Anyone on just Taxotere and Cytoxan?
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Hello All back from round 2 and all is well so far. Good news I get to go visit my 3 year old grand nephew on Monday if I am feeling well and he is well. He is the love of my life and I use to see him every other weekend till I got sick then he got sick so I am going to stay well and SE free through Monday. YEAH.
Otter...that is interesting about your rash and them chemo helping it amazing stuff that chemo. I am a drug rep and I sell product that are dispensed by needles. Try your Neulasta in your tummy ...it actually hurts way less since less muscle. You will be surprised.
goldilocks...feel better drink lots of water stay ahead of the SE's
revcat...hope you are feeling better...keep ahead of the aches and pains....
Sharon...sorry to hear about your feet. Glad to hear only one more round!!!
Robink..you are going to be fine...just hang with us we will get your through it.
Hang in there everybody. NO SE's for anyone!!!
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Hi all,
Came upon this study and I think some of you have been wanting to drink...this may help you decide...interesting new study. Large number of patients in the study makes it very credible.
One or two drinks a day increases tumor risk in postmenopausal women
SAN DIEGO - A large U.S. study has linked alcohol consumption to an increased risk of
the most common type of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
The analysis of data from more than 184,000 women is the biggest of three major
studies to conclude that drinking raises the risk of breast cancer for older women,
said Jasmine Lew, a researcher at the National Cancer Institute and the study's lead
investigator.
The research found that women who had one to two small drinks a day were 32 percent
more likely to develop a hormone-sensitive tumor. Three or more drinks a day raised
the risk by 51 percent.
"Regardless of the type of alcohol, the risk was evident," said Lew, presenting the
findings here at a meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.
About 70 percent of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have tumors that are
positive for both the estrogen and progesterone receptors.
Lew said results from the NCI study lend credence to the theory that alcohol's
interference with the metabolism of estrogen raises the risk of cancer.
She said it was too early to make public health recommendations but said women should
talk with their doctors to assess risk factors and consider lifestyle changes.
Other studies have linked light consumption of alcoholic drinks, especially red wine,
to heart protection.
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer killer of women, after lung cancer. It
will be diagnosed in 1.2 million people globally this year and will kill 500,000.
This article may be viewd at: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24107397/
04/17/08 Sharing Breast Cancer news with Friends In Need0 -
Hello everyone! Hope you're all doing well. Sorry I've been M-I-A for a while. I've just been enjoying my time after the final TC. I'm still feeling some of the side effects, like sensitive skin and fingertips, and weird salty taste! But other than that, things are looking good.
One question for all: I'm flying to our head office for a meeting on May 8. Just finished chemo April 10, and my implant exchange is on May 14.
Has anyone flown during or after chemo? Anything to be concerned about and tips for the flight?
Thank you in advance.
Aurora
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Hi Atlanta,
I actually spoke to my oncologist about traveling during my chemo today. I have the opportunity to go to Myrtle Beach, NC to visit my best friend at her beach home. The nurse had mentioned I should not fly from CA - SC because the circulated air I would catch anything that was on the plane. I asked the Onc and she made a pack with me...I can fly if I am well on day of departure, if my counts continue to be good, the worst day to fly is smack dab in the middle of the three weeks. You go down then come back up so we agreed that I would fly 7 days before my next round. 14 days after the previous round. She is worried if I get sick in SC. Reassured her my two best friends are physicians so I would be with them. She smiled and said okay go. I think you should discuss with your Onc and see what they feel about you. My onc has a great bedside manner and knew not traveling (while not working), would be worse on me then traveling mentally. She is really amazing. I may get a chance to go to Maui as well. Keeping my fingers crossed on that one. My other best friend travels there on business and I would only need to purchase my flight...got to take advantage of these opportunities and stay well. Good luck.
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rosario, I work the day of chem (usually scheduled around noon, and then leave) and the day after, by day 4 AND 5 are the worst for me from the shot. I have started taking off on day 5.
about the nails, I have been using MAVALA cuticle cream and nailactan for damaged nails and so far so good. I had acrylic nails for 15 years, had them taken off, the nail bed is doing much better than I had thought, but use these creams 2 times a day. Hope this may help you
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Hi, all,
Rosario - welcome! I am also continuing to work, but I have a part-time job that is 3 days per week, one of which is at home. The 2 days I go to the office are long days because my commute is about 75-90 minutes each way. I typically get chemo on Wednesday, then work from home on Thursday because I still feel decent (with a quick trip out for my Neulasta shot). I go into a vegetative state for Fri-Sat-Sun, and start to feel better Monday, and go back to work on Tue-Wed-Thur. I think any commitment to work on days 3-5 following chemo would be tough, but otherwise you should be OK. But (say it with me) everyone is different.
Yesterday was pretty good for me. My stomach problems are not as bad this time. I have been taking Prilosec OTC (since I've tried everything else, I think) so maybe I've finally found the right thing for me. Just in time for it to be over.
Robink - you might as well get it going! The sooner you start, the sooner it's over. Hiding out with Mama does sound like a good idea, though.
beachmom - sorry to say it will probably get worse before it gets better. You just have to kind of tough out those few rough days, and then you'll start feeling better, I promise.
Tig - I stopped reading all those studies a long time ago. They are always saying this or that raises or lowers your chances of some kind of cancer. And it changes all the time. Whatever. We only know for sure that you are definitely at risk for breast cancer if you have breasts... When I was dx'd the first time there was a lot of press about how exercise definitely lowers your risk. I had just finished training for and running a marathon (26.2 miles) the year before I got it at age 39. I was like, how much exercise does it take??? But thanks for the info anyway. I do have a drink with dinner sometimes, but it's once a month or less.
I hope everyone has a good day. If you are in the northeast anywhere, enjoy the sunshine & nice temps!
CHJ
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Good morning all...looks like wer'e damned if we do and damned if we don't. (drink) Guess we all need to use our own judgment. I really don't think any studies have been done long enough on this.It's like one day carotene is good, the next it's not.
Today is Fri. and it's the first day that I feel human since the tx last Fri. My last TX is on May 9th and can you believe I can hardly wait to feel like #@%& again? Go figure.
This morning I took a good look at myself in the mirror and I have 1/4' hair growth all over my head. How exciting. Maybe it's the Nioxin.
I am so missing all you wonderful sister's that have completed your Tx's. like someone said earlier, a couple of these threads are getting a little slow in responses. I hope it changes and you will be back. I do realize you need to 'disconnect' for a time. But wanted you to know we still think of you!!!!
Gotta check out the Feb. chemo thread. I'm sorry to hear some of you are not doing so well with the s/es....there is light after about a week...
Love and hugs, Evie
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chj127 - I know the other shoe is going to fall, I'm just enyoying what I'm getting now. I decided to prepare for the worst this time. During dx and surgery, I listened to the what they expected, and it always turned out worse. I figured this time I'd take a different approach.
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Hi Evie - I too have "new hair". I shaved my head 2 weeks ago when it started coming out in clumps. I had some dark stubble that just wouldn't "fall out". Last week the dry, bristly stubble started falling out and is being replaced by soft gray fuzz! I am anticipating that it will not stay - but still is fun to touch the top of my head!
I have #3 on May 5 and like you - I don't like feeling crappy but I cannot wait to get this over. This week I have felt human again - even felt I had enough energy to babysit my grandsons and that was a huge emotional boost - I want to get on with my life and not have chemo hanging over my head.
Take Care
Deb
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Morning my Super sisters:
So my final #4,tax was not as easy and 1, 2, or 3. This was the first time I had major challenges. Part way through the tax, I developed extreme chest tightness, chest pain and shallow breathing. I was happy that dh was there to help get me to relax and not panic. The nurses were great. They reacted immediately. I did not get flushed so when I asked for help they couldn't see what was happening. They stopped the meds, gave me full oxygen and some meds in my IV to help me out. The dr can in and also checked my breathing and heart. It took about 15 minutes for me to start feeling normal again, but I did. When we restarted the tax the slowed it way down and I made it. Then, it wasn't over. Part way through the cytoxan I developed an extreme headache and a bloody nose. Once again the stopped, more meds in the IV. 20 minutes later; much slower started again with no more incidents. Great, last treatment was not a piece of cake. Wonderful thing is that I am now done with this part of the journey, except for the se. By this morning my head is baby butt smooth once again.
Ladybug: Made it through. I didn't injure or kill anyone. However, jumping down their throat and pulling out their inside may have been a stress reliever. Ha! Just kidding....
Rosario: I have worked during the "cocktail" distribution. The only time I have taken time off is when I go for chemo, dr appt., or when the neupogen shots have kicked in with the tax, and I can not sit, stand or walk due to pain. I don't have much sick/vacation time so I make it as best that I can. Of course I don't know what to expect after each round. Everything seems to have gotten progressively worse for me each time. Each time I am hoping that the se will not be as difficult as the last ones. Just wait and see is my current attitude. Don't put nothing into it.
Robink: I know how you feel. Consider this: if you don't do the chemo, and the bc comes back will you blame yourself for not having brave the chemo journey? I did this so as not to constantly wonder. This is my 2ndtime doing this, I know it's not a picnic. My body remembers the last time and I feel that is why my se are so intense. Each of us have to decide what we feel is best for ourselves. I love the fact that you do have a place to hide out.
Tig: I agree with Chj and artsee. If we believe all that we hear, and see, especially on TV then most people would never leave their home. One study says one thing, but wait a few days and then it's good for you once again. Go figure. I feel that you just have to go with your gut feelings of what is best for you.
artsee: I understand about the feeling that at times the postings are slow. I will do my best to keep in touch. I am here. If need be everyone can email me and I will definitely respond.
Having a shallow breathing day, but it will pass.
Wish everyone a dry, happy Friday.
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tigwin - my onc said it was ok to travel & I flew to CA to Florida without problem.
And as far as drinking goes ... I was a pretty heavy drinker in my younger days & wound up with a triple-negative tumor. So a study like this that relies on the honesty of the women reporting ... suspicious.
I wish universities didn't stress publishing so much - all these articles that contradict each other. Don't publish until you've done the study at least twice and have hard data that is applicable to one specific group. And by hard data I mean scientifically provable.
goldilocks: I sure hope this was your last treatment - what a nightmare.
susan0 -
Hi all - Glad it is Friday....
Rosario - Welcome...my chemo is on Wed and I work Thur/Fri - although I can't say my brain is in full gear. I have been able to come back on Monday all three times
Tigwin - I agree with the stomach shots...I knew I tense up too much with an arm...so when I got the choice I went with the stomach and was pleased...if you can be pleased with a shot
Lotodgs - Thanks for the nail tips...I will stop by Sally's on the way home and also look for the hair stuff.
Hope everyone has a good weekend....
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Yes, yesterday was my last "cocktail". Went today for the neupogen shot. The nurse also checked my breathing since I am still somewhat breathing shallow. Said the count was good. She said that if the breathing gets worse or I feel extremely ill to call doc.
Gonna try and make it the full work day. Feeling a bit tired, but I suppose that is just part of this mess.
My truck is still in the shop. The mechanic says the computer keeps kicking the AC off. No price/estimate at this time. Sure would like to have it back by tomorrow. Had to take dh to work, but that was not a problem. I have gotten so reliable on having 2 vehicles that I forget that for many years we only had 1 car.
Good luck all; no major se for the weekend. OK?
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Hi, everybody--just some odds-'n-ends here:
This is day 3 of round #2, and it's completely different from last time (and from yesterday). I actually feel normal. I think the main difference is that I am keeping the indigestion under control. As suggested here and authorized by my onco on Wednesday, I've switched from Pepcid to Prilosec (OTC, generic omeprazole). My onco said to take 40 mg instead of the OTC dose of 20 mg. She said 40 mg is the typical prescription dose for acid reflux and gastric irritation. And, voila! So far, no indigestion.
Let's see...what else? I am still taking the Neulasta shots in my arm because the injection doesn't hurt me there, and it's easier than punching through the belly fat to get to the subcutaneous tissue. The Neulasta injections haven't been as bad as flu shots or any others I can think of. Maybe that will change with #3 & 4. The bone pain...well, that's a whole different story. None yet, but tonight and tomorrow is when it should hit.
Jisman, I think you were asking about Abraxane a page or two back. From what I read, Abraxane is equivalent to Taxol, except for the solvent/carrier they use to dissolve the paclitaxel. For Taxol, it's dissolved in Chremophore, but for Abraxane it's dissolved in a solution of human albumin. Apparently, the Chremophore is thought to be the cause of a lot of the immediate reactions to Taxol, so switching to Abraxane can reduce that risk. Abraxane is way more expensive, though, and some insurance companies don't pay for it except in advanced BC.
Taxotere is different--it isn't dissolved in Chremophore, so there isn't that risk of a reaction to the carrier material. There is pretty good evidence that some people react to the taxane itself (paclitaxel or docetaxel), in which case a switch from Taxol to Taxotere, or from either one to Abraxane, wouldn't make any difference--they would still react.
And, alcohol. I just don't know what to think. Yes, there is that new report about increased risk of BC even with just one drink per day. There have been other reports in past years saying nearly the same thing. I've always thought my chances of developing heart disease were way higher than my chances of getting BC, because of my awful family history. Death from heart disease is more common than from cancer anyway; and my own calculated risk of getting BC was only 5% as of last fall when I checked it. (Hah! What a surprise I had!) Anyway, wine (in moderation) reduces the risk of heart disease, so I thought a glass with dinner was a good thing. Now I'm totally confused. We just can't win I guess.
Well, I'm going outside for awhile 'cause it's a beautiful day. It would be even better if my dh had not told me about the huge cottonmouth (water moccasin) he killed this morning as he was walking along our pond. It was sitting on the trail I walk regularly. Great. I'll bet it has siblings or a mate, waiting to get revenge.
otter
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Goldilocks,,,I am so sorry that you had to go through that. How scary is that? You are on Taxatere I take it? Duh, of course, why else would you be on this thread. sometimes I just surprise myself as to how this brain is working. Your experience doesn't make me look forward to the last.
I'm glad you are ok and that you had a good team taking care of you. I'm glad your still going to be here!!!Gramadeb... Isin't it cool when you pass your hand over the head? I don't think it'll come out anymore. I pull on the and it doesn't budge, so that's a good thing. Remember this morning I said after 8 days I finally feel normal? half way through the morning the table turned again. Yuk! I really think it's got to do with drinking liquids. I don't get much chance to do that when I'm working on clients. And the bathroom is in the basement.
Otter... I HATE snakes more than you can imagine. You have my sympathies.
I saw a huge pine snake at our lake home and I almost lost my cookies and my MIND!
Take care all, Love, Evie
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Goldilocks: So sorry about your reaction to the final tx. At least the staff reacts quickly and takes corrective action. I had my final on Wed. and Neulasta shot yesterday and feel guilty that I've had so little reactions. Not that I feel great, but I can manage. Ativan helps me sleep, and I'm trying to avoid constipation. Last cycle I was on an antibiotic so I almost had the opposite problem.
Rosario - like SharonS I have my tx on Wed. and shot on Thurs., feel okay though maybe a little queasy so go to work. I then don't plan much of anything for Sat. and Sun. (days 4 & 5). After the last tx I took naps both of those days but also got out to walk. Then by Monday I'm back in the office. It does depend on what kind of work you do, too.
SharonS - About 10 days after tx 2 the nails on my little toes hurt so much I could barely walk. The toes didn't look swollen. Since then I started using tea tree oil 2x day on all the toenails. I tried it on my fingernails, too, but on them am now using Sally Hansen's Hard As Nails as suggested by the onc nurse. I'm hoping this will protect them from what some people get.
Nioxin - where do you find that? Next to Rogaine? I have maybe a 1/4 inch of stubble on my scalp, and it doesn't rub off so does that mean it's really growing back? If only I had lost the dark hair on my arms!
So now it's the plastics in everything that may be causing cancer? After 45 years, do I really need to change my lipstick brand?
Hope everyone can have a relaxing, only minor SE weekend!
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Beegirl...You can only get the Nioxin products in a hair salon. Sally's has imposter's but it's not the same. The rejuvenating serum is the important step. It's thin like water and you leave it on the scalp to dry. It brings the blood to the surface which in turn activates the growth of the hair.
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Hi all,
goldilocks - I am glad that was your last tx. It sure must have been scary. I know how you feel. I had a reaction on my last tx (#3) where my heart rate went way up and took its time coming down. My total infusion time that day was 6 hours since they had to stop a couple of times. Tnurse got in a little overtime that day. I did some google research on 'taxotere & tachycardia' and came up with it happening barely 1% of the time. How did we get so lucky to be in the those percents of rare occurences? Needless to say I am a little worried about my last tx. Also, my doctor said to only take 1/2 the decadron dosage because that can ramp up the heart rate too, but what will that do for preventing allergic reactions.
My hair is hanging in at a very sparse 1/4 inch. I think that it is always growing but 14 days after each tx a bunch falls out. So it is a rotation of 1/4 inch hair. I wear a scarf most of the time because I can't adjust to the cold head, and when it's not covered I keep rubbing it. The top of my head seems to have white hair and the lower back has dark sections and light sections. What will it be when it's over? I haven't minded the no hair routine because I have a great wig for my public appearances and around the house it doesn't matter. It's sure easy in the morning. My eyebrows are a little thinner and there is a chunk missing from the middle of the left one so needs a touchup when I wear makeup. Eye lashes are there but I never had much to begin with. I leave them alone.
Have any of you had an issue with itchy, dry, burning eyes. The first 2 tx's I thought it was from allergies since the grasses and trees were pollinating, but I have it again at the same time in the tx cycle, so now I am calling it a s/e. I just put tears drops in my eyes several times a day and in a few days it isn't noticeable anymore.
Well I am going to sit outside and enjoy the warm weather for awhile. Have a good day everyone.
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Tigwin -- Thanks for the input on the flying. I will meet with my onc on Wednesday and will definitely get a go-signal from him. I'm also going to a "lymphedemist"(just made that up hehe)/phys therapist to for evaluation and to get a compression sleeve, just to make sure I don't swell up like an elephant on the plane. Yikes. I hope it will be ok.
Goldie -- you're finally done. Yey!!! Hope your se's will finally go away. Then, it's time to celebrate
!!! Artsee, is Nutri-Ox ok? That's what I got, and "seems" to work. My hair is growing back. I see some new ones coming out and those that stayed are growing longer. Wow, can't wait.
My nails still feel very sensitive, but all my little bruises from the chemo pricks are gone.
Hi Rosario!
Have a wonderful weekend ladies!!!
God bless,
Aurora
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Aurora...That's a sally's impostor. Notice the name. similar and they love to do that. I think your hair regardless, at this point will start growing back. I have one tx to go and it's out 1/4" and I think the Nioxin is working very well. I have seen my male customers with balding, grow hair back in that area...so I'm in that court.
good luck my dear.
Love, Evie
I'm pretty close to being done with my painting. Now I have to write an essay about what it means cocerning my journey!
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Hi All, Day two and loving decadron. I wish I could continue taking one a day when I go back to work...such a false sense of extra energy...kinda loving it.
With regard to the alcohol study I was just sharing for knowledge. Not sticking by anything I do not truly believe makes my body tick or not. I work out, eat organic manage stress and drink on occasion and I am still on this board, I just thought it was worth passing on.
Believer, Remember with flying stay away from salt and carbonated beverages. Both will make you swell up. Cut your salt down a few days before and stay away from soda pop. I do not know about the lympodema but I think I have read somewhere on this site about something you can wear on your arm to help...you might want to search that out. Better safe then sorry. Glad you have a trip to look forward to.
Goldilocks...so sorry about your scare...listen to you body well right now.
Jt1945...my onc actually told me that I would get watery eyes with TAC...The itchy burning is prob from one of the chemos which I cannot remember which one but I would run it by your onc to get rid of the symptom. Hope you feel better.
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Hi everyone! Hope you've had a great day.
Believer - I was told I could fly, but should have a compression sleeve. We fly from VA to CA at least once a year.
Tigwin - where in Sunny So. Cal are you? We have a house in Chula Vista
Day 3 and everything is still pretty good. My night sweats increased last night, and a couple of them were followed by being chilled to the bone. Took my parents and did my daughterly duties and started fading around lunch time. Came home took a nap and feel much better. I'm guessing the shoe will drop over the weekend - just my luck. I'm planning to go back to work after tx 2. I wanted to see how things went first and it looks like I'll be fine for working and have a crappy weekend. Oh, well, it's only for 1 tx, then school will be out. What will be will be.
Have a good weekend.
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Rosario: I have my chemo on Wed. and have not had to take any time off from work except for the Wed. afternoons that I actually get the infusion. Thurs. and Fri. are okay, but the se's start to "kick in" on Fri. afternoon. I try to take it easy on Sat. and Sun. and I am able to make it to work on Monday. I have 3 treatments so far. I'm a teaching assistant at a high school so I don't know how that compares to your job.
Believer0711: I haven't been able to get an answer about the compression sleeve and flying. We are taking the boys to Disney in July and I am worried about the lymphedema. Can you let me know what you find out?
Speaking of that, has anyone had problems with lymphedema? I have very slight swelling in my wrist and my onc. and PT are not sure if it is lymphedema or just an injury. My PT does not treat lymphedema so I guess I should ask a specialist who does?
jt1945: How are you feeling after tx#3? I think we are on the same schedule right? I have tx#4 on May 7th. I so want to get it over with! Teary eyes are definitely a se of taxotere.
chj127: Are you feeling pretty good now? I know this has been a long road with 6 treatments. Your cat looks so big in your picture, he/she is gorgeous!
tigwin: I heard about that study also. I previously had been trying to drink a glass of red wine a day because it is supposed to help prevent Alzheimers. I wonder if a similar study was done in Europe where many women drink wine daily but may not have as many hormones in their food or have diets lower in fat. Who knows. We definitely need to stay informed.
Hang in there ladies!
Debbie
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Debap, I also started feeling mild tightness on my left arm after my 3rd chemo. I did my stretching exercises and it went away. My onc referred me to a lymphedema center, just in case. I also called my bs and the nurse said continue exercises for a year. If it comes and goes during chemo, she said it's not to be concerned about. But she suggested a compression sleeve to wear during flights. I will definitely get one before the flight. I try to do stretching 2x a day - but I get lazy sometimes. I will let you know what I find out from the lymphedema/pt people on Monday.
Tig, Beachmom, thanks for the tips! I have to remember that.
Artsee, wow, you're almost done with the painting? You are quick!!! Hmm, what to write
What is on the painting?Good night all. May your weekend be blessed!!!
Mwa,
Aurora
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Howdy girls, my name is Sarah and I am just joining ya'll with the wonderful experience of chemo starting thurs with the taxotere/cytoxi regime. I am scared to death. I am a very strong Christian and don't have any issues with God over this....but the fear of the unknown is really knocking me out. I am 42, no family history, in excellent shape, praise God only Stage 1, a sweet little 5 year old boy that I had to wait til age 37 to get and a wonderful life. The hair falling out thing...I am guessing that once it happens I will be like "ok, done with that now move on" but the feelling like doggy doo is not something I do well...as if anyone does well...! Don't wnt to read too much but want to know as much as I can about combating side effects. How to eat....what not to eat, that can help or not help. Have friends that say they will drag me out of bed for a walk to not let me get lethargic....but I am still scared to death. Keep me in your prayers girls. Blessings, Because He Lives, Sarah
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Hi all,
Pretty good day today. Had neulasta shot, tx # 2 yesterday. I am planing on meeting 5 women who were treated last year by my onc and having dinner with them. They are all different types of tx and different recon so I get to go to a show and tell party. I am very excited for them to take me on and help me. I know one of the four and so excited to meet them. I have to decide which surgeon and what type of recon I will be doing in Sept or oct.
BeachMom, I am in south orange county in a little town above laguna beach. It is called Aliso Viejo. My niece lives in Scripps Ranch in SD. so I drive right through chula vista when I visit her and my wonder Great Niece and Great Nephew which if I stay strong I get to visit with on Monday..YEAH !!! Do you ever come to visit?
skarem, welcome to our group, sorry we have to meet this way but if you stick with us we will get your through it. This is an amazing group of women who are stong and will help you get tough and make it happen. We discuss just about anything and eveything. You can vent and we will pick you up or if you have any questions we are here to help. I must say when one person is down or having a difficult time some one steps up and helps them out. Glad to meet you. Hang in there you can do this.
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Good morning everyone,
Sounds like everyone is doing OK, right? I'm having a hard time keeping up with who is who. I think I need to start a list & keep it handy so I can keep track!!
beachmom, don't be afraid to be a slug this weekend. Relax, pop in a movie, and take a nap if you need it. If you get to feeling bad, remember, it won't last too long!
Sarah - welcome! This is the only club where we say, sorry you had to join. It's lousy to get this disease for sure. The first time I had it, someone I didn't know said to me, "you aren't going to believe this right now, but you will be a better person for having gone through it." And it is true. You learn a lot of life lessons through breast cancer. (Wow, that sounds like a good book title!) Anyway, hang in there. I am a Christian also, and it is a test of faith sometimes (God, why me? why now?) but I don't know how I'd get through it sometimes without my faith.
Anyway, you can read this thread about how to get through treatment (how to eat, what to eat, etc.) You will figure it out. Small meals are good, but you will likely lose your taste buds for short periods of time. You will figure out what tastes good to you. Keep a laxative handy, as a lot of us have had constipation problems. I have found that Senokot-S works the best for me. Take time for yourself, and throw yourself a pity party occasionally (you have earned it!) but don't wallow in it. Stay positive. The chemo treatments themselves are not that bad, usually. The anticipation is a lot worse than the actual experience. You will be fine!!!
debap - I'm feeling pretty decent, thanks for asking! Yesterday was a busy day and I was whipped at the end of the day. I slept really well, except for waking up drenched in sweat a couple of times.
What I haven't mentioned up until now is that for the 6 months I've been doing bc (surgery, tests, treatment, etc.) we've also been trying to sell our house. It's been nuts, really. The market is lousy, and it's been a pain getting ready to show the house now and then when I feel awful. But since it's so slow, it hasn't been terribly often. It's stupid to try to sell a house given the market and what I'm going through, but we don't have much of a choice since we bought another house last fall!! So we've been dual homeowners, with all the expenses and responsibilities. The new house is in a maintenance-free community (they do it all) so it kind of takes care of itself (which is why we want to move there!!)
Anyway, it looks like we have a buyer, finally!! After some negotiations, they were supposedly doing the final contract yesterday afternoon. And if all goes according to plan, we will sell this place May 21. Which is great, except that it means we need to pack and move in the next 3 weeks!!! Yeah, with me feeling not-so-great, and my last chemo scheduled May 7th, it should be a barrel of laughs. The good news is that we have been working through stuff slowly over the past 6 months, and a lot of our stuff is moved already. But there is still a lot more to do. I have lots of people offering to help, and we will hire a mover, but it will still be stressful. So say a prayer for me!
My dh & I are going to a marriage conference at our church today (just a 1-day thing). I am so looking forward to having some time dedicated to "us". Poor thing, he's been through it all with me, and I'm hoping this is a good, positive day.
Take care everyone, and have a good day!
CHJ
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chj127, enjoy your conference today, it will lift you up. The husbands do go thru so much. Hopefully all will work out with the selling of your home. My last treatement is May 5th so, we are done that same week. Have a good weekend.
Sarah, God is GOod and has our life all planned out for us, just take it 1 day at a time, you will get much strength out of this board and we WILL inspire you daily. You will survive and get thru this. My first BC was 15 years ago and this is my 2nd go round, but am handling with God's help. Have a good weekend and enjoy your family
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Tigwin - we come to CA every year, but I'm not sure we'll make it this year. I finish chemo June 24, then start rad and that should finish up about 2 weeks before school starts again. I want to take that time just to rest. We are going to try to make it between chemo and rad if we can get the scheduling right. We rent the house in CV, so it's a business trip, but get to see dh's kids (they're grown, but they're still his kids) and friends. We usually fly into John Wayne. He has PD and JW is so much more convenient with the car rentals right there. It's one less movement of bags, etc, that we have to do.
Welcome, Sarah - All the ladies here are terrific, supportive and have such great ideas. Otter is really the go to person for just about everything. It's scary, but you'll make it through. We all do. I am a late April started (the 24th) and read a bit of this everyday. It took several days, I'd have to stop when I started getting scared, but I listened to their experiences and used them to my benefit. Most had constipation problems - I didn't wait to start meds for it, I started the night of day 1, Many had indigestion, I started something for that day 2. I used their advice and so far, (knock on my kids' heads), I've had no real problems. A bit tired at times, but hey, I used this whole thing as an excuse to take care of me for a change. I can thank these ladies for my good fortune.
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OK, this is something new. Hives?
This morning (day 4 of TC round #2), my forearms felt a little itchy. About an hour ago, I noticed that my right forearm is covered with what appear to be hives--9 or 10 reddish blotches, some with pale/white centers, and they ITCH! There are a few on my left arm, too. I've been afraid to check anywhere else....
My onco had said something about the possibility of developing a rash from Taxotere, and it would appear soon after the infusion. I read some old posts on another topic here ("Side effects of Taxotere," I think), where someone mentioned hives.
I took my last Decadron last night. It's Saturday, so of course the only person I can call is the "on-call fellow" in the oncology unit. These red blotches aren't bad; they're just something I didn't see with round #1. Do you suppose since they seem so limited and that's all I'm seeing for SE's today, that I could just get away with taking Zyrtec or Benadryl?
Oh, I just thought of something worse. What if the hives are from the Neulasta shot I got on the day of my infusion?
otter
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