Anyone on just Taxotere and Cytoxan?
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hi everyone, quick note Sorry to hear Goldilocks you seem to be having the hardest time right now. I am feeling more myself today, finally. I too just signed up for the LGFG class you all make it sound so nice, at least I'll get some info for my last tx. Next week I'll go for the BRCA test. Oh my Liver enzymes not sure yet, I'm sure like you said KathyL probably just the taxotere se-- & will correct after tx fingers crossed---the ultra sound tech said she did not see anything to worry & docs will call if there is anything to worry about & they did not, I will hear from my onc on Monday.Oh my company has arrived for my Easter dinner-- Everyone have a Blessed Easter or Great Day whichever suits you!
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I had to have my hair buzzed again this am, it is really falling out now, my scalp is very sentisve, any suggestions. I bought some shampoo that will help, does anyone know of lotion,etc. Thanks Hope everyone is feeling somewhat better today and try to enjoy the rest of the weekend. Happy Easter to all
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Good evening ladies! Sorry its been a little bit .. playing catch up at home and work, preparing to go for the port this Monday. My mom had one when she was going through treatment for small cell lung cancer. She was a little bitty lady, so hers showed up pretty easily. I'm a little larger and have some meat on my bones, so maybe it won't be so obvious. And if it is? Who cares.
I've already planned my post chemo/radiation tattoo. I plan to get a life preserver with "BC Survivor 2008" around the ring, with a pink ribbon running thru the preserver. I may work a couple of ladybugs into it as well. I have 4, they each symbolize something significant in my life, but this one, it will have special meaning.
I was talking to my husband this morning and asked him if, when my hair starts to come out, he will be able to buzz cut it for me. He said sure, he'll shave mine and I'll shave his. Honestly, I don't want to buzz his, I love his hair! Almost as much as I love my own, but its only hair right? It'll grow back..
Best to everyone this week .. hope treatments go smoothly, doctors appointment only give you great news...
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Happy Easter everyone!
Feeling a bit better today. Finally. Am moving without the funny faces.
Believer: I plan to call asap to get my name on the list. I hope that we are in the same class. That would really be great.
Not writing much today, just wanted to wish everyone a good and se free day.
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Happy Easter everyone! I am still feeling pretty low; tired and achy. But I think maybe it's a notch better than yesterday. Definitely not worse, so I'll take it. The kids have off all week-hoping I regain some energy soon to be able to entertain them all week. I have some little things planned to keep them (and me) busy. I am soooo looking forward to getting better each day now, regaining some strength and growing some hair. I'd really like to start exercising some more now (to lose the extra weight I've gained, but also just for well-being). I just haven't had the energy to do much more than walk.
Well, I gotta run, we still have family here!
Ladybug: I have no tattoos, but have seriously thought about getting one. I'd like to do a butterfly with the pink ribbon somewhere. Can they tattoo implants safely?
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Just had my husband help me remove the rest of my hair--didn't realize how long it would take to do a whole head! I used the shaver head to my epilator first, but it missed a lot of the 1-2 inch growth, so DH got out his shaving cream and razor to finish it off. What a white head I have! Now at least I won't be shedding on everything. I put some aloe-vitamin E cream on my head and plan to use vitamin E oil.
If only I could figure out what to do about my toes--it's as if all my shoes are too short, especially on my little toes. Will tea tree oil help with that?
Wishing everyone a good week with manageable SE's!
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Hi all,
My hair started coming out yesterday. I haven't decided when to buzz/shave the rest of it yet; I think I'll give it another day. As I type this my husband is shaving his hair off. I'm like you, ladybug, hate to see him do it (and didn't ask him to) but what a sweet way to show of support for all of us going through this.
Anyone with advice about sores in the mouth?
Hope everyone has a good start to a new week.
Michele
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Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter weekend! It's day 4 for TC#3, and still going like the energizer bunny :-> I ate too much today (again!), so took an anti-nausea pill, and feeling better now.
Hi Michele, for sores, have you tried water-1tsp baking soda-1tsp salt mixture? Gargle after each meal/snack, or as often as needed. Orajel is also good. It works really fast.
Praying for better days for all of us! Goodnight!
God bless,Aurora
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Good Morning Ladies!
I hope everyone had a nice Easter and is over the hump of those nasty se's. Unfortunately it is snowing here at the moment - I want spring to come!
Beegirl - thanks for the info on the calendula. I have to go look for some aloe vera for the rads, so I will see if they carry that there. I saw you had said earlier on to try the tonic. I have done that for about a week. Can't stand the taste! But have tried to drink about a cup a day - wasn't sure how much I was supposed to try. Didn't really notice a difference, but the last two days, it hasn't been too bad. I am puffed up with water retention again, so I am not sure if that has something to do with it. Seems when I get the water down, the cramps come back more - who knows?! Can't help with the toes. I never stayed up with the tea tree oil and maybe I should have. My big toenail is still holding on, but it is getting funny along the side - I really think I will lose it.
Ladybug - I like the design of your tattoo! I don't think I could get one - too wimpy!
TN-Michele - the baking soda is good an also there are OTC mouth rinses you can buy. Biotene is one of them. I only had the sores a couple of days and used the Biotene.
I go for my rads mark-up today at 3:00. Should be interesting. I am glad to be moving on to the next phase.
Hugs everyone!
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Morning all. Feeling a bit better today. I seem to be more mobile. Came to work. My mouth now is extremely sensitive so I no longer get to eat citrus. Everything tastes salty, but that I hope passes in a few days. So, food is a bit challenging, but dh is even a bit shy to kiss me since I have been in some pain, but hips & lips! This will pass. Just not soon enough. He seems a bit depressed. Some days are truly better than others.
Go to onc dr. today, followup on bloodwk. I'm feeling better, so I should still be on target for round 3 in a little over a week.
It took me longer this time to recover from 2x, but hopefully as each day goes by this week I will recover. My head is also feeling better, guess because more hair is gone. I "shine".
Happy Monday.
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Lotodgs: There is a new line of creams out called Yes To Carrots. This line has been featured on some of the talk shows (or so I've been told). Anyway, you can get it at Walgreens, probably other local drug stores....it's an excellent cream that hydrates, moisturizes and soothes.
Sore Mouths: Biotene is good but I really preferred Prevention Mouthwash, the Chemotherapy formula. Once I switched to that I never had another problem.
I am now 3 weeks and 4 days out from my final chemo. My nails are still good (used Tea Tree Oil) and the only s/e that pops up every now and then are leg aches. Everytime the Taxotere was injected, my legs started to feel like lead was being poured in...weird.
I had my simulation for rads, start tomorrow.....liked my chemo nurses much better than the rads techs but I suppose if that is the worst problem I have with radiation I'll be darned lucky.
Good luck and hugs to all.....Trina
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Beegirl: I was told to use the TTO to strengthen nails. It seems to be working for mine so far.
TN-Michele: I use both the baking soda rinse (4-6 times a day) and the Biotene rinse (2 times a day), and have had no mouth sores through 4 rounds.
PALady: Good luck with your rads stuff today. Are they tattooing you?
Trina: Good luck with rads. It's nice ot see your update post-chemo.
I'm day 6 of tx#4, my last tx. Finally starting to perk up. Food still tastes gross and salty. Water still tastes like dirt. I do not need rads as I had a mastectomy and negative nodes. I'll be doing herceptin every 3 weeks for a year though. But somehow, I still feel great knowing that chemo's behind me now. I also have to finish my reconstruction-- that got put on hold during chemo. Everyone here has been such a huge help/support. I'll continue to post and check in to see how you all do.
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Hope everyone had a good Easter Sunday. I cooked dinner for family and wore a tye-dyed 't-shirt' turban that I learned to make at the 'Look Good, Feel Better' program. It was kind of fun and kept the shedding 1/2 inch hair from getting in the food. It's a toss up on who is shedding more, me or my cat! I guess it's time to shave the rest off.
On the sore mouth subject, I used the Walgreen's Prevention Mouthwash everytime I saw the bottle and it really worked well. I put one in each bathroom. I was only a little sore 2 days and am still using it before bed and when I get up. I'll start it more often tomorrow since my next tx is on Wednesday.
For those of you using the Tea Tree Oil, how often do you put it on? I also have nail hardener in case the TTO is too smelly. I know one of you had a real problem with the smell.
Love the spring weather we are having out here in the west. Have to be real careful with the bare head though.
Have a good day.
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Tx #3 has made me a bit more fatigued than the last 2. Took a nap this afternoon. Trying to keep from snapping at the kids too much. My temper is pretty short. My skin is dry but it hasn't been too bad. The weather is going to be chilly here in FL tonight; lows in the 40s. It's a miracle my kids have not caught something this year (knock on wood) due to the crazy weather changes.
Rachel
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JT: I used the TTO twice a day. I also put on a nail strengthener (I like OPI's Nail Envy) twice a week, one coat on top of the other.
Rachel: I found #3 kicked my butt the hardest. Even this last one (#4) didn't seem as bad. My kids, unfortunately for them, don't seem to know when I'm at the end of my rope sometimes. It's so hard to not blow some days! Hope you can manage OK.
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Hey Ladies! Okay, I'm back from my port procedure. It was really weird laying there with the doc putting this thing in, and we were talking about our dogs. Well, we talked as he was suturing me up, but I was awake for the whole thing. They gave me versaid and fentinyl for "conscience sedation"... whatever you call it... I got my port done and over with and I feel pretty darn good. I did find out that my #1 chemo is this Thursday. Finally, its going to start!
I also went in for a wig fitting and picked out my wig. It was really weird trying on wigs and knowing that I was going to actually wear it...I'll probably wear it to work and mayber when we go out to dinner and such primarily. I don't see myself wearing it all the time though, its pretty hot. I tried on a turbin and it actully didn't look half bad. Now, if they just made it in pink...
Oh.. TNMichele .. we bought new clippers yesterday, so when the time comes, I'm prepared!
PaLady.. my little ladybug on my wrist was by far the easiest one, I have a cat on each ankle (both were minimally uncomfortable), and lastly, the lotus blossom on my back was by far the most painful .. took 2 1/2 hours and was totally uncomfortable. But well worth it..
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Slept most of the day Saturday and Sunday after my two-part TX#2 on Wed and Thurs but otherwise doing pretty well. Eating everything in sight. Got to get that under control but happy that that's the problem rather than nassua.
My hair continues to shed as I still haven't buzzed it. Scalp itches every now and then but otherwise is fine. Definitely need to cover my head when out - just keep telling myself that this is a sign that the drugs are doing what they need to do! Been out and about in my wigs. People don't know what to expect. Got the group talking the other night when I went out as a redhead. It's actually pretty cute so it makes me feel better. Haven't tried my hand at the make-up after the LGFB program yet. Still have all my eyebrows and eyelashes. When did people start to see them go?
Been fortunate to not have any mouth sores as yet also. When did they start for people? Still using my regular toothpaste and doing well. Thinking it might be benficial to add in one of the mouthwashes before having a problem.
Joan
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Hi Ladies-
Have been reading your postings for several weeks and found them very helpful in preparing me for 4 rounds of T/C, which began today. So thanks to all of you. Two things I haven't seen mentioned that have been helpful: my hospital has a alternative therapy program run by nurses which includes yoga, massage, guided imagery, meditation, reflexology and reiki. This has been tremendously helpful to me in developing a positive sense of control and serenity. I know my s/e's are still ahead of me, but am hopeful that this will help. (If not there is all your great advice!)
The second thing is about the hair loss and decision to shave it or not. When I told my hairdresser about my diagnosis he very kindly offered to come to my house when the time arose. The woman at the wig store also offered to shave it (although not at my house). This sounds like the option I will choose, because for some reason I don't like the idea of having my husband do it for me.
Thanks for listening and for being such an amazing group. I know I will need you over the next 12 weeks.
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Hi all,
KathyL I'm so glad to hear #4 is a bit more bearable for you, I'm very nervous about next week(tx4) since #3 hit so hard for me as well.
I talk with my onc tomorrow. I read up on high liver enzymes and found one should not take tylenol or asprin (which I have been taking) and of course alcohol. I'll see what my onc will say.
I totally relate to the discussion on the children. I feel good today and more patient, but last week I was on edge with the kids and I felt like they did not realize when I was feeling at my worse. When this all began they were on their best behavior, bless their hearts, but they are back to their usual sibling rivalry these days. Of course, I'm glad they are back to their "normal" I do not want them worrying about mom, it has just been hard for me to keep my control.
For those loosing your hair, I was surprised in the beginning how much and long my head hurt, but it did subside after 2nd treatment for me. I can wear my wig all day now without it bothering me.
One new se I seem to be experiencing, I wake with tingling hands and feet, but it goes away in about an hour. I also have tender toes, my little toes especially. Not that worried about it, but who wants to loose toe nails just before flip flop season!
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Hey everyone,
I've been lurking a lot lately, but haven't posted. No excuses, I've just been down in the dumps. I have tx#4 tomorrow (out of 6) and am anxious to get it done. My se's were not too bad with #3 and I'm hoping for the same for #4. I've started my steroids & drowning myself in liquids.
Just a couple of quick things:
Jisman - after 3 tx's, I still have brows and lashes, though they are a bit thin. I don't know if they will go completely, but I'm happy they are still hanging around!
Winnie - welcome! This is a good place to hang out & get the info you won't get from anyone else except those who are in the boat with you. I hope your tx goes well! I had my hubby shave my hair when it was coming out in big handfuls. Some people have preferred to do a preemptive strike, and shave it when they felt like it, but I decided to keep mine as long as I could. I also did not cut it short in preparation, because I think it's easier to grab hold of when it's longer and falling out. Do what is right for you!! And if you have people willing to do it for you, that's awesome.
Ladybug - congrats on getting the port done. I love, love, love my port. I did chemo 13 years ago through my veins, and for me, the port is wonderful. They did put me under to get it, though. It would have been weird to be awake, though I understand I'll be awake when they take it out. I'm not sure I know how I feel about that (other than I'll be glad to get it out, because that will mean I don't need it anymore).
JT1945 - I use a Q-tip to apply the TTO. It seems to work OK. At first I didn't like the smell, but I'm getting used to it. After it's dry, I put scented hand lotion on, and it seems to mask the smell some.
KathyL - I don't think I've said congrats on being done!! I've missed congratulating other people as well. Guess I'm just envious.
Hang in there, everyone, and have a wonderful day!
CHJ
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Winnie, again welcome to the post, there are so many great women with so much wisdom and good info to read about. You will do fine on your 1st treatmnet today, I had my 2nd one on Monday and go in today for the shot for the low blood count. Take 1 day at a time. good luck to you today
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CHJ, my onco told me if you don't put mascara on, you should keep the lashes. So I stopped immediately and I haven't had any fall. I don't scrub too much on the browes and they are o.k. Too.
Have a good day everyone, back to work after having to take the week off.
Artsee
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Morning all.
Ok, went to the onc and the bloodwk was not where the dr wanted it to be. So, at least 2 more days of the neupogen.
I was just started to be able to move better, and will just hope that I continue in that direction and the shots don't slow me back down. Good thing is that dh did get to play last night, and it helped both of us get our heads back on straight. I figured, we had a small window of opportunity of minimal pain going on, so nothing that a glass of wine and some good 'ole fashion lov'in couldn't help but make us feel better.Got up this morning and my head is once again slick as Howey on Deal or No Deal. My friends husband calls the girls on the show the fantastic 52. My comment to him was, so "which are real and which are memorex?" He said he didn't care, he loves women with or without double D's.
Got scheduled to go to LGFG class. This is after round 3. They said I could take a friend, so one of my buddies here at work is excited to go with me. I will also get to meet "Believer", we emailed each other and are set up for the same class. It seems like it will be fun.
I need to get to work, and since it seems that I have gotten a bit of chemo brain, I can no longer multi-task efficiently.
Wish everyone a Happy Tuesday.
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Artsee - I think you have something there (about the mascara). On my first trip through chemo in 1995 I insisted on using mascara, and the lashes would come out when I was removing the mascara. When I was down to 3 lashes left, I cut them off so I wouldn't look ridiculous. Now I'm older & don't give a hoot about makeup.
CHJ
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Ladybug: Glad your port insertion went well. I love mine-so much easier than being stuck for an IV all the time. Good luck starting chemo this week.
Jisman: I still have my lashes and brows (I'm one week after last chemo). A small clump of lashes did fall out, and my brows have thinned, but most of both are still present (and I have used mascara off and on). My onc said I might not lose them all. I did not get any mouth sores through 4 rounds. I would definitely start using a mouth rinse to avoid them (I used 2 different ones and a special toothpaste).
Winnie: Welcome and good luck with your txs. I did not have any energy for yoga through my 4 rounds, but I tried. I did use guided imagery and relaxation which were wonderfully helpful. Maybe I can get back into yoga now as I regain some strength. As for the hair-awesome if you can get someone to come right to your house!
Goldilocks: So cool that you and Believer will get to meet. Hope you both like the LGFB class-I liked getting the free makeup and just bonding with some other women for the evening.
Gotta go. The kids are home and free time is a premium this week.0 -
Hi guys -
went into lurking mode for awhile then went into tired mode. Had my 3rd TX on Friday & have pretty much done nothing but sleep since then. Also having to double up on the compazine. I'm so jealous of those of you who have the energy to do anything at all (including getting out of bed!)
I can't wait till this is over, though if the 4th is worse than the third, maybe I can put it off for a couple of years? Depression seem to come along with the tired this time around - probably just feeling sorry for myself. Glad to hear some of you are doing well.
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Guitargirl - #3 was bad for me too. Both the tiredness and the depression. I was actually shocked at how depressed I had gotten because I had done so well with the earlier rounds. #4 was actually easier for me. I had the tiredness and a bit of depression but only lasted about 2 days and not as severe.
I hope you feel better soon. Just remember this will pass.
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Susan- Good to hear from you, I was wondering how you were doing. It's been a while--so sorry you are not feeling well.
goldilocks- Ihope the neupogen shots work this round
jismin- glad to hear tx2 went well for you
I found out today my Liver enzymes are still much higher than my onc wants (300's)she thinks by next week I should be OK for tx 4, but will need to see a drop on my blood work before we go forward. She also will take me off all aspirin type meds so my vicadin is out
-- she gave me script for Oxycodone instead, I hope it works for the lower back pain and headaches! Tomorrow BRCA test, I will be sooo happy when all these appointments are done!yes welcome Winnie, I have wanted to incorporate the alternative medicines all along and have not seemed to fit it in, things have moved so fast in the beginning and so many tests, I have been either exhausted or dealing with side effects or the kids/family--- I am hoping to try massage or chiropractic therapy but need to figure out if insurance covers any of it
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Patricia - Finally someone else mentions the little toes! Mine have been bothering me for several days--I've actually had discomfort walking. Today I put moleskin around the one little toe and that helped some, but I have to be really careful what shoes I wear. I don't think my toes/feet are swollen. I might try tea tree oil if people think it really makes a difference, but I'm not sure if the nails are the problem or just the toes.
I've been surprised when people say they drink wine, etc., because I'm under the impression that it's important to keep alcohol out of the liver during treatment. A friend (BC survivor 3 years out) follows European studies on BC; a recent one found lesser recurrence rates for women who drank practically no alcohol after all the treatments compared with those who drank alcohol. Nevertheless, I did have a glass of Belgian framboise beer the other night. I see my onc tomorrow so will ask her.
Welcome to the newbies, and congrats to those moving on to new stages!
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yep, my toes are sensitive to touch,sore when they brush against sheets or socks-- but no discoloration or lifting of the nails--yet?
The wine thing bums me out, I love red wine, but I have been good about it--especially now with the liver enzymes so high-- I too have read studies that link red wine to BC %'s I was told to drink dandelion root tea(natural diuretic)-- helps with the liver
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