It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
A comprehensive list of the Taxol side effects I experienced as a breast cancer patient, as well as how I treated them.
Chemo Port Is In. Now What Do I Wear?! How To Stay Fashionable During Chemo. by Kelsey Bucci Honestly, the last thing you think about after getting diagnosed with breast cancer is, “what am I going to wear to chemo?” My name is Kelsey, and at 30 years old I was diagnosed with Stage IIB IDC and DCIS. A few days after getting diagnosed, I was in surgery to get my port placed. Before this procedure I had no idea what a port was, what it did, or why exactly I was being told that it would be a part of me for at least the next 12 months. Once your port is placed it can be a very weird feeling. Mine was very prominent, not something I could hide in the south Georgia heat! My kids happened to be fascinated with this little robotic piece in my chest. They affectionately named it “Lexi the Port”. On any given day my husband would yell out, “sexy Lexi”. Humor has always been a part of my diagnosis, it has gotten me through some dark days with this disease. In preparation for my first chemotherapy infusion, my nurse navigator gave me a few tips: Wear comfortable clothing Make sure your port can be accessed Comfy footwear and socks Bring a blanket (our BIG HUG blanket is perfect!!) Bring things to entertain yourself Snacks Drinks to stay hydrated Bring a journal to write in As someone who has a background in fashion merchandising and buying, not to mention a blog and Instagram where my style definitely stands out, I knew I wanted to keep being me throughout treatment. Getting up and getting dressed helped me mentally. Even through losing my hair, getting up and drawing on my eyebrows everyday helped me to see ME when I walked passed a mirror. I tackled infusion days the same way! I made sure to wear button front blouses so that my port could be accessed easily. In the warmer months I would wear a V-neck t-shirt, or a top with a scoop/deep neck so I could pull it to the side. Care + Wear also makes a cute and comfy port accessible hoodie and shirt! Depending on your treatments, you could be there for hours, so comfort is key. You will also want to wear simple outfits that you can go to the bathroom in quite easily. You certainly do not want to be fussing with too many accessories while you are hooked up. Take the time to rest and relax at your infusions. Get in a nap or two before your steroid keep you up all night! I would also keep lotion in my chemo because my skin would get so dry from the treatments. Visit my store Paris Laundry to find clean and safe products that you can use during treatment! Guest Blog Post by the lovely Kelsey Bucci. Keep up with Kelsey on Instagram, @KelseyBucci. Still looking for a gift to support someone battling cancer? Join my insider list and save 10% off your first order!
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
A breast cancer survivor shares a list of what you need for chemo, what to pack in a chemo bag, and how to prepare for chemotherapy at home.
Chemo Port Is In. Now What Do I Wear?! How To Stay Fashionable During Chemo. by Kelsey Bucci Honestly, the last thing you think about after getting diagnosed with breast cancer is, “what am I going to wear to chemo?” My name is Kelsey, and at 30 years old I was diagnosed with Stage IIB IDC and DCIS. A few days after getting diagnosed, I was in surgery to get my port placed. Before this procedure I had no idea what a port was, what it did, or why exactly I was being told that it would be a part of me for at least the next 12 months. Once your port is placed it can be a very weird feeling. Mine was very prominent, not something I could hide in the south Georgia heat! My kids happened to be fascinated with this little robotic piece in my chest. They affectionately named it “Lexi the Port”. On any given day my husband would yell out, “sexy Lexi”. Humor has always been a part of my diagnosis, it has gotten me through some dark days with this disease. In preparation for my first chemotherapy infusion, my nurse navigator gave me a few tips: Wear comfortable clothing Make sure your port can be accessed Comfy footwear and socks Bring a blanket (our BIG HUG blanket is perfect!!) Bring things to entertain yourself Snacks Drinks to stay hydrated Bring a journal to write in As someone who has a background in fashion merchandising and buying, not to mention a blog and Instagram where my style definitely stands out, I knew I wanted to keep being me throughout treatment. Getting up and getting dressed helped me mentally. Even through losing my hair, getting up and drawing on my eyebrows everyday helped me to see ME when I walked passed a mirror. I tackled infusion days the same way! I made sure to wear button front blouses so that my port could be accessed easily. In the warmer months I would wear a V-neck t-shirt, or a top with a scoop/deep neck so I could pull it to the side. Care + Wear also makes a cute and comfy port accessible hoodie and shirt! Depending on your treatments, you could be there for hours, so comfort is key. You will also want to wear simple outfits that you can go to the bathroom in quite easily. You certainly do not want to be fussing with too many accessories while you are hooked up. Take the time to rest and relax at your infusions. Get in a nap or two before your steroid keep you up all night! I would also keep lotion in my chemo because my skin would get so dry from the treatments. Visit my store Paris Laundry to find clean and safe products that you can use during treatment! Guest Blog Post by the lovely Kelsey Bucci. Keep up with Kelsey on Instagram, @KelseyBucci. Still looking for a gift to support someone battling cancer? Join my insider list and save 10% off your first order!
How do you feel good about yourself when you don't recognize the person you see in the mirror? How do you feel beautiful as your body changes in front of your face. After surgery I
Chemo Port Is In. Now What Do I Wear?! How To Stay Fashionable During Chemo. by Kelsey Bucci Honestly, the last thing you think about after getting diagnosed with breast cancer is, “what am I going to wear to chemo?” My name is Kelsey, and at 30 years old I was diagnosed with Stage IIB IDC and DCIS. A few days after getting diagnosed, I was in surgery to get my port placed. Before this procedure I had no idea what a port was, what it did, or why exactly I was being told that it would be a part of me for at least the next 12 months. Once your port is placed it can be a very weird feeling. Mine was very prominent, not something I could hide in the south Georgia heat! My kids happened to be fascinated with this little robotic piece in my chest. They affectionately named it “Lexi the Port”. On any given day my husband would yell out, “sexy Lexi”. Humor has always been a part of my diagnosis, it has gotten me through some dark days with this disease. In preparation for my first chemotherapy infusion, my nurse navigator gave me a few tips: Wear comfortable clothing Make sure your port can be accessed Comfy footwear and socks Bring a blanket (our BIG HUG blanket is perfect!!) Bring things to entertain yourself Snacks Drinks to stay hydrated Bring a journal to write in As someone who has a background in fashion merchandising and buying, not to mention a blog and Instagram where my style definitely stands out, I knew I wanted to keep being me throughout treatment. Getting up and getting dressed helped me mentally. Even through losing my hair, getting up and drawing on my eyebrows everyday helped me to see ME when I walked passed a mirror. I tackled infusion days the same way! I made sure to wear button front blouses so that my port could be accessed easily. In the warmer months I would wear a V-neck t-shirt, or a top with a scoop/deep neck so I could pull it to the side. Care + Wear also makes a cute and comfy port accessible hoodie and shirt! Depending on your treatments, you could be there for hours, so comfort is key. You will also want to wear simple outfits that you can go to the bathroom in quite easily. You certainly do not want to be fussing with too many accessories while you are hooked up. Take the time to rest and relax at your infusions. Get in a nap or two before your steroid keep you up all night! I would also keep lotion in my chemo because my skin would get so dry from the treatments. Visit my store Paris Laundry to find clean and safe products that you can use during treatment! Guest Blog Post by the lovely Kelsey Bucci. Keep up with Kelsey on Instagram, @KelseyBucci. Still looking for a gift to support someone battling cancer? Join my insider list and save 10% off your first order!
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
MOUTH SORES ...they are like a portal to Chemo HELL. What if they could not only be treated but PREVENTED ? Oil Pulling is the magical answer, plus its cheap and easy.
Keep reading to discover 21 amazing gifts that will let them know they are in your thoughts throughout this difficult time.
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
Struggling to grow & style your short hair after chemo? Here are all the tips and products you need to grow and style your hair after chemo.
Chemobrain is the inability to focus, remember, or simply think as well as you did before your cancer diagnosis. These seven tips that may help.
During the darkest moments, it can be hard to imagine a life filled with joy and happiness. Don't give up hope. I promise there is hope and hair on the other side of your cancer journey. Keep reading to learn about my journey and my hair regrowth.
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
Struggling to grow & style your short hair after chemo? Here are all the tips and products you need to grow and style your hair after chemo.
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
Struggling to grow & style your short hair after chemo? Here are all the tips and products you need to grow and style your hair after chemo.
“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity.” - Gilda Radner Earlier this year, I was talking with my dear friend who was recently diagnosed with cancer and one of her biggest fears was not knowing what would happen next. Although I haven’t had cancer, I’ve had family members who’ve had it and other illnesses and truthfully other life situations where we didn’t know what would happen next. I remember telling my friend what I tell many of my coaching clients when they’re struggling with the unknown. There are no guarantees in any of our lives. Anything can change for the better (or obviously otherwise) in a moment. But, there is a perception that we somehow have control over our lives when we’re perfectly healthy or employed or married. As we all know, that is not the case. So, if you’re fighting cancer or supporting someone who has cancer and experiencing many of the unknowns in anticipation of treatment, surgery, or even a scan, I invite you to try one or all of the following approaches to help be with or recover from the fear and stress of not knowing: Focus on the Present Moment A year ago, I was in the hospital after an accident where doctors told me I was fortunate to be alive. My mind would jump to concern if I had created permanent damage to my body. But, I kept asking myself “what is true in this moment?” And, it was that I was alive and getting help. Look for the Blessing While in the hospital, I was experiencing many new and uncomfortable situations in order to heal. There was one machine that initially had a weird, almost irritating sound. But, I accepted the need for it, and I suddenly found the sound meditative and relaxing. Ask People for Support Your loved ones are desperate to be able to do something to help you feel better in a situation where no one feels in control. When I’ve asked for help in my darkest moments, I could see friends and family light up with the opportunity to be of service. Reframe Your Thinking They say fear and excitement stem from the same feeling within, but fear is the expectation of a negative outcome while excitement is the expectation of a positive outcome. So, take advantage of the fact that your current situation is known and choose to focus on the best possible outcome. Empower Yourself During times when I feel I have little control, I make a list of what I actually can control and what I can’t. Then, I rip up the “can’t control” list and get working on the list of things I can do to make a difference in my life even if it’s just a small step toward eating more nutritious food or sleeping more to get healthier. Write in a Journal Journaling can help clear our minds and make our thoughts and feelings more real and tangible. Although that can sound scary, it can help you process and regulate your emotions so you can actually move forward and feel more in control versus being overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. Because Love Note: We actually have the perfect journal for this! You can buy it, here. Create a List of Feel Good Activities Think of activities or rituals that make you feel good - - being in nature, drinking a favorite cup of tea, listening to uplifting music. Write these activities or items on separate pieces of paper and put them in a jar. Whenever you need to shift from a scary/anxious moment, pick one of these activities to enjoy. You can create a new association with what would normally be a painful moment. Although there is no assurance of what will happen in life next, hopefully some of these suggestions can leave you with a more relaxed state of mind and provide some comfort throughout your journey. About the Author: Rosie Guagliardo, the founder of InnerBrilliance Coaching, LLC, has loved being a life and career coach for over 12 years. Previously, she was in marketing and advertising for 18 years working closely with companies such as McDonald’s, Anheuser-Busch, and Unilever. Within her coaching practice, she works with high-achieving people to help them discover an easier way of living…where they can experience results for their life and career with more joy daily. She combines her Northwestern psychology degree along with her coaching education and advertising experience to help her clients create the life results they desire. Visit InnerBrillianceCoaching.com to learn more. STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP
Journaling Through Cancer - How To Do It I’ve been journaling on an off for my whole life. Some years I write every day, some years its just a few long entries, but either way, putting my thoughts, fears, and dreams on paper has always helped me. So when my friend, Jessica, was diagnosed with cancer I did the only thing I knew how to do - I made her a journal. I also made one for myself too! Shop my LOVE HEALS Journal, here. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be helpful in many different ways – especially if you’re living with cancer. Cancer is scary, confusing, and completely chaotic with all the doctors appointments and the emotions that come with it. There are lots of tests and appointments to attend, and that’s in addition to the rest of your normal daily activities. And if you are a mom, then just add to that! With all the rushing around, it can be hard to take a pause, and to really accept all you are going through. And lets be honest, some of us don’t want to! But putting pen to paper is a great way to sort it all out, or just get it all out, and either way, writing helps. Keeping a journal, even if it is only for a few minutes a day, will give you the chance to slow down and let out all that is happening inside of you. Why write when you have cancer: It relieves stress – letting it out is always better than keeping it in. You can clarify your thoughts – seeing it in front of you is always better than keeping things jumbled in your head. To focus on the good stuff – when you purposefully write it down, you focus on the good! Please don’t be intimidated about exactly how to journal. Your journal is whatever you want it to be. It can be a letter to yourself, a summary of your day, a record of your feelings, hopes and fears. There are lots of ways to do it. Here are a few quick tips if you are thinking of starting a cancer journal: Try to set aside a few minutes each day or at least a few times each week to journal, so you get into the habit of writing. It doesn’t have to be the same time of day. It sounds obvious, but date each entry. Cancer can make things like dates and times fade fast. If do you have trouble figuring out what to write, start simply record the date, weather, news events or family happenings and record your reactions to them, you will be amazed at what pours out after. Think of journaling as another therapy, but one for your mind. You are NOT wasting time! Don’t worry about grammar or spelling. Your journal is just for you, so make a mistake, cross out a word, and even scribble over something – there are no rules! When you get stuck, try adding some doodle, or drawings, or a quote that you like. I like to add in lyrics to a song – sometimes they say exactly hat I am feeling! Try playing relaxing music( you can download my RELAX playlist here) or light a candle while you write. I find that a warm cozy environment helps me be honest with myself. Don’t judge what you write, just write…I call it a “mind dump”. Just write whatever comes in the moment, no judgement! Be honest about your hopes, fears, dreams, frustrations and well, everything. Otherwise, what’s the point? Don’t know where to start? Here are a few journaling ideas: Start with one word – it could be you emotion for the day. Now describe why you feel that way Write down the things that you are worried about. NO need to be positive here, writing can help you work through the worry. What is the funniest thing that has happened to you during your treatment. I am thankful for - now fill in the blank Who showed up for you that you were surprised about? Write about it. Need a few more ideas? I created a blog with a few download-able pages from the LOVE HEALS Journal to get you started. Does some one you love have cancer? Gift them their own LOVE HEALS JOURNAL so they can start journaling: P.S. Are you a supporter of a loved one with cancer? Join my private support community HERE. STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
A great gift for the chemo patient is a cap to keep them warm. See how to make one in this easy sew fleece chemo cap tutorial. Handmade gifts always rock!
Since July, we’ve been in the hospital something like 4ish months total. Ugh. But I’ve figured out a few things to make life a bit easier when you’re living in the hospital. Hopefully this helps so…
Guest post by Dana Stewart of Dragonfly Angel Society I’ve had the unfortunate joy of being a cancer patient moved to cancer survivor and then had to watch as one of my closest friends was diagnosed with breast cancer within two years of me finishing treatment. Up until my diagnosis of breast cancer when I was 32 years old, I had not had much experience with cancer. My grandma died of lung cancer when I was 6 years old but that was about it. I also lived in a nice naïve world in which I was 100% sure I would never get cancer and never see anyone I love fight the battle either. It was a nice little place, this world I lived with my eyes blanketed over by pure ignorance. It’s been about 9 years since my diagnosis and a substantial amount has changed. I am no longer naïve on cancer. I’ve seen it first-hand now. It’s a scary, painful, fearful place that I wish no one would have to experience. What made the journey easier for me was all the support I received from friends and family. That was a game changer because although I knew no one my age that had experienced cancer, I felt so supported and not alone. Fast forward two years later and I found myself in the opposite position. A childhood friend of mine was diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 30 and once again I found myself dealing with young adult breast cancer, but this time, from the other side. Being a caregiver/friend of someone going through cancer puts a completely different perspective on cancer, at least it did for me. I knew what I needed as a cancer survivor, but now I was seeing the cancer survivor through the eyes of the caregiver. So, what to do? In all transparency, here, I wanted to run. I didn’t want to see someone I love face what I had just finished. It was terrifying to have to see someone else face cancer and I had no clue what to do. Instead, I took a step back and thought of all the things people did to support me as well as the things I wish I would have known or had people done when I was fighting cancer. Here are a few tips I’ve learned if you find yourself in the position of supporting a friend or family member facing cancer: Do not say “it’s all going to be okay.” Unless you are a fortune teller, you don’t know this to be the truth, so stay away from it. It’s the first thing you will think of – I thought it too, but it’s not helpful, I am sorry to say. Be yourself. The reason you are in this person’s life is because they love you for you. Don’t try to suddenly be the person you think they need because they are fighting cancer. Stay true to yourself. Trust me, this makes the fight easier for them…and for you. Treat them to something they love. I am not saying go out and buy them the world, but if they like to read, get the newest bestseller, if they like chocolate, buy them a sweet treat, etc. If they enjoy writing or journaling, buy them something beautiful to write in like the Love Heals journal. You get the idea. Laugh with them. I latched onto humor like it was a lifesaver. I made fun of everything from my bald head, to my forgetful mind (thank you chemo.) Follow the person’s lead here, but if they open up the door to laughter and humor, play along. It will help them and you too. Don’t run. It seems like a safe place to just run from them because you don’t know what to say or do. I don’t suggest this. It tells them you don’t care. Just because you don’t feel like you have the absolute perfect words to share about cancer, so what? Be a part of their life like the friend or family member you have always been to them. Trust me, they will want things as normal as possible. Stay away from “motivational” cancer stories and verbiage. This is hard to explain, but as I was going through treatment, I didn’t want to hear about “new normal” and I am just going to “have to deal with the changes in my life.” I hated all that. I hated hearing “you can’t get your old life back.” I am super well aware. However, at the time, it felt good just to get those words out. Don’t try to sugar coat the situation. Let the person grieve. This ties into point 6. Don’t be “Suzy Sunshine” every time you hear them talk about being scared, sad, fearful, etc. Let them speak it!! They are going through potentially one of the worst moments in their life and they are scared out of their minds. Telling them not to think the horrible thoughts that they are fearful of dying is not helpful. You may not want to hear it and they surely don’t want to say it, but it’s there and it’s in their mind. Let them speak it. Ask questions. Feel out what the person is willing or not willing to share. I appreciated it when people wanted to know what was happening, how I felt, how the treatment was going, etc. I had no problem chatting about it. See where this goes. Some people will be open to share and some won’t. Both are just fine. Do not share stories of unhappy endings. I feel this is obvious, but you would be surprised. I always got one or two of the “my friend had cancer too, but….she died.” Not helpful. Nothing else necessary to say here. Talk about the happenings in your life too. I literally hated when people refused to tell me about their day to day lives. They would say “oh you have so much worse things happening than hearing about how my car broke down.” No no!! I LOVED to hear about everyone’s daily lives. It made me feel normal and sane. Trust me on this one. You know your friend or family member best. Feel out the situation. If you are open to observe the situation and read what the person you are supporting needs, you will do just fine. Most important, don’t change who you are for them as they go through cancer. They need you to be you! That’s the absolute most important thing you can do as a caregiver in the cancer realm. Guest post by Dana Stewart of Dragonfly Angel Society LOOKING TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP OUR BEST CANCER GIFTS.
“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity.” - Gilda Radner Earlier this year, I was talking with my dear friend who was recently diagnosed with cancer and one of her biggest fears was not knowing what would happen next. Although I haven’t had cancer, I’ve had family members who’ve had it and other illnesses and truthfully other life situations where we didn’t know what would happen next. I remember telling my friend what I tell many of my coaching clients when they’re struggling with the unknown. There are no guarantees in any of our lives. Anything can change for the better (or obviously otherwise) in a moment. But, there is a perception that we somehow have control over our lives when we’re perfectly healthy or employed or married. As we all know, that is not the case. So, if you’re fighting cancer or supporting someone who has cancer and experiencing many of the unknowns in anticipation of treatment, surgery, or even a scan, I invite you to try one or all of the following approaches to help be with or recover from the fear and stress of not knowing: Focus on the Present Moment A year ago, I was in the hospital after an accident where doctors told me I was fortunate to be alive. My mind would jump to concern if I had created permanent damage to my body. But, I kept asking myself “what is true in this moment?” And, it was that I was alive and getting help. Look for the Blessing While in the hospital, I was experiencing many new and uncomfortable situations in order to heal. There was one machine that initially had a weird, almost irritating sound. But, I accepted the need for it, and I suddenly found the sound meditative and relaxing. Ask People for Support Your loved ones are desperate to be able to do something to help you feel better in a situation where no one feels in control. When I’ve asked for help in my darkest moments, I could see friends and family light up with the opportunity to be of service. Reframe Your Thinking They say fear and excitement stem from the same feeling within, but fear is the expectation of a negative outcome while excitement is the expectation of a positive outcome. So, take advantage of the fact that your current situation is known and choose to focus on the best possible outcome. Empower Yourself During times when I feel I have little control, I make a list of what I actually can control and what I can’t. Then, I rip up the “can’t control” list and get working on the list of things I can do to make a difference in my life even if it’s just a small step toward eating more nutritious food or sleeping more to get healthier. Write in a Journal Journaling can help clear our minds and make our thoughts and feelings more real and tangible. Although that can sound scary, it can help you process and regulate your emotions so you can actually move forward and feel more in control versus being overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. Because Love Note: We actually have the perfect journal for this! You can buy it, here. Create a List of Feel Good Activities Think of activities or rituals that make you feel good - - being in nature, drinking a favorite cup of tea, listening to uplifting music. Write these activities or items on separate pieces of paper and put them in a jar. Whenever you need to shift from a scary/anxious moment, pick one of these activities to enjoy. You can create a new association with what would normally be a painful moment. Although there is no assurance of what will happen in life next, hopefully some of these suggestions can leave you with a more relaxed state of mind and provide some comfort throughout your journey. About the Author: Rosie Guagliardo, the founder of InnerBrilliance Coaching, LLC, has loved being a life and career coach for over 12 years. Previously, she was in marketing and advertising for 18 years working closely with companies such as McDonald’s, Anheuser-Busch, and Unilever. Within her coaching practice, she works with high-achieving people to help them discover an easier way of living…where they can experience results for their life and career with more joy daily. She combines her Northwestern psychology degree along with her coaching education and advertising experience to help her clients create the life results they desire. Visit InnerBrillianceCoaching.com to learn more. STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP
“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity.” - Gilda Radner Earlier this year, I was talking with my dear friend who was recently diagnosed with cancer and one of her biggest fears was not knowing what would happen next. Although I haven’t had cancer, I’ve had family members who’ve had it and other illnesses and truthfully other life situations where we didn’t know what would happen next. I remember telling my friend what I tell many of my coaching clients when they’re struggling with the unknown. There are no guarantees in any of our lives. Anything can change for the better (or obviously otherwise) in a moment. But, there is a perception that we somehow have control over our lives when we’re perfectly healthy or employed or married. As we all know, that is not the case. So, if you’re fighting cancer or supporting someone who has cancer and experiencing many of the unknowns in anticipation of treatment, surgery, or even a scan, I invite you to try one or all of the following approaches to help be with or recover from the fear and stress of not knowing: Focus on the Present Moment A year ago, I was in the hospital after an accident where doctors told me I was fortunate to be alive. My mind would jump to concern if I had created permanent damage to my body. But, I kept asking myself “what is true in this moment?” And, it was that I was alive and getting help. Look for the Blessing While in the hospital, I was experiencing many new and uncomfortable situations in order to heal. There was one machine that initially had a weird, almost irritating sound. But, I accepted the need for it, and I suddenly found the sound meditative and relaxing. Ask People for Support Your loved ones are desperate to be able to do something to help you feel better in a situation where no one feels in control. When I’ve asked for help in my darkest moments, I could see friends and family light up with the opportunity to be of service. Reframe Your Thinking They say fear and excitement stem from the same feeling within, but fear is the expectation of a negative outcome while excitement is the expectation of a positive outcome. So, take advantage of the fact that your current situation is known and choose to focus on the best possible outcome. Empower Yourself During times when I feel I have little control, I make a list of what I actually can control and what I can’t. Then, I rip up the “can’t control” list and get working on the list of things I can do to make a difference in my life even if it’s just a small step toward eating more nutritious food or sleeping more to get healthier. Write in a Journal Journaling can help clear our minds and make our thoughts and feelings more real and tangible. Although that can sound scary, it can help you process and regulate your emotions so you can actually move forward and feel more in control versus being overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. Because Love Note: We actually have the perfect journal for this! You can buy it, here. Create a List of Feel Good Activities Think of activities or rituals that make you feel good - - being in nature, drinking a favorite cup of tea, listening to uplifting music. Write these activities or items on separate pieces of paper and put them in a jar. Whenever you need to shift from a scary/anxious moment, pick one of these activities to enjoy. You can create a new association with what would normally be a painful moment. Although there is no assurance of what will happen in life next, hopefully some of these suggestions can leave you with a more relaxed state of mind and provide some comfort throughout your journey. About the Author: Rosie Guagliardo, the founder of InnerBrilliance Coaching, LLC, has loved being a life and career coach for over 12 years. Previously, she was in marketing and advertising for 18 years working closely with companies such as McDonald’s, Anheuser-Busch, and Unilever. Within her coaching practice, she works with high-achieving people to help them discover an easier way of living…where they can experience results for their life and career with more joy daily. She combines her Northwestern psychology degree along with her coaching education and advertising experience to help her clients create the life results they desire. Visit InnerBrillianceCoaching.com to learn more. STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP
Guest post by Dana Stewart of Dragonfly Angel Society I’ve had the unfortunate joy of being a cancer patient moved to cancer survivor and then had to watch as one of my closest friends was diagnosed with breast cancer within two years of me finishing treatment. Up until my diagnosis of breast cancer when I was 32 years old, I had not had much experience with cancer. My grandma died of lung cancer when I was 6 years old but that was about it. I also lived in a nice naïve world in which I was 100% sure I would never get cancer and never see anyone I love fight the battle either. It was a nice little place, this world I lived with my eyes blanketed over by pure ignorance. It’s been about 9 years since my diagnosis and a substantial amount has changed. I am no longer naïve on cancer. I’ve seen it first-hand now. It’s a scary, painful, fearful place that I wish no one would have to experience. What made the journey easier for me was all the support I received from friends and family. That was a game changer because although I knew no one my age that had experienced cancer, I felt so supported and not alone. Fast forward two years later and I found myself in the opposite position. A childhood friend of mine was diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 30 and once again I found myself dealing with young adult breast cancer, but this time, from the other side. Being a caregiver/friend of someone going through cancer puts a completely different perspective on cancer, at least it did for me. I knew what I needed as a cancer survivor, but now I was seeing the cancer survivor through the eyes of the caregiver. So, what to do? In all transparency, here, I wanted to run. I didn’t want to see someone I love face what I had just finished. It was terrifying to have to see someone else face cancer and I had no clue what to do. Instead, I took a step back and thought of all the things people did to support me as well as the things I wish I would have known or had people done when I was fighting cancer. Here are a few tips I’ve learned if you find yourself in the position of supporting a friend or family member facing cancer: Do not say “it’s all going to be okay.” Unless you are a fortune teller, you don’t know this to be the truth, so stay away from it. It’s the first thing you will think of – I thought it too, but it’s not helpful, I am sorry to say. Be yourself. The reason you are in this person’s life is because they love you for you. Don’t try to suddenly be the person you think they need because they are fighting cancer. Stay true to yourself. Trust me, this makes the fight easier for them…and for you. Treat them to something they love. I am not saying go out and buy them the world, but if they like to read, get the newest bestseller, if they like chocolate, buy them a sweet treat, etc. If they enjoy writing or journaling, buy them something beautiful to write in like the Love Heals journal. You get the idea. Laugh with them. I latched onto humor like it was a lifesaver. I made fun of everything from my bald head, to my forgetful mind (thank you chemo.) Follow the person’s lead here, but if they open up the door to laughter and humor, play along. It will help them and you too. Don’t run. It seems like a safe place to just run from them because you don’t know what to say or do. I don’t suggest this. It tells them you don’t care. Just because you don’t feel like you have the absolute perfect words to share about cancer, so what? Be a part of their life like the friend or family member you have always been to them. Trust me, they will want things as normal as possible. Stay away from “motivational” cancer stories and verbiage. This is hard to explain, but as I was going through treatment, I didn’t want to hear about “new normal” and I am just going to “have to deal with the changes in my life.” I hated all that. I hated hearing “you can’t get your old life back.” I am super well aware. However, at the time, it felt good just to get those words out. Don’t try to sugar coat the situation. Let the person grieve. This ties into point 6. Don’t be “Suzy Sunshine” every time you hear them talk about being scared, sad, fearful, etc. Let them speak it!! They are going through potentially one of the worst moments in their life and they are scared out of their minds. Telling them not to think the horrible thoughts that they are fearful of dying is not helpful. You may not want to hear it and they surely don’t want to say it, but it’s there and it’s in their mind. Let them speak it. Ask questions. Feel out what the person is willing or not willing to share. I appreciated it when people wanted to know what was happening, how I felt, how the treatment was going, etc. I had no problem chatting about it. See where this goes. Some people will be open to share and some won’t. Both are just fine. Do not share stories of unhappy endings. I feel this is obvious, but you would be surprised. I always got one or two of the “my friend had cancer too, but….she died.” Not helpful. Nothing else necessary to say here. Talk about the happenings in your life too. I literally hated when people refused to tell me about their day to day lives. They would say “oh you have so much worse things happening than hearing about how my car broke down.” No no!! I LOVED to hear about everyone’s daily lives. It made me feel normal and sane. Trust me on this one. You know your friend or family member best. Feel out the situation. If you are open to observe the situation and read what the person you are supporting needs, you will do just fine. Most important, don’t change who you are for them as they go through cancer. They need you to be you! That’s the absolute most important thing you can do as a caregiver in the cancer realm. Guest post by Dana Stewart of Dragonfly Angel Society LOOKING TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP OUR BEST CANCER GIFTS.
Struggling to grow & style your short hair after chemo? Here are all the tips and products you need to grow and style your hair after chemo.
A cancer diagnosis is overwhelming! Here are some tips on coping mechanisms during cancer treatment, as shared by a fellow survivor.
A former beauty editor and breast cancer survivor shares the makeup tips that kept her feeling like herself even when undergoing chemotherapy.
With the right tools and resources, you can prepare with confidence mentally and physically for your mastectomy. Here is insight from a breast cancer survivor.
Curling short hair can be intimidating but it doesn't have to be. Let me show you how to create beachy waves with this curling wand tutorial.
It's hard to know what to expect during chemo. As a cancer survivor, I want to help you navigate with 12 tips and tricks.
Cancer is a tough and tricky disease that has significantly impacted many members of my family, including myself. We know first hand what it’s like to support loved ones with cancer and what it is like to be the loved one with cancer. I was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer in 2017 and endured months of treatments, radiation, and chemotherapy. I recently completed breast reconstruction surgery this past April. My name is Carrie and I’m a cancer thriver here to help you support your loved ones battling the ugly C. My Favorite Do’s and Don’ts of Supporting a Cancer Fighter: Do Celebrate Milestones: Upon completion of my chemotherapy treatments, I didn’t get to ring a bell with staff or my loved ones. I was really wanted to be recognized for all of my courage, strength, and hard work. Bell ringing’s don’t always happen, so it’s important to celebrate milestones with your loved ones that are fighting cancer. A few suggestions for celebrating accomplishments: sending cards and notes, making phone calls, sending or bringing by little gifts, like the Love Heals Journal or the Big Hug Lap Blanket. Do Offer Communication: Now that I am almost done with my breast cancer journey, I have had family and friends tell me that at the beginning of my diagnosis with breast cancer they did not know if they should call or not, because they did not want to bother me or weren’t sure if I wanted to talk about what I was going through. I really wanted to be acknowledged and not talked about behind my back with whisper. My advice:If you’re not sure when to call, simply send them a note or an uplifting card. Let them know that you are thinking of them and that when they are ready to talk that you are there to listen to them. A few don’ts: Please avoid giving advice or comparing your loved one’s cancer to anybody else’s. Everyone’s cancer journey is unique, especially in how it may affect them personally and emotionally. My last snippet of advice for you is this: Don’t hesitate. Don’t wait to make people feel loved, appreciated and needed. Best of health to all of you, Carrie R. STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? Shop our best cancer gifts
Here is a guide on how to style your short hair after hair regrowth post chemo. Find inspiration for your own unique hair.
Over the last two years as my hair has grown back following chemo, I have become adjusted to the shorter length. I learned how to style my hair at each stage and I adjusted my
These genius tips have me feeling woozy.
A note from Arona, founder of itsbecauselove: As these two years collide, I have been having some (read: A LOT OF) anxiety around all I did wrong in my business last year, and even more about all that could go wrong in 2019. Running a business is hard, and if you get lost in the past or future, you miss what you can do right now in the present to help it grow. So, I have been spending some time reading about relaxation techniques that can help keep me in the present and out of the mistakes of my past. There is a TON of information out there, but this one article stuck out to me. At first when I read it, I felt silly following the steps, but then after a few minutes IT WORKED. I wish I would have known this when Jessica was alive. She often had anxiety about her cancer, and I am sure this would have helped. Do you have someone in your life battling cancer that could use a little stress relief? Using these 5 steps may help! #itsbecauselove Here's a cute idea: Write out the five steps for a friend and gift them this Big Hug Lap Blanket with customizable attachment tags (see above). You could decorate a tag for each step! This is a great way to wrap your friend in love and help them remember the coping technique for themselves. 5-4-3-2-1 Coping Technique By: Jordan Killebrew 5...4...3...2...1 I want relief! There are 5 steps to take to help create progress towards finding symptom reduction and/or relief. Taking these 5 steps might not be overnight magic but can significantly help reduce symptoms of anxiety, trauma triggers, and other unwanted emotions or thoughts. With any type of trigger, emotion, or thought that needs coping skills, it is important to always remember the breath! Like in yoga, slow, deep, long breathing can help maintain a sense of calm or help return to a calmer state. Start with deep breathing as the introduction to any coping skill. Breathe in for 5 seconds, hold the breath for 5 seconds, and breathe out for 5 seconds. Continue this pattern until you find your thoughts slowing down or until necessary. I suggest at least 5 rounds of these sets but more is of course allowed and encouraged. After you are able to find your breath, go through the numbers in order to help ground yourself in present thinking through external factors: 5: Acknowledge FIVE things you see around you. Maybe it is a bird, maybe it is pencil, maybe it is a spot on the ceiling, however big or small, state 5 things you see. 4: Acknowledge FOUR things you can touch around you. Maybe this is your hair, hands, ground, grass, pillow, etc, whatever it may be, list out the 4 things you can feel. 3: Acknowledge THREE things you hear. This needs to be external, do not focus on your thoughts; maybe you can hear a clock, a car, a dog park. or maybe you hear your tummy rumbling, internal noises that make external sounds can count, what is audible in the moment is what you list. 2: Acknowledge TWO things you can smell: This one might be hard if you are not in a stimulating environment, if you cannot automatically sniff something out, walk nearby to find a scent. Maybe you walk to your bathroom to smell soap or outside to smell anything in nature, or even could be as simple as leaning over and smelling a pillow on the couch, or a pencil. Whatever it may be, take in the smells around you. 1. Acknowledge ONE thing you can taste. What does the inside of your mouth taste like, gum, coffee, or the sandwich from lunch? Focus on your mouth as the last step and take in what you can taste. These five steps are a way to ground yourself in the NOW! Take you out of your head and help stop you flooded thoughts. In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy it is believed that your thoughts are directly linked to how you feel and although we feel like we lose control of our thought processes, we have tools that can help us gain back a sense of control and lead to healthier thought patterns. In moments of anxiety or triggered trauma it is important to stay present focused to help find symptom relief. Hopefully this coping technique can help you or someone you know stay present, stay grounded, and stay healthy. Adapted from: https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-article/grounding-techniques-article STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP
Enhance your well-being with environmental wellness tips and focus on self-improvement. Explore challenge ideas for personal growth and boost your personal development journey. Dive into daily wellness tips and books on personal growth. Self growth is about learning how to have self love on your journey.
Have you seen the new features at Pic Monkey? I must say, its new collage features are AH - MAZING! They offer super flexible layouts that literally let you build you're own collage dimensions and arrangements. Crazy flexible! It is far superior to the old Picnik and basically rivals what I can do in Photoshop Elements (PE). Here is an example of a collage I whipped up in less than five minutes on PicMonkey. Pretty good for a free photo editor and only five minutes of my time! With a few more minutes of attention, I could have evened out the face sizes and zoomed/cropped the center image. (This collage was just a test run.) I made a nearly identical looking collage for family earlier this month with Photoshop Elements, except I made the improvements listed above (evened out the zoom ratio on the head shots and cropped in the center image). Yes, the version I made in PE is slightly better, but it took so much, MUCH longer to create. I'd show you my photoshop version for comparison, but I don't feel like blurring out her full name (which is included on the "real" one I made for family) so you'll just have to take my word that the new PicMonkey collage features are nearly identical to what I can do in PE. Go check it out at picmonkey.com! Mischele
Cancer is a tough and tricky disease that has significantly impacted many members of my family, including myself. We know first hand what it’s like to support loved ones with cancer and what it is like to be the loved one with cancer. I was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer in 2017 and endured months of treatments, radiation, and chemotherapy. I recently completed breast reconstruction surgery this past April. My name is Carrie and I’m a cancer thriver here to help you support your loved ones battling the ugly C. My Favorite Do’s and Don’ts of Supporting a Cancer Fighter: Do Celebrate Milestones: Upon completion of my chemotherapy treatments, I didn’t get to ring a bell with staff or my loved ones. I was really wanted to be recognized for all of my courage, strength, and hard work. Bell ringing’s don’t always happen, so it’s important to celebrate milestones with your loved ones that are fighting cancer. A few suggestions for celebrating accomplishments: sending cards and notes, making phone calls, sending or bringing by little gifts, like the Love Heals Journal or the Big Hug Lap Blanket. Do Offer Communication: Now that I am almost done with my breast cancer journey, I have had family and friends tell me that at the beginning of my diagnosis with breast cancer they did not know if they should call or not, because they did not want to bother me or weren’t sure if I wanted to talk about what I was going through. I really wanted to be acknowledged and not talked about behind my back with whisper. My advice:If you’re not sure when to call, simply send them a note or an uplifting card. Let them know that you are thinking of them and that when they are ready to talk that you are there to listen to them. A few don’ts: Please avoid giving advice or comparing your loved one’s cancer to anybody else’s. Everyone’s cancer journey is unique, especially in how it may affect them personally and emotionally. My last snippet of advice for you is this: Don’t hesitate. Don’t wait to make people feel loved, appreciated and needed. Best of health to all of you, Carrie R. STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? Shop our best cancer gifts
Guest post by Dana Stewart of Dragonfly Angel Society I’ve had the unfortunate joy of being a cancer patient moved to cancer survivor and then had to watch as one of my closest friends was diagnosed with breast cancer within two years of me finishing treatment. Up until my diagnosis of breast cancer when I was 32 years old, I had not had much experience with cancer. My grandma died of lung cancer when I was 6 years old but that was about it. I also lived in a nice naïve world in which I was 100% sure I would never get cancer and never see anyone I love fight the battle either. It was a nice little place, this world I lived with my eyes blanketed over by pure ignorance. It’s been about 9 years since my diagnosis and a substantial amount has changed. I am no longer naïve on cancer. I’ve seen it first-hand now. It’s a scary, painful, fearful place that I wish no one would have to experience. What made the journey easier for me was all the support I received from friends and family. That was a game changer because although I knew no one my age that had experienced cancer, I felt so supported and not alone. Fast forward two years later and I found myself in the opposite position. A childhood friend of mine was diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 30 and once again I found myself dealing with young adult breast cancer, but this time, from the other side. Being a caregiver/friend of someone going through cancer puts a completely different perspective on cancer, at least it did for me. I knew what I needed as a cancer survivor, but now I was seeing the cancer survivor through the eyes of the caregiver. So, what to do? In all transparency, here, I wanted to run. I didn’t want to see someone I love face what I had just finished. It was terrifying to have to see someone else face cancer and I had no clue what to do. Instead, I took a step back and thought of all the things people did to support me as well as the things I wish I would have known or had people done when I was fighting cancer. Here are a few tips I’ve learned if you find yourself in the position of supporting a friend or family member facing cancer: Do not say “it’s all going to be okay.” Unless you are a fortune teller, you don’t know this to be the truth, so stay away from it. It’s the first thing you will think of – I thought it too, but it’s not helpful, I am sorry to say. Be yourself. The reason you are in this person’s life is because they love you for you. Don’t try to suddenly be the person you think they need because they are fighting cancer. Stay true to yourself. Trust me, this makes the fight easier for them…and for you. Treat them to something they love. I am not saying go out and buy them the world, but if they like to read, get the newest bestseller, if they like chocolate, buy them a sweet treat, etc. If they enjoy writing or journaling, buy them something beautiful to write in like the Love Heals journal. You get the idea. Laugh with them. I latched onto humor like it was a lifesaver. I made fun of everything from my bald head, to my forgetful mind (thank you chemo.) Follow the person’s lead here, but if they open up the door to laughter and humor, play along. It will help them and you too. Don’t run. It seems like a safe place to just run from them because you don’t know what to say or do. I don’t suggest this. It tells them you don’t care. Just because you don’t feel like you have the absolute perfect words to share about cancer, so what? Be a part of their life like the friend or family member you have always been to them. Trust me, they will want things as normal as possible. Stay away from “motivational” cancer stories and verbiage. This is hard to explain, but as I was going through treatment, I didn’t want to hear about “new normal” and I am just going to “have to deal with the changes in my life.” I hated all that. I hated hearing “you can’t get your old life back.” I am super well aware. However, at the time, it felt good just to get those words out. Don’t try to sugar coat the situation. Let the person grieve. This ties into point 6. Don’t be “Suzy Sunshine” every time you hear them talk about being scared, sad, fearful, etc. Let them speak it!! They are going through potentially one of the worst moments in their life and they are scared out of their minds. Telling them not to think the horrible thoughts that they are fearful of dying is not helpful. You may not want to hear it and they surely don’t want to say it, but it’s there and it’s in their mind. Let them speak it. Ask questions. Feel out what the person is willing or not willing to share. I appreciated it when people wanted to know what was happening, how I felt, how the treatment was going, etc. I had no problem chatting about it. See where this goes. Some people will be open to share and some won’t. Both are just fine. Do not share stories of unhappy endings. I feel this is obvious, but you would be surprised. I always got one or two of the “my friend had cancer too, but….she died.” Not helpful. Nothing else necessary to say here. Talk about the happenings in your life too. I literally hated when people refused to tell me about their day to day lives. They would say “oh you have so much worse things happening than hearing about how my car broke down.” No no!! I LOVED to hear about everyone’s daily lives. It made me feel normal and sane. Trust me on this one. You know your friend or family member best. Feel out the situation. If you are open to observe the situation and read what the person you are supporting needs, you will do just fine. Most important, don’t change who you are for them as they go through cancer. They need you to be you! That’s the absolute most important thing you can do as a caregiver in the cancer realm. Guest post by Dana Stewart of Dragonfly Angel Society LOOKING TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP OUR BEST CANCER GIFTS.
“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity.” - Gilda Radner Earlier this year, I was talking with my dear friend who was recently diagnosed with cancer and one of her biggest fears was not knowing what would happen next. Although I haven’t had cancer, I’ve had family members who’ve had it and other illnesses and truthfully other life situations where we didn’t know what would happen next. I remember telling my friend what I tell many of my coaching clients when they’re struggling with the unknown. There are no guarantees in any of our lives. Anything can change for the better (or obviously otherwise) in a moment. But, there is a perception that we somehow have control over our lives when we’re perfectly healthy or employed or married. As we all know, that is not the case. So, if you’re fighting cancer or supporting someone who has cancer and experiencing many of the unknowns in anticipation of treatment, surgery, or even a scan, I invite you to try one or all of the following approaches to help be with or recover from the fear and stress of not knowing: Focus on the Present Moment A year ago, I was in the hospital after an accident where doctors told me I was fortunate to be alive. My mind would jump to concern if I had created permanent damage to my body. But, I kept asking myself “what is true in this moment?” And, it was that I was alive and getting help. Look for the Blessing While in the hospital, I was experiencing many new and uncomfortable situations in order to heal. There was one machine that initially had a weird, almost irritating sound. But, I accepted the need for it, and I suddenly found the sound meditative and relaxing. Ask People for Support Your loved ones are desperate to be able to do something to help you feel better in a situation where no one feels in control. When I’ve asked for help in my darkest moments, I could see friends and family light up with the opportunity to be of service. Reframe Your Thinking They say fear and excitement stem from the same feeling within, but fear is the expectation of a negative outcome while excitement is the expectation of a positive outcome. So, take advantage of the fact that your current situation is known and choose to focus on the best possible outcome. Empower Yourself During times when I feel I have little control, I make a list of what I actually can control and what I can’t. Then, I rip up the “can’t control” list and get working on the list of things I can do to make a difference in my life even if it’s just a small step toward eating more nutritious food or sleeping more to get healthier. Write in a Journal Journaling can help clear our minds and make our thoughts and feelings more real and tangible. Although that can sound scary, it can help you process and regulate your emotions so you can actually move forward and feel more in control versus being overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. Because Love Note: We actually have the perfect journal for this! You can buy it, here. Create a List of Feel Good Activities Think of activities or rituals that make you feel good - - being in nature, drinking a favorite cup of tea, listening to uplifting music. Write these activities or items on separate pieces of paper and put them in a jar. Whenever you need to shift from a scary/anxious moment, pick one of these activities to enjoy. You can create a new association with what would normally be a painful moment. Although there is no assurance of what will happen in life next, hopefully some of these suggestions can leave you with a more relaxed state of mind and provide some comfort throughout your journey. About the Author: Rosie Guagliardo, the founder of InnerBrilliance Coaching, LLC, has loved being a life and career coach for over 12 years. Previously, she was in marketing and advertising for 18 years working closely with companies such as McDonald’s, Anheuser-Busch, and Unilever. Within her coaching practice, she works with high-achieving people to help them discover an easier way of living…where they can experience results for their life and career with more joy daily. She combines her Northwestern psychology degree along with her coaching education and advertising experience to help her clients create the life results they desire. Visit InnerBrillianceCoaching.com to learn more. STILL LOOKING FOR A GIFT TO SUPPORT SOMEONE BATTLING CANCER? SHOP
