Walking Positively Forward Through Chemotherapy

By June Carr

There is nothing more important in life than our health. Yes, it’s more important than money, since without it, we may not be able to work or earn a living, and with it, we can participate in society and live our lives the way we desire. Years ago, when I heard that my father had cancer, I was devastated and from that day till now, I’ve learned all that I can about cancer, and how we can live our lives in a beneficial way, that will allow us to journey forward through the trials we face. What I’ll mention are not cure alls, and of COURSE see your doctor, these are simply tips for a healthy life.

If you find yourself in the middle of cancer treatment, don’t stop what before you knew to be healthy. Drink water it will help your system to stay flushed, will keep your intestines open and aid your kidneys in dealing with medications you may be taking.

Along with the above, cut out (or at least cut down) on your caffeine intake. I know I love a cup of java, but put getting better in the forefront of your mind. Down the road you can reward yourself, right now, stick with the water (or what your doctor recommends).

A close friend of mine recently went through a bout of breast cancer and chemotherapy and with that she knew she’d lose her hair. Instead of waiting for the inevitable to happen, she immediately changed her hair style, cutting it close, giving herself a new look and allowing friends and family to see her with the new style. When the rest of the hair departed; we hardly even noticed.

Even though most of now know this, most low grade infections are passed through our hands. We touch something or someone, then transfer the infection to ourselves. Wash your hands; possibly carry one of the antibacterial gels with you. Better safe than sorry. And if you have a friend or loved one is has a cold or the flu, talk with them on the phone, but hold your in-person visits till they are feeling better, you do not want to add their cold or flu to what you are already going through.

This next one is going to be difficult, since your appetite will be diminished, but EAT… Eat three meals per day; even if they are small, you need nutrition to maintain your strength. And believe it or not, nausea will be lessened rather than increased.

Allow your friends and loved ones to help you. While it’s necessary to keep our egos intact, you have nothing to prove, take a break your friends and loved ones will feel good to be helping, and you’ll enjoy the fact they care enough to be there.

Live life. While these days may seem dark, appreciate the life that is around you. Play (to the degree you can) with your friends, loved ones and children. Take a walk in the park; enjoy the sunshine on your face. Sure, your walk might not be as far or brisk, but breathe, live, enjoy the beauty that is around you.

Our bodies need sleep that is the same in all of us, and while the hours needed may be different depending on our age and physical health, around 7 to 8 hours is the norm. Make sure you don’t overextend yourself, give your body time to rejuvenate itself with the blessed sleep and rest.

Don’t grit and bear it! And by that I mean if you need something for pain, by all mean take it. Modern science may not have the answer for everything, but they have made leaps and bounds in the area of pain management. Call your doctor if necessary he/she will understand.

Keep your mind active. Don’t sit in a room and let your mind drift toward the negative. Play games, watch a movie, read an uplifting book, talk with friends and family. Stay connected and keep your mind occupied with a variety of activities. This is a difficult time, of that there is no doubt, but it is a journey toward the sunlight at the end of the tunnel.

Keep walking forward, YOU WILL reach the other side.

June writes for a variety of websites and directories across the net. She is particularly interested in the cancer research since losing her father to the disease years ago. She believe that life should be lived to the fullest and be a blend of Wealth, Health and Success.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=June_Carr