Uplifting Tips from Breast Cancer Survivors

Barbara Delinsky

I put UPLIFT: Secrets from the Sisterhood of Breast Cancer Survivors together because, as a survivor, I saw the need for a book that treated breast cancer as a do-able experience — and, indeed, the response to it has been remarkable. The book contains useful woman-to-woman hints — things the doctor doesn’t say — practical advice on topics ranging from what deodorant to use during radiation, to what minimizes nausea during chemo, to how to feel feminine and upbeat. This advice comes first-hand, in the words of 370 breast cancer survivors, their sisters, children, parents, lovers, and friends. The new 3rd Edition adds updates, five years later, from many of the original contributors.

The following are some uplifting tips from breast cancer survivors. I hope you find them as inspiring as I do:

The Worry Box

“I found a box and glued colorful scraps of wrapping paper on the top. Inside it, each morning, I tucked handwritten notes about my worries and fears. Then I closed the lid and went on with the rest of the day.” Nancy Burgess, in the “TAKING THE REINS” chapter.

The Art of Healing

“Go to a theater, a museum, a concert or ballet. Art can take us out of ourselves, lift us beyond our immediate environment, enrich us spiritually and aesthetically. Opening yourself to great beauty is always a life-enhancer. In times of crisis, it’s also healing.” Susan Stamberg, in the “TAKING THE REINS” chapter.

Pins and Needles

“Apparently, there is a dressmaker in Chicago who had prostheses made out of her pin cushions, so that she could conveniently stick her needles and pins into her chest when sewing and making alterations!” Darlene Jurow, in the “HUMOR” chapter.

Eating With Friends

“I found conventional support group meetings difficult, so I formed my own support dinner group. We dine out every couple of months to discuss having breast cancer. We also share stories of our spouses, children, and travels.” Deborah J. P. Schur, in the “SUPPORT GROUP” chapter.

Drinking Helps

“Someone told me my chemo symptoms sounded like a really bad hangover! Their suggestion that Gatorade was good for hangovers led to my drinking gallons of it, which helped steady that queasy shakiness.” Jane Vaughan, in the “CHEMO AND EVERYTHING ELSE” chapter.

Accentuate the Positive

“Perhaps the most significant outcome of my battle with breast cancer is that I have changed my outlook on life. I now regard life as precious and try not to focus on negative things. Eliminating stress and resentment from my life and concentrating on the positive things has become my goal. I am now more at peace with myself.” Sandy Mark, in the “PURE UPLIFT” chapter.

Looking Ahead

“It’s been five years, nine months for me, but who’s counting! I still think about my cancer, but less and less. I’m exercising more now. I really found out how good it was after my surgery and I got into a program for cancer survivors. I only wished I had started earlier in life. Now I faithfully visit the Y to start off my day.” Judy Peterson, in the “FAST FORWARD” chapter.

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