Starting chemo August 2014
Comments
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SueBe – Welcome to the group. I have added you to our list. You have joined a wonderful group of women. We are here to support, share our experiences and you can vent, whine or just tell us how you are doing and your family.
Bippy – if you are Ok with your job I am ok. However I would look into the ADA as suggested by LLiz.
Barremom - I did the ice bucket challenge too on both my hands and feet. The nurses were great in helping me settle in.
Gatomel – I did the half tablet of Zofran – it helped quite a bit. I didn’t get the quick on set of headache. Just a mild one.Thanks for the suggestion. I also used the compazign (sp?) in between.
Eileenpg – yes get into a good rhythm on the mouth wash. Also biotene mouth rinse and toothpaste is good.
Kellya – I was told to use both the mouth rinse and biotene mouthwash. The biotene mouthwash morning and night. The mouth rinse every time I eat. Glad that your BS appointment went well!
Jess – Have fun and enjoy your up week. I did!
Tabby – I haven’t heard of the stick on bangs. I wish I had before I got rid of my hair I might have tried it. Glad you are doing great! Have fun on your up week/s . I didn’t have the wonder woman effect with steroids this time either. I am more tired the 1stand 2nd day.
SandyLoves Lucy – I am also following your progress as I don’t start Taxol until October after my 4 weeks of AC. Good to know about this SE. Did they recommend anything. For my dry nose I was told to do the Saline spray which helps.
Hope50 – I am more tired earlier. Although the SEs haven’t hit me yet. I didn’t have the super woman amped up feeling I did with the 1st round. I am also having more insomnia as I get further into the journey which is driving me crazy. I can’t seem to get more than 3 hours at a time without sleep aid assistance.
Guess what – I am finally starting to shed prettybadly. My MO said it would start right after 2nd infusion if it hadn’t already.It ‘tis an emotional time for me.
Finally last question, is anyone having dryness and itching around the nether region. It maybe because I am starting to loose my hair but it is drving me crazy and not sure what to do. I have placed some Vaseline around the area but doesn’t help much. Let me know.
Thinking of everyone and going to take a nap.
-Angie
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I would love to hear from those that we haven’t heard fromsince first post or in a while
SLB11, SDSteph06, purrrrana99, CJT511– would love to hear from all of you to see how youare doing.
Randomchance, DonnaNJ, Jenifer, tootsetoe– how are you doing
Ella –Have you joined the September 2014 thread?If not you are welcomed to stay in this thread with us.
Hugs to All,
-Angie
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here is my before and after photos. Buzz cut probably on a few days:
Above is brunch with DH
My new hair cut! Buzz soon to follow right ladies?
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You look beautiful, LadyB1234
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Hi all! Round # 2 done and what another long day. I was there for 5.5 hours. During my first infusion I had back & hip spasms when getting Taxotere so today they slowed it down and it took 3 hours to infuse that one med. I didn't have the bad back spasms this time but did experience back discomfort with mild cramping. Back is still cramping and achy and I'm tired from only 3 hours of sleep last night. As tired as I am, I still can't sleep...very frustrating.
Ladyb - you're beautiful with or without hair. Remember to stay strong and positive.
Gatomal - I'm definitely going to follow your advice and take half a Zofran to avoid the bad headaches.
Hugs to all and good night
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ladyb, you look great! I am right behind you, planning an interim shorter cut in a few days (it is already short) to kind of ease into things.
I haven't had itching yet except my scalp is starting to bug me. Nothing lower down. But isn't that the warning sign, so to speak?
Sandy, I tend to watch your SEs the most closely since we are treatment twins. I have not had a bloody nose per se, but have seen a spec or two after blowing. No, I don't normally admire my output but lately I check to be sure all is well
On another thread today i found a suggestion to look at wrapunzel.blogspot.com for ideas on wrapping scarves. It is amazing! I have not been too thrilled with options but i actually got excited today after watching a bunch of tutorials. I feel less dread and am trying to think of this as an adventure. TRYING!
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Thanks for the Shout Out Lady B ! I got my life back last weekend! Was on vacation at the Jersey shore for four days with my extended family, and back to working full time+ this week. I am a School District Administrator and we are furiously getting ready for school to start on the 4th! I barely remembered I ever had chemo! Unfortunately, I am on the eve of treatment #2. It's 12:53 here on the East coast. I forgot the steroid causes insomnia and I am still not tired! Forgot to take the Tylenol PM! Going to pay dearly tomorrow! I woke up Tuesday with a sore scalp and some of my thick wavy hair came out later in the day, with a real good tug. Wednesday, my morning shower caused me to lose even more, and tonight I really am shedding. I already have a very short cut, but enough is still left, I look like I have thin hair. Quite a difference from my thick hair. My beautician uses thinning shears on me! My first treatment was the 8th, so in comparison to most others, I am holding on much longer....so no complaining from me! I expect tomorrow to be a good day. An old dear friend is joining me, and when we get together we chat for hours and it seems like minutes! I need to get some rest, so I am signing off with positive thoughts, good wishes and hopes for the best to all my August sisters! I hope you all get 12 almost back-to-normal days like me!!!! P.S. I absolutely love all the photos. It makes it easier to remember who everyone is. You are all looking great! I love the new cuts and even the buzzes! You are a beautiful group of ladies!
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hi everyone ,
Ocean breeze, jess1965 I have had short hair for 12 years a #1 on sides with 1" spikey on top and I still don't want to lose mine but doc says probably by the weekend as I had my second dose on Wednesday. My scalp has been itchy and swear my roots hurt when I run my hand through hair. But aim dire we will all rock the clean head look. Interesting thought on halo heAd.
I'm getting married next Friday n have look at henna tattoo I loved. But I think I have decided on wear a silk scarf still unsure wedding a week away.
Everyone on steroid wake up I fell you I swear I was a walking zombie today so tired but awake. They cut mine in half because I had a 5 day headache last round, constNt flushing and hot flashes. Still keeping me awake, 1day only headache but still look like kool aid man lol or fresh sun look.
Nausea started day one even though they added another nausea med after they reduced steroid. I have been trying to stay in oral ones regularly but still nause it is annoying sometimes I have gained short relief after a little ginger ale or ginger tea 30min to I hour is still some relief.
I've also had joint pain and a soar throat after this round going to try gargling.
For work my doc took me off completely I am a manager at Costco in contact with thousands of people daily she said to much chance of infection so I am focused on healing and not on normal daily stress so I feel lucky there.
I wish everyone the best on these days on the journey.
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ladyB - you look great! Thanks for sharing pic.
So good to hear from some of you that haven't posted in a while. Between wedding plans and starting a new school year, it seems life goes on. Happy for the good days in between. Even more happy to know we get breaks in between and we are learning to manage the SEs.
Best wishes to all and we are kicking cancers ass....
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good luck today Katie! Packing up the cooler right now, DH is wondering what they serve today for breakfast. It is at outpatient hospital, and the food is weirdly delicious and non institutional!
Oceanbreeze and Jess, sorry you are mourning your hair. Mine is all gone now, i am down to skull. had to shave it twice due to lovely patchy fallout so I can relate. After a few days, it will bother you less. First few days are very traumatic. My hair was my thing. I find that if I wear a baseball hat when out, no one notices. I think wigs are not for me, too hot here, but do try some out if they make you feel better. Hugs!
See you all soon, if i feel okay tonight i will post.
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I haven't started chemo yet and I'm just so upset. I could be starting 9/5 so I'm very anxious and nervous. LLizz could you let me know what accommodations are made for you. My job involves recommending and approving ADA accommodations for employees so I am very familiar with this law. Thanks for all the information here.
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ladyb, you look beautiful! Nice to see you wear any cut! Yep buzz is next. I will buzz mine next Friday which will be before Monday, and my second treatment. I also read that you lose the nether reign just before your head hair, so it's close. Read about using a velvet covered kind roller to remove the little hairs leftover? Not sure. How about baby powder like they do in a barbershop?good reading from people showing back and some new members. Such a good thread of information!
I have a dr. Appt this afternoon to see why my voice keeps going in and out. Mould be my counts dropping, how I'm handling the chemo or nothing at all. Hoping for nothing.
Have a good day everyone!
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lumpy3, congratulations on your wedding! You mentioned that you are unsure about the scarf - I am all new to head covering (I have a huge head so don't even wear hats) and have been a bit frustrated, but yesterday I got turned on to Wrapunzel, a great blog all about head scarves. I actually got excited. You might get an idea there. Google Wrapunzel blog. A beautiful woman named Andrea shares many tutorials.
I am trying to find online info on making stick- on bangs from our own hair. I got a demo from a consultant but would like a refresher, and also want to share with those who haven't shaved yet. Will search again when I have time in The Chair today.
I am wide awake thanks to last night's steroid, about to hop in the shower, then head out for tx #3.
Bippy, thanks for the encouraging words about adjusting to the "new hairdo. " I keep thinking I'm ready for the pre-cut but seem to be dragging my feet. I think I will feel better to get on with it.
Good luck to all getting poked again today! And love and big hugs to those struggling with SEs; hoping you feel better very soon. We are kicking cancer's behind HARD.
Angela akaTabby
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beautiful ladyb...still rockin a look! Try A&D cream after every visit to the bath. Helps a ton. Since have so many babies in the house, I have as much A&D cream laying around as toys. Coconut oil is great too, but very greasy, you'll have to use a panty liner with it at least. So try A&D first, with a liner to be sure.
I'm coming into my nadir period this weekend, and friend want to see us and bring us dinner. I'm afraid to get sick? Should I say no, or just institute the tons of hand washing no hugs rule? How did you all handle it? I am not on growth factors because of the pregnancy. I'm even thinking of putting my husband on the aerobed when he comes to visit this weekend.
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I wanted to mention I bought bangs as one of my first purchases. They attach to a headband with Velcro and can wear under hat or scarf. I'm pretty sure it was a company called headcovers.com. You may want to check it out.
Tabbygirl - loved wrapunzel, thanks for sharing
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Hi all...
Sorry have been busy at work and have to reorganize everything. My medical bills have started to come....
Llizz, my tongue is still raw . It feels like the following day after it's bitten or burnt. I rinse and brush my mouth several times a day. I use the toddler toothbrush to brush my tongue. Love your fert tx pictures!!!!
I'm glad everybody is handling everything well!!!! Keep up the good spirit !!
I'm sorry about the work issues. Everybody has been supportive at my workplace and I wear mask when I have to be closer with the sick ones. My job brings me another joy and positive energy I need for now. I will be happy to continue to work whenever I am still able to. I have decided to cut down some hours from my other job to spend more time with my little ones.
Hope everybody have a great Labor Day weekend!!!!!!
Hugs to you all....
Shirley
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ladyb- you look great!
Chemo was 8/27 for me. I made it half a day at work yesterday, I was exhausted, so I left. I took today off. I work in oral surgery, so I don't want to be feeling stoned at work. I too have only been taking half a zofran. No nausea to report, just a severe sore throat and very tired. I also use biotene toothpaste and mouthwash. Also doing the salt water and baking soda rinse several times a day. My hair is barely hanging on, debating a full shave this weekend, as my brother has decided to shave his in support. We are 18 months part, and very close. I hope you all do well and hang in there ladies!
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Hello all,
Just wondering, is there anyone who is not doing rads? I will have a consult after chemo, but I'm unsure if I will do it. I'm in the gray area, having 2/23 positive lymph nodes. I've already had complete reconstruction, so that would complicate things for me.
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terri, i too have to do rads, but they said after surgery too. No more info on that yet....dont know if i will get lumpectomy or tota bmx yet either. Leaning towards bmx.
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Bippy,
Sorry about your job. I too work in the law field and know the family law drama all to well. I did the lumpectomies first only to find out that both girls still had cancer in them, so I went with the BMX (8/4/14) and haven't looked back. My husband is just thrilled that I am still "upright" and he tells me all the time that my breasts do not define who I am and btw, we just celebrated our 32nd wedding anniversary!!!! Think about it, talk, cry, vent, check out prosthetics or reconstruction, but be happy and confident with the choice you make.
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Terri - I'm in the gray area for rads too. I had one sentinel node with multiple micromets which didn't show positive during BMX but on the final pathology. Discussed at length with breast surgeon and we decided to not go back in and remove more more lymph nodes due to increased risk of lymphedema. BS reviewed with tumor board and that's when rads was recommended. BS and RO recommend rads but MO feels it's over treatment. I trust all my drs so this makes it a really tough decision. Plus my PS would do my exchange before rads which as we know complicates things.
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Terri, As far as I know no rads for me. I didn't have any positive nodes. I too had immediate reconstruction a month after you. How are you feeling? I am still swollen and my implants just feel weird. I'm only five weeks out but I can't wait to feel "normal" again.
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Kellogg,
I feel great. I went home less than 24 hours after my surgery. I had skin sparing BMX, with immediate implants. So, my surgery was really easy for me. I did have my nipples removed too. My PS said my reconstruction is the best results he's ever had, which makes me happy. They look great, which is why I can't imagine starting all over with the process.(of rads) Might not be the right decision medically, but mentally and physically I have to do what I think I can deal with.
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nomatterwhat, yes, i do not miss that dramarama! Since my cancer is aggressive and sneaky, i think i will opt for the bmx right off. I never want to do this again, to any extent i can up my chances not to. Nice to know of your DH and great results! I do have at least one node involved so....may be right for me.
Second chemo went quick, home by 1pm and just chillin. Feels like a slight hangover minus the headache, not bad. Jammin gatorade and watchin trashy tv. Happy Friday all!
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Thought you ladies might enjoy a quick giggle. We're having fun with hats today. My hubby has this one, from a Halloween costume years back. What do you think?
My stubble started jumping ship yesterday, took a sticky lint roller to my head & came out with some fascinating patterns of how my hair grows...
I'm also revising my opinion of the slim fit Buff. I'm wearing it today & it's working fine. I did order 3 more last night, 2 of them w/UV protection. Also, my hats from headcovers.com arrived yesterday. Will post more pics later. Back to work.
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Strongenough, that is FABULOUS! Gotta have some fun in the middle of all of the craziness!
Welcome to Sueb, Eileenpg, and anyone else new that I missed. This group is my new "happy place" and I hope it will be the same for you.
Ladyb, you look gorgeous with both hair lengths and you will still look gorgeous when it goes! I'm still smiling about you checking the nose output! I'm checking all kinds of output myself these days! Have flipped digestively from the big C to the big D! So glad I'm working from home today.
Catie, re the bloody nose, the nurse suggested that I stop taking the low dose aspirin I normally take daily and see what happens. The saline solution and Claritin should also help. Thanks! Good to hear that you are happy with the headband/bangs combo from headcovers. I think I will order that, too.
Justamy and tabbygirl, I'm only 3 treatments in but so far the Taxol side effects are very manageable. Will keep you posted but I think you'll both do well.
Tabby, there is also a thread for TH only. It is not as active as this one right now but I found it really helpful. Not sure if you've already been there and I missed you. I also kind of miss the Superwoman level energy I had the first day after my first treatment. Just happy that day 2 is one where I feel good and like myself.
Bippy, glad you have that outlook about the job loss. I'm glad to have work to take my mind off things but it would also be nice to know I could just concentrate on resting and feeling well. Today I am working from home but not accomplishing much because I feel like my brain is in a fog.
Lumpy, so excited to hear about your upcoming wedding! Can't wait to hear details.
When I was diagnosed my brother-in-law gave me some good advice. He was treated for prostate cancer a couple of year ago, and thank God, doing well. He said if he could do one thing differently it would have been to worry less. I really got the worry-gene from my family but I have been able to let go a little bit and trust in my treatment plan thanks to that suggestion.
Hope you all have some fun planned for the holiday weekend.
Sending hugs,
Sandy
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srongenough, OMG can i borrow it?
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Stronenough - my son would absolutely love that. Fun! Are you the one that ordered a pink wig also? Love that!
Having my second infusion right now. No problem w needle in arm (no port) thank goodness. Last time they put it in my hand, today in crease of arm. Benadryl made me relaxed and slightly foggy. Nurse suggests myralax starting immediately to avoid constipation. My son andI bought lunch in.
Will keep you posted.
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Terri
That's great! Yeah I can't imagine starting over with radiation. Though my PS did show me a photo of a patient who ended up having rads after implants and the side she had radiation on was slightly higher then the other and unless you were looking for it you probably wouldn't notice especially under clothes. But you've got to do what you can handle. It's all overwhelming at times.
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I got a good laugh when my hubby surprised me with this hat today he had made. Needless to say, it will only be worn around the house. Makes for a funny pic.
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