Just Diagnosed? Here’s Your Pre-Chemotherapy Checklist Part 1
Hello, brave souls,
If you've just been handed a cancer diagnosis, you're probably feeling a whirlwind of emotions and an overwhelming amount of information. As someone who’s walked this path, I understand how crucial it is to feel prepared and proactive. Here's a comprehensive checklist I wish I had when I was first diagnosed. It’s designed not just to manage the essentials but to embrace and prepare for the journey ahead in every way—physically, emotionally, and financially. Part one focuses on the physical changes on the horizon and how you can get ahead of them so you you start treatment with your best face forward. Look good, feel good.
1. Capture the Moment — Schedule Family Photos (or boudoir pics, if thats more your speed!)
Before treatment begins, capture this moment in time with your loved ones. Schedule a family photo shoot. These pictures will be a beautiful reminder of the support and love surrounding you, no matter what the days ahead may bring. This is also an opportunity to post a pic and share your story when the time feels right.
*Tip : if you’re a loved one, consider gifting this session or perhaps even a dress to take the logistics off of your friend. Help plan out the outfits and the location and be sure the kids have pants that reach their ankles!
2. Dental Care Pre-Chemo — Make That Dentist Appointment
Visit your dentist for a check-up and any necessary treatments. Once chemotherapy starts, routine cleanings are off the table due to an increased risk of infections, so it’s crucial to head into treatment with your teeth in the best possible shape.
3. Stay Looking Like Yourself — Consider a facial or maybe even Botox
If you've been maintaining your youthful glow with facials or Botox, you might want to get one last session in before your treatment starts. Chemotherapy lowers your immune system, and during this time, it’s recommended to avoid any procedures that could increase the risk of infection, including Botox. It may seem counter intuitive to pamper yourself when you are about to hide under a rock but trust, anything you can do to keep yourself looking and feeling like you is worth it for your overall mentality.
Tip : when dermatological procedures are a no-no, we have some LITE options you can explore, such as Sio Patches and Tata Harper at home spa kit.
4. Freshen Up Your Look — Get a Haircut and Color
Treat yourself to a fresh haircut and color before chemotherapy. You may lose it all in 3 weeks but until then, take some beautiful selfies, visit with friends, meet your care teams, and show off those luscious locks. Since hair loss is a common side effect, having a style that makes you feel confident and beautiful as you face this phase head on can be a significant boost.
Tip : Research Cold Capping and consider the pros and cons. If you decide against it and hair loss is in your future, having it shaved ahead of time has its benefits. I explain my reasoning for my decisions here but, you do you, boo.
5. Pamper Yourself — Nails and Massage
Go ahead and indulge in some pampering. Get a manicure or a pedicure (choose a gentle service without harsh chemicals or sharp tools). Also, consider scheduling a relaxing massage. It's a wonderful way to relieve stress and keep your body feeling good so you enter treatment feeling strong and balanced.
Tip : once treatment begins, there are options for having services done at-home. This eliminates much of the risk for infection. Schedule this for your friend on the chemo off-weeks!
6. Explore Your Options — Visit the Wig Salon
Hair loss due to chemotherapy can be one of the more daunting aspects of treatment. Make a day of visiting a wig salon; take a friend and try on different styles until you find one that feels like you. Many wig salons offer styling services as well or you could ask your regular stylist about a shape up.
7. Prepare for Surgery — Get Measured for Breast Prosthetics
If your treatment involves surgery, such as a mastectomy, consider getting measured for breast prosthetics ahead of time. Take some nudes and put them in a hidden album. Your body will go through countless changes so documenting while you still feel like yourself is a pro move. Knowing your options and having these details sorted can make post-surgery transitions smoother and less stressful.
Embarking on this journey requires both courage and preparation. By ticking these items off your checklist, you’re not just getting ready for treatment; you’re also taking control where you can, ensuring that you continue to feel like yourself as much as possible. Remember, you’re not alone in this fight. We’re here, a community of survivors and warriors, ready to support you every step of the way.
With love and strength
