Ffshelp!

[Ffshelp]

I was diagnosed with incurable cancer over 18 months ago. I got the most terrible rash which eventually was diagnosed as subacute cutaneous lupus. It was almost sepsis. I struggle now to differentiate symptoms- cancer v lupus. I am keen to make the most of my life but removing lymph nodes (cancer) and being unable to be in any sun (lupus) are making my ability to keep my garden under control difficult. I should say that I love gardening and it helps with my sanity . What is the best sunscreen? Any advice or information about keeping this under control will help.

[honeybug]

OMGOODNESS Ffshelp 🥰

I’m sooooooo very sorry yo hear of your terminal cancer diagnosis. Cancer has taken 98% of my relatives…I know it well.

Currently I’ve tested negative for lupus but I have Sjogrens disease….plus I had 8 paternal Aunts who suffered from it too. How I empathize with you about your endurance of this disease. I just lost my dad to sepsis in November.

I’m across the pond…here we have huge umbrellas to use while on the beach/shore and while eating under it to give cooler air during outdoor dining.

If you could get such an umbrella ( some come with adjustable/swivel heads that allow angle adjustments) you could place this in your garden area and work under its protective cover. Also be able to eat outside or just relax in the shade of it.

I’m sorry I can’t offer sunscreen advise myself. If you talked to your chemist about your specific needs due to their vast knowledge and experience a proper cream should be suggested for you.

Best wishes for success in everything. I send you gentle hugs prayers and love.

EJ 🤗❤️🥰🙏🕊️🌿🌸🦋

[RosieA]

I am so dreadfully sorry that you are going through all this. I have Lupus and am very photosensitive and like yourself love gardening. I cope in the following ways.

F50 sunscreen - there are so many available - it's just what will suit your skin

A sunhat with F50 - see ones from Australia, often available through Sunsibility / Solbari

Clothing with a sunscreen in them - also available from the online shops above

I get up early - so lots of gardening in the height of summer first thing- in by 9-10 am.

Finally, good quality sun glasses

Create a deep shade area for sitting in the garden.

I hope this helps you to enjoy your garden some more. Wishing you all the best. x

[WinterSwimmer]

Not being able to be outside is pants! I use Neutrogena Ultrasheer Dry Touch factor 70 (which I buy on Amazon). This is fairly waterproof, stays put unless you sweat until its running down your face, and (for me at least), it works well.

A cancer diagnosis is something we all dread. You need to do as much of what you love as possible and I hope you find a sunscreen that works for you.

[Frosty1960]

Hi , I have the same and after I had cancer found the symptoms got a lot worse limit times I'm out as doesn't need to be sunny as it's the uv rays that cause problems I get prescribed La Roche-Posay 50+ it's very good and not too heavy on the skin I also always wear a hat outdoors if you are in the garden on a warm sunny day you are best to wear a long sleeve shirt or t-shirt dark colours are best with fabric if you hold up to light doesn't let light or as little as is best as possible remembering to still apply sunscreen on arms in particular as the tend to be outside of the shade of the hat. I hope this helps you a bit as it helps me get out the house and maintains a bit sanity.

[Ffshelp in reply to Frosty1960]

Thank you so much for the reply - did your oncologist accept that the cancer or medication caused the lupus?

[Frosty1960]

I had been diagnosed with the lupus about 20 years before, it just got a lot more active after the cancer to stage you have to think of anything you do so you can take precautions spending all day outside or holidays abroad are out of the question now.