Hi Eagle,

This is a tough one where the diabetes is concerned. Is he on insulin? Does he have a monitor handy where he can test his blood sugar level? Are there any sugar free popsicles available where you live? My mom has diabetes and I only know a little from her. I know she is not completely restricted to certain foods. For instance, she can have bread, but just a slice. She can have pasta, but only a cup of cooked pasta in a day. I am surprised his doctor hasn't given him a diet to go by. I am sorry I am not much help in this area. One thing that has been proven to be good for diabetes is cinnamon. If there is some way you could incorporate it in some foods that would be a benefit.

I have heard the same thing Meredith as far as adding spices is concerned. Some who undergo chemo have said that putting double the amount of spice helped.

It is important that your brother doesn't become dehydrated, and his potassium level drops. This is where the gatorade comes in. I would ask his doctor if it would be alright if he had a small portion of it. I don't know the specifics and what his doctor has told you. I don't want to tell you the wrong thing.

As for the sleep. My dad is having the same problems. His doctor prescribed him sleeping pills so he can sleep through the night. Night sweats can be a hindrance for sure. One must be careful of pneumonia when undergoing chemotherapy, because the immune system is very low.

Anyway, here is a forum I found that has helped me, it is cancerforums.net I am sorry you have to go through this. The diabetes sure complicates things even more.

As far as what to do while receiving the chemotherapy. Where my dad goes, they have a TV in the room so he is happy because he loves to watch television. So he watches television and sleeps alternately, LOL. I haven't been with him during the times he was receiving the chemotherapy, my brother has been helping with that. Good idea about the game though, I will bring a deck of UNO when I go, because I am going to be with him the next time. Anyway, this is what my dad told me. My brother and mom go out a little to grab a bite to eat and they bring him food. How long does it take your brother? My dad's is an 8 hour ordeal.

I am sorry Eagle I wasn't able to answer everything for you.

I just want you and your family to be able to get past this. Good idea Meredith about the mantra!

Cheers,
Cathi