you can snuggle in while you wait for the end of your treatment. Carry a neck pillow so you can snooze if you need to.
Food and treats
Consider peppermints and hard candies to freshen your mouth. Of course, you’ll want a water bottle, and you might also benefit from a thermos of warm tea. Ginger and peppermint can be good for your tummy if nausea strikes.
Carry gentle carbs, such as saltines, to fill and soothe your stomach. Single servings of applesauce can also settle an upset stomach. Fizzy water or diluted juices can help elevate your sugar level and prevent any gastric distress.
Packing it up
When creating your bag, you might also want to seek out recommended items from others who have been through cancer treatment. Treatment times can vary, and certain products can be helpful for longer versus shorter treatment days.
You could also use a computer to keep a “living” list of products you may need as your treatment continues. If loved ones ask how to help during your treatment, you could point them to this list for some help gathering supplies!
Read More:
On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations
Jacquie Carter Angell: Balancing Business, Motherhood, and mTNBC
Share your story, poetry, or art:
SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support:
