Caregivers

February 16 was awesome for two reasons this year.  It's my birthday, and I found out it was National Caregivers Day! Caregivers are an important part of getting through cancer.  They can be a loved one or a close friend(s).  They see us through the physical and mental rollercoaster that takes place at diagnosis and treatment, often helping with doctors appointments, grocery shopping, and other daily activities.  

My husband and my parents were my caregivers.  I was able to focus on myself so that I could get better.  Friends dropped off meals, took kids to school, sent uplifting cards, and would stop by to say hello.  A few of my favorite memories with my caregivers:

 1) Trying on crazy blonde wigs for me-yes, even my Dad! They looked hilarious.  

2)  Going in for my first wig fitting, crying when my Mom put a Dorothy Hamill wig on me and then laughing when the wig fitter said my Mom had an abnormally large head, and "with a head that size", she would have to put in a special order.  

3) My Mom following me to the bathroom on chemo day, "just in case" I needed help, and when I assured her that I could pee by myself, even with my IV's in and the damn awkward pole, I shut the bathroom door...only to hear her on the other side saying "I'm still here!", and 

4) B going to chemo with me just so we could be together to celebrate our 10th anniversary with cake for everyone on the chemo floor. 

While being a caregiver can be overwhelming and lonely at times, it is okay to take time for yourself!  Your physical and mental health are important, too.  For more information on the role of caregiving, please see the following links:

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/caregivers.html 

https://canceradvocacy.org/resources/ 

https://www.caregiveraction.org/

World Cancer Day 2024

 

This day is for those who’s lives have been touched by cancer.  Unfortunately, all of us know at least one person affected by this beast.  Currently, there is not enough research being conducted on all cancers, and inequities in cancer diagnosis, care, and survivorship are growing.  

Cancer rates are increasing in young people-in fact, this week I read that colon cancer is on the rise in young adults in the United States! More research means more knowledge about cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship.  The figure below lists ways that we can reduce the chances of cancer.  

I’m going to be honest. When I interpret this table, the I see myself saying “I don’t smoke, my weight is ok, I don’t drink much, I use sunscreen…”. I wish I had the answers as to why some people (unfortunately) go through cancer, and others don’t.  However, having gone through cancer, I do my best to prevent what I can from getting it again.