In order to determine what manufacturers I should be contacting regarding potential discounts, and samples, I need to determine what the current fashion trends in chemotherapy are. That is, what do you wear to each treatment? What do you wear at home recovering? Is there something that makes you feel better or more comfortable? If there are no new trends, then, hey, let’s create some? I found a few lines that are related to PIC Line covers, tops, drain holding hoodies and some dialysis shirts. Not much of a selection so there is definitely work to be done.
I always try to wear Lululemon leggings and a rock and roll t-shirt. It is comfortable but also provides great memories of my past concerts and gifts from my kids. It is also annoying since you get cold and need a sweatshirt, but have to have the IV placed if no PICC line, so saddle up before infusion if you want temperature control. I have read other articles where some people only wear one color, like red or pink. Others wear tracksuits that are easy to get on and off and allow for the anti-athletic look of LeBron James with a stylish sense of puffiness thanks to those wonderful steroids. On the other hand, does dressing up make you feel more in control? Are there certain hats you prefer or wigs? Scarves that do not make you feel like you are trying to parallel park in a burqa. Clothes made from bamboo or that have wicking capabilities to keep you dry from night sweats. Awe, sweating, that’s an entire separate blog, “I’m Drowning!”
My ultimate goal here is to get some discounting for patients with several companies that make sense and maybe, just maybe, one of them will step up and create an encouraging line of stylish cancer duds! Perhaps they might even consider doing an ad campaign with real patients instead of just workout jocks. The bottom line is that everyone wants to feel comfortable and safe. There needs to be fun alternatives.
There will be another 1.8 million people diagnosed with cancer this year in the United States. That is a nice size market to cater to each year, unfortunately. The lifetime probability of being diagnosed with cancer is 39.3% for men, and 37.7% for women. This is a little more than 1 in 3 chances. 22% of the deaths in the US in 2016 were from cancer or complications thereof. This makes it the second highest cause of death next to heart disease. I say it is time to be creative and develop a unique line of chemo wear so patients not only can be at ease but also stylish with hopefully a sense of humor.
Please let us know what is working for you and any suggestions you might have regarding this fun topic.