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Comments

  • jeanl151
    jeanl151 Member Posts: 36
    edited November 2009

    Hi Brenda, I too am grade 3.  I found that very scary info.   Now that I have had some time to deal with the b/c I try not to think about it.  I get too anxious if I deal with each detail by itself (I am also triple negative and that's scary too).  Try to put your trust in your doctor ( sorry you have had to do this more than once)

      I have a Neulasta question for those who have had the shot.  I was so sleepy from tx on wed, thru Sunday.  Now today ( Monday) my knees and hips feel so weak I can't get through the house.  Is this the Neulasta?  I took the claritin before the shot and tylanol the day after.  Is there anything else I can do?  I feel like I have had the flu and now have no strength in my lower body.

      Thanks, Jean

  • one-L
    one-L Member Posts: 653
    edited November 2009

    jean, after my first tx, I felt just like I had the flu, I was so weak and hurt all over.  I don't know if it was from the chemo or Neulasta.  After the 2 tx I did not feel  like  that at all, I also had the Neulasta shot.  So I guess I really don't know what to tell you.

    Hope everyone has a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

    Juannelle

  • valeriekd
    valeriekd Member Posts: 79
    edited November 2009

    Hey Jean I felt like that after my first tx for days 4/5 and I have not since. No neulasta for me so I guess it was just the T/C - it too shall pass. Just rest and walk when u can- Best, Valerie

    PS #3 for me 2morrow! 

  • jeanl151
    jeanl151 Member Posts: 36
    edited November 2009

    Hey Valerie,  thinking of you today and hoping #3 goes very smoothly for you.  Hopefully you will be comfy at home after a long day -- best wishes

      I took some advil late yesterday and the hip pain seems a bit less.  I will try to move this body around more today and see if that helps with the aches.

       Jean

  • lottie
    lottie Member Posts: 160
    edited November 2009

    Hi All -

    Well it's #4 for me tomorrow, two more after that. After about 10 days of feeling really good, I'm not looking forward to going back in. It's not that my side effects are unmanageable, because they're not, it's just that after 3 tx I think I know what to expect and I'm sort of sad about it. This is not my best attitude, it could be so much worse for me I know I should be grateful that all I have to be concerned about are weird skin reactions, nasty mouth stuff, a little queasiness, some fatigue, twitchy eyes, runny eyes, runny nose, sore fingers and toes ... tiny things that add up to 10 days of hassle. I've been commuting to work the past few days and I think I've worn myself out... well, at least I'll get a good 3 hour nap tomorrow during tx.

    Thanks for listening to my violin ....

    Lottie

  • Sherri_V
    Sherri_V Member Posts: 35
    edited November 2009

    Tomorrow is my first infusion with this cocktail.

    I am taking a steroid pill in advance (2 yesterday, 2 today) to help with potential side effects. 

    Keeping my fingers crossed that I don't have any bad side effects until Monday...from my lips to God's ears, rigth?!

  • azdiva
    azdiva Member Posts: 23
    edited November 2009

    Lottie - I felt the exact same way as I approached tx#3.  My side effects have been few (I even accused Onc of not giving me real chemo), but it was more a feeling of sadness that I have to do this, go through this, again.  I just have to remind myself that I will get through it, and that this period in my life is just a blip in my future LONG, LONG years of existence!  (Pep talk to self.)  We will all get past this!

    Echosalvaje - Thanks . . .  Now I want a hot dog!! 

    Laura 

  • valeriekd
    valeriekd Member Posts: 79
    edited November 2009

    hi Gals

    Lottie Good luck tomorrow- you r getting through it -thats all that counts - so good for you to vent - it is so much worse to keep it inside,

    Thanks for thinking of me Jean Finished #3 w/ less of a problem than 1 & 2 so lets hope that continues thru Thanksgiving but if not I don't have to cook! (Not that I am doing too much more than being in charge of the microwave this year).Embarassed

    Sherri My onc has me taking decadron the day after also.

    Be well and happy holiday! Love to you all, Valerie 

  • lilintexas
    lilintexas Member Posts: 11
    edited November 2009

    Happy Thanksgiving Ladies.

    I just had my last treatment yesterday!  So far so good, unlike #3 which hit me day one.  I was up @ 3am making some goodies for the holiday that I'm sure I won't feel like eating.  I know this has been asked before, but has anyones menses stopped during this phase (after 3 or so) & not returned?  I'm wondering if I'm just in for a massive period anytime now as I'm always right on track & now its been welll over a week (of course there is no pregnancy).  Good Luck Lottie I'm sorry you have to have 6, but I know you can do it. 

  • one-L
    one-L Member Posts: 653
    edited November 2009

    congrats LilinTexas, I know it is a great comfort knowing you are finished.  I have 2 more to go, so will finish about Christmas, that will be my Christmas present.

    Happy Thanksgiving Ladies

    Juannelle

  • dogsaver
    dogsaver Member Posts: 110
    edited November 2009

    my period stopped after treatment one and then it hit hard during treatment 3.  i am 9 days post friggen chemo. battling a minor cold so still feeling tired but have worked all week. even worked today and made the thanksgiving rounds. number 3 was hardest as far a nausea and number 4 was hardest as far as emotions. so glad its over. those about to start TC, it was manageable. i knew it was here but it was manageable. wondering for those who are a bit ways out from their last treatment, how long til the depression/anxiety went away? getting better each day so thats good

  • Sido
    Sido Member Posts: 55
    edited November 2009

    I go in for tx #3 tomorrow and I feel the same way, just sad and resigned to it.  My period stopped after #2 and I won't miss it if it never comes back.  Hopefully tomorrow I'll finally also get the results of my BRCA genetic test.  I took it over a month ago and haven't heard anything yet. But I just keep thinking about 6 more weeks of feeling like crap.

    Did anyone else develop a rash on their hands and arms?

  • chynadollsmom
    chynadollsmom Member Posts: 43
    edited November 2009

    Lilin -- My onc told me that TC would possibly put me into menopause either temporarily or permanently.  The day after my 2nd TC i started my period.  Had a normal period, and then continued to have spotting.  I am now about to take my 4th TC and the spotting seems to have finally quit.  But haven't had another period since the last one right after my 2nd TC, 6 weeks ago (which is very unusual for me).  Last week I had what I can only assume was a hot flash.  Will be interesting to see if menopause symptoms increase or cease after my last TC. 

  • one-L
    one-L Member Posts: 653
    edited November 2009

    It has been a quiet couple of days on this thread.  I hope everyone is doing OK and have had a really good relaxing weekend.

    I didn't get out and go shopping on Black Friday, in fact, I have skipped that part of the weekend all together.  I hate crowds when I am shopping and I think I am going to go light on Christmas this year.  My kids have everything they need and if they don't they are in the process of buying it, so I think I will go the impersonal route and give them money.  That way I don't have to go shopping and they can buy what they want.

    I have TX #3 next week and when that is done will only have one more to go, I can't wait to get this part of the journey over with.  It hasn't been to bad, but I am still  tired of it.

    Good night and I hope  everyone has a nice relaxing Sunday.

    Juannelle

  • cka0706
    cka0706 Member Posts: 23
    edited November 2009

    Hi everyone. Thanksgiving was a nice break from MD visits, etc. My daughter was home from college and I told her then that I will be having chemo starting Tuesday. I hated telling her because she really worries. Be so far away (5 hours) she can't see when I'm doing okay.

    So I did a reality check and ordered some head wraps this afternoon. That made the upcomng chemo real. I still want to get a wig but I want to go to a store and try them on. 

    My question to everyone -- do most people lose their hair on T/C? I was told by my onc, her nurses, and my PS it does. Just wondering what your experiences are.

    Carolyn

  • dogsaver
    dogsaver Member Posts: 110
    edited November 2009

    Juannelle, two down two to go! yay! you can do it! you may feel more tired after the last two so just take the time you need to recover. CKA: definately go to a place and try wigs on. i tried a few on before i found the one i loved. mine was actually pretty long but i liked how natural the hair looked. my hair dresser cut if for free for me and i love the style. From what i have read and heard. most people do lose their hair some dont or some just thin. what helped me was having  a wig ready to go. do you have insurance? mine covered most of the main wig. when your follicles start to hurt, thats the sign that it will be coming out. mine came out in clumps in the shower and then i had it buzzed. its hard at first getting used to it but now its just a habit to put on the wig. honestly i was most worried about what hubby would think. he could care less if i have hair or not he jsut wants me to be okay! anyways, its doable and keep posting and best wishes

  • cka0706
    cka0706 Member Posts: 23
    edited November 2009

    Thanks, dogsaver. Hey I love the photo. I miss my dog (she died 1-1/2 years ago) but my neighbor offered to bring her dog over whenever I needed some "pet therapy." (I'll definitely take her up on her offer!).

    I have insurance and I will call them tomorrow. I plan to go look at wigs tomorrow as well. I'm just a bit nervous about this whole chemo thing. I hate the anticipation of something. I'd rather do it and deal with it rather than think about it. I think if I find a wig I like and am comfortable with that will help alot. I'll let you know what I find tomorrow!

    Carolyn

  • Sido
    Sido Member Posts: 55
    edited November 2009

    Juannelle congrats on getting to #3.  I just finished #3 myself on Friday with one more to go too! I avoided Black Friday, not just for chemo, but because there is nothing out there worth shopping at 4am for.

    Carolyn, I lost my hair and avoided getting a wig at first, but now I'm going to get a "hip hats with hair" partial wig.  Be sure to get a prescription for a "cranial prosthetic" from your doctor for the insurance.

  • cka0706
    cka0706 Member Posts: 23
    edited November 2009

    Sido: thanks for the "heads up" (pun intended Wink) about the prescription for insurance coverage. I will check with the onc department when I go tomorrow. I finally bought some head covers yesterday so at least I will have something.

    And I LOVE your dog photo. He (she?) is adorable.

    Glad to hear you have only one tx left. Good luck with it.

    Carolyn

  • Sherri_V
    Sherri_V Member Posts: 35
    edited November 2009

    I had chemo #2 on Wednesday.  My first one was a different treatment.  This one was Taxotere & Cytoxan.  I heard that this cocktail is less likely to make one nauseous but I'd have to disagree.  I had a pretty rough time.  PLUS, I got the tingly, scratchy feeling and the majority of my hair has falled out :(  While it's in the falling out stage, I found the wig to be very uncomfortable.  I put it away until I'm completely bald as it's rubbing on the already sore follicles was almost unbearable for me.

  • valeriekd
    valeriekd Member Posts: 79
    edited November 2009

    Hey Gals - finished #3 last tues and it was the most tiring yet- I feel like I have been sleeping or staring at the ceiling w/  a fair amt of throbbing bone pain in ankles and knees. BUT just have to focus on that is what I am doing right now - I am taking care of a body w/ CA. Thats it. I am the type of person who feels guilty when everyone else is working  -I guess i just have a different job right now.

    Oh your head will get COMPLETELY comfortable- just a little cold at x when it gets used to its new do!

    Good luck ladies- love you all- Valerie 

  • flacracker
    flacracker Member Posts: 17
    edited November 2009

    Hello ladies,

    I finished up with my last T/C chemo Nov. 19th!Laughing I think the 3 and 4 treatment a couple days after really kick my butt! Mostly tried never did get an upset stomach.  I used the meds called Decadron before and after treatment only for 3 days. I know I started to lose my hair around 16 or 17 days after the 1 treatment. So I got it cut short and then deiced to shave it. Yes the hair roots started to hurt alittle. I started using baby oil after shower and that help also I used wash cloth to get the rest of the hair out. and the one help a bunch.I got a wig but I have not use it yet I like wearing scarfs, softer on my head.  Now that I am done with my last treatment. I have notice my fingernail are blueish looking at the base anybody with that?? Any suggesting? I hope anyone going throuth treatment has little SE.Soft hugs!!!!!!!

    Wanda

  • SusanG2
    SusanG2 Member Posts: 1
    edited November 2009

    Hi all,

    Haven't been on the site for a while. Has anybody gotten a rash that looks like chicken pox on any body parts (legs, ankles, fingers, torso) (I'm sure its not chicken pox cause it does not itch)and I had a nasty case when I was 18 years old). My oncologist office says its a result of the cumulative effect of the taxotere and I could take the decadron if it really bothers me, I am opting not to until I have to for chemo cause that stuff gives me a horrible headache. I agree that chemo #3 was the worst as far as recovering from it, very tired and emotional. I've got 3 more to go, the next one is Friday. I am so ready for this to be over with, I am so tired of the emotional ups and downs.  My hair came out on the 17th day but my fingernails are still okay. So glad to have you all for support!   

  • sugar77
    sugar77 Member Posts: 1,328
    edited November 2009

    Hi all,

    I'm new to this and will be starting this TC regimen next Monday for four rounds.  Not sure what to expect and am hoping for the best. I understand hair loss is certain so I'll be looking into getting a wig at the end of this week.  I'd welcome any advice or tips from anyone.

    Sherri 

  • valeriekd
    valeriekd Member Posts: 79
    edited December 2009

    Hi Susan I agree #3 is the worst in terms of fatigue- got spoiled by #2 - I bounced back in 5 days now I am still struggling to stay awake on day 6.

    Hi Sugar77 Everyone is different but baldness seems to run the gambit between days 14 qnd 18 post first infusion. Everyone has been soooooo different one just needs to go w/ the flow. Drink alot of H2O, walk 20" a day adn let your body lead you the rest of the way! Good luck and ask questions! Valerie

  • dogsaver
    dogsaver Member Posts: 110
    edited December 2009

    the first week is hard with the hairloss and shaving but then you get used to it and its prob the easiest symptom physically to handle. i was a mess for a week just shocking the heck out of myself now im used to it. just be careful if taking your wig off in the car, i took mine off at a stop sign because it was summer and i was hot and shocked the heck out of the driver next to me.

  • one-L
    one-L Member Posts: 653
    edited December 2009

    Good evening ladies.  Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and got some needed rest.

    I stayed pretty busy through the weekend, wish I had rested more.  Had to go back to work today and it was my first full day in two weeks.  I got really tired and almost went to sleep on the way home, I will have to be very careful about that.

    Sherri, if you want some advise on what to do, PM me and I will tell you what  do and I have had very few SEs.  I am mostly fatigued and that just comes with it. 

    Susan, I have done 2 TCs and have not had a rash of any kind.  I will have my 3rd tx on Dec 3 and I have not lost all my hair.  I did shave it after the first tx, because I couldn't stand the thought of it all falling out.  My nails are still hanging in there, no problems.  I also still have brows and lashes.

    Wanda, congrats on finishing your TC.  I have 2 more to go and I know I can do it, it is just not easy and I don't really have a hard time with it.  I guess if we looked forward to the chemo, people would  think we were crazy.

    valerie, can't believe you are finished with #3.  Congrats on that, I will be right there with you after Friday.  I hope it doesn't hit me bad this time, I have had such an easy time, I wont know what to do.

    Sherri, I have had 2 TCs and have not been nauseous at all.  But I take my meds faithfully.  I really don't want to get sick.

    Sido, I also avoided Black Friday.  I have never gone out to fight the crowds.  Well, maybe I did when my children were young and I was trying to get that perfect gift, but not know.  I hope you are not having any SEs with your last tx.

    Carolyn, I sent in all my papers to the insurance, I think they will pay for the wig, but haven't received my money yet.  It sure would be nice if I got it before Christmas.

    dogsaver, thanks for the encouragement.  I am dreading this tx, heard that the 3rd one is the worst.  Nothing to look forward to.  I just want to get it over.

    I am wishing for minimal SEs this week for everyone.

    Juannelle

  • josie2009
    josie2009 Member Posts: 6
    edited December 2009

    I am also starting Chemo CT in the next week - This Friday.  I have been reading all the posts and trying to figure out how to prepare. I still do not understand what to expect.  Do you start to feel the Chemo immediately? Should I plan on being able to go to work the following week (I will have the weekend to adjust)?

  • one-L
    one-L Member Posts: 653
    edited December 2009

    josie, each person experiences the chemo differently.  I have no reaction to the drugs as they go in.  I am fine for about 3 days and then I start feeling the effects.  The first one I felt like I had the flu and the last one I was just fatigued.  There are many things you can do to make it the chemo easier, but they don't work for everyone.  I can give you many more details if you want and tell you what you need and things to do.  If you want that information just let me know.

    Juannelle

  • dogsaver
    dogsaver Member Posts: 110
    edited December 2009

    josie, as for days off i would have chemo on a thurs and return to work by monday. this was good for the first two treatments. for the last two treatments i would go back to work the following wednesday.  if you arent able to miss alot of days, i usually felt fine day immediately following treatment then it would hit the next day. tx number 3 was the worst one but it was also very hot here. dont let it scare you out of number 4, as 4 was easier than number 3.

     glad alot of you are half way though or nearing the end!

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