The Cancer Catch All

“Life interrupted.” It’s a bold phrase for what getting a cancer diagnosis and going through treatment actually becomes--and in the fraction of a second. But it’s hardly hyperbole, as I’ve come to understand more and more since I first starting caring for patients with leukemia. Initially, I was blown away at how often they had to come to clinic, often two or even three times a week. I remember thinking how disrupted their lives had become. My fresh-out-of-school observation, while true, was narrow at best. Soon, my sense of “disrupted” shifted to “interrupted”--because that’s, frankly, what life with cancer is: Life as you knew it interrupted. The onslaught is sudden and unavoidable: There is so much to consider, to take in, to think about, to decide. Although many aspects of the cancer journey are eventually less overwhelming, at first it’s like drinking from a fire hose. Many cancer related topics do get discussed in clinics and with providers but many are not. It was years before I knew that chemotherapy induced hair loss can be painful. And it wasn’t until I suffered from nausea for months on end while pregnant that I fully understood what living with such side effects must really feel like. Here, in The Cancer Catch All, we will talk about it all. Nothing is off limits. I hope that this will serve as a space for the witnessing and embracing of fresh perspectives, of the gathering of practical knowledge and insight, and the feeling of camaraderie on your journey.

Featured

Gifts; what to give when someone is diagnosed with cancer

When someone you love is diagnosed with cancer you want to help. There are so many ways to help but it’s sometimes hard to know what kind of help is going to be the most impactful. There is the “let me pick up your kids after school” help. There is the, “I am bringing over several frozen meals to have when you need something for dinner” help. Sometimes that kind of hands-on help isn’t possible, but you can still let your loved one know you care. I have several suggestions for gifts you can give your loved one affected by cancer to let them know you are supporting them and thinking about them even if you cannot always be there physically.

Essential Oils for Cancer Warriors and Caregivers

Clia Tierney is a beloved friend but she is also a Transformational Coach, Yoga and Mindfulness Instructor and wellness advocate. Clia and I recently went to on a yoga retreat together and little did I know that Clia was going to show up with her arsenal of essential oils. It was something I knew nothing about. But at every turn, for every minor problem I had, Clia had an essential oil to offer up. I was very intrigued. I purchased a diffuser and several oils when I got back from our trip. I have the diffuser in my office and I turn it on every morning. I diffuse lavender, peppermint or various citrus oils. It feels like the right way to start my day and helps me to feel awake and invigorated. I am hooked. Given all her expertise and wisdom, I asked Clia to share with all of you. There is so much benefit to be derived from essential oils for both patients and caregivers.

Cancer Isn't All Bad

Cancer sucks! But, the truth is that there is also powerful good that can come with a cancer diagnosis. I recently said that to a patient who has just completed her treatment for breast cancer. Her hair has returned and she is rebounding from what has been a very difficult year. When I said that to her, she quickly agreed and told me the following story.

Hair Loss: A Cancer Conundrum

For years I have been educating people prior to receiving chemo and informing them of the possibility of hair loss. Initially, I was surprised by the depth of emotional reaction to the loss of hair; I didn’t understand why this was such a big deal. Not faced with losing my own hair, I was thinking about it purely from the rational, bigger picture perspective. I thought “hey, we can cure your cancer with this chemo and that is what is important...hair loss is insignificant if it means that this treatment can save your life!”