Taxotere, Carboplatin and Herceptin
Comments
-
Lisa- I will let you know. The accupuncture did help me, I now get "warm" flashes, and sometimes I will sleep all nite without waking up. Before the acc. I could easily wake up 10 times. I'm a nursing assistant so I am always moving around at work. That is when I get really hot. I can't imagine how hot I will get with the tamox. I hate dripping in sweat at work! I miss my birth control pills! (no sweating at all with them)
0 -
Kjbell: Thanks a little hard though to be humorous when your twat hurts! lol Anyway found the thing to post and it does make sense. When we have Chemo it tears up everything and the vagina skin also. So I always used Dial or something of that nature and the GYN said no use Aveeno body wash. So I am doing that and staying away from anything that could irritate. It does seem to be some better...who knows maybe onto something.0
-
Oh Cupcake- You gave me my laugh for the day! Surely I do not wish any pain on you whatsoever, but somehow looking at that sweet face of yours and then reading that your twat hurts cracked me up! I LOVE your no holds barred approach! Speaking of that sweet face, I showed my Mom your pix and she just about fell off her chair! She could not believe what she was seeing! I wasn't joshin ya when I said your resemblance to my beloved G'ma was uncanny! I do feel for you big time. Before this cancer, I would have to say my love life was beyond awesome. Thankfully, the intimacy is still going strong but the rest of my body is on hiatus and I sure hope that is temporary. I did read about Crisco in the Mojo thread and might just see how it does for things other than baking. And I'm with Bold on the efficacy (and fun) of toys. They work!
My Dad is home. They cancelled the surgery when they found the cancer had spread to his ribs. It does not look good at all but I will not let myself travel to the worst case scenarios until we have all the test results in. Tues is PET and MRI and after that, there will be a conference with the MD's. I will be going with my parents to that since I am now the cancer expert. Ha...a title I never sought for sure. So, I will keep you ladies posted. It's been a rough week and I had the first of my last 3 chemo's on Friday. Once again, the Emend is saving my life but I am very sleepy.
I'm sorry to not address everyone but I'm crossed eyed tired already. Only been up an hour!
I wish all who are celebrating today a very Happy Easter.
xoEllen
0 -
Ellen: I will keep your Dad and family in my prayers. This cancer seems to cross any line. One in a family at a time...geesh. Carolyn saw that with her brother. Good you are waiting for all the test to come in. Glad my little susie biscuit could bring a smile to your face. Rest my dear, it is what your body needs. So glad you got on the Emend. I remember it was my lifesaver too. Keep us informed about your Dad. It sure sounds like you have your Grandmas's spunk and zest for life...glad I could remind you of her. A big Cyber hug to you.....0
-
Ellen, your family is in my prayers. Take care of your dad, but son't forget to take care of yourself too. Hugs.
Cupcake, I am a HUGE Aveeno fan for dry skin. You may want to try their oatmeal baths too. Very soothing - for every body part.....
kjbell - I see my onc in the morning for Herceptin only. I have a list that I have been putting off: 1. Accupunturist 2, lymphdema specialist. Gotta get those two things done. Now that I have most of my stamina back, I am using my left arm more and more and not stopping to think about what I am doing. How easily we forget that which was so unpleasant....
ccbaby, beleive it not, you will get used to the hair loss. It sucks, but it does get almost natural. And the hair does grow back. Mine is not breaking any speed records, but it is growing.
Have a wonderful and blessed Easter everyone.
Lisa
0 -
ccbaby.... How was your 2nd treatment? I am right behind you with my second one tomorrow. I am curious as to how you will feel this week. I have about 1/4 of my hair too. I have a few things I ordered from Headcovers.com and TLC ( amer. cancer society), some soft hats, and turban/scarf things that tie in the back...trying them out to see which ones I can live with for the next few months. I had a tiny pony tail left too but I cut it off, because there was no point.....but still have not shaved head. Or you could check out Lisa's suggestion of PlanetBuff.com.
0 -
My last chemo was March 13. Last night while rubbing lotion on my hands I freaked out and noticed 3 nails were turning white! One is 1/3 white and the other 2 are white on the ends of the nail. Upon further investigation, I found out it is a s/e of our beloved taxotere and it means my nails will probably fall off!!!! The one that is 1/3 white can be lifted! What the heck? My hair is growing back but now I will have bald fingers? My fingers are sore, and were sore on chemo. Did this happen to anyone else?
Lisa-I also saw a lymphedema pt and I loved going. She gave me exercises to get ROM back in my affected arm. She massaged everything, my chest and arm and it felt good. I still have tight cording so I need to go back.
0 -
Hey all: Its 12:30 on now the day after Easter. I have taken my steroids (I pray) for the last Sunday before chemo. I am swollen like the ham we had for diner. I have canckels (spell?). I have shortness of breath and do not want to go tomorrow. But another part of me says this is the last time I can do it. Did anyone else get such weakness in there legs that if you squat down it really hard to get up. I feel like I am a hundred and 8. I hope that I will recover and return to my pre chemo not in that great of shape shape and then have the strength to get in really good shape. BRING ON YOUR TOXIC FOAM! You will be but a memory as I watch my hair grow and go get a tan at radiation. And you cancer cells are HISTORY. No recurrence only appreciation of life and the love that I have felt while I was sick and tired. I look forward to paying it forward. I am filled with Love and hope. (when I am not scared and praying). Enough said!
Thank you all for your help in this arduous journey. It ain't over yet but darn near. I sooo appreciate it. I hope that I have helped some too. I have more to give and get so I will get some sleep so that tomorrow will be ok. I have to drive myself and I hate it when I am overly steroided wired and tired when I'm driving.
Good nite sisters.
Rita
0 -
Bold~ WHOOO Cross that line you can do this last one !!! Thank you for giving someone who is 1 2/3 (#'s again) hope that I can crawl thru this journey. If I lived closer I would have driven you and we could have wobbled in together with weak legs.
Love this:
And you cancer cells are HISTORY. No recurrence only appreciation of life and the love that I have felt while I was sick and tired. I look forward to paying it forward. I am filled with Love and hope. (when I am not scared and praying).
Wishing you an easy last treatment
0 -
Bold - Congratulations You did it!!! You will fell so good this afternoon MENTALLY to know that it is over that you will forget about being tired and sore for a while. The muscle soreness and fatigue are from the drugs and messed up blood levels. After you body has a chance to flush the chemicals and your blood levels return to normal, all of that goes away. Today is week 9 post chemo for me and and I am 80% back to being me. We have another Graduate!!!!
kjbell: One of the orginal counselors that has moved on lost her nails too. I don't think it is reall common, but it can happen. My nails are very brittle and I can see a definate growth line where the nail health was affected.
cakelady - I just loved my buffs. And they are still useful afer chemo for all sorts of outdoor sports.
Going in today for my H only. One of the nurses puts in in pretty fast and I am outta their in about 2 hours. The other puts it in really slow and it takes 3 hours. I really hope I get the quick nurse today.
Have a great day campers!
Lisa
0 -
Ellen: I will keep you and your family in my prayers!!!
BOLD: Congradulations.....You are almost done
! Lisa: It only takes me about an hour for Herceptin...why so long???
ccbaby: I ordered several buffs from planetbuff.com...and LOVE them! We went for a ride on the boat yesterday and it was great not having to worry about a hat or a a wig blowing off my head! My 2nd treatment wasnt bad...my advice is if you feel bad..dont wait too long to call your onc to see what they can do to help. I waited several days before calling about my nausea...they called me in new meds and that helped alot!
Its bad enough with the SEs get you down...but to get the stomach bug on your good weekend - really sucks! I go in for my tx4 on Thursday and was really not looking forward to the naseau.....guess that is what I get...early and without warning! So I am at home today (not wanting to spread the germs) I was actually TOLD to stay home that they did not want it! I cant blame them....
Hope everyone else's Easter was a GREAT one!!
0 -
Hi ladies, I think I'm back in the land of the living again.
I've been lurking and replying somewhat but there's so much activity it's difficult to post to everyone. I do have to say that if anyone has any "spa credit" to definitely take it during your "good week" if you can. Walk - no run - to your nearest spa and check-in! After my trip there, this has been the most tolerable chemo experience I've had yet. Nothing much has changed except that I went for spa treatments a few days before my chemo. It really did wonders to refresh my mind, spirit and body. I'm now "broke" but it was so worth it.
After 8tx, I may have finally figured out what combo of meds I need to push through treatment. Technically I'm supposed to be "done" with chemo for now but I'm awaiting my next scan date and the doctor wants to see where I'm at after looking at scans. So, although I could conceivably take a break from chemo, I wouldn't be surprised if she asks me to continue. I have to psyche myself up for that. One of my chemo buddies at the hospital has been on Abraxane for 10 months now and expects to finish up after a YEAR of treatment.
I also just paid a visit to "planetbuff" and bought two. My knitted/crocheted hats are getting a little too hot these days and I need something cooler. I typed in curesearch in the coupon redemption area and received my $19 worth of shipping for free. I'm reluctant to shop online because the shipping to Canada is sometimes just as much as the item. This is a real bonus.
Enough about me...I hope everyone had a great Easter weekend.
0 -
Chemo buddy, Lisa, thanks for reminding me. I almost forgot that I have Herceptin today. When I was on chemo, I always knew where I was in 3 week cycle. It governed my life. Now with just Herceptin only, I don't think about it much. I spend more time thinking about the rads count - just two and a half more weeks.
Smile, some places do the once every 3 week Herceptin infusion in 30 minutes and some use 90 minutes. Mine does the latter. I asked about why because there was a paper at San Antonio saying that 30 minutes was fine. They say there are more side effects with the faster infusion rate. I haven't been getting any SEs with the 90 minute infusion so I guess I shouldn't mess with it.
Bold, I found the leg weakness really alarming. But it went away pretty quickly after chemo was over.
kjbell, I've kept my nails but like Lisa, I can see the line of where chemo started. The nail gets thinner at that point. I have a little line across the nail for each chemo cycle. I'm keeping them trimmed real short until the weak stuff grows out.
0 -
Way to go Bold! You're done and on your way to feeling good! How great to finish up around Easter when everything is fresh, new and alive! Just like you will be (in a few days after the SE
)Karen
0 -
Real fast - I gotta go feed my horses.
For you ladies that went to Planet Buff - you will LOVE THEM!!!!!!
Herceptin Only - My doc wants it done slowly. I did get the "fast" nurse today, but even then, I arrived at 9:15 and left at 11:45.
Hot flashes: I asked for a referral for accumpucture today and instead, they gave me a prescription for Paxil. That is an anti-depressant but they say it also controls hot flashes. What the heck, I'll try it.
Crap!! Phone just rang! I totally forgot I had a girl coming out to exercise one of my horses! Gotta go!
Lisa
0 -
Lisa, I am not one to second guess anyones treatment BUT I think there are studies that link Paxil and Tamox in a negative way. I think it makes it (the tamox) less effective. I am taking Effexor and it does the trick. I am going to look up the paxil/tamoxifen and get back to you.
TraciOkay, I looked it up. From what I understand when we take the Tamox it is broken down by the 2d6 enzyme and converts it into Endoxifen. Endoxifen is actually what we need to fight cancer. When women take Paxil it reduces the amount of Endoxifen in their system. As I said before, I am not one to second guess anyones treatment but I wanted you to know what I have read. I only take the Effexor every other day (it was hard to get used to because it made me feel weird for about a week). Taking it every other day made the "weird" feeling go away but it still helps with hot flashes and mood swings. I take 37.5 mg.
0 -
Hi Ladies,
Bold,
How wonderful that you are having your last chemo treatment. I see you are in Glendale. Where are you receiving treatment? I travel to Long Beach, CA, for mine. I hope you will soon be able to enjoy the beautiful weather we have been having and not have to worry about SE's any more (at least in a few days time).
Lisa,
Love that Gooseneck trailer. Do you have four horses or do you just like to have space for a friend's horse from time to time? Do you show your horse(s) or do you enjoy a trail ride? My husband and I only got back into horses three years ago and are just trail riding for fun as we have hit our more senior years (yes, my husband rides).
Linda
0 -
Thanks to all for your congrats for me.I have to say that There was no hoopdedoo at center. It was not even mentioned until I mention it. They had to stop my hydration today as I started to swell up to much. They gave me a diuretic RX. (only three,I got it filled right away) My legs got huge, it was very scary still is. I am very happy that this is the last time. I will be happier in three weeks when I will be in uncharted better territory. This site has been my life line because of the sisterhood. I pray for each of you everyday and will for a long time to come.
Blue: I am glad that someone knows what I am talking about as far as the legs go. My Onc just said it was from the edema. But I have it even when I am not swollen so glad to know it goes away. Thank you for all your help by the way.
Lisa: Your trailer totally rocks. I hope that there are wonder memories just waiting to happen. You are a great gal and deserve health and happiness.
Ellen: Your my kind of girl Boys well now my killer DH and toys.Crisco that reminds me of the 80's. I hope tht your life get easier. I am sorry that it is so hard.
Linda: I go to Cedar Sinai In Beverly Hills. However I am having my rad (i think meeting with them in two weeks) at City of Hope. Your Horse is a dream. Looking at your DX you have a lot to treat. The more they treat the better your prognosis and your got it all. I am neg PR and only 2% E+ so I am done after Herceptin and rads. But I am going to change allot of my lifestyle, increase deep green veggies and exercise more and not forget my supplements ever. We can beat this we are lucky.
I have very sensitive nails so I have a strong chance on loosing my nails to. Good news toenails are fine. Ain't cancer fun.
Peace out Bosom Buddies
0 -
Thanks for all the encouragement. I will push the Medicare/Neulasta situation to the top of the chain. I think what might have happened, is my oco changed the chemo regemine and included the Nuelasta script. Medicare is considering it under coverage A (chemo treatments) and not as an ancillary drug. I may be able to get my oco to reapply for approval as an ancillary drug, or switch me to Neupogen.
I can just see some Medicare beaurocrat making up rules... probably sitting within a 20 minute drive of a chemo clinic and never considering folks in the boonies that have to drive a long distance for treatment. My doc may be able to check it out of the Moffitt pharmacy and just casually drop it in my purse? LOL
hugs...
I start chemo tomorrow (Tuesday 14th) so probably won't get back here until Wed night or Thursday to report on the situation.
Thanks again for all your tips.
0 -
Swampy, I needed Neupogen but the RX had to be filled via mail order. My oncologist figured my RX would arrive in six days, so he gave me six vials and told me to replace them when my RX arrived. I was surprised and pleased that the oncologist knew how to put my needs first and the insurance company second. Here's hoping your oncologist can do something similar for you.
Bold, I thought about you this morning as I was driving to work and said a special prayer just for you. I am so glad that you are DONE, and disappointed that right up to the last day, you had cause for alarm. Based on your postings, I know that once you relax a little, you will put your boots on and kick your way through this last round of chemo. Be brave, relax, listen to your body, and never take your eyes off your goal. Just follow Lisa, she was so miserable and now look at her--she's doing her part to stimulate the economy and setting the course for good times and making her favorite kind of memories.
Speaking of memories, I know a lot of us dream about celebrating while we soak in the sun's rays. My oncologist told me to stay out of the sun because the sun's rays will penetrate through all clothing, except maybe a leather jacket. Anyone interested in starting a line of leather bras?
Cheers!
Cloud
0 -
A quick note before bed for those concerned about sun exposure. Land's End has some clothing that is rated for ultraviolet protection. For instance, they say their Sun.Life t-shirts are UPF 50. Should be more comfortable than leather bras. Other places have UV protective clothing too.
0 -
Traci - Thanks for the info. Can you tell me where you found it? I really need to talk to my doc, that is very disturbing. Just one more example of why we need to pay attention and ask questions. And by the way - where the heck have you been? You fell off the face of the earth for a while!
Linda - I have 7 horses of my own and 1 boarder. 2 of my horses are just pasture ornaments; one is older than dirt and the other is an off the track/injured rescue. We just ride for pleasure. I don't have the temperment for the show world.
Rita - You are done! Just keep looking ahead!
Swampy - Good luck! We will be thinking about you.
CCloud - I am outside a lot! And I know that is bad, but. I really like a line of riding apparel that has built in UV protection in the fabric. Not all of their products have it, but some do (Kerrits). This is becoming very popular in riding apparel. Those docs just take the fun outta everything
Blue - I really like Columbia UV apparel too. I have several of their shirts.
Well, my Spring Break is over so it is back to the classroom I go.....
0 -
lisa, I am here. I have had so much going on. I was sick, we had hail storms and flooding and a death. Too much. I was very interested in the 2d6 test and from looking up info on that I found the info on Paxil. I will post some of the sites that have info on this today.
0 -
I noticed with interest the posts about uv protective clothing. One of my goals is to spend more time out in the sunshine this year (have spent way too much time indoors). How long do we have to be worried about the sun?
Bold, congratulations on being finished! I am 12 days out from last treatment and feel pretty normal. I still find that my days "start late and finish early" due to lingering fatigue. Here's hoping that ends for all of us real soon.
I'm also really eager to see lots of hair. I have a sparse (VERY sparse) covering of fuzz mixed with some straight hairs. Since it's all white, I have dreams of being able to color it. I know, I know, it's way too soon. How long should I have to wait?
Best wishes to all going through treatment. I hope your side effects are few.
0 -
Did anyone have a really high resting pulse rate while on TCH ?? I have noticed that after week 1 my pulse rate is really high while resting and then if I try to walk or do anything I am quickly out of breath (which is not normally me).
0 -
Traci, I am glad you are OK. I never stopped to realize that you are right in the middle of the flood zone. I am so sorry about the death in your family. Take care. Lisa
0 -
Lisa- I'm watching the weather channel now. How are you holding up? Looks like you're pretty close to those nasty storms.
Jaimeih- I never had the symptoms you describe but they are those that the Dr. told me to watch for when my hemoglobin was real low. Maybe you can get that checked?
Bold- you may be suffering from your tx but NO MORE after this! CONGRATS, CONGRATS and happy dance. Whew, did you EVER think this day would come? I have one on Fri and then one more on the 27th. Can't wait to join you on the put chemo behind us camp role call!
Tracy- my prayers are with you. Sickness and death in the family is beyond difficult at anytime. In the middle of our own cancer journey seems so flippin unfair!
Thank you everyone for your prayers for my Dad. His tests are today so I will let you know once I do.
xoEllen
0 -
Hello All I have been reading posts TX 5 had me down last week I even left work early for the first time since I started this ride. I was so tired! This week my energy is back a bit , my legs and back are hurting , I just keep putting one foot in front of the other,I am almost to the end 2 weeks from Monday ,I am counting it for sure. Bold I am so glad you are done baby Hugs and Prayers We are all so lucky to have each other I can't imagine not having all you sisters with me We are all so blessed!!! I am right behind you, Next Monday I go to find out how many weeks of rads I have. Denali How are you My Fellow Colorado Girl??? Lisa OMG your trailer is sweet girlfriend!! Your 4 legged friends will be the envy of all other 4 legged friends. 0
-
Cupcake Thanks for your kind thoughts and as always Thank you always for your love ,support and humor for all of us We are lucky to have you. God sent you to watch over us You are our Guardian Angel no doubt about it!! We love you very much!!! 0
-
Paula, tx5 was the worst for me. Just rest and don't try to be a hero.
Ellen, we have been under tornadoe warnings all afternoon off and on. We got one bad blast and it looks like we are about to get another. I called my dad at 2pm to warn about the weather. Once the tornadoe threat lifted he got the horses in the barn for me. I am paranoid about a horse getting hit by lightening. We really need the rain, but I would prefer it in a calmer manner.
Lisa
0
