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07.12.08, 19:15 PM General Topics
6 replies
I have a friend who recently was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a double mastectomy. She is going to be starting chemo in a couple of weeks and I'd really like to visit her, but she lives in New Zealand and it would be really hard, financially and otherwise, for me to go ($2,000 airfare + need to find childcare for a whole week). Anyone gone through something like this (as a patient) who could give me advice. I don't know how helpful/wanted I would be, but don't want to offer unless I am sure I could do it. FWIW, this is a very old friend I grew up with, not someone I talk to that often, but one of my oldest, dearest friends nonetheless. [ Reply | Watch | Flag ]
General Topics 07.12.08, 07:15 PM Flag
 

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i have just finished chemo and radiation, and can tell you that it was tremendously helpful to have a friend come with me to treatments and even to doctor visits. there is so much information to take in, and when your mind is whirling it's great to have a second set of eyes and ears. that said, the process is quite manageable with all the great meds, so it's all doable, even alone. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.12.08, 07:18 PM Flag
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Research cancer and skin care, then send a basket. Some of the most frustrating side effects are the rashes and dry skin. And they get such more attention from the medical community. Everyone knows about the nausea, the exhaustion, the nausea...no one discusses the skin. You can help her with this aspect and make her more comfortable while she recovers. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.12.08, 07:20 PM Flag
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OP: That's a nice idea. Can you recommend any products in particular? FWIW, she is having taxotere and cytoxan. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.12.08, 07:31 PM Flag
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There is a line that the American Cancer Society endorses. I got products from a dermatologist. Now, I can't compare the US to NZ. But in the US, it can be very hard to get a medical appointment with a dermatologist. So many are only doing cosmetic work these days. So to have some things on hand may be a lifesaver to begin with. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.12.08, 07:33 PM Flag
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find out her chemo protocol/schedule... if her treatments are weeks apart, you may not be able to stay to see her through more than one treatment. better to email/call often to check on her, and send along a thoughtful gift. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.12.08, 07:25 PM Flag
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She is doing 4 cycles, 3 weeks apart each. I would definitely only be able to go for one cycle. Thinking of going for the 2nd one, as the timing works better for me. Also, her dh is around a lot, only works part-time, so she would definitely have someone with her at all times, but I was just thinking it might cheer her up to have an old friend around. That said, it would be a HUGE undertaking for me to make it happen. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.12.08, 07:30 PM Flag
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