Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, abruptly vanished after December 25, 2023, the Christmas morning service, causing a significant uproar. Over two months later, she broke her silence and revealed the real reason for her disappearance.
The Princess posted a video on her official Instagram handle where she disclosed her battle with cancer. Kate announced she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after getting diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer.
Princess Kate aside, soft-rock crooner Michael Bolton, the “Big Bang Theory” actress Kate Micucci, and teen vlogger Isabella Strahan received a cancer diagnosis.
Battling cancer is hard. Doctors often suggest chemotherapy to kill cancer cells. If you’ve received a cancer diagnosis, your healthcare team might have advised you to consider chemotherapy. The unknowns and the anticipation can make the treatment appear overwhelming.
However, don’t worry. Being well-prepared can significantly ease your anxiety. Here are some tips that will help you prepare for your first chemotherapy session.
#1 Bring a “Chemo Buddy”
The first chemo infusion is often scary. You don’t have to go through it alone, however. Get a buddy who can accompany you to the session. That person can be a friend, a family member, or anyone you trust or share a good bond with.
The hours you spend in the infusion chair will become less lonely when you have a buddy by your side. You can engage in conversations with them or share some laughs.
Practically speaking, your chemo buddy can also assist with note-taking when the healthcare team provides information. You won’t miss out on any important details.
Chemotherapy can cause fatigue. Over 80% of cancer patients experience fatigue while or after receiving chemo. Having a chemo buddy means there’s someone to help with tasks that might feel overwhelming. That could include arranging transportation, picking up medications, or even just grabbing a comforting snack.
#2 Pack a Bag
Think of your chemotherapy session as a long flight—you’d want to stay comfortable and occupied the whole time. Pack a bag that contains snacks, water, a cozy blanket, books, magazines, or a tablet.
Choose snacks that are easy on the stomach. Nuts, fruits, or crackers are great options.
Chemotherapy, especially the medicine Xeloda, can dehydrate your body. That’s what Breastcancer.org says. Carry a water bottle or a few of your favorite drinks to keep yourself hydrated.
A good book, magazine, or tablet can keep you entertained throughout the chemo session. Don’t forget comfort items! A cozy blanket or pillow can make the treatment chair feel a bit like home.
#3 Get a Port Implanted Underneath Your Skin
Multiple chemo sessions are required to kill cancer cells. This frequent need for intravenous access can be challenging, especially if your veins are small or difficult to find. Get a port implanted underneath your skin; it will make the process smoother.
A port is a small device typically placed in the chest that connects to a major vein. It allows for easier and more comfortable administration of chemotherapy drugs, blood draws, and other treatments without the need for repeated needle sticks.
The process of implanting a port is a quick one. Once in place, it can be a game-changer, as it reduces the stress and discomfort associated with each session.
Go for any implantable port except Bard. A Texas woman undergoing breast cancer treatment filed a product liability lawsuit against Bard Power Port manufacturer after the device shattered and lodged in her heart.
In her Bard Power Port lawsuit, Brandie Songy reveals that she got the device implanted in August 2022 for the administration of chemotherapy drugs. A year later, it fractured. She had to undergo emergency surgery to retrieve the broken part. Her complaint further states that more surgeries are required to get rid of the device from her heart.
In fact, according to TorHoerman Law, as of August this year, over 336 Bard Power Port cases have been filed. Most of these lawsuits have been filed given the health problems or medical emergencies these devices are known to cause.
The Bard Power Port lawsuit settlement amount, lawyers estimate, could range between $10,000 and over $100,000. Thus, it’s best to steer clear of Bard. For your safety, opt for an implantable port of another brand.
#4 Have Post-Chemo Medications on Hand
Coping with chemotherapy is hard. Your doctor will likely prescribe anti-nausea medication. Take them as directed, even if you don’t feel sick right away.
You might also receive medications to help with other potential side effects like pain relievers, anti-diarrheal pills, or laxatives if you’re prone to constipation.
UCSF Health advises cancer patients to have them filled before their first session, so they don’t miss out on any dose. Follow its advice. You won’t be scrambling afterward when you’re already feeling tired or drained.
There’s no sugarcoating it—chemotherapy sessions can be tough, and the thought of it can overwhelm you. However, being prepared beforehand can make a huge difference. It’s okay to feel anxious, but remember that you’re not alone. Your healthcare team and close ones are there to help you through this journey.
