Quality sleep is essential for recovery, but for cancer patients, challenges like pain, anxiety, and treatment side effects can disrupt rest. We explore common sleep issues such as insomnia, sleep apnoea, and restless leg syndrome, and provides evidence-based strategies to improve sleep. Key recommendations include establishing a consistent sleep routine, reducing screen time before bed, regular exercise, and trying relaxation techniques. Additionally, creating a comfortable sleep environment and consulting with a doctor can further help manage sleep problems. Discover practical products designed to support better sleep and comfort during recovery.
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Australia's cancer support services provide comprehensive assistance across all states and territories. Whether you need practical help, emotional support, or specific products to assist in your journey, there are services available to help. Remember that support needs may change throughout your cancer experience, and it's important to stay connected with these services as your requirements evolve.
A cancer diagnosis can trigger a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from fear and sadness to anger and uncertainty. It is crucial to acknowledge and address these emotional challenges head-on, as they play a significant role in the overall well-being and healing process. At Aurora Direct, we understand the importance of providing support beyond just products. We explore the emotional aspects of a cancer diagnosis and offer practical tips, as well as suggest helpful resources and products available at Aurora Direct and elsewhere.
The first step in navigating the emotional rollercoaster of a cancer diagnosis is to acknowledge your feelings. It is normal to experience a wide range of emotions, including fear, anger, sadness, and anxiety. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions and understand that they are a natural response to a challenging situation.
Don't face the emotional challenges alone. Seek emotional support and reach out to friends, family, or support groups who can provide a listening ear, empathy, and understanding. Professional counselling or therapy can also be beneficial in providing guidance and coping strategies. Aurora Direct offers a range of support books, meditation CDs, and relaxation aids that can help individuals find solace and emotional support.
Practicing self-care is crucial during this emotionally challenging time. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as taking walks in nature, doing yoga or meditation, or indulging in a warm bath with aromatic oils. Use products like scented candles, essential oils, and relaxation aids to promote self-care and provide moments of calm and tranquillity.
Finding healthy outlets for expressing yourself and your emotions can be immensely helpful. Consider writing in a journal or starting a blog to document your thoughts and feelings. Purchase yourself a beautiful journal that can serve as a safe space for reflection and self-expression.
During this difficult journey, finding inspiration and hope can make a significant difference. Surround yourself with positive and uplifting resources, such as inspirational books, motivational quotes, or podcasts. Aurora Direct offers a selection of inspirational books that can provide moments of encouragement and strength. Find a safe space to read and be at peace.
It is also imperative you ‘take a break’ from cancer! While it is essential to address and process your emotions, it is equally important to take breaks from cancer-related thoughts and activities. Engage in hobbies, activities, or entertainment that bring you joy and distract your mind from the challenges at hand. Engage yourself in a range of products that can provide moments of distraction and entertainment, such as puzzles, colouring books, and games.
And finally, you don’t have to go it alone. Connecting with others who have gone through a similar experience can provide a sense of community and understanding. Look for local support groups, online forums, or social media communities where you can share your journey, seek advice, and gain support from individuals who have walked a similar path.
A cancer diagnosis brings forth a whirlwind of emotions that can be challenging to navigate. It is essential to acknowledge these feelings, seek support, and practice self-care throughout the journey.
Aurora Direct is committed to providing not only products but also emotional support and resources to those facing a cancer diagnosis. By offering gut health, cold and heat therapy, skin and hair care, inspirational books and gifts, we aim to empower individuals to cope with the physical and emotional rollercoaster and find moments of solace and inspiration.
Remember, there is support available to help you navigate the emotional challenges and find strength in the face of adversity.
Visit www.auroradirect.com.au to find out more.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and life-changing, not only for the patient but also for their caregivers. During this challenging journey, a well-thought-out care package can provide comfort, support, and a glimmer of hope. At Aurora Direct, we understand the importance of these care packages, which is why we offer a range of products specifically chosen to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their caregivers. In this blog, we will share some valuable tips on creating a cancer care package that is both thoughtful and practical, and showcase some of the exceptional products available from Aurora Direct.
Personalise with love:
When creating a cancer care package, personalisation is key. Tailor the contents to suit the cancer patient’s needs, preferences, and hobbies. Consider including items that promote relaxation, self-care, and comfort. Aurora Direct offers a variety of soothing products such as skin and hair care, thermal gloves and socks, and books which can help create a calming environment.
Practical yet meaningful items:
Include practical items that can assist with the physical challenges faced during cancer treatment. Products such as skincare essentials, lip balm, and moisturisers are essential for managing the side effects of treatments. Aurora Direct offers a range of organic and gentle skincare products that can provide relief and nourishment to sensitive skin. We also provide products for hair, hands and nails.
Nourishment and hydration:
Cancer treatments can often have an impact on appetite and taste buds. Include nutritious snacks, herbal teas, and hydration products to support their well-being. Offers a selection of healthy snacks, such as protein bars and dried fruit, as well as hydration tablets and herbal teas rich in antioxidants to aid in maintaining vitality. Aurora Direct offers a unique advanced oncology formula called enterade in a refreshing orange flavour – suitable for those undergoing cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
Comfort and rest:
Cancer treatment can be physically exhausting, making comfort and rest crucial. Include items that promote relaxation, such as plush pillows, eye masks, and soft scarves. Aurora Direct provides a range of comfortable and stylish headwear options, including turbans and hats, which can help patients maintain their confidence and warmth during hair loss.
Emotional support and inspiration:
A cancer care package should also provide emotional support and inspiration. Include items like journals, inspirational books, or motivational cards that can serve as a source of comfort and encouragement. Aurora Direct offers a selection of uplifting books and inspiring bracelets that can provide moments of solace and inspiration during difficult times.
Thoughtful gestures for caregivers:
Don't forget to include items specifically tailored for caregivers who play a crucial role in the cancer journey! Offer products that can help caregivers find moments of relaxation and self-care, such as scented candles, massage oils, and relaxation CDs. Aurora Direct offers a range of products that can help caregivers rejuvenate and recharge amidst their caregiving responsibilities.
Creating a cancer care package requires thoughtfulness, creativity, and empathy. By personalising the contents and including practical, comforting, and inspiring items, you can bring solace and comfort to cancer patients and their caregivers. Aurora Direct offers a wide range of products designed specifically for these care packages, ensuring that each item is of the highest quality and can make a genuine difference in their lives.
Remember, a cancer care package is not just a collection of products; it is a symbol of love, support, and hope during one of life's most challenging journeys.
CALL-TO-ACTION
Visit www.auroradirect.com.au to view our supportive care range that provide nutritional support, gut health, hair and scalp care, items to help manage the complications of cancer treatments including ice cold gloves and socks and improving quality of life.
Cancer is a disease that affects not only the patient, but also their loved ones and it can be a difficult journey, both physically and emotionally. Fortunately, there are many resources and support available to help cancer patients and their families cope with the challenges that come with this diagnosis.
Support Groups
One of the best resources for cancer patients and their families is support groups. Support groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, fears and concerns with others who are going through the same thing. It can be incredibly helpful to connect with people who understand what you are going through and can offer encouragement and support.
There are many types of support groups available, including those specifically for patients, caregivers and family members. Some support groups meet in person, while others are online. Many hospitals and cancer centres offer support groups too, so be sure to ask your healthcare provider for information on those located in your area.
Counselling Services
A cancer diagnosis is a very stressful and emotional experience for both patients and their families. Knowing that there are various counselling services available is a comfort and can provide emotional support while helping individuals cope with the challenges of cancer. Counsellors are qualified to help patients and their families deal with anxiety, depression and other emotional issues that may arise during the cancer journey.
As with support groups, hospitals and cancer centres also offer counselling services, and some health insurance plans may cover the cost. If you are unable to access counselling services through your healthcare provider, there are many online counselling services available such as the Cancer Council, Redkite and Canteen Connect.
Financial Assistance Programs
Cancer treatments can add financial pressures to individuals and there families and many families struggle to manage the financial burdens during their treatment. Fortunately, there are many financial assistance programs available to help cancer patients and their families. These programs can aid with medical bills, transportation costs and other expenses related to cancer treatment.
Many hospitals and cancer centres have social workers who can provide information on financial assistance programs. There are also many non-profit organisations that provide financial assistance to cancer patients and their families.
Supportive Care products
Using supportive care products to help manage the side effects of cancer treatments can support cancer patients and assist, such as restoring gut health with enterade® Advanced Oncology Formula, Ice Cold Gloves and Socks to help manage potential issues of peripheral neuropathy, Follact Restore Healthy Hair Care for scalp and hair treatment and EZbra® for post-surgical wound care. Explore all your options and talk to your healthcare professional to ensure this benefits your plan.
Online Resources
In addition to local resources, there are many online resources available to cancer patients and their families. These resources can provide information on cancer treatment, coping strategies and support groups. Some popular online resources include:
Cancer Council Online Community (https://onlinecommunity.cancercouncil.com.au/ ) – The Cancer Council’s website provides information on cancer treatment, support groups and financial assistance programs.
Healthdirect (https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/caring-for-someone-with-cancer ) – Health direct provides information on counselling services, support groups and educational resources for cancer patients and their families.
Cancer Australia (https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/impacted-cancer/cancer-support-organisations ) – Cancer Australia is a government website that provides information on cancer treatment, survivorship, and support services.
Cancer is a difficult journey, but there are many resources and support available to help patients and their families cope with the challenges that come with this diagnosis. Aurora Direct can also help patients be prepared to manage some of the side effects of cancer treatments and help patients take control and feel stronger with specialised products, gifting and books.
If you or a loved one is facing cancer, don't hesitate to reach out for help. There is no need to face this journey alone.
Visit www.auroradirect.com.au
Cancer is a life-altering disease that affects not only the person diagnosed but also their loved ones. Family and friends play a crucial role in providing support and care for a loved one with cancer. Let’s explore some ways you can support a family member or friend after they have been diagnosed with cancer, drawing on tips from oncologists and nurses.
The first and most important thing you can do is to be there for your loved one. This means simply being present and available to listen, talk, and provide emotional support. Showing up and being there, whether it be in person or through phone calls, text messages, or video chats, can make a huge difference. According to an oncologist, the emotional support of loved ones is crucial for the patient's mental well-being and can greatly improve the outcome of treatment.
Another way to support a loved one with cancer is to help them navigate the healthcare system. Cancer treatment can be complex and confusing, and it is common for patients and their families to feel overwhelmed. Offer to help your loved one schedule appointments, fill out paperwork, and understand the treatment options available to them. A nurse recommends keeping a journal or calendar to keep track of appointments, medications, and other important information to make the process less overwhelming.
Another way to support a loved one with cancer is to help them maintain their daily routine. Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally draining, and it is important for patients to maintain a sense of normalcy. Offer to help with household chores, run errands, or even just spend time with them doing something they enjoy. According to an oncologist, maintaining a sense of normalcy can greatly improve the patient's quality of life during treatment.
It is also important to be mindful of the emotional and psychological toll that cancer can take on a person. Cancer patients may experience a wide range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and depression. Be there to listen and provide support, but also know when to seek out professional help if necessary. Encouraging your loved one to talk to a therapist or counsellor, especially if they are experiencing severe emotional distress can also be helpful.
Educate yourself about the disease and treatment options. This will not only help you understand what your loved one is going through but also make you more equipped to provide them with accurate information, resources, and support. I found these two websites very informative; Cancer Council and Cancer Australia.
Cancer can be financially draining, so it's a good idea to offer help in that regard if you can. From offering to pay for treatment, to helping with bills and groceries, or even finding alternative healthcare support or rebates.
It is a heavy load to carry so remember that you also need to take care of yourself. Supporting a loved one with cancer can be emotionally and physically taxing, Self care and setting boundaries to avoid burnout is essential.
So, although your role in supporting your loved one with cancer is a challenging one, it is a rewarding one too.
View Aurora Direct’s Supportive care range, the products provide nutritional support, gut health, wound care and hair care which can improve the recently diagnosed, quality of life.
Visit www.auroradirect.com.au
Being a woman, we are at constant risk of breast cancer and other breast abnormalities. Breast tissue is a fast-growing, hormone-dependent tissue that is susceptible to trauma, radiation, and other environmental risks. There are many indications for breast procedures. Given the social importance, one may get breast remoulding for aesthetics, biopsy for screening, lumpectomy in case of any benign lumps and bumps, or radical mastectomy if one is at higher risk of breast cancer or diagnosed with breast cancer. There are many diagnostic and curative surgical procedures for breast examination and treatment performed every day. Every year, 13 MILLION breast procedures are performed worldwide, and yet, there is little to no information for the standard of care for post-op patients.
Nowadays patients are being treated with assorted recovery products to meet their recovery needs with no access to equipment and products which can make the healing process faster and better. They don’t have the proper understanding of what to do after the surgery and what to avoid for better wound healing. No matter the procedure, the breast tissue needs proper care and attention after the surgery. To know more about post-op care and healing, here are some tips for wound care after breast procedures.
Change the dressing regularly: Dressing needs to be changed regularly until the wound is completely healed. It can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. The dressing needs to be clean and sterile for the wound to heal better. In the initial recovery phase, dressing needs to be changed by professionals in the hospital which means more hospital visits unless you have self-applying support.
Keeping wound clean: Keeping the wound clean is an integral step in wound management and care. It should be your first and foremost priority. It is necessary to change the dressing in case of any fluids and to have an appropriate, absorbable dressing. Wash it with soap and water to prevent any infections and wash off blood and pus. Follow the doctor’s further recommendation.
Appropriate wound site environment: A humid wound site environment promotes better healing and a dry environment can cause itching and irritation along with pain and discomfort. Having a dressing that can provide a humid environment without causing dryness can speed up recovery.
Use non-adherent dressing: Use of non-adherent dressing is another way of proper wound healing. Adhesive dressing can cause an allergic reaction or a medical adhesive-related skin injury. Using non-adherent dressing can help in avoiding this problem.
Avoid makeup: Avoid any makeup and chemicals around the operative site until the wounds are completely healed.
EZbra provides the best solution for optimal wound care. EZbra Post-op support is the ultimate answer to faster recovery. It has an absorbent inner layer, which can absorb wound discharge ten times its weight and helps in keeping the wound clean. It is sterile and disposable with environmentally friendly material, making it safer against infections and minimising the need to wash.
Not only that, EZbra is specifically designed to provide a semi-occlusive structure that can maintain a humid environment. Humid and sterile infection can stimulate wound healing and tissue growth.
Wounds can become infected and irritated by the use of an adhesive dressing. EZbra is low adherent which can limit the adhesive contact. It is specifically designed to reduce dermatological and tissue damage during dressing changes. It can also minimise the pain along with preventing any further damage.
At EZbra, we understand the complications and post-op needs. Our mission is to make recovery easier for all women fighting against breast cancer and to spread awareness about how you can take better care of yourself to return back to your new normal.
Pre-order your EZbra today !
