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Think Positive
Research has found that those people who think positive thoughts fare better.
Look For The Good
When doctors describe treatments and their side effects, it can sound very scary: operations, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hair loss, injections ... remember: it's all part of fighting back
Key Points
Taking in all the information given to you is a mammoth task. Ask the doctor or clinician to write down the key points which you can then take home and read later.
Keep A Journal
This is handy for writing down those key points just mentioned, taking notes of treatments undergone and any questions you may have for the medical team. It's also valuable to record when you've taken medicines - it's easy to forget! Writing down the date, time and dose taken helps you to keep track.
Keep A Diary
Appointments come flooding in - dates, times, where you have to be and who you have to see. It's also helpful to know on which date you did what - doctors may ask when you were last seen by a colleague or when procedures were carried out. Take your diary and journal to all appointments to help you remember
Scary Stories
Some people love to tell you stories with unhappy endings - don't let them! Stop them by saying, "I have to go ..." and walk off.
Go With The Flow
Listen to your positive inner voice, it will guide you. Sleep when it says you need to, be active when it says you have the energy and ask questions when it says you don't understand. Let it give you the strength to say "No" when pressured to say "Yes", and "Yes" when pressured to say "No". Just give yourself a moment to listen.
Eat A Rainbow
Colourful fruit and vegetables are high in anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals all essential in helping your body fight disease and keep well. Drinking water regularly is also beneficial. Check with your hospital doctor for dietary advice.
Relief
Sickness, constipation and diarrhoea are common short term side effects of some of the medicines your child might be taking. Do consult with your doctor or pharmacist for their advice on what may be taken to bring welcome relief.
Complementary Therapies
Many people find great benefits in complementary therapies and treatments. These aim to stimulate the body's own natural healing abilities. Some examples are acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy, reflexology and osteopathy.
Support Groups
This is an excellent way of meeting people who have gone through similar experiences. They offer friendship, support and hints and tips on how to cope with treatment. At times you may feel low and talking to someone who understands your feelings may be all you need to lift your spirits. Links to support groups can be found on this website, or look on hospital notice boards for more details.
Time Out
Already you have begun the journey that will take you to many different places, emotions and experiences. It can be all-consuming so ...
Take time out to be the person you still are and always will be.
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