***What to bring to chemo***

[janet11]

I bring audio books in my CD player and listen. I like to read, but this let me bring a favorite book to listen to and I didn't have to keep my eyes open. Half the time, I'd fall asleep during the premeds anyway, so I tended to bring books I've read so I know the basic story.

[MGordon]

Lisa had such a gregarious personality - she TALKED. She got to know all of her Onc Nurses and fellow patients, always respectfully of those wanting privacy, but through her outgoing nature she bonded with these people and allowed them to touch her life. It was amazing how much people in the entire treatment room opened up - and I found out that her reputation grew - as patients started rescheduling their chemo days to have thier chemo while Lisa was there! Of course she was they EVERY week and Thursdays became THE day to have treatment. Many a Thursday I was sent scampering to local stores to buy licorce or some other snack that someone wanted and the facility was out of - just to come back and run out for something else. Not complaining - I LOVED IT!

She talked with teenagers concerned about hair loss and how to deal with mouth sores (they all used to bury their noses in their DVD players) - people her age about friends/family & grandchildren - I think she knew the names and birthdates of every member of every Onc nurses family - and loved to sit down and hold hands and talked with her elders to help alleviate fear and anxiety.

I know it is not for everyone, but don't be afraid to open up, touch, and be touched!

So what to take to the chemo room - YOU - and your "I am going beat this" attitude!

Love and Light
Mel

[juanita]

I always took books and magazines, but never read them because everybody always sat and talked. The benadryl made my legs jumpy and everybody knew when it was kicking in and they teased me about it. I also took snacks and bottled water with me. There was one time someone sitting with one of the other patients went to get her friend something to eat and brought everyone back something. Very nice people!

[bobbiw]

I took my husband and a cribbage board....I tend to think that he took advantage of me(and the drugs I was on) and that is why he always won the games! LOL.

Bobbi

[skeetur]

When I had one back surgery 2 years ago, my hubby and I were laughing in the pre-op area. We were thumbwrestling. Here I was going in for surgery... my first ever... and being the competitive sort he is... he wouldn't let me win. Pfffft to him! LOL. I've had 4 other surgeries since then and still... no dice. Another surgery Tuesday for the BC, perhaps I'll play the "cancer card" as I call it and get my way... Hmmm...

Skeetur