The Top 15 Things To Say to Cancer Survivors...

Sometimes you just don't know what to say!


This list came about after posting a list of the top 10 things NOT to say to cancer survivors on FB (thanks Steph)! She suggested I create a list of things that "we" would LIKE to hear.  I would add that some of these suggestions would be great to say to those that are caring for a loved one going through cancer as well.  With the help of many other Survivors here it is...


1.  "I'm sorry."
2.  "It stinks/sucks that you have to go through this."
3.  "How can I help?"
4.  "You will beat this!"
5.  "When you need someone to talk to, I am here."
6.  "Can I pick your kids up for a play date?"
7.  "I will be checking on you frequently to see how you are doing and how I can help."
8.  "When is a good time for me to come clean your house?"
9.  "Can I come to any appointments with you?"
10. "I will be keeping you in my prayers."
11. "Are you under any dietary restrictions?  I will be bringing you dinner on (insert day)."
12. It's ok to not say anything...just give a hug.  The worst thing you can do is avoid the      person!
13. "How are you feeling today?"
14. "Can I get you anything?"
15. "Are you getting the help you need?"


**Remember that going through cancer is an emotional roller coaster and she/he may need a shoulder to cry on and then some help to be lifted up, most likely on a daily basis.  Depression can be a very real challenge for many cancer survivors.  Positive thoughts, notes/cards, and prayers are always a help.  It is a tremendous help to just know people care!

Sitting in Infusion getting 6th round!

Well the end of the tunnel is visible.  I can see a glimmer of light!  After today I will have only two more rounds!  Wow!  So four more weeks to go.

I am hoping that the side effects of this round of chemo (Taxol) will not be quite as bad as last time.  My oncologist toned it down just a little bit (the dosage) because I had raised liver enzymes.  Not good, but not quite alarming.  They were elevated only just slightly.  So, I am hoping this time around will be a little more manageable.  I had pretty severe neuropathy and nerve pain throughout my body.  I am pretty used to having muscle pain (having dealt with fibromyalgia for the past 16 years).  But, nerve pain is an entirely different story!  I will be trying the Acetyll L carnitine supplement this time to see if it will help will the pain (thanks Karen Durrant for the suggestion - my cancer buddy!).


I am planning to do some serious celebrating when this part is over.  Anyone know of a spa that uses only non-toxic products?  Would love to get a facial and mani-pedi! 
Then when I am completely done with everything?  Watch out!!!  


Again, thank you to EVERYONE who has gone beyond the call of duty to help us out with food, watching kids, cleaning, and all the Jamba Juice runs (thanks Katie!) and the most important a listening ear!!!


Hugs