Most women head into radiation not knowing the process or what to expect. Intimidating machines, tattoos, buzzing noises, orders about how to move or not are on the forefront. Taking a backseat to treatment needs are ease and comfort—not that ANYTHING about radiation is particularly comfortable. Since many of us are recently recovering from surgery, our motion is limited and dressing in ANY clothing is a challenge.
In this episode of Breast Cancer Stories, I teamed up with special guest Jen Delvaux to share each of our unique experiences with radiation and the little things that helped us be more comfortable.
Yes, radiation sucks, but here are some of the things that made it suck just a little less.
WHAT TO WEAR
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I can't say enough good things about Ana Ono. They even work with insurance! With a qualifying prescription from your doctor, your plan may cover your purchase of post-surgery bras and mastectomy bras, breast prostheses and breast forms.
As an affiliate of AnaOno, we earn a few dollars if you purchase any items and our listeners also get 15% off with the promo code STORIES15.
Ana Ono Leslie Leisure Bra
Why I love it:
- Super soft, made with Tencel for sensitive skin
- Easy to pull down for access during treatment
- Stretchy and easy to pull up from the bottom when range of motion is limited
- Comes in sizes from XS to 3X
- Roomy, loose fitting, adjustable
Where to get it: anaono.com
Ana Ono Rora Pocketed Front Closure Bra
Why I love it:
- Easy to put on—especially with range of motion limitations from surgery.
- Can open all the way up, it hooks in front!
- Don’t have to wear hospital gowns for regular appointments.
- Gives great support and is versatile when radiation is over. (I used it after my exchange surgery too)
Where to get it:
anaono.com
5 Pcs Women's Camisole Tank Top (Amazon)
Why I love it:
- Gentle on radiation burns and stretchy enough to pull up and down
- Can pull it down at your waist during appointments
Where to get it: amazon.com
SKIN AND BURN CARE
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to brands of items they buy, and everyone’s skin reacts differently to different products. It's also true that radiation sucks no matter what you use to get through it. But there is a good possibility that at least one of these items can help you make it through in some way.
Miaderm
Why I love it:
- Helps with radiation burn itching
- Reduces radiation effects and restores damaged skin
- Lidocaine is numbing if you have burn pain
- Can be used to prepare skin before going to radiation
Where to get it: miaderm.com
Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Why she loves it:
- Fragrance free
- Creates a super protective barrier
Where to get it: amazon.com
My Girls Skin Care Burn Relief Cream
Why she loves it:
- Founded by a breast cancer survivor
- Formulated specifically for radiation
- Jen would put this on immediately after radiation appointments, and then at least three more times throughout the day
Where to get it: mygirlscream.com
Calendula Cream
Why she loves it:
- Less expensive alternative to Miaderm
- Perfect for before bed when you need to put ointment on
Where to get it: amazon.com
WHAT TO READ
Not Today Cancer - Jen Delvaux's book
- Advice based on her journey and stories from other real people
- Discusses meditation, mindset, and belief through Jen’s breast cancer journey
- Promotes the idea of thriving through diagnosis, not just surviving
- Includes tips on nutrition/exercise
- Real stories from herself and other women
Where to get it: amazon.com
One of the ways you can help support this podcast is to use the links on this page. We earn a few dollars if you purchase any items and it helps us keep the podcast going. Thank you from all of us for your support!
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