The hospital where I am does not allow a companion unless there is a clear need for one, such as a patient who is unable to mobilise by themselves. I am actually thankful for this policy. The less people around, the safer I feel. Companions in the room mean more risk to everyone else, especially those of us whose immune system may be especially vulnerable at any given time.
What I would do is check with wherever you have to go, before you go. It may depend on the hospital. Sometimes they are prepared to bend rules if you say you're a bit worried and need emotional support. I went to several different clinics/hospitals, some really strict, some not. It was suggested to me by One Stop Clinic that I did take someone, as a lot of info to absorb and 2 heads better than one when I went to see Consultant. So much information poured out.
Most hospitals and chemo units still have restrictions in place, a quick phone call to the reception before the appointment should provide the answers you need.
It is a good idea to take a book or your phone with you as you could be on the unit for quite a few hours, some of the better chemo units have a tv above the chair you can watch.
A first session of chemo fills a lot of people with fear, try and relax the nurses are first class and will do all they can to put you at ease.
Thankyou so much for the tips and advice with cold cap I have got quite thick hair so fingers crossed it isnt noticeable. I am waiting for the hospital to contact me so I will ask about bringing someone with me I just think the 1st time at least will offer some comfort as I'm worried what the expect and it's been an emotional roller coaster as it is already.
I had really thick hair prior to using the cold cap so I do think that it has helped. At the moment I look like someone who has thin hair - only those who know me well are aware that this is due to chemo rather than just having naturally thin hair. Hope you have the same outcome, and best of luck with your first chemo. Any more questions keep posting them here on the forum as there is always someone who has been through the same and can provide advice or support. I'm just heading off for my 7th chemo cycle, only one more to go after that! x
Thanks LalaLou that's reassuring to know fingers crossed I have the same outcome! Well done for getting through I wish I was at the end already! I believe I'm having 6 sessions in total 1 every 3 weeks my head is still a blurr from the oncologist appointment which i had over teams so i havent a clue what I'm having exactly. X
As has been mentioned in earlier posts, each hospital seems to be operating its own policy as I wasn't allowed to rake anyone with me for my chemotherapy sessions.
the nursing teams on the ward are very professional and will soon put you at ease, they were very happy to answer any questions I had and explain what was being done, timings etc.
Bearing in mind that your arm with the cannula/drip will need to be kept still I found taking my tablet and a book or magazine kept me occupied and the time soon passed.
we had a refreshment trolley come on the ward as well so that helped.
A nurse from the chemo unit called me prior to starting my first session to explain the procedure and protocol so worth asking these questions then.
The management of the side effects seems much improved these days and your oncologist will prescribe additional drugs etc to help with this.
I got the telephone call yesterday which has made me anxious now. I go in for pic line next tuesday and 1st session next friday. I ask about been able to bring someone with you and the reply was what I was expecting after all the comments it's a no. I know this is to try keep everyone safe but its rubbish at the same time having to go through it alone it has upset me quite abit if I'm honest.
I’m sorry, it is really upsetting and I was so upset too. Then the first session I went, the nurses were brilliant and put me at ease and there were 4 other people in a bay (5 inc me) and the lady next to me started talking to me and 4 months on we’re firm friends. I have 3 good chemo friends I’ve made that have been a god send, we understand how each other feels, we can be frank in the strangest of ways because we’re not in each other’s ‘real life’ it honestly has been a boost and with the benefit of hindsight, I wouldn’t swap those friendships for being able to take an existing friend with me. There are also times when I just want to read or close my eyes and I can do that too. Overall it’s been a good thing not taking someone. I get dropped off by a friend and picked up by a friend. I hope you have the same experience. Good luck xx
Thanks Anna12345 it's nice to hear some positive outcomes from other peoples experiences, I just feel it one rubbish thing after another and the emotional impact it causes at every little stage. I'm normally quite a strong person and with 2 young children I am trying my best to keep it together but feel i could crumble at any time. I go from being upset one min to been so angry the next. Just want it all to be over! X
