by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
What in the world do you say to a friend who just told you they have cancer? Answers on this can vary. But I can certainly give you some idea of what NOT to say to a cancer survivor. Remember when you were in middle school and you’d have those school dances...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
Welp, that was unexpected, wasn’t it? You’re minding your own business, doing this thing called life, and then BAM! You find yourself at the doctor’s office thinking, “I have cancer… now what??” I’ve been there. I know how disorienting it...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
Like many people, I purchased several items I thought would be helpful for cancer treatment. We want to be prepared, after all. It’s one way we can have control during a situation that otherwise feels so far beyond our control. One of the items I bought...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
I had signed up for the Cancer + Careers Conference not really sure what to expect. Sure, I figured they’d help me update my resume, but beyond that? All I knew was I had no idea what I’d do when I had to re-enter the workforce. The Cancer + Careers conference...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
Coronavirus is really putting a damper on our social lives isn’t it? Plans are canceled, restaurants and bars are closed, vacations postponed or canceled… And on top of all that we’re supposed to be practicing social distancing and being quarantined...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
This post is all about my chemo nausea on Adriamycin. Thankfully, I didn’t experience any nausea on Taxol. Regardless of what chemo drug you’re on, these details and tips can help you! The first session of Adria was the worst regarding nausea and...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
When a friend is going through cancer treatment, especially something as rough as chemo, it can be hard to know what to say or do to help. You know it’s going to be a rough few months for her, but what can you do?? Even simple gifts for chemo patients can fill the...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
Below is an outline of my progression of symptoms with chemo neuropathy and delayed onset neuropathy. Since I wasn’t originally sure this was a chemo problem, I wanted to provide you the details in case you experience something similar. This way you can act on it...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 4, 2023 | Cancer Journey
Whether you’re preparing for a mastectomy or reconstructive surgery, there are certain items you can have on hand to make life easier at home. Two of the biggest hurdles in recovering from these surgeries are the drains and the inability to raise your elbows above...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
No one is excited to hear they have to have radiation therapy. No one. Ever. Yes, it’s a lifesaving treatment (kind of a big deal), and hopefully your radiation team is as friendly and supportive as mine, which makes it all a bit easier. After seeing them five...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
“My body will never look like this again.” I said that to myself numerous times leading up to my single mastectomy on October 17th. To try and preserve the moment, I attempted (and failed) to photograph myself in that “Insta-worthy” pose, capturing the female...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
Breast Cancer Awareness Month and its 31 days of pink ribbons have mixed thoughts amongst survivors. Personally, at least this year, I’m all for it. It feels like a second birthday party because this last year was rough. I have milestones to celebrate, life to...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
We all have a story behind our breast cancer diagnosis. Some are encouraging – doctors who believed our symptoms and advocated for us. Others are horrific – patients repeatedly being sent away, told their symptoms mean nothing. Only after a couple years of advocating...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
I’ve started and restarted this post at least 50 times, at least in my head. The sticking point is not in telling you about the program, or why you should absolutely, without doubt get involved with First Descents. That’s the easy part. But when I start...
by Beth DeLong | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Cancer Journey
There are an incredible number of people and organizations out there bringing renewed life or adventure (or both!) to those diagnosed with and affected by cancer. Through donations and support, many of these organizations provide FREE retreats for cancer patients and...
