Some of the things I have learned so far.

You are better informed on what to do if you catch on fire: stop, drop and roll then what to do if you are having chemo.

It's highly unlikely you will ever catch on fire. Yet we are taught how to deal with this and other worst case scenarios so we won't freeze up when disaster strikes. We hope that it will be equally unlikely that you will ever have to experience chemo.

When it comes to health issues we tend to learn about our bodies on a need to know basis. We expect our hearts to pump blood, our lungs to give us breath, our eyes to see, our mouths to talk, our bodies to move, etc., etc. We take our body's functioning for granted until something out of the ordinary happens to us or someone we know. It is then that we investigate and learn.

I have learned much during my chemo treatments. Some things seemed to be common sense. Duh! I should have known that. Some things totally surprised me. I am still bewildered by others.

Here are some of the things I've learned so far. I still have much to learn. Perhaps none will apply to your circumstance. Maybe some will. Check with your doctor. The American Cancer Society is an excellent resource.

While taking chemo it is best to stay away from salad bars and buffets. Your immune system is weakened. You can't be sure if the greens have been thoroughly washed. Someone who has visited the buffet may have been sick.

Avoid smoke. Don't smoke.

Stay out of the direct sunlight and heat as your skin is super sensitive. Wear SPF 30or 50 under your clothes. Long sleeves and long pants only give approximate SPF 3 coverage.

Be careful what you eat. Your digestion may be screwed up.

Be prepared for increased fatigue. Exercise may help with both energy and reducing pain.

Listen to your doctors and nurses when they advise you how to handle your pain.

Avoid chlorine water.

Avoid crowds, remember your immune system is weakened.

Don't drink green tea or take vitamins. Chemo kills the fast growing cells, both the good ones and cancer. The green tea and supplements counteract the effectiveness of the chemo.

Drink lots of fluids. G2 is excellent and comes in assorted flavors.

Avoid alcohol even in things like mouthwash etc.

Keep your skin warm so your veins will be more cooperative to accept the chemo.

Follow directions for caring for your port.

Avoid going to get a professional manicure or pedicure. If you go, be sure to take your own tools so you can avoid the risk of infection.

Expect that the medication and pain pills may clog your system and make you irregular, constipated or diarrhea. Miralax is a gentle help for constipation.

Eat plenty of protein and try to maintain a healthy weight no sudden losses or gains.

Keep a positive attitude.

Let others help you when you need it.

Talk to your doctor before going to the dentist.

Be prepared for your internal thermostat to be whacky. Hot then cold for no explainable reason.

Your taste of things may be metallic or just awful. Experiment. Maybe plastic silver ware will help.

Avoid caffeine.

You will be more sensitive to smells.

Use a soft toothbrush.

Avoid aspirin and blood thinners.

Don't get professional massages during this time. It could create blood clots. Also avoid crossing your legs.

Be careful around animals. Don't clean litter boxes, pick up dog waste, clean bird cages or fish tanks.

Wash raw foods thoroughly before eating.

If your hair is going to fall out consider getting a wig before it does. Not all chemo has this side effect. Check with your doctor.

Frozen peas and ice on sore joints help relieve pain.

Popsicles and sherbet help with sore throats.

Be candid with your doctor and nurses. Ask questions and let them know how you are doing. Let your doctor know immediately if you notice any tingling or numbness.