Anyone on just Taxotere and Cytoxan?
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Otter - if you can afford to do so, buy the 2 wigs - and then keep people guessing as to which you shows up!
Robink - While i am sorry you need to follow this path, you are in the right spot. Keep up the positive attitude - it goes a long way!
RE: Face ... In general my face has been better since doing chemo. Who would have thought!
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CHJ - hey back atch!. Yes, the hair has started coming back in and is about 1/4" long. It is so soft and coming in dark with bits of gray. Its OK though - I'll just be glad to have hair again.
I hope that your time through your last chemo goes by quickly and with few se's. My last chemo was one of the worst ones but that doesn't mean that your will be. I'll say a prayer.
It will end soon!!
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hi guys.. I'm back from # 3. WooooHooooo, one to go. Stopped at the bakery and brought huge breakfast buns that were shared with everyone.The nurses had a hay day.
Wendy...It is so wonderful to hear that you are feeling so good. You are blessed.
CHJ...You are 2 days ahead of me. My last tx is May 9th. I can already see the rads are going to screw up my fun time this summer.
Aurora...thank you.I'll give it my best shot.
So now we wait patiently for the s/e's. Wouldn't it be nice if we would have some good "surprises?" I'll keep you posted.
Hugs, Evie
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Hey ladies and brother,
Welcome robink - sucky place to meet us...but we're here for you.
Artsee and Chj -glad you only have 1 more to go. You can make it through this round of s/e's.
I agree with wrs - my 4th tx was by far the worst, but I'm using that as a reminder that I don't want to ever go through chemo again.
3 down and 30 to go!!! So I told you guys how the 1st rad tx went. Well I got myself all lathered up with the aloe and calendula cream that night and lordie guess what I did - wiped the damn "x" marker off me. Well I thought "no big deal, I still have the tattoos". Well it was a big deal to the technicians on day 2. Apparently they zap me like 1 cm away from my tattoo and the "x" marks the farthest spot. Well no one told me all that stuff.
So I go in for tx and there is a new set of techs. Well they weren't sure where the old techs did the exact lasering and I was on the table for 45 minutes while they figured it out.
So I had to come in today and basically do the simulation and xrays all over again. This time there were folks from the first techs and second techs there so everybody now knows where the right placement is. I fell asleep while on the table - I'm telling you I still have serious chemo fatigue - give me a flat surface and I'm out like a light. Don't even remember what happened.
So I have to be very careful when I apply the aloe and cream and not erase the markers otherwise my sessions will go from 6 minutes to 45 minutes. They placed a little clear circle bandage/seal on the "x" today. I just hope that I'm not allergic to it - which is the reason why I went with the tattoos because I'm allergic to 95% of all medical tape adhesives. Didn't know this until BC.
Saw my rad onc today while she was passing by and told her that I am actually feeling the rad treatments. She said some people feel it earlier than others and not to worry. The night of the 1st tx, my boob was reallly warm all evening and the same thing occurred after tx 2. So I'm thinking that I will def. lather up cause its gonna be a long and bumpy ride if this sister gets skin burn.
hahaha - the hair is growing back!!!! Starting intensely stratching my legs yesterday and thinking that my dog picked up fleas but lo and behold I lifted up the pants leg and saw little hairs on my legs. Never in life have I ever wanted leg hair before...but I'm happy its coming back. And I have some longer strands up top now. Oh when you start going to radiation you will see more ladies in different hair stages and its really cool to see what your hair will look like....very soon.
As far as the face goes...chemo def. made my sking clearer. I was at a function 4 weeks ago and a guy commented on how smooth my face was and I asked what product I used and I said "chemotherapy". I thought the guy was going to pass out because he got pale and then turned flush red. LOL! But now I'm starting to get some little white pimples on my face so in my little head I'm thinking that the chemo is leaving my system because I haven't changed my face cleaning regimen. Leave chemo leave!
Have a friend bringing me dinner over and then I might join some friends for "happy hour". Got a crazy busy day tomorrow. It's presidential delegate election caucus time here in Georgia and all the political crazies will be out in full force. I have to go and monitor one of the caucuses to make sure folks are following the rules. Oh the joy!
have a good night and few s/e's.
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Hi everyone,
It's still not a great day for me, but the weather is sure helping. I've spent the better part of the day on the sofa, but the warm air blowing through the windows has been wonderful!
robink - welcome to the group. Sorry you have to be here, but I have to say that your words inspired me to tears. I have a million things to be thankful for. And yes, even when I don't understand what He is up to, God IS in control. So thanks for the reminder.
Evie - we can hold hands and jump off the end together! Plus, we have debap, jt1945, and swimmer who I think finish up the same day as I do. (And who else?) Yes, rads will tie up the first half of the summer, but I said to someone the other day, at least I don't have to worry about getting there every day in the ice & snow like a friend of mine did!! The day I got my port in was really icy (in January) and so at least I don't have to worry about that now!!
Thanks for all you great women (and Steve? Haven't heard from you in a day or so?) This thread has been really therapeutic for me - especially lately, and I appreciate your support more than you know!
CHJ
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bd - you continue to crack me up! Falling asleep on the rads table? Thanks for continuing to give us the play-by-play!
CHJ
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I have to say, and no one hate me please, I actually lost 10 pounds with treatment #1. I can stand to lose the weight, so no one panic'd at the office yesterday. My appetite has been very good, just no taste or desire for anything sweet. No ice cream, no jello, no soda, no chocolate .. nadda.
My skin, oh this is ripe. I was at my office the other day, one of our clients walk in and tells me how gorgeous my skin looks. She asks me what am I doing to make it so gorgeous. She has no idea that I have cancer and am going through chemo, hence the reason its so funny to me. I work in a veterinarians office and manage the front desk. I am very hands on and know almost all of my clients. I love them and they really like me. I've know her for the 3 1/2 years I've worked there, we have become fast friends and chat every time she comes in to pick up meds or bring one of her dogs in. I have probably told a handful of clients about the cancer, until now when it has become obvious with the hairloss and new hairdo, in the form of a wig. I just smiled and told her, "my regimen isn't the normal kathy, and I wouldn't reccommend it to anyone. i'm going through chemo for breast cancer." She was stunned to say the least, but smiled and said "well honey, you look gorgeous and your hair is beautiful, so whatever it is, it works for you." She is one of the nicest people and I just love this little woman.
I had tx#2 yesterday, felt great all day yesterday and today. Normally hits with the bone pain around 48 hours post completion of treatment, so should be around 3 or so tomorrow. Either way, I'm ready for it and this time, I will not be getting dehydrated. I've been drinking so much water today and am of the mind set that whatever it takes, it takes. I finally got the referral to transfer from Military hospital that is 2 1/2 hours each way, to university hospital here in town. Much more convienent for me. I will see how tx#3 goes and see from there. I have my radiation oncology appointment this Monday, so will try to get my radiation scheduled for about 2 weeks after last chemo. That would put it in mid june or so. I have family coming for a week, so I don't want to have to be running for radiation during their visit.
KathysHusband.. I started on the dexamethasone with tx#1. Initially had me take 2 pills the night of treatment, then 2 pills twice daily for 2 day, then 1 pill twice daily for 2 more days. Then a second script for 2 pills twice daily the day before next treatment and 2 the day of treatment. I didn't notice any of the jitters or anything like others are talking about. Really didn't notice anything different to be honest.
Counts yesterday were perfect, so neulasta for me this time. I will have my counts checked between treatments I'm sure. Especially since I am transferring facilities.
I wish everyone a great weekend, minimal side effects and all in all, peace and quiet!
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Ladybug...I too get the comments how good I look and how everyone loves my hair cut. Then they ask if they could wear their hair like that too. My answer to them is" If you wait a little while you can have mine when i'm done with it." Well, then the eyes open and you can see they are totally confused.So then I let the cat out of the bag.This is how I let people know. :>
I lost weight too because of NO hunger the first week, but today at weigh in I gained 3 pounds. My DH says thats "Muscle" that I gained.
It's the steroids that they give us. Well, didn't want to burst his bubble but the truth of the matter is that I've been pigging out with the new found appetite.
And every meal someone brings over includes dessert. Darn!
Take care and minimal S/E's to all.
love, Evie
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I have not had so many compliments on how good my skin looks! That just cracks me up. I thought it might be all the water I'm drinking to flush this stuff through.
chj127: How are you doing? Tx#3 seems to have come on a little quicker than the other 2. Maybe that means the se's will end quckier too. I have to say I think the "bad taste" is the worst. Plus, the day after steroids I start feeling a little "weepy". Oh well, I will be feeling great by Tues. or Wed., that's not so bad.
artsee: I love the hair comment! You are too funny!
40somethingmom: How are you? It seems like it has been awhile.
Hoping for a mimimal se weekend for everyone!
Debbie
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debap - this one seems to be hitting me harder and quicker also, but remember this is #5 for me. I haven't done a whole lot in the past 3 days, I'm just lying around. By the way I feel now, I'm sure today won't be much better. My mouth definitely is yucky, and my appetite bit the dust 2 days ago. But yes, I imagine it will be better by Tuesday...
CHJ
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To Dianeb,
I just finished my last chemo yesterday with Cytoxan and Taxatere. My wbc dropped dramatically after the first round and I had to come in for 3 shots of Nuepogen then was great, the second round they gave me Nuelasta and it caused such intense low back pain they went back to the Nuepogen. I feel great my second and third week and can actually go to the gym and ride the bike of treadmill for 30-40 min. In 3 weeks I will be starting radiation. I had a lumpectomy, nodes negative Jan. 13th. They tell me they caught it early.
Wish you well
cali-k
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CHJ I had my 3rd treatment last Monday and the shot on Tues, usually by now I am up and have energy, I feel for you as my mouth still has the metallastic taste and feel sluggish, hopefully tomorrow we will feel better. The weather has been nice and breezy here in Richmond,VA, hope you have a good night, how is your sleeping? Take care
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Evie, ladybug, and all you other TC sisters,
I have not figured out the weight thing yet. I lost a couple of pounds since my 1st tx, too. I was on a roller coaster at first. I gained 6 pounds, all fluid, right around the time of my infusion and during the 12 hours following it...and then those 6 pounds were gone, just as fast, once the Decadron kicked in. Then I had that bad week when you feel yucky and have an acidic stomach and no appetite at all--know what I mean?
Now I'm back to feeling normal, and I don't mind the loss of a couple of pounds because there is plenty extra and I'm eating healthier than ever. However, I think my weight loss is most likely because my thyroxine dose needs tweaking (I'm hypothyroid). My PCP is checking my TSH & T3 (or is it T4?) to be sure. Darn.
I have to tell you--I am sure glad I get to skip rads camp. Chemo camp is bad enough. To get through all this, and then have to go lay on a table and get fried every day for 6 or 7 weeks??? I'm sure my onco surgeon thought I was nuts when I said, no, just take it off--it has a 1.8 cm tumor in it, and there won't be much left afterward by the time you take that out with good margins. And, anyway, I don't want rads thank you very much.
It sounds like the 2nd & 3rd (& 5th!) tx are harder than the 1st. At least, after the 1st we have some idea what to expect, yes?
otter
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Hi everyone,
I'm on day 7 of my Taxotere therapy and day 5 of my Granocyte injections (to boost white blood cells). I still have terrible body aches all over from head to toe. I was wondering if anyone else has had body pain for so many days and when it might get better. Also several of you mentioned Claritin to ease the body pain. Isn't Claritin an anti-allergy pill?
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Hi All,
It's been a while since I have written. I got through my first treatment on 4/4, but had such horrible upper back pain days 4-9 requiring narcotics and Advil. Then... Day 10 I spiked a fever of 101.4, was catching a cold and had a urinary tract infection:( Took antibiotics for 5 days. Now feeling better with more energy. Taking aerobics classes (Body and Soul!!!Yes!!!)
My hair starting falling out on exactly day 14. I managed to arrange it nicely and sprayed it heavily with hairspray to get me through my 8 hour shift. Then my daughter took me to the beauty shop and I got it shaved- my beautician did me after the shop closed. Many tears. But... I love my wig, it looks like my own hair, my hairdresser trimmed it up to look like my own. More manageable than my own also:)
So Friday 4/25 is treatment #2. My doctor recommends 6 treatments, anyone else? The extra 2 treatments will give me an extra 2% survival rate.
No metallic taste, but my taste buds are all but gone. Although the Texas Roadhouse ribs were wonderful last evening! I need bursts of flavor to be able to taste things. Oranges are good. Water is yucky now so I need to put lemons in it.
I hope I helped someone with my side effect list. I know you all have certainly helped me know what to expect to some degree.
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Where did any of you get your wigs from?
The day I purchased a post mastectomy cami, the boutique owner showed me their wig selection-even a style that may well look like my hair. It just became too overwhelming and I told her I'd come back later, with reinforcements (someone who won't lie to me about how it looks on me). I've got about 4 weeks left before I would need to start wearing "it" so plenty of time to prepare.
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Good mornign all...Today is day 3 of Tx #3. Just got back from church and breakfast and things are still good. Last time I was so sick I couldn't make church. Maybe I had a touch of the flu or something. I've got just a little heaviness in the legs and some eye twitching going on today. I noticed this time my face is fuller. Sure it's those steroids again. Dang!!
I've been taking Advil every 6 hours since the Nuelasta yesterday morning. This helps get me through painless days for the next 3-4 days. After the 1st shot I waited for the pain, then I took drugs, and it's just not worth it.
yes, radiation is the pits, but if that's what I have to do then I'll muscle through that too. I guess to me at the decision making time was that I wanted to keep the breast (1.3cm) and do rads. At that point chemo wasn't in the picture, but surprise, surprise. eh? This too shall pass.
Talk later. Lucy girl's gotta go potty.
Evie
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Morning Ladies (and Steve),
So yesterday I went topless in front of 1200 people. I thought about wearing a hat or scarf but I was like "what the hell". I didn't even care.
This one chick came up to me who is a perpetual losing political candidate who I really can't stand and is by no means even an associate. She like inserted herself into a conversation I was having and then starting looking at the top my head. So she's talking to me while looking at the top of my head which is equivalent to someone talking to your breast and not you. She was like "hey girl how are you doing" (like we were friends) and I said "I'm doing great". Then she looks at the top of my head again and says "what have you been up to lately" and I responded "nothing much, just trying to get good people elected" and then once again she's goes back to talking to my head and says "so have you been sick recently" and I responded "no way, not me, I haven't been sick". Yeah dumbass like I shaved my head in this crazy ass way and now I'm letting it grow out in strands. I told all my friends that were at the event this story and they just cracked up laughing.
Some people are just dumb and rude. Other than that, no one approached me in an odd way. Got some stares from people who hadn't seen me on the scene in a while, but they didn't ask and I didn't tell. I figured that if they wanted to know then they would have to have the balls to ask cause I've lost that feeling to explain my sudden baldness. It felt good to be around people and feel normal again. I even did a "welcome" speech in front of about 100 people yesterday.
I do want all ya'll to know that there is light at the end of the "I can't taste anything" tunnel. Went out with friends last night and my new boyfriend's name is Samuel Adams. Oh my I didn't realize that being able to taste barley and hops was going to be sooo good. WOW! It was mighty tasty.
I had hot flashes from hell this morning. It started at 5:30 in the morning and the flashes just kept rolling in until about 8:30 am. One hot flash after another. It was beyond awful and throw in that I was awake way too early on a Sunday morning.
So keep the faith ladies, you will be out of chemo hell soon. Have a good day and minimal s/e's.
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So, bdatlanta, I take it the perpetual losing political candidate was not significantly taller than you are? It was a good thing I was not eating my sandwich when I read your response to, "so have you been sick recently?". OMG, how stupid and tasteless can someone be? I suppose she would walk up to someone who had an arm amputated and say, "So have you been in an accident lately?". Nice job, setting her back on her heels.
I understand about keeping the breast, for those of you headed for rads. (I know some women don't have a choice, because they have positive nodes or their tumor was too close to the chest wall.) I just didn't care that much about keeping mine, once I discovered what was in there and what was involved in getting it out. I know that's weird, but that is how I am I guess.
In the meantime, it is an absolutely gorgeous day. We have native azaleas in bloom all over the yard and in the woods. I went for a hike yesterday along a lake near here, and the mountain laurel and wild rhododendrons were blooming, too. It's spring in the deep south. Summer can't be far away...and I will be through with chemo then! YAY!
otter
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Good afternoon, everyone,
I think I'm finally coming around from this round of chemo. Wow, this one has been rougher. Yesterday afternoon I was sitting & watching a movie, and had a diet Pepsi, and all of a sudden the indigestion hit - pains for sure, and then I thought I was going to barf! Oh, it felt awful. Well, I didn't barf, but I did pop a Compazine and lay down for a while, and it passed... I hate chemo, if I haven't said that lately. (just one more, just one more, just one more...)
Otter - my 2nd tx was only bad (I think) because I had a really nasty cold. My 3rd tx was the best ("easiest" if you can call it that) one I think I've had, so you can't assume anything. Keep positive...
RNKaren, I'm glad to hear that someone likes her wig. I wear mine, but have never made peace with it. I just don't like the way it looks. I had the hairdresser (wigdresser?) lighten it up a bit, but it's still too puffy for me. I only wear it the 2 days I go to work, and it will just have to do. Robin - I got mine at a local wig shop. A number of other ladies said they ordered wigs on line (tlcdirect, and Paula Young to name a couple of sites). I ordered 2 different ones from those 2 places, but sent them both back. I guess I'm just too picky.
Evie - just what is it with that eye twitching??? It's driving me crazy!!
bd - I'm still amazed by your courage to go out topless. I'll do it when I get the slightest little bit of coverage. Unfortunately, that probably won't be until the end of June...
But yes, it will be rads for me also. Not looking forward to it, but it was that or more radical surgery. You just have to do what you think is right, we're all different, eh?
Enjoy the rest of your weekend. I'm off to Look Good Feel Better tomorrow. Hope I have the energy to enjoy it!
CHJ
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Wendy: Good to hear from you and that you're doing so well. Right now, I'm reading "The Secret". I'll add "A New Earth" to my list. I love Oprah's suggestions.
Otter: I'm seeing my derm. Tomorrow for my annual skin CA check (haven't had skin CA, but I'm a pale, pasty white girl so I like to be checked... especially now!). I'm gonna ask him about my acne outbreaks now post-chemo.
Ditto your thoughts on no rads-I don't have to do it either since I had clear nodes and a mastectomy.
And, yes, each round brings a little "something new" to the scene, but at least you have a general idea of what's coming and how to deal with it. By the time you get it figured out, you're near the end of txs or on your last tx anyway!
Aurora: May 14 will be here before you know it. You will feel like a new woman after that surgery. Keep me posted.
Robink: Welcome. I think I've seen your name on another thread. This TC one has been very helpful. We're here for you.
I got my 2 wigs from a boutique-the lady there was very helpful, and I've been back since ot purchase scarves and hats. You'll want to have your wigs picked out at least before your hair starts fleeing so you can match the color easier.
Artsee and CHJ: The end is in sight, girls!
BD: Your rads experience sounds like a major PITA!! Why do they need to tattoo AND mark you up?? Seems to me it defeats the purpose of the tats. I'm like you-adhesives and my skin are not friends. Hope you do OK with that clear dressing-those always made me turn red and peel.
And as always, I look forward to your witty posts-the last one had me LOL! That lady must've felt like such an @$$ after your conversation! Major kudos to you for going topless in front of so many and doing it your way, too. One day I'd love to meet you-you've got some big cajones my friend!
Ladybug: Glad to hear you're doing well so far with your txs. I had lost weight at the beginning to, wish it had stayed that way! The 10 lbs. I've gained since seems like an impossible amount to lose now-it's stubbornly hanging on to me. (sigh)
Just to clarify.... It's really not the steroids that cause weight gain. They cause increased appetite, which can make us gain weight. The taxotere causes fluid retention-which is also a major culprit in the weight gain we may be experiencing (steroids actually help reduce the amount of fluid retention).
Tonic: Yes, Claritin is an allergy medication (antihistamine), but as is the case with many drugs-there can be multiple uses of a drug besides it's "claim to fame". Many uses are "off label" or not written in the drug's inserts b/c they haven't been approved or recognized yet. What's been found/passed around on this thread is that using Claritin once a day (10mg dose) starting the day of the shot and using for 5-7 days total, seems to help with the body aches from the neulasta shot. The theory is that the aches are from an "allergic reaction" and the Claritin helps reduce the histamine release. I found it did help somewhat, and as long as there is no allergy to Claritin, it shouldn't be harmful to try-but check with your onc first-I did , and mine was fine with me trying it.
Karen: You've had quite the start on this path! Hope the rest of your txs go smoother.
Evie and CHJ: I've had the eye twitching non-stop since after tx #2. Glad to report though that it does slow down after chemo. I'm one month out and it's still frequent each day, but not constant (make sense?).
CHJ: I had a hard time going into my last round b/c the one before it was so hard for me, too. But I just told myself that even if the last one was the ultimate worst, it was the LAST and I could do it! You'll be fine.
Wish I had something exciting to report, but it was an uneventful weekend (which is good these days). Busy week ahead... I'll try to stay on top of my reading here. Anyone heard from 40something???
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chj127- I ordered my wig from tlcdirect.org. With the help of my hairdresser. I took a catalog for her to see that I got from my oncologist's office.
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RNKaren, you said you had severe back pain on days 4-9, and then you spiked a fever. Are you getting Neulasta or Neupogen shots? There is so much difference in the way oncos handle us. Mine gives a Neulasta shot automatically, after each TC tx. I had back pain, too, on days 4-7; but I attributed it to the Neulasta. OTOH, Taxotere causes bone and muscle pains too, so who knows?
KathyL, I'd be interested in hearing what your dermatologist says about the skin stuff. Now I'm all worried about those red spots on my hands. They are much better (not itchy, not scaling), but if they really are solar whatevers, I'd better get them checked out. Let us know what your derm thinks.
Oh, and thanks for straightening out the weight/steroid connection. I was pretty sure it was the Taxotere that was causing fluid retention. I am not supposed to take my Decadron until the day after my infusion, because they give me Decadron as a premed in the i.v. That didn't seem to be enough to stop the fluid retention during the night after my tx, though. Maybe I should call about it--I have a list of things to ask my onco nurse before Wednesday's appt for TC #2.
otter
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BD....that new boyfriend Mr. Adams must be quite the dude to get you so hot and bothered. Ha!
After reading the posts from today, it sure seems we are getting the wind kicked out of us by this poison. I'm surprised our entire bodies don't "twitch" without stopping. I also have a feeling the effects will linger long after we're through. Anyone know how long it stays in the system?
Chj...I think I know why I look ridiculous without a wig. I wear foundation makeup on my face and that makes my scalp look totally white. Not good! So back on goes the hair.
Tootles, have a good evening or afternoon wherever you are, Evie
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Hi everyone
I think I am finally recovering from round 2. What a trip this is - I can't wait to get off this chemo bus! I have been fortunate not to need Neulasta yet - but with my events after round 2 I think I will pass!
Tomorrow is my first day back to work after hair loss - going with scarves - can't get used to the wigs. It will be interesting to see what people say. Hoping nothing like comments you received BD!
Anyone have trouble with keeping a comfortable body temp? Since my hospitalization, I have extremes - I can get so cold that I cannot warm up - other times I have one hot flash after another. I am on Effexor and that seemed to be working except for last night. Just wondering if this is all chemo or maybe still related to whatever happened to me after round 2.
Hope everyone has a good week with minimal SEs.
Take Care
Deb
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bdatlanta: I'm with you, I could go for a beer right not too!
chj127: One more to go! I feel guilty even complaining since I only have to do 4 rather than 6 treatments. This one does suck, keep thinking why bother with one more.
I'm on day 4 of tx#3 with a slight fever (100.5). Did that happen to anyone else? I feel fine besides the usual se's. Maybe just anemic?
artsee: Maybe you just need a color that blends in better? I don't wear a wig and worried about seeing a makeup line with the hats. Seems to be okay though.
Stay well!
Debbie
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How soon after finishing the chemo can we have a drink? I would love to have a cold one right now, or a maragarita? It seems like all the girls at work are going out and I can't go with them, cause if I do, then I will be bad and have a drink!
I am on day 4 after tx#2, and other than the bone pain, I feel pretty good. I got in the hot tub tonight which seemed to help a good bit. My taste buds are going again, but I have been drinking tons of fluids this time .. no more hospital stays for me .. I can't stand snoring little women in the room with me!
I hope everyone has a good night and good monday. I meet with the radiation oncologist tomorrow for my initial consultation. I guess I'll get an idea of when I will start radiation after chemo ..I'm hoping for a week or 2 repreive maybe?
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ladybug - how many tx are you having? I'm having 4 and they said I wouldn't meet with the rad onoc until the end. I really would like to get things set up before I finish with chem so that maybe I can have a short vacation between.
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Good morning, all,
I'm up and about and have errands to do today. Not sure how my stamina will hold out. It's rainy & miserable, but oh, well! We have had almost 3" of rain since yesterday morning.
debap - watch that temperature thing. My onc (and I think this is true for many of us) said to let him know if the temp got to 100.5 or higher. I've been on antibiotics twice because of that.
ladybug & beachmom - my docs said that I should have about a month off between chemo and rads, to give my body a rest. I'm going to try to keep the time as short as possible, but is 1-2 weeks enough?? I have an appt. with the rads guy a few days before my last chemo, just to get the ball rolling. I had so many delays in surgery and starting chemo, and I don't want that to happen with the last part of treatment!!
ladybug - I don't know what anyone told you, but no one ever said I couldn't have a drink. I have had a little wine or sangria when my taste buds would allow. Don't take my word for it - check with your doc!
gramadeb - let us know how it goes with the scarves today! Hopefully you will have lots of compliments and support.
Evie - I wear so little makeup (just a dusting of powder) that I haven't had the makeup issue. I should probably wear more so I don't look so washed out, especially these days, but just never have. It's just not me.
KathyL - thanks for the encouragement re: one more tx. This one has been so hard, and I just know I'm going to hate going in for that last one, but as we always say, you do what you have to do - one day at a time. This time next year I hope I can look back and be amazed at all we have gone through.
Have a great day, ladies! (and Steve - where are you?? How is Kathy?)
CHJ
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Hey ladies & Steve,
Been away for a few days! Hosted a major family dinner at my house on Sat. and had been busy cooking,preparing, etc. all week- should have cancelled, but I'm in my good week before treatment #2 tomorrow and I'm determined to keep SOME normalcy in my life.
bd - good for you! what an idiot that woman is! you have balls, girl!
And those rad techs are sure trying to kick your butt. Almost makes you want to walk in there and say, "alright people, all eyes on me, let's get this thing organized once and for all!"
And whatever happened with your support group "interview"? Did I miss that?
CHJ - glad to hear you are climbing out of SE hell. Too bad you couldn't have had your energy last week when the weather was beautiful. Looks like we here in the northeast have to put up with cloudy and gray for a few days. Just keep thinking, "just ONE more!"
debap- yes, please watch that temp - my onc also wants me to call if I get to 100.5. You don't want an infection to derail you.
ladybug - oops! I'm bad. Did your onc tell you not to have ANY alcohol? Mine did not, so I have. Not tons mind you, just a drink with dinner out or a glass of wine now and then. Anyone else forbidden from spirits?
grama (and otter) and anyone else with newly bald heads - I'm with you on the wig, I can't get used to mine either. Then again, it's only been 3 days and I have limited patience. It's OK, but still itchy and hot. Funny thing - had it out for it's inaugural spin on Friday and I'm walking through the parking lot of Costco and this random woman I pass going to her car says, "I love your hair!" YIKES. I'm thinking - what the ....?! is it too shiny? do I look like a freak? does it just look TOO good to be true? I managed a subdued thank you and moved on.
One the weight issue - I am up and down every week it seems. I think the bottom line is that we can't obsess about it too much as our bodies are kind of lost right now and we need to let them heal, revive and return to normal after this whole damned thing is over.
I'm off to start popping the Decadron and hit the infusion chair at 10am tomorrow (#2 of 4) - halfway to the chemo finish line!
A S/E friendly day to all!
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