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Chemo Survival Guide

Do’s

  • Do listen to your body. Rest when you’re tired, even if it means changing plans. Your energy is precious.

  • Do stay hydrated. Sip water, herbal tea, or clear fluids throughout the day to help your body process treatment.

  • Do eat small, gentle meals. Choose soft, bland foods (toast, rice, bananas, applesauce, oatmeal) when your stomach feels off. By all means, EAT!

  • Do fuel your body with goodness. Drink 100% juice and choose fruits, veggies, beans, and potatoes to support your energy, strength, and balance during treatment.

  • Do keep a symptom journal. Write down how you feel each day, side effects, and questions so you can share clearly with your care team.

  • Do take medications as prescribed. Use alarms, a pill box, or a loved one’s help to stay on schedule.

  • Do ask for help. Let friends, family, and community step in with meals, rides, childcare, or just quiet company.

  • Do move a little each day. Short walks, stretching, or gentle movement can support circulation and mood—only as you feel able.

  • Do protect your mouth. Use a soft toothbrush, rinse with salt water, and avoid harsh mouthwashes to lower the risk of sores.

  • Do dress for comfort. Soft fabrics, layers, and easy-to-remove clothing make long appointments a little easier.

  • Do bring comfort items to treatment. A blanket, socks, music, journal, or a small reminder of hope can calm your spirit.

  • Do laugh whenever you can. Laughter doesn’t erase the hard things, but it gently reminds your body and spirit that joy still lives here.

  • Do communicate with others who have experienced chemo. Hearing from people who’ve walked this road can bring comfort, practical tips, and a reminder that you are not alone.

  • Do use a diffuser or humidifier with soft scents like lavender, chamomile, lemon, or peppermint. This can help cleanse the air and gently ease nausea or discomfort from strong, harsh smells.

  • Do chew a piece of gum or suck on a mint when your port is being accessed. This can help cut down on medicine or metallic tastes during treatment and make the experience a little easier.

  • Do use hot water bags or heating pads for certain types of pain. Warmth can soothe sore muscles and bring comfort but always follow your care team’s guidance about where and how long to use heat.

  • Do talk with your doctor about medicines for joint pain or other side effects. Even over-the-counter options should be checked with your care team to make sure they’re safe and work well with your treatment.

  • Do stay in close contact with your care team. Call about new symptoms, fevers, or changes that don’t feel right.

  • Do give yourself grace. Healing is not a straight line. Celebrate small wins and allow hard days without guilt.

The Chemo Survival Guide was created to walk beside you, not ahead of you. Here you’ll find gentle ideas that may help you feel a little more prepared, a little more comfortable, and a little less alone. These tips are not medical advice, but loving suggestions to discuss with your care team and use in the way that feels right for you.

Dont's

  • Don’t ignore a fever or chills. Call your care team right away if you notice a fever or feel suddenly very unwell.

  • Don’t suffer in silence. If pain, nausea, or other side effects get worse, tell your care team—there are often ways to help.

  • Don’t skip or change medicines on your own. Always follow your care team’s directions before stopping, doubling, or changing any dose.

  • Don’t take new pills or supplements without asking. Vitamins, herbal teas, and “natural” remedies can still affect your treatment.

  • Don’t self-medicate with alcohol or recreational drugs. They can interfere with how your body handles chemo and recovers.

  • Don’t share medications with others. Your treatment plan and doses are designed just for you.

  • Don’t force big meals when you feel sick. It’s okay to choose small, gentle snacks instead of trying to finish a full plate.

  • Don’t push yourself to keep up with your “old” energy. Rest is part of healing; it’s okay to say no and slow down.

  • Don’t ignore changes in your body. New swelling, shortness of breath, rashes, or strong pain should be shared with your care team.

  • Don’t stay alone with heavy feelings. If you feel very sad, anxious, angry, or numb, reach out to someone you trust or a counselor.

  • Don’t compare your journey to others. Every treatment plan and recovery path is different—there is no one “right” way.

  • Don’t be cruel to yourself. Avoid negative self-talk about your appearance, energy, or emotions; you are doing something very hard, and that matters.

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