#HATTASTIC
Dealing with the fact that your life has or may possibly change in many ways is certainly a challenge. As well as not feeling on top form you are mentally expected to tackle the problem of turning all the negatives into positive energy to help your body to remain fit and healthy to fight and deal with any treatments that are prescribed. Look for the stronger side of your family and friends to keep you on the up because having Auntie Mabel call by with a face like a wet weekend is emotionally draining on both you and everyone around you.
Note though, that it is also healthy to discuss with your nearest and dearest your personal feelings. Meningioma brain tumors are far more common in women than men and women are usually the worst in expressing their feelings when faced with this situation. We shield and protect all around us from the emotional horrors of the world. Unfortunately this one could be too big to deal with on your own and I think we eventually find that the people around us are far stronger than we think. Fear and anger are natural emotions and we usually know who we can truly share these feeling with but fighting a brain tumor is often a major battle and having the best troops closest to you often helps to share the burden if everyone remains positive.
A sense of humour is good for health and well being. I know! - you might be thinking that this is hardly the time for jokes and funny anecdotes but it does allow you to keep everything in proper prospective. Someone close to me suggested that just before surgery for removal of my meningioma that I ask the Neurosurgeon if I would still be able to play the piano afterwards. When he said that of course I would, I was supposed to reply with, 'Fabulous, because I can't play it now'. But true to form - never being very good with joke timing, the anesthetic took over just before the punch line! I have often been accused of others falling asleep during my jokes but.....!
Eat more fruit and veg; don't eat food full of preservatives. We are continually told this is what we have to do to keep ourselves fit and healthy and to combat brain tumour symptoms. It makes sense to try and eat better - But doesn't a bar of chocolate or a bowl of ice cream also make us feel good and bring a smile to our faces. I go along with the saying, 'a little of what you fancy does you good'. Recognise that if you are undergoing treatment, your body will be fatigued and your mind will be in a whirl. Look out for foods that will supply your energy source and try and get some sort of exercise on a daily basis even if only a short walk.
Be prepared for very bad hair days - it is a trauma and another added stress to what is already an 'Everest' of emotions. There are hats, pretty scarves or how about trying a new haircut prior to any major loss if you are undergoing chemo or radiation treatment. This certainly makes things more manageable and will also get you used to less. Take care with your hair care, using mild shampoos and no blow drying. The way to be positive about this distressing episode is to remember that this hair loss is all part of the healing process and it will grow back eventually.
Tips:
Don't fight fatigue & eat nutritiously.
If a task doesn't need doing right away - either don't do it or have someone else do it for you.
Give yourself permission to stop and take a nap if required.
Listen to your body!
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