When Stephany whisked me off to the ER, I thought I’d get a quick IV top-up and be sent on my merry way. Spoiler alert: I ended up stuck there for weeks. Hospital stays are the absolute worst, but I found a few things that made it a tad more bearable. I hope you never need this list, but if you do, you’ll thank me later!
Scout Bag
Before treatment, my amazing friends Caroline, Katie, and Emily gifted me the ultimate cancer care package in the cutest Scout Bag ever. This bag is 100% cotton twill with a water-resistant coating. Why does that matter? Because hospitals are germ-central, and being able to wipe down the bag kept me from bringing any nastiness back home. It was my go-to for chemo days at the cancer center (hello, five-hour Tuesdays). It fit my tablet, chargers, pillow, snacks, books—basically my whole life.
Comfy Pajamas
Hospital gowns are the worst—big surprise, right? Soft, warm, cute PJs were a game-changer and made me feel almost human again.
Pillow/Pillowcase/Blanket
Hospital bedding is the stuff of nightmares. Bringing my own pillow, pillowcase, and blanket helped me actually get some sleep.
Water Bottle
Having a water bottle in bed was a lifesaver. The nurses were awesome about refilling it with ice water, saving them from running to get me a cup every time I got thirsty.
Slippers
Those one-size-fits-all blue tube socks with rubber bottoms? Hard pass. My slippers (or slides) were perfect. If you’re a Crocs fan (no judgment here), they’re also great because you can wear them in the shower.
Toiletries
The hospital gives you the basics, but let me tell you, having my own toiletries was bliss. I looked forward to my mom or the occupational therapist helping me wash my face with something other than a bar of soap. Chapstick, lotion, and dry shampoo were lifesavers.
Audible
I can only watch so much TV before my brain turns to mush. Holding a book or magazine was too much effort, so downloading audiobooks was perfect for those long days (and sleepless nights).
Eye Mask
You’d think being bedridden would mean lots of sleep. Nope. Nurses, CNAs, and phlebotomists were in and out every hour. Some were stealthy ninjas; others flipped on all the lights. An eye mask helped me stay asleep through the chaos.
Snacks
Most of my stay, I had an NG tube or was on liquids only, but when I could eat, having my own snacks was a godsend. Pretzels, bananas, Gatorade, and Ensure Clear were my go-tos.
Hope you never need these tips, but if you do, you’re welcome!