First off, this does not define you.
This is just a chapter in your life story, and it’s one you will get through. If we’re being honest, yes, chemotherapy will challenge you in ways you never thought possible. This isn’t to scare you but to prepare you. You’ve probably already started hearing the “you’ve got this!” encouragement and yes, you absolutely do. But let’s keep it real: there will be moments when you feel like you’re hitting rock bottom, only to find your way back on top, and then do it all over again. It’s a tough cycle, but it does eventually come to an end. And here’s the good news there are tools and resources that can make this journey smoother and more manageable. We’ve put together a detailed packed step-by-step guide to help you navigate chemo with confidence.
ASK ALL THE QUESTIONS
Understanding your treatment plan and what to expect from each session will help so much in your success. Bring your Chemo Queens Journal and conversation prompts with you to your healthcare appointments, and ask all the questions. Remember, knowledge is power, and you’re strong as hell when you’re equipped with resources. Keep an open dialogue with your team.
CQ Advice
Blythe’s Advice: Advocate for yourself. Ask for treatment options, even the ones they don’t offer. I ended up being allergic to the standard Taxol so then, and only then did they offer Abraxane. Not to say one is better than the other but full disclosure, they call it the “Rolls Royce of chemotherapy”?!? Advocate. For. Yourself. And of course, ask about cold cap services and any other resource teams they may work with ( acupuncture, movement/yoga classes, nutritionists, therapy etc…)
Kesley’s Advice: I second Blythe! Remember, it’s your body and you know it more than your doctor, more than the numbers they see in their database. Advocate for yourself and speak up! This is your chance to defend yourself if anything seems off.
STAY HYDRATED
Drink water daily, before and after treatment, to stay hydrated. Both of us tried to drink at least a gallon a day. Bring a big water bottle everywhere you go, including during your chemo session. This helps process the medicine and keeps side effects at bay. Be sure to ask your oncology team about extra hydration options following your infusion days
CQ Advice
Blythe’s Advice: Tell your Oncologist that you would like to have additional Hydration sessions following your treatments. You’ll have to go back for an infusion but it’s going to make you bounce back so much smoother. Kesley didn’t have this option and felt like she was hit with the worst hangover. This is an option that not many know is available to them. Again, speak up and let them know what is going to make YOU comfortable.
Bring your chemo bag
When you go to your treatment sessions, come equipped with everything you need to stay busy, comfortable, and entertained. You’ll want to include a water bottle, headphones for music, podcasts, meditations, or watch a show. Word games/mind puzzles are great too. Most facilities offer warm blankets, but there’s something special about bringing a cozy one from home. Personal items like photos, crystals, or charms can be comforting. And don’t forget your Cryo gloves to help with potential neuropathy.
We’ve curated a list of products we loved on our Chemo Essentials Shop. On there you will find every phase of this journey. We have products that are great for treatment days, for radiation, surgery, and everything in between.
CQ Advice
Kesley’s Advice: The first treatment, you’re going to feel compelled to bring everything under the sun with you. I felt like I was moving in! You never know what you might need. Over time, my bag became lighter to the point where I only showed up with my water bottle, air pods, a crystal, and my laptop. Bring all the things that will bring you comfort but you may soon realize the essentials are really all you need.
Blythe’s Advice: All of the above, plus I was gifted crossword puzzles which I felt kept my mind activated. Coloring books as well, yes I am a grown adult but again brain power Lol. “Chemo fog” is real so I think this helped the more I did these kinds of activities during infusions.
CQ Curated Shop
Shop Chemo Essentials
These are the carefully curated, small comforts that said: “You’re still you. You’re still worthy of softness.” Shop our go-to essentials to help you or a loved one feel supported every step of the way.
TAKE YOUR MEDS!!!
To manage side effects, use your prescribed medications for nausea and pain relief, and consider natural remedies like fresh juiced ginger and tea. Even if you don’t feel nauseous, take your anti-nausea meds anyway. Trust us, even if you think you’re good bathroom-wise, take the Senokot, Colace, or whatever your team suggests for constipation. You’re going to want it. Also, be sure to keep track of your meds and symptoms. There’s a section in the back of The Chemo Queens Journal specifically for this to help you stay organized.
CQ Advice
Kesley’s Advice: Most likely anyone I’ve mentioned this to (specifically the senokot/colace ie constipation meds) ignored me on this one and you probably will too. Take the pills!! You will probably make the mistake once and then realize I was right. Don’t sleep on these!! Thank me later!
Blythe’s Advice: Yep. Take. The. Meds. It’s all about preventative steps, staying ahead of possible side effects. It helped to set alarms.
What to eat
There’s no golden rule on what to eat it’s all about what your body needs. Whether you’re eating a balanced diet, going vegan, doing intermittent fasting, Paleo, or whole foods, listen to your body. Steer clear of the cold cut deli meats, sugary stuff, and booze, but if you want cake, eat the damn cake! We both ate a balanced diet rich in fruits, veggies, and protein to maintain our strength. On days when food wasn’t appealing, nutrient-dense bone broth and smoothies were lifesavers. The point is to consume something that fuels you and keeps your energy up. Talk to your physician for diet suggestions.
CQ Advice
Blythe’s Advice: I swear the only thing I could eat was pad Thai and popsicles. The Kate Hill protein shakes were clutch as well. But do what you can here and keep the dialogue open with your oncology team. They may have a team of nutritionists who can help guide you.
Kesley’s Advice: If you go through all the blogs and forums, many will say the same thing try not to eat your favorite things. I don’t know if it’s ptsd or what but there are certain foods that are quite frankly ruined for me. Not to be alarmed, it’s not forever, but food may begin to taste weird overtime. Fuel your body with as much nutrients that’s going to give you energy and make you feel good. Smoothies and Kettle Fire Bone Broth were life savers for me during the last couple of months.
WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHES
Wear loose, soft, and comfy clothes during treatment. Think cozy layers, like your favorite sweatshirt or a soft pair of leggings, anything that makes you feel relaxed and at ease. Opt for fabrics that are gentle on your skin, especially since it might be more sensitive than usual. Easy-to-wear outfits that you can slip on and off without much effort. Comfort is key, so choose pieces that make you feel good, both physically and mentally. Don’t forget to bring along some cozy socks to keep warm during your sessions. We have a few cozy options on our Amazon Storefront in the link below
MOVE YOUR BODY
Along with getting plenty of rest, movement is essential! Even something as simple as walking around the block or doing some light stretching can make a big difference. While Kesley found peace in taking walks, Blythe continued to hit the gym and worked with her trainer. It all depends on what your body needs, but what we found is that staying active helped prevent our energy from becoming stagnant. Plus, it boosts your mood and gets those endorphins flowing, helping you feel better, more energized, and more connected to yourself.
CQ Advice
Blythe’s Advice: I didn’t want to lose my stride. My only goal was to show up to the gym every Monday and that’s what I did. The goal wasn’t to get fit or lose weight, it was to just move. Some days I just cried on my trainers shoulder, other days I felt like I could move a f*cking mountain but, we just kept moving. It was just about showing up. Perhaps it was that feeling of normalcy? The chemo cloud will want to keep you crumpled on the couch so do what you can and be sure to listen to your body.
TO TRY COLD CAPPING OR NOT?
Kesley didn’t have the opportunity to cold cap, but Blythe did. If you’re wondering what cold capping is and how it could potentially save your hair during treatment, check out Blythe’s Cold Cap Guide here! If cold capping isn’t an option, hair loss is a possibility but don’t lose hope! There are miracle stories of people who didn’t lose their hair. And if you do lose your hair, there are options. You can cut it early and use it for extensions, have a wig made from your own hair, experiment with different wigs, or rock the bald look. Kesley ended up completely losing her hair but found liberation in embracing the change by shaving her head early on, with Blythe by her side. It felt like she was gearing up for battle! The best part? Her hair started growing back just two weeks after her last chemo treatment!
CQ Advice
Blythe’s Advice: I am a huge advocate for cold capping, I will tell everybody to at least TRY it. There are types of treatments that don’t allow it but if it is available to you – go for it. One of the products I am looking forward to the most from our company is our own cold cap design, which is currently under development.
Kesley’s Advice: I didn’t have the chance to try cold capping, but oh, how I wish I could’ve. That time was a whirlwind, and honestly, to say I was obsessed with my hair would be an understatement. Letting it go was heartbreaking, but after it started falling out and forming these awful, painful dreadlocks, it no longer felt like my hair it just had to go. It was the ultimate betrayal. After everything my hair and I had been through together, I couldn’t believe how quickly it gave up on me. It felt like a breakup, but one that turned out to be strangely freeing. I still miss my old hair sometimes, and when I look back at pictures, there’s a part of me that’s nostalgic. But as my new curls grow in, I’m learning to love and respect my hair in a whole new way. These fresh, damage-free curls that dance across my face? They’re my little reminder of resiliency. Back when my own reflection felt unfamiliar, I kept reminding myself, “This is temporary.” It became my mantra, carrying me through every chapter of that wild journey.
Fertility Options
Chemotherapy can impact fertility, but there are options for preservation. Talk to your Oncologist about seeing a fertility specialist. Options may include egg/sperm freezing or ovarian protection. Financial assistance programs might also be available, so be sure to ask about resources. We have a Fertility Guide in our conversation prompts bundle with some tips and things to consider when it comes to what could be available.
CQ Advice
Kesley’s Advice: I would have never known that fertility preservation would be an option had the nurse not asked about me having children. The minute I said, I wanted to be a mother and hadn’t been one yet, she immediately connected me to a fertility specialist. My doctor had shared with me all of my options even letting me know that my insurance covered the entire cost and first year of preservation. When the time comes, I now know I have options.
Use gentle skincare products
Avoid harsh chemicals and opt for gentle, non-irritating skincare products to manage skin sensitivity, soothe, and protect your skin. Chemotherapy can often dry out your skin, so while you’re keeping your body nourished with water and hydrating liquids, a good skincare routine will help keep your skin feeling soft and cared for.
CQ Advice
Blythe’s Advice: Before I started treatment I was in Austin working on a job and I met April (from the Skin Whisperer). I told her about my story and it just so happened she had worked with numerous cancer patients. She introduced me to Osmosis Beauty which is still my favorite skincare brand and they have an entire oncology friendly line. (check our perks page for more details on a discount code)
Read part 2: The Ultimate guide to Chemotherapy: Supporting mental health
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