It is so normal to be frightened about chemo. I burst into tears when my oncologist informed me that my best chances of survival was to have chemo. I was 84 at the time, 2024. She was very patient and asked me about my strongest fears. Nausea and vomiting were one. She said she had zero patients having N/V. She was able to add me to the list. The pre chemo drugs and treatment plan took care of that. My chemo visits included a very close friend to go with me, reading material, my cell phone, a cozy blanket and a snack. Everyone is different and also, there are different chemo mixtures. I had another friend who walked with me every step of the way, answering questions and giving me support and suggestions. Pick up some soft, maybe bamboo, chemo caps. When out and about, wear dangling earrings. Yes, that was one thing she suggested and I loved that. Move around as much as you can. Stop negative input into your mind. Be around positive people. Find something to laugh about every day. I started watching funny animal and babies videos on Facebook. Keep your fluid intake up. I had one post chemo next day injection that gave me some aches and pains for 3 days. I could take Tylenol but I was being silly and didn't take the allowed amount. That was my mistake. Take it and it does help a lot if you are in that situation. I kept up with as many activities as I could. I asked for help when I needed it. I live in an active retirement community and my family isn't near, living in other states. My community came on board and helped carry me along with support. I was chair of the residents at the time and my fellow board members were absolutely helping as needed. It is OK to ask for help. People want to, but don't know how. Be specific. Make a list of who you can call if you need a ride, need groceries, need medication pick up at the pharmacy, get your mail, give rides to your children if that is your age group. Keep that handy. Contact your faith family if you have one. Join a support group. Stay in touch right here on this site.
We are all in this sisterhood of which we didn't want membership. Many of us are on this journey together. We are making it through and you will too. We all take it a day at a time and with the way medical care for the cancer patient has changed, our outlook is so very much better than even just a few years ago. Sending you a gentle hug.