love is health
Having done some research when I was first diagnosed, I found it difficult to find information/ blogs/ anecdote of people who successfully balanced roller derby with cancer treatment. Therefore, here are some things I learned in my experience that I hope you find helpful. Its worth noting that everyone's experience with cancer is completely difference. What worked for me may not be appropriate for you. Please consult with your doctor before following any of this advice.
I. If you go through surgery, abide by the doctor's post surgery orders. No activity means no activity. I was advised to take 6 weeks off of all activity after my mastectomy and reconstructive surgeries. Having internal sutures, this was to prevent any of them from tearing, causing internal bleeding. If your doctor says "NO ACTIVITY", listen. Here are some ideas for your post-surgery down time:
II. Ensure your doctors understand the full implications of playing roller derby. Not everyone is familiar with the sport, or the level of activity/ contact involved. You will need to explain your sport and activity to them, and remind them several times of what you do. Be sure your doctors understand the following:
III. Get clearance from your doctors, in writing, when they believe you are ready to return to skating and full contact. This will help your league and teammates welcome you back to the track when the time is ready. IV. Communicate with your team & coaches often.
V. If you go through chemotherapy, this is a list of tips for you.
VI. Have patience. Your derby/ workout schedule won't look pretty. You may have been used to working out and going to practice 3-6 days a week. That will not be your normal during treatment. There will be many times that risk of infection is high, or that you don't have energy, or that you are dealing with side effects. IT'S OKAY. This is normal, and expected. You aren't letting anyone down by not going to practice. However, you will let your body down by working harder than needed. Have patience. The best way to get through your treatment period is by acknowledging your (temporary) limitations. This will help you get through them. This isn't easy, especially for those of us (myself included) who hate to acknowledge weakness.
2 Comments
D'Manda Satisfaction
4/1/2014 05:46:49 am
I am so glad I found this blog...I have been playing derby for 4 years and got my breast cancer diagnosis this past January.
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Krusty.
3/5/2017 02:11:07 am
Brilliant advice. Thank you, as there's not much advice out the for BC and RD this has really helped. Xx
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