Instant Recall
There I was sitting with her, listening to her talk about her cancer. The wig she’s wearing is very life-like. It’s very close to what her real hair color was and if you didn’t know she lost her real hair to chemo, you’d think she’d just come from a morning at the salon. Her face is swollen from the drugs that come with the treatments. She hates being so bloated, but I reassured her, it was only temporary. The bigger question is, how long is temporary?
She talked about how much one shot brings on such intense bone pain. I suggested a few things that might relieve some of those aches. One thing led to another and before I knew it, I was a care-giver again.
Use straws when you drink. Fluids are so important and even if you don’t feel like drinking, taking liquid through a straw makes it so much easier. Chew spearmint gum. It will settle your stomach after chemo. Protein; eat it. The body needs it during treatment. If you can’t eat, make a protein shake. Add ice cream, add calories. Don’t forget the ginger, it’s good for digestion. Stay comfortable. Wear your favorite sweats; soft and well-worn.
That’s the way the conversation went. The list on the paper was long.
As I was driving home, I remembered about the foot rubs. Oh, how Leroy loved those foot rubs.
I’ll have to email her.
May 8, 2012 @ 4:02 pm
I know those kinds of conversations must break your heart and make it soar all at the same time. Caregivers just go into the mode when needed without thinking…that’s a good thing.
May 8, 2012 @ 2:54 pm
I don’t know the whole story behind this post – but there’s something very familiar in your description of moving from conversing to care giving, and the tips, and how the mind keeps trying to find ways of making things better. It cannot be easy, but each person really does need that special attention and encouragement. We try to give it through our online community, and you are doing a great job helping others through hard times.
May 8, 2012 @ 11:28 am
Glad that you could share your wisdom with her. As you know, many in the fight don’t have anyone who really knows what may help. It can be such a lonely place even when surrounded by so many well meaning people. You’ve walked the path and now sharing with others. Keep up the good work, Laurie. I hope that these moments with the cancer patients, sad though they may be, are blessings to you.