Lemon Moraine Pie

Caregiving is a constant learning experience." — Vivian Frazier”

What’s your daily routine with your loved one’s care?  My daily caregiving routine with my mom involves asking her these questions the start of each day:

  • Are you in any pain?
  • How was your sleep?
  • What would you like to eat?

For pain we start with pregabalin. This is medication is for nerve pain. After undergoing chemotherapy, mom developed neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy happens when the nerves that are located outside of the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves) are damaged. This condition often causes weakness, numbness and pain, usually in the hands and feet. It also can affect other areas and body functions including digestion and urination. The next medication 💊 is Levothyroxine, her thyroid medication, treatment for hypothyroidism, and the last medication is Oxybutynin, treatment for an overactive bladder, a condition that in some cases is found to be caused by cancer treatments.  

If mom mentions that she had some sleep issues, we delve into the specifics. Her eating habits vary each day. At times, she is unsure of her preferences, which simplifies things. I could surprise her with something nutritious, such as a bowl of oatmeal. The journey to improve my mom's nutrition has had its ups and downs.  It’s crucial that she eats overall, even if at times it may be an unhealthy choice.  

She requested a Lemon Moraine pie on one particular day, as it is one of her preferred desserts. Rather than refusing or persuading her otherwise, I simply agreed. "If that's what you want, then that's what you'll have – Lemon Moraine pie."🥧 


Switching gears a little, regarding nutrition research does show that eating well is crucial for individuals with cancer for several reasons:

  1. Nutritional Support: Proper nutrition helps maintain body weight and strength, supports immune function, and can aid in recovery and overall well-being.
  2. Side Effect Management: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. A balanced diet can help manage these side effects.
  3. Maintaining Energy Levels: Cancer and its treatments can be physically exhausting. Adequate nutrition helps provide the energy needed for daily activities and to combat fatigue.
  4. Healing and Recovery: Nutrients are essential for tissue repair and recovery, especially after surgeries or treatments that may cause damage to healthy tissues.
  5. Supporting the Immune System: A healthy diet can strengthen the immune system, making the body better able to fight infections and recover from illness.
  6. Improving Treatment Outcomes: Good nutrition may enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments and improve overall quality of life.
  7. Mental and Emotional Well-being: Eating well can also support mental health, which is important during the stress of cancer diagnosis and treatment.  

The source of information about the importance of nutrition for individuals with cancer is based on general medical and nutritional guidelines, as well as research and recommendations from organizations like the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and other reputable health sources. These organizations emphasize the role of proper nutrition in supporting patients through treatment, managing side effects, and enhancing recovery.




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