Things That Keep Me Afloat During Chemo – Comfort Items and Support
As I am currently undergoing 6 months of chemotherapy for breast cancer, I thought these ideas might help someone in similar shoes to get through this obstacle a little bit easier.
I’ve collected in this blog all the things and tools that help me cope at home during recovery.
1. Fan
If it’s winter, you may ignore me. But when there’s even a ray of sun outside—you need to get a fan.
Do you have A/C? Doesn’t matter.
A fan gives you air. It helps with shortness of breath, especially when you feel (like I felt) that a 100kg man is laying comfortably on top of your chest nonstop (and it wasn’t my husband).
2. Comfort Tools
A tumbler makes sipping so much more comfortable than a glass or bottle.
A cozy blanket you can wrap yourself in after a rough session (look around the webshop, there are some great products: comfortthroughcancer.com).
Comfy clothing, a good pair of sneakers for easier walking, and 100% cotton underwear or shirts are must-haves.
3. Fruits
I noticed I feel more energized (trust me, when you’re at 0%, any improvement is noticeable) when I have a cup with my favorite berries.
**Blackberries, strawberries, blueberries—**I munch on them all day.
4. Eating Small Portions Often
My heart was pounding, and I felt like I was on a sick rollercoaster trying to eat a full meal like I used to.
Your body is under pressure, and digestion is just another task to handle—so make it easy.
Small portions more often will help you feel better.
5. Keep Your Mind Busy
Your body may be going through torture, but your mind stays intact.
And there are long hours to fill.
Pick a hobby you can do from bed or the couch: crocheting, reading, writing a book (I started writing children’s books and cookbooks—an absolute joy with Canva!), solving puzzles, or taking a light online course.
Whatever feels fun and keeps you entertained.
6. Whatever Takes Away the Pain
I’m not shy when it comes to asking the doctor for help.
I complain, I flag issues immediately, and I expect support.
Painkillers, steroids, anti-nausea meds—whatever is needed.
Do not suffer in silence. It’s not the time to be a hero. Help yourself.
7. Push What Sparks Joy
Find the little things that bring joy—and do them more.
For me, it’s going to sleep in freshly washed sheets, having my favorite snack stocked in the cabinet, or watching Desperate Housewives over and over again (ladies, trust me—perfect watch!).
8. Spit It Out. Let It Go.
You and I both know—something made us sick.
Something we overdid, underdid, or wish we’d done differently.
Let. It. Go.
Put on some good music (Cinquemani on Spotify!) and release all the guilt and self-blame.
Sweep the road clean for recovery.
9. Stay Connected
As much as your energy allows, stay connected with your loved ones.
It feels good to have conversations that aren’t about side effects.
Let others remind you who you are beyond the diagnosis.
10. Celebrate Every Goal
Turned to your other side without a pounding heart? Well done!
Made a sandwich? Brilliant!
Paired socks? You’ve outdone yourself!
You need to be your own cheerleader.
Small wins brighten the day—acknowledge them.
+1: Chemo Shirts
For each session, I buy a cheap, cheerful shirt with a funny or encouraging message (“Life is soup, I am fork,” “Run Forrest, Run,” etc.).
I get so much joy looking forward to wearing them—even knowing I have an allergic reaction and need to stop multiple times to get through chemo.I hope I am alone on this one!
The shirts lift my spirit.
Wishing you a full recovery,
Sofia
