God has His hands full as He deals with my pride and control issues. As you know I had chemo education yesterday. It lasted alsmost two hours. I had told people that I was going to do this myself. God in His goodness led my friend Karon to tell me , "I am going with you." I know I am supposed to allow others in so I agreed. God is so smart! As soon as they told me I would be spending a minimum of 6 hours a day, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at the clinic receiving treatments, I zoned out. I was again overwhelmed and felt like running away. Karon took notes asked questions and surrounded me with her love and support. Thank you Karon!
Good news, no nausea the last two mornings, what a relief!
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I stole this from the internet but think they are great suggestions, so will share here:
ReplyDeleteHow to Support Someone Going Through Chemo:
Step1-Offer practical support by doing things such as driving the patient to chemotherapy treatments, sitting in on doctor's appointments, cooking, shopping, caring for pets and watering plants.
Step2 Check in on the patient. Often people undergoing chemotherapy treatment feel fatigued and overwhelmed and they may not have the energy to ask for the specific help they need. Do not assume that if you have asked a patient once, she will not need help later.
Step3 Know your role. Most people undergoing chemotherapy turn first to family and friends for support. However, there may be some things patients do not feel comfortable discussing with their loved ones, and they may feel more comfortable talking with other cancer survivors. Allow your loved one the freedom to seek additional sources of support.
Step4 Be aware that caring for someone undergoing chemotherapy can be very time-consuming and fatiguing. Arrange your own schedule and adjust your lifestyle so that you have adequate time for rest and self care, as well as caring for the individual with cancer.
Step5 Play. Chemotherapy patients often benefit from mild and fun forms of exercise, from diversions like funny movies and from interesting and engaging activities.
Step6 Listen. The most important form of support you can offer is your willingness to listen without judgment.
Step7 Support your friend by asking his doctor questions that may be difficult for him to articulate. If you know your friend has certain worries about chemotherapy that aren't being expressed, you may wish to discreetly bring them up with the doctor yourself. Take care not to embarrass your friend while doing this.
Step8 Be aware that people undergoing chemotherapy occasionally become clinically depressed. Speak with the patient's doctor or ask for a referral to a counseling professional if you have concerns about the patient's psychological state.
Hi Colette,
ReplyDeleteI am so thankful for this blog site. I haven't had a chance to catch up on you and was able to read all your past posts.
I'm glad that all went well today for you and that you have such a special friend, Karon that went with you.
God is providing for you and will continue to provide!
Praying,
Nancy