Facing chemotherapy and feeling good

Lifestyle | Article

This year my friend Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer. Talking with her about her experiences with treatment and with life, has prompted me to write this article.

This was in a year that I'd taken up running to help me feel better. I'd already signed up to run the 5K Race for Life, so when I heard Linda's diagnosis, I ran the race with her name on my back. She came along to cheer me on.

I've lost family members to this terrible disease, but until now I must admit I'd never had close contact with the day to day issues that must be dealt with by patients.

It made me take notice and I've learned a lot in the past months.

Linda's diagnosis made her start to look around for ways to look and feel good about herself throughout her treatment. Through the contacts she has made I've been able to talk with many people who have a real passion for providing help to cancer patients in their journey.

I am sure that many who have been here before me as patients, relatives, friends or writers have come to similar conclusions. That is.... healing and surviving can be as much about positive mental attitude as going through the treatment prescribed.

Part of process of feeling good, often involves doing all you can to also look good.

"I have a hairdressing background and find that matching the right style is something that comes easily to me. I enjoy fitting the wigs and my training means I am able to trim them too if they need it.

"Patients find the service a positive one and it helps to ensure they feel 'normal', which in turn helps them retain a positive attitude for the rest of their treatment. I have found working with chemotherapy patients extremely inspiring because all of the patients I have met have immense courage and a really positive outlook."

Buying a wig need not be expensive and the service is tailored towards the needs and budget of the patient. Prior to purchasing a wig, a consultation is held to determine what the patient is looking for.
 

Another alternative are scarves, but sourcing the right type of scarf is not always easy. Having experienced chemotherapy first hand, a local woman set up Shirley's Scarves to fill the gap in the market. Shirley Knights says, "We feel passionately that anyone experiencing hair loss should have the opportunity to wear beautiful designs.

"We understand that you want to look and feel good and so we have a range of scarves to suit everyone. Through personal experience we have been able to choose scarves that are comfortable, stylish, practical and affordable."

Other complimentary therapies can contribute to general wellbeing. Helen Perkins has been involved in complimentary therapies for 30 years and has her own practice in Peterborough, offering Reflexology, Aromatherapy, and the Bowen Technique.

"I really enjoy working with people who want to improve their own wellbeing and health. I try to see people first and not just the label or disease and have experience working within medical practices and palliative care," said Helen.

"I work with people during the different stages of their cancer journey, offering support through: some ease of chemotherapy side effects, some temporary ease of pain, relaxation techniques and pampering time out," she continued.

In conclusion, the ladies whose businesses are featured in this article I know care about what they do, I've spoken with them and it is clearly reflected in their approach and the support they give to their clients.

For more information visit Peterborough Breast Cancer Support Group, The Hair & Scalp Clinic, Shirley's Scarves, Helen Perkins and for additional complimentary therapies in the area.

September 2008 - Peterborough UK Community Website