Missing school because of chemo can be really tough.

It’s not easy balancing your health and trying to keep up with your education, but with a few strategies, you can manage both. Here are some tips that might help you stay on track.

Stay connected with school

  • Communicate with your teachers
    • Let your teachers know about your situation. They’ll understand and can help you by providing assignments, notes, and any other resources you might need. Don’t hesitate to ask for extensions or extra help if you need it.
  • Buddy system
    • Pair up with a classmate who can share notes, handouts, and keep you informed about what’s happening in class. This way, you won’t miss important information or upcoming assignments.

Create a flexible study routine

  • Set realistic goals
    • Depending on how you’re feeling, set small, achievable goals for each day. This might be reading a chapter of a book, completing a math assignment, or studying for an hour.
  • Find your best time
    • Pay attention to when you feel most energetic and focused during the day, and try to schedule your study sessions during those times.
  • Take breaks
    • Don’t push yourself too hard. Take regular breaks to rest, especially if you’re feeling tired or unwell. Listen to your body.

Utilize available resources

  • School counselor
    • Reach out to your school counselor for support. They can help you with academic planning, provide emotional support, and connect you with additional resources.
  • Tutors and extra help
    • If you’re struggling with a particular subject, consider getting a tutor. Some schools offer tutoring services, or you might find help online.
  • Educational apps and websites
    • Use educational apps and websites for extra practice and learning. Websites like Khan Academy, Quizlet, and others can offer help in various subjects.

Stay positive and motivated

  • Set personal goals
    • Think about what you want to achieve and set personal goals. This could be finishing a book, improving in a subject, or just staying caught up with your class.
  • Celebrate small wins
    • Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Every bit of progress is something to be proud of.
  • Stay connected with friends
    • Keep in touch with your friends through social media, texts, or calls. They can provide emotional support and help you feel connected to school life.

Take care of your health

  • Listen to your body
    • Your health comes first. If you’re feeling too sick or tired, it’s okay to take a break from studying. Rest is important for your recovery.
  • Healthy eating and hydration
    • Eating nutritious food and staying hydrated can help keep your energy levels up. Try to eat balanced meals and drink plenty of water.
  • Gentle exercise
    • If you’re feeling up to it, light exercise like walking or stretching can help improve your mood and energy levels.

Ask for support

  • Family support
    • Don’t hesitate to ask your family for help. They can assist you with your studies, keep you company, and offer emotional support.
  • Professional help
    • If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a therapist or counselor. They can provide strategies for coping with stress and anxiety.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and take things at your own pace :) Your health is the most important thing right now, and your schoolwork will still be there when you’re feeling better. Stay strong, stay positive, and know that you’re not alone in this journey.