How vain are you?

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  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited September 2014

    And there are tons of websites about how to creatively tie a headscarf.

    I, personally, went the wig route, largely because I had a good benefits plans through work that covered for medical wigs.  And I spent most of my bald months over late Autumn/Winter; I found the wigs were, frankly, warmer than a headscarf or a hat. 

    Strangely, I didn't mind being bald; haven't quite figured that out even three years later.  I managed to keep my eyebrows/eyelashes until the second-to-last round, then one morning they were gone.  Poof!  But they grew back within three weeks after chemo ended; the hair took longer, but - within two months - I had a buzzed-biker-chick thang going on.  Since I'd worn a pixie on-and-off throughout my life, I was pretty comfortable with the short-short look, but - even in May - it felt COLD.

    Vanity tips during treatment, Ocean ... really, really, REALLY pamper your hands- and feet during chemo.  Neuropathy is a common side-effect of chemo and not only may your fingers- and toes feel numb, they will feel hypersensitive to pain and changes in temperature, and be prone to infection.  If you get regular mani-pedi's, ensure that your technician knows that you are undergoing chemo, so that they can be ultra-careful about cleanliness and cuticle/nail care.  If you live in an area where it's approaching cold weather, then make sure you keep your hands- and feet warm.  If you like soaking in a hot tub, watch the temperature; your hands- and feet may grumble at being plunged into hot water suddenly.  And, I found, that the neuropathy caused my feet to really peel; be careful about removing the peeling skin.  Rub with a soft towel rather than peel- or clip it off.

     


     

  • KiLin
    KiLin Member Posts: 55
    edited September 2014

    OceanSky - One other thing to look into, since you're early in the process, is Cold Capping, which is a process where you wear sub-freezing ice packs on your head on chemo days to prevent hair loss.  There is a long discussion at https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/6/topic/... for more information.  I went bald the first time I went though chemo, almost 10 years ago, but this time I'm using the cold caps.  They're a pain in the neck, but I just finished my 4th TC infusion and have full coverage on my head.

    Anyway, it's something you might want to look into - a lot of people haven't heard of the idea.

  • MarieBernice6234
    MarieBernice6234 Member Posts: 202
    edited September 2014

    HI All - 

      My vanity story really doesn't have anything to do yet with my cancer journey because that doesn't start really until next week. Even so, around March 31st of this year, I unfortunately fell and broke both of my ankles. As I was going to need a cast on one leg for at least two months, I decided that the traditional white colored fiberglass casts just wouldn't do. I needed color - I had a fairly bright shade of blue, for the ocean (which I love).   Swimming was taboo this season), a really cool color of purple and strangely enough s BRIGHT shade of pink. With my colored casts, people could see me coming from two miles away.  People were surprised enough by my tale of breaking both ankles at the same time, never mind the color of my casts. The color of  my bruised legs just added to the palate. At times my language at my limitations etc, was just as colorful if not more. 

     Spent two months in the cast/walking boot, 4 months of therapy, working through it all from home, and some limited time on the road - work for a home care company. A month of relative normality and then BOOM going into breast cancer land. 

     Yes that G*d for a sense of humor, at times, otherwise I would be crying. Getting ready for another lengthy process with my invasive breast cancer. 

    MarieBernice6234

  • OceanSky
    OceanSky Member Posts: 165
    edited January 2015

    Oh Marie, that's just lousy!  Both ankles...And now BC.  You did get a CrashBangBoom in your life!  I hope it's smooth sailing after your BC treatment.

    Thanks all for the ideas.  Also, Selena, Your insurance paid for your wigs?  I have great insurance but I never thought of asking if they would cover wigs.  How did you even find out about that?

    I'd heard of the cold caps and I was also warned to ask my doctor about using them.  It seems some doctors aren't in favor of them?  Has anyone heard that..  I'll look at the thread though that you mentioned.  I've not read it and it will probably answer any of my questions.

    About the by GoPhoto.it V9.0" style="border: none !important; display: inline-block !important; text-indent: 0px !important; float: none !important; font-weight: bold !important; height: auto !important; margin: 0px !important; min-height: 0px !important; min-width: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important; text-transform: uppercase !important; text-decoration: underline !important; vertical-align: baseline !important; width: auto !important; background: transparent !important;">neuropathyimage...I already have it in my feet and toes but I take really good care of my nails ...Am running off for a mani/pedi and then to a blow dry bar.  I treat myself to having my hair washed, blown dry and ironed.  It feels so good to have that done.  If you have a blow dry bar near you, give it a try.  It's a real treat.  We have a chain called 'Cherry Blow Dry Bars' and they're great.  

    Selena, thank you for the nail tips though.  We do like to use our hot tub in the winter so I'll be aware of that.  My sister had toenails come off during chemo, and I sure want to avoid that if possible.

    My sister had BC and her yoga teacher told her she should do 'baby pose' to help with the by GoPhoto.it V9.0" style="border: none !important; display: inline-block !important; text-indent: 0px !important; float: none !important; font-weight: bold !important; height: auto !important; margin: 0px !important; min-height: 0px !important; min-width: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important; text-transform: uppercase !important; text-decoration: underline !important; vertical-align: baseline !important; width: auto !important; background: transparent !important;">neuropathyimage.  Makes so much sense.  Means after chemo to lay on your back with your arms/hands and legs/feet in the air.  Some people may not be able to hold this pose for long and others can but it sure makes sense.

    Thanks for the tips and links.  I'll be looking in to them.  Also want some soft fuzzy knit hats/caps to wear at home alone.  

    Hope everyone has a great day...

  • SpecialK
    SpecialK Member Posts: 16,486
    edited September 2014

    oceansky - you mentioned pre-sewed scarves, here is a site (local-ish for us) that has these.  They are very well made.

    http://www.4women.com/

  • Spookiesmom
    Spookiesmom Member Posts: 9,568
    edited September 2014

    Wigs and Florida just don't mix. My insurance also allowed me to get one.  Too hot and itchey.  Wore it maybe 3 times. Since we are going into our winter, some laugh about that, you may still want to cover up.  I only did so I wouldn't get sunburned.  

    There is a site called TLC that has many hats, scarves, and wigs. I can't remember the full name..

    Peeling from chemo depends on your cocktail.  Taxotere gave me a full body peel.  I also lost all 20 nails from it.

    Good luck!

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited September 2014

    "...Thanks all for the ideas.  Also, Selena, Your insurance paid for your wigs?  I have great insurance but I never thought of asking if they would cover wigs.  How did you even find out about that? ..."

    Ocean ... It was my MO who told me to check.  Turned out my insurance has a life-time maximum of $1,000 coverage for medical wigs.  All they needed as a script from my MO stating that I was undergoing chemo and would need a wig.  So, I went wig shopping, found two that I liked and submitted the receipt- and script to my insurance company.  No issues.

    Re: "baby pose".  My mother is a retired nurse and she suggested lying on my back with my legs up-the-wall for about a half-hour per day.  She said that she and her co-workers used to do this to combat tired, burning legs- and feet after putting in 12-hour shifts.  I found that it eased the ache, but so too did regular walking.  Sounds similar.

  • GramE
    GramE Member Posts: 5,056
    edited November 2014

    A long time since anyone posted. I am fine and wish everyone an early Happy Thanksgiving. Nancy

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited November 2014

    Hey there! Been busy with work and looking after my mother, and enjoying this beautiful Autumn weather. I'm a cold-weather person, so I love this time of year. We're supposed to get snow here in southern Ontario at the end of the week. WOOT!

  • Ariom
    Ariom Member Posts: 6,197
    edited November 2014

    Hello ladies! Nice to see you back!

  • Leah_S
    Leah_S Member Posts: 8,458
    edited November 2014

    So there I was last month, gracing the halls - a vision of loveliness. Indeterminate colored bathrobe over a lovely hospital gown, nasogastric tube peeking coyly from my nose, oh-so-divine snood on my head, IV pole as my constant companion, Yes, I was the fashionista of Shaarei Tzedek Hospital.

    Don't worry, I'm feeling and LOOKING better.

    You can't keep a vain woman down.

    Leah

  • IamNancy
    IamNancy Member Posts: 1,158
    edited November 2014

    Hello everyone ... Leah -glad you are feeling better ..

    Happy Thanksgiving!

  • Blessings2011
    Blessings2011 Member Posts: 4,276
    edited November 2014

    Thanks for keeping up the tradition, Leah...

    Glad you are feeling better....

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited November 2014

    You GO, Leah!! Glad to hear you're feeling better. And looking marvelous while you are doing so!

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited April 2015

    Good morning, vainsters!!!!

    SPRING IS HERE!!!! Pedicure... CHECK. Lighter lipstick colour.... CHECK. Self-tanner... CHECK. Bicycle out of storage and ready to ride... CHECK.

    I, recently, bought an Amope "Pedi-Perfect" foot file as I'm not comfortable using the blade on myself between pedicures. I love it!!! Professional results without the worry of slicing myself, and wonderfully soft sandal-ready feet. I, also, treated myself to a French pedicure and manicure. Mmmmm. Heaven.

    How are you all doing after such a long, cold winter?


  • Momine
    Momine Member Posts: 7,859
    edited April 2015

    Beginning to come out of the winter stupor. We can't really complain, it being Greece and all, but it was unusually cold and rainy here and for a LOOOOONG time. This week the weather finally improved.

    I am bogged down in a work deadline, but once that is out of the way, I have promised myself to work on my summer wardrobe.

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited April 2015

    I had a headstart on spring with a 10-day vacation on Kiawah Island, South Carolina. My honey went to the Masters, I happily cycled my butt off (with Chanel's "Fire" lipstick tucked firmly in my sports bra), and made a stop at the Tanger Outlet in North Charleston.

  • MelissaDallas
    MelissaDallas Member Posts: 7,268
    edited April 2015
    • Have any of youhad laser treatment of a toenail with fungal disease? I've put off my pedicure because of one nail that was in really bad shape when I finally took the polish off last winter. It is still short & better than it was when I cut it all the way back to where it had separated from the nailbed months ago. I don't want to take a year of oral meds since it tends to have liver risks & I had ascites, plus it still tends to recur
  • GramE
    GramE Member Posts: 5,056
    edited April 2015

    Happy Springtime! Let's hope it is really here. I bought a Ped Egg Power Platinum which is battery powered and I LOVE it. It was a special offer on QVC and I figured it was worth a try. It came with a battery included, 4 heavy duty rollers and 2 light weight rollers. Easy to clean and assemble.

    For MelissaDallas: I had laser treatment about 3 years ago for my big toes, which were growing funny (and lifting straight up) after chemo. My toes hurt so bad I could hardly walk and I had to wear open toes shoes, which is not too cool in a winter climate... My insurance did not cover it, but it was well worth it. There is a gel or cream that is used along with the treatment, which I highly recommend as it seemed to make the nails grow faster. I used the gel at night with sox and again in the morning after a shower. Hope this helps. Nancy

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited April 2015

    Today, it is mild enough to show off my pedi-perfect feet in a pair of mesh booties with 4" stilettos... Aaaahhhh!

  • barbe1958
    barbe1958 Member Posts: 19,757
    edited April 2016

    Hey!! Did this thread die while I was gone????

  • exbrnxgrl
    exbrnxgrl Member Posts: 12,424
    edited April 2016

    It did, indeed. Spring is here. Who's up for a pedicure

  • MelissaDallas
    MelissaDallas Member Posts: 7,268
    edited April 2016

    Man, I am way past due for a pedicure. I had a bad case of nail fungus under a big toenail at the end of last winter and had to give it a year to cure/grow back out. I didn't want to seal in the "ickies" with nail polish.

    I'm about ready to get a Dremel (or chainsaw) after the calluses on my heels. I go barefoot year round when I'm not at work.


  • barbe1958
    barbe1958 Member Posts: 19,757
    edited April 2016

    I've stayed on top of buffing my feet bottoms with a bath once a week. First time I've been so diligent. Now where to show them off....??

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited April 2016

    My PEEPS!!!! How are y'all?

    Just got back from a holiday in Savannah, Georgia. Lovely city. Would move there in a heartbeat.

    I've discovered the Amope foot file and I love it. It really helps with the hard skin that develops on my feet because I still insist on wearing 3" spike heels.

  • MelissaDallas
    MelissaDallas Member Posts: 7,268
    edited April 2016

    I so miss heels. I broke the bone below my big toe on my right some years ago, and bearing weight on the ball of my foot is now excruciating painful.

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited April 2016

    Ow!

    I find I go to extremes. I'm either wearing sky-high heels or I'm wearing riding boots.

    I'm having an awful time with my hands; they are dry and cracked and peeling. Of course, it doesn't help that I'm a nervous nibbler. I've never managed to break the habit. I don't nibble my nails, but the skin around them and - right now - they are a mess.


  • exbrnxgrl
    exbrnxgrl Member Posts: 12,424
    edited April 2016

    I sort of pick at my cuticles, but if I keep nails polished, it's not too bad. Heels,sigh... I can wear some wedges, but Dansko'sand Tom's my best friends.

  • SelenaWolf
    SelenaWolf Member Posts: 1,724
    edited July 2016

    Ah! Recent shopping expedition resulted in the acquisition of Bandolino sling-back pumps in bone leather with a contrasting toe-cap in black. Ralph Lauren dress in sapphire jersey-knit that fits like it was made for me. Added bonus? Both on sale: the shoes were half-off, the dress was two-thirds off.

    .

  • Tomboy
    Tomboy Member Posts: 3,945
    edited July 2016

    Sounds gorgeous and fabulous, and what a price! Must..show...pic!!! So nice to see SOMEONE

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