There are several things you can do to prepare yourself before you start your chemotherapy treatment.

Go to the dentist

During chemotherapy treatment, you may not be able to have dental work done. If you have not been to the dentist for a long time or need dental work done, you should do this before your chemotherapy starts.

Arrange for transportation to your appointments

You may wish to have someone take you to and pick you up from your chemotherapy treatment sessions, especially the first ones. Everyone reacts to chemotherapy differently. You do not know how you might feel. Having someone accompany you can also offer emotional support.

Wear comfortable clothing to your appointments

Since some chemotherapy sessions can last from 15 minutes up to 3 hours, it is best to wear comfortable clothing. Make sure you wear something with sleeves that can be easily moved up above your elbow if you are getting your chemotherapy through an injection or IV (intravenous).

Arrange childcare

You may need to have childcare during treatment and for a period afterwards. Once you return from your chemotherapy session, you may not feel well enough to care for young ones.

Prepare meals ahead

Chemotherapy treatment may make preparing food a challenge. You may consider preparing meals ahead of time and storing them in the freezer, especially if you are the person responsible for making meals for others.

Ask others for help

Don't be afraid to ask others for help. Most people want to help, but do not know what they can do. Give them a job. Others can help with:

• preparing meals
• buying groceries
• childcare
• running errands
• housecleaning
• transportation to your appointments
• keeping you company

In addition to practical matters, keep in mind it's also important to understand how chemotherapy may affect you emotionally.