What's in your (chemo) bag?
- Deb Dekoff
- Nov 27, 2016
- 3 min read
Prior to my first "infusion" in the chemotherapy center at the Huntsman, my friend Terri sent a "chemo day" backpack. She KNEW exactly what I would need, and even provided the means to carry it! Here's to looking in my chemo day bag - and if you know of someone who must undergo chemo, what to gift them prior to their first foray into the infusion center.
Personal hygiene related
Tissues -
Hand sanitizer - keep some EVERYWHERE!
Facial wipes - you'll be sitting for several hours, and it feels really good to have a clean face.
Hand lotion and salve - dry skin is a big problem, one that I didn't have before. I'm currently using Kiehls hand cream, and Burt's Bees salve. I have a pair of cotton gloves (came with the Burt's Bees), and find that if I'm just sitting around, that the gloves really help keep the hands moist. Body lotion - A large tube of Aveeno is perfect. Chapstick - or any other lip moisturizer
Food Related
Mints or gum - the "taste" of some of the drugs is very unpleasant. Mints help to counter this. Tea - a variety of soothing flavors is best. Ginger and Tumeric are "cancer fighting". Trader Joe's has a ginger pear tea that is nice and light. These are tea BAGS, and thankfully, the Huntsman has hot water.
Protein Bars - I use Pure Protein with 20 grams of protein per bar as it is important to invest 80-100 grams of protein per day during chemo.
A water bottle - I love my Avex no spill bottles!
Healthy snacks - I crave raisons during chemo!
Fabric related
Grippy bottomed socks - I kick my shoes off in chemo, but if you will need to get up to use the restroom, and grippy socks will keep you safer than soft bottomed socks.
A blanket - you may feel cold. I was given a gorgeous blanket by a student and her mother, and a cape by Terri. I love both so much, I don't know which to bring!
Beanies - If you've lost your hair to chemo drugs, it's nice to keep your head warm;) Check out www.threads4warriors.com for cool fleece-lined beanies. You can even have your own "word" place on the beanie!
Sleep mask! - although the lights can be dimmed at the Huntsman, there are days when I really want to relax in the "dark".
Miscellaneous
Thank you cards - you'll have plenty of time to write them from chemo!
Colored pens and pencils - great for the thank you cards and for the "stress relieving coloring books" .
Crossword or logic puzzle books Magazines
A great novel or book
Make sure you bring your
Phone and charger I-pad
HEADPHONES -if you are listening to your music, bring headphones! Skullcandy provided me with a superb set!
What to be aware of Others may be sensitive to scents. Do not douse yourself in perfume or essential oils. I had to ask to be moved as pachouli and I did not get along. Also, I love music, but not everyone shares in the love for the same music.
At home
Dish gloves - hands are way too dry to deal with water! Protect them!
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