FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to email me at maureen@chemossentials.com.
What does the logo mean?
In case you are wondering about the logo - it is a modernized representation of the Celtic symbol for the Triple Spirals of Life.
The Celts believed that the important things in life came in threes - I like to think of body, mind and spirit. The concept is represented by one line moving outward and back around itself showing life's energy, growth and regeneration.
The power and grace of this symbol comforts and inspires me. I hope that you feel the same way.
Why put products in bags—do we really need more bags in our lives?
We offer an attractive and functional bag that will carry the items you will need to get you through chemotherapy as well as having enough room to carry your necessary personal items. Having a bag dedicated to chemotherapy means that you can put the bag away when you don’t need it and pull it out when you do-- It will be ready when you need it, but not intrude on your life when it isn’t necessary.
Why offer bags, kits and add-ons?
We recognize that each stage of treatment brings its own set of concerns and needs. When treatment is starting it is most helpful to have an array of products that can help alleviate side-effects—just having them available can be a tremendous confidence and morale booster. At other points in treatment skin care, relaxation or diversion many be more important.
Cancer treatment is a long-term process and it is important to address the special needs at each stage.
Chemossentials also wants to offer products at a wide range of prices.
Why these products?
Products have been selected because they work. Each product has been recommended by family members, friends and colleagues who have used and liked them.
Each product needs to be functional as well as easy to use and pleasing to your body, mind and spirit.
How is Chemossentials different from other gift baskets?
Chemossentials Bags and Kits provide practical and functional help to alleviate side-effects of cancer treatment. Other gift baskets typically contain items that offer well wishes and consolation.
Cancer treatments have changed radically over the past few years. Thankfully there are more treatment options available that not only prolong life but also greatly increase the odds of a remission or being cancer free. The quality of life during and after these treatments has also been greatly improved.
Cancer, in many cases, is being treated more like a chronic disease where continuing treatments will be able to keep the disease under control.
Our Bags and Kits reflect this progress. Chemossentials believes that each person fighting cancer should have the tools necessary to face and manage, as much as possible, the side-effects of treatments. We believe that being proactive is better than being passive. We want family and friends to not only feel like they are helping but to actually see that their gift is making a positive difference at this crucial time.
Another way that Chemossentials Bags and Kits are distinct, has to do with life experience. I have never personally received a diagnosis of cancer. I lost my mother to cancer, as well as, several dear friends. I have accompanied family and friends to chemotherapy and radiation sessions. I have gone along on doctor appointments. I know what it is like to want to help but to always feel like I can never help enough.
Friends tell me once that their cancer diagnosis is known, they receive more books than they will ever be able to read and that they are overwhelmed with flowers and plants. And even after receiving this outpouring of love and attention, they are still left clueless and fearful about how they are going to respond to chemotherapy. What they really want is something that will help them prepare for what is to come and to help them regain control of their life as they go through this process.
From my perspective, being helpful means being practical. I want those of us supporting our family and friends to actually see that our gifts are making a positive difference at this crucial time.
Aren't the same types of products available in a drug store for less money?
A moisturizer is a moisturizer -- right? Well -- no, actually that isn't the case. Many of the products contained in the bags and kits have been specifically designed for people going through cancer treatments. In those cases it isn't what's "in" the products that's important - it's what isn't in the products. No parabem, no PABA. The products contain natural, botanical, herbal ingredients.
Products for the skin are highly emollient so that you don't need to rub and tug at compromised, dehydrated and damaged skin.
Products for the stomach, mouth and throat are naturally soothing and gentle.
Your body is experiencing harsh chemicals, toxic drugs, radiation -- you need effective and targeted products to provide relief and promote healing.
What if I don't have a PayPal account?
While your credit card payment is processed by PayPal, you do not need a PayPal account to make a payment with Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express. When you're ready to check out, click on "I don't have a PayPal account." You can then finalize your payment.
What happens if the bag, kit or add-on I ordered isn't what I wanted?
Our policy is simple--we want you to be happy with your purchase.
If any of our products fail to meet your expectations please contact me at maureen@chemossentials.com or phone me at 612-799-7391. I will promptly work with you to provide the best possible resolution for your concerns. Inquires should be made within one week of receiving the products.
We want you to have confidence that when you shop at Chemossentials the products are of the highest quality and service is efficient and responsive.
Are the bags and kits just for women?
Most of the bag and kits are oriented towards women's needs and tastes, however several of the kits are also appropriate for men. The "Comfort Kit" for example is designed to promote relaxation and with small adjustments it is a great gift for a man. I can tailor the kit to your needs.
I noticed that you don't have a specific product, why not?
If you know of a specific product that you think is wonderful please let us know what it is. We are always on the look out for new products. We would love to know the name of the product, the manufacturer and what health issues this product is designed to address. How did you find out about it? Have you used it or has a friend recommended it to you? Please email maureen@chemossentials.com or call 612-799-7391 or visit our weblog and leave a comment there.
^ top
