Starting Chemo October 2018
Comments
-
So today is day 13 for me and like Rad, I am shedding. It sucks! I knew it was coming, but wasn't looking forward to it. I cut my hair the day before chemotherapy into a long bob. I guess it will be buzzed by the weekend at the latest. Oh well it's just hair.....
I hope everyone is doing well. Next Thursday is my second treatment. Keep positive!
0 -
Day 6 for me. All good 
still a tad dizzy this a.m. Decided I just needed to make sure I'm eating small meals often. No steroids since Sunday and no nausea. Only took a half dose of claritan yesterday and none today so fingers crossed I'm ok tomorrow! Good luck everyone who has treatment tomorrow! Yall are a week ahead of me (ish). Seems crazy what a difference a week can make! Gonna cut my hair short this wknd...keep telling myself "itll grow back, small price to pay!"
How are you doing today sadly new and fritz? GREAT I hope! It's been snowing here in colorado! Not a ton, but gloomy. I went to work today with the hubby. Got to the jobsite (construction) and decided probably not the best idea to be out in the cold, even though I felt fine! So, me and the hubby left the guys to work and went for a drive. The mountains are definitely my sanctuary! Saw a few bighorn sheep on the drive (I'll attach pics ) and gambled a little too! (Small casino town in the mountains).
Hope everyone has a great next couple days and has a nice relaxing weekend!
0 -
Nice picture Ccaxt! Glad to hear you’re feeling well.
Yesterday was my first day of feeling physically back to normal. BUT I learned some very unsettling news. Out of curiosity I pulled out my PET scan results and read that there was mild uptake on one of my vertebrate. The radiologist noted that he doubts mets, but that he can’t difinitively rule them out. Both my MO and BS told me my PET scan was clear over a week ago. I talked to both sets of nurses and they both tried to reassure me that if either of my doctors hadany suspicions of mets that they would not have said I was clear. But the sead is now planted in my head and I am panicked.
I see my MO’s partner today for bloodwork (mine is out on conferences all week) so I hope he will be able to talk be off this ledge. This sucks!!
0 -
Hi Fritz - my PET scan had 2 small uptakes in the bones, one in my hip and the other in my spine. Like you, I panicked and just kept thinking stage iv. MO reassured me that while it does look like mets, there are no masses associated with upticks, and I have no symptoms. Additionally, the only way to be sure is biopsy, but PET is sensitive enough to pick up arthritis or bone spurs. She said stage iv is defined by much metastasis that is more widespread. The treatment would not begin with chemo, that would be reserved for much later in treatment as other options are exhausted. You and I are getting chemo because we have cancer that can be treated and knocked out. Those small blips on our PET scans will be gone when we are done with treatment. they were picked up on the scan because it is so sensitive, not because they have gotten comfortable and started to grow.
My MO actually walked thru the scan with me and physically pointed out the "mets" as compared to the actual cancer in my breast and nodes. The difference is substantial, I felt much better after seeing so. I hope you get some relief after your appointment today. It is so easy to think the worst with every piece of new info, l can relate!
Please update after your appointment, I know you will have good news.
0 -
Patrice thank you so much for your response. It's good to know that I would not be currently receivchemo if I were stage IV. That puts my mind at ease a little. I do trust my doctors, but seeing the words on paper makes me waver. I'm hoping that talking face to face with someone today will knock out this worry. I just wish it was with my actual doctor who knows my case. I need someone to tell me it's nothing 100% and thatI'm stupid to worry
0 -
good morning everyone!
Cc - that picture is wonderful. Great scenery should make for good healing as well. Glad to hear you are feeling better too.
Fritz - sorry about the scare. I also get scared reading back at reports and then i try to trust the doctors about what they saw and how they are treating. It’s so hard to do and I’m not sure I mastered that either. Hope all goes well with your visit.
Day 3 for me. Better than yesterday. The nausea for me starting a few hours after infusion was awful. Unbearable. But much much better today. My neulasta went off yesterday. Am I out of the woods yet with misery? I know people say day 3-5 are the worst. I’m trying to be optimistic but also waiting on the other shoe to fall.
I think I’m last in the treatment order on here! Lol. (Day 3 post AC#1). Anyone after me?
0 -
Sadlynew2018 I didn’t feel Neulasta SEs until day 5. It lasted about 2 days and wasn’t horrible. Some back pain and spasms and not much else.
I just noticed I’m having some vaginal bleeding this morning. My last period was sept 20, so add this to things to bring up at my appt today. I know chemo can throw things off with your cycle so I’m not overly concerned yet, but still. It’d be nice to not have to keep dealing with more and more issues.
0 -
Found this group just in time, I start chemo on Tuesday. I was originally diagnosed as HER2- which meant only radiation. This past week, my oncologist confirmed that my tumor was heterogeneous and parts of it are HER2+ so I'm getting the standard 12 weeks of Taxol, a year of Herceptin, radiation, and hormone therapy. I still feel like I stepped into a parallel universe, like none of this is really happening. But it's about to get really real. I feel like there is so much to learn in a short period of time, as if I'm traveling to a foreign country next week and I need to be fluent. Overwhelming.
0 -
Welcome Joules. While I’m sorry to see you join our group, we’re all in this together to get through treatment.
0 -
sitting in the chair with everything all hooked up to my brand new port, poison is officially going in as I type.
On a related note, today is haircut day, scheduled after treatment. Say goodbye to the natural blonde, natural wave, fun while it lasted hair. Siggghhhh.....
Took this just before I left the house for chemo.0 -
Good luck today Patrice! The port really makes everything so much easier. You’re beautiful and I’m sure you’ll be just as gorgeous with your new short do.
0 -
an update from my doctor’s appt: They reassured me that what was shown on my PET was inflammation and that I’m doing the right treatment and not to worry. Easier said than done, but I do feel a little better for now. Also the early period/spotting is normal apparently.
My blood counts look great, and I was told to enjoy the next week leading up to my next treatment.
0 -
Cc- love that pic that is awesome!
Fritz- so glad Patrice was able to help you ease the mind alittle bit! Let us know how your appt turns out.
Sadly new- hang in there almost out of the nausea woods, your doing great? How was the neulasta on pro? I have to come in for my shot the following day
Joules- sad to see you here but welcome aboard, the ladies here are great, your chemo regimen is different than mine but we will get through this together!
My counts bounced back up to normal so I was good to go for round 2. Just finished, aside from minor issues getting the A drug in ( port was already at 2 weeks trying to develop scar tissue so took lots of flushes to get blood drawing back). Feel great, gonna grab something to eat!
0 -
PatriceL, your hair is beautiful! I'm hoping if I lose mine it grows back in curly like yours! Hair goals.
0 -
Patrice- your hair is gorgeous! All the women selfies are revealing such gorgeous women! Well my poison sister we each got our dose today! #2 for me and #1 for you. Hope all went well, remember to take nausea meds on scedule regardless of how u feel, keep alittle in your tummy all the time and drink lots of water!
Feeling good day 1 , better alittle than first time and I felt fine then too. Take care all of u recovering or who had treatment today.
0 -
Thank you ladies for the kind words re: my hair. Good news - It is on the way to locks of love, long enough to make into wigs for kids so it has a new life and purpose, yay! (I miss it already, that was not fun damn it. trying to put a happy spin on it but it's just bullshit and I'm sad and mad. OK, end of whining portion of the post)
In other news, first treatment is done. Day one has been good so far. Thanks to those who had treatment before me, I'm extra vigilant about drinking and eating. Who would have thought that would be a thing - remember to eat! This is the strangest trip I've ever been on.
Anyway, Rabbit, and all others who got poisoned this week, we got one more under our belts, yes! We go on and live to fight another day. We got this now, we are prepared and we have each other.
All right ladies, go hydrate and rock on with your bad selves
0 -
Fritz - so relieved that the news was all Good!
follow doctors orders and enjoy your week!
0 -
Patrice - good for you! You and I are two days apart with our treatment. I will say that the advice given on here to eat and drink has been golden.
Rad - the on pro is weird weird weird. My husband and I were talking and then we hear this beeping. It’s the on pro injecting me. 45 minutes later, it’s done. You can get them on your stomach or arm. I preferred it on my stomach. Overall, it wasn’t too bad. Except for having to peel the tape off when it was done! Good for you having #2 done! Halfway done with AC! What a great milestone to be at. I hope for little to no SEs. :-)
Let’s keep rocking this treatment, ladies. We got this.
0 -
Hi Everyone,
I'm supposed to start Neo-adjuvant AC chemo on 10/17, but I'm having second thoughts about my hospital. When I met with the medical oncologists, they told me that I'd have a dose dense schedule. I had my chemo-teach on Tuesday and the nurse scheduled my first two cycles, two weeks apart. I checked the online system this morning and they have it scheduled for every three weeks instead of every two weeks. I talked to the nurse that originally scheduled my treatments and she said that in all the years that she's been a chemo nurse, the drug regimen that I have is almost always a dose-dense treatment. A few hours later she called back and said that the doctor said that it would be every three weeks. Additionally, I have to have another biopsy tomorrow because of my MRI results. I've asked two people for more information, but they give very vague answers.
I'm not afraid of chemo or the side-effects. I feel like I can handle that physically and mentally. The most frustrating part about this whole ordeal has been dealing with the hospital, insurance, and trying to figure out what to do about my job. I am a 32 year old single mother (my daughter is 6). If mistakes and miscommunications are going to be the norm, I'm going to have to go to a different hospital. I'm working on getting a second opinion, but the hospital that I'd prefer to go to is about 45 minutes away. I have lots of friends and family in that area, so it may actually be better for me there. I'm going to try to get more information from my current hospital tomorrow.
Sorry, I just needed to vent
0 -
So, just left the doc. Had to see NP instead if my MO cause he was booked due to going outta town next week. Wasnt a fan. I mean she was nice and all but said stuff like "have u had your esophagus checked due to your constant heartburn prior to chemo?". I also asked "why does tumor feel the same size, this stuff isn't working!" Her response "well, it is the same size. I wouldn't be concerned until after 4 treatments and if no change, well change the treatment plan". She finally leaves and I look at hubby...WTF??? Now I'm freaked I have cancer in my esophagus AND this chemo isn't working! *mind you I'm on day 8.. lol So I'm about to walk out and to my surprise my MO walks in. He tells me, um you've had 1 dose, and sometimes its scar tissue. However, I dont expect anything til 3rd round. I calm down, give him shit for not being there next week. We leave and my hubby looks at me and laughs. WHAT???!!! Um, he just told u the same thing she did and now your ok. Lol. Yup, I'm nuts!
JS....I ended up changing my dr after diagnosis. It's all about comfort level. I do feel like a small fish in a big pond at times, but people travel far and wide to go to my hospital so I feel pretty lucky.
Sadly new...spirits seem better today, which is awesome! Glad your getting SE's under control!
Rad...woo hoo! Halfway through AC!!!
Patrice...hope your feeling well! Your hair is beautiful! Itll grow back! Me and my kids were all joking about the possible hair color I may end up with. I said.. most likely GREY! Thank god for haircolor!
Have a GREAT night ladies!!
0 -
Rabbit, i totally forgot to give you a shout out for " roll on 2"
That was FANTASTIC, I loved loved loved it, you are my favorite guinea pig ❤
0 -
Good evening all! Glad to see everyone is doing well. For those who just had chemo, I hope that you have little to no se.
Today was kind of hard for me. I am not a vain person, but my hair was really coming out. So the only logical thing to do was to buzz it. I was hoping to wait until this weekend, but didn't that happen. One less thing to deal with.
0 -
Notgiving up I’m sorry you’re having a hard time dealing with losing your hair. I’m only a few days away from the inevitable, too as I had my first chemo 10 days ago. Really nervous about it and all the emotion that will come with it.
0 -
Fritz- so glad the appt u had gave you some good news and some relief. So many of the tests we take are so sensitive and pick up even the most minor of things. My CT scan showed a tiny itty ball point pen size scar on one of my lungs. Turns out my couple bouts of pneumonia over many years caused it and my MO wasn't concerned in the least but mentioned cuz she likes me to know the reports she reads and wanted me to know she wasn't concerned in case I read report. We deal with so much, it's kinda like waiting for another shoe to drop. I'm so happy for u and again so happy Patrice was able to relate and help.
JS- I say go with ur gut and go where u will feel most comfortable. Appointments are endless and u will practically live we're your going so if difficulties are a problem now it will be a pain the booty going through treatment and that's one more stressor u don't need. Going somewhere where the most support is will give you major advantages, u will need the support for sure. Thinking of u as u get ready to begin the journey, once u get going it really helps and having good doctors etc really helps.
Sadly new- that's gotta be Hilarious having this beeping flashing thing going off during a conversation- hopefully after one of my infusions I'll get to try it this is just too fascinating to me! Yep half way through! It feel good! I actually cried tonight cuz I'm half way though this crap, it hasn't been too bad I just don't want neutropenia again, I'm a brat for fresh veggies and salads and having to go without for almost a week sucked, but my counts bounced right back up again so praying does same. So glad ur doing better, keep it up and U willbe on other side. By day 7 didn't need but 1 nausea pill. By day 8 none. I was so happy about that! You got this!
Patrice, I texted my husband I was getting “clamped and wired" during the start of infusion, was more like “needled and tubed" as I took a seat in ole softy. You did it! Only 3 more to go for u!
Not giving up- I feel what u feel. I am major shedding now, I see little clumps form in the shower drain and it comes off in tiny bits off in my hands. Had a little cry over it, really miss my long locks. I know it doesn't help to say it'll grow back, but it will! Hang in there warrior!
Cc- I experienced mild pain in my esophagus during chemo which turned out to be acid reflux, prescription strength Prilosec knocked that out. Lol your post cracked me up, the tiny peek at your relationship with hubby is cute, great relationship there, he sounds like mine. Half way through for me! Yahoo!
Well I've been reliving the chumbawamba song tubthumping by “pissing the night away" from all the water and fluids, great chemo song because it's so true, did same thing last rounds hence why I am up so early to write this, sleeping well, just woken up frequently to visit the porcelain throne. Hope everyone's doing good, hang in there one step closer to the end!!
0 -
Good morning ass-kicking warriors!
Hope you all are feeling good and taking good care.
Sadly- sounds like you are thru the worst of the se's, awesome news! It really is a learning process, isn't it? But now you know what to expect and can talk to your MO before next treatment. I was given meds in iv during infusion that are supposed to combat the nausea as well as 2 prescriptions for home just in case. I can find out specific names if you'd like to be sure you are getting everything possible. The nurse gave great advice, said DO NOT be a hero, we have a lot of weapons in fighting the se's, just speak up.
Joules- welcome aboard, I know exactly what you mean about feeling like we're navigating a foreign country. It is absolutely overwhelming. It gets real so quick, but sooner begun, sooner done. Good news is you don't have to be fluent in the foreign language, you've found a spot filled with willing translators.
JS- I agree with previous posters - you need to find a place you feel comfortable, and communication is essential. This whole experience sucks, no need to add any more crap to the unavoidable crap ya know?
CC- you crack me up, I thought since diagnosis I had become a paranoid chick, you may have me beat girl! "It's day 8, why isn't this blasted tumor gone? I demand answers that I will not accept." I have also been wondering what color my hair will be when it sprouts. I may dye it strawberry blonde and claim it's natural.
Notgivingup- I feel you on the hair loss, I feel you deeply. It's strange that after all the horrible, insulting things we've endured thus far, this is what really kicked my ass and made me the most angry. Is it because we will actually look like sick people? I don't know, but I stand by my previous statement that it's all bullshit and I hate it. So there.
Rabbit is halfway through!!!!!! Get down with your bad self! I too pissed my night away last evening. Know what that means? Means we are some well-hydrated mf'ers. Yeah.
Have a great Friday my sisters in arms (and boobies) eat, drink, and be comfortable.
Picture of the day is my dedicated and vigilant caregiver. Wouldn't even let me pee alone last night. He is fantastic.
0 -
Good Afternoon!
Ok so I'm feeling better about buzzing my head last night. I actually attempted to tie a scarf this morning. I think it looks pretty good for a first try.
Anyway, I wanted to share some good news that I received this morning. My genetic test results came in. I tested negative. I am so relieved and happy.
I hope everyone has a great day!
0 -
I am so happy to hear the good news from your genetic testing.
I have been at my cancer center since 9 this morning for my first treatment of Herceptin/Taxol. It is now about 2:40. The Herceptin went well but I had a reaction to the Taxol. In 5 minutes of them starting the Taxol. My face turned bright red and swollen and was having a heard time breathing. The nurses knew exactly what they to do but I was scared. I was doing better within minutes. My MO came out but to talk to me and gave me a couple of options 1. Conservative option: stop today and admit me to the hospital for next treatment 2. Try again at a slower rate and if a reaction occurs again stop and then admit to hospital for next treatment I elected for the second I has been about an hour and doing well. wow I have have an amazing care team hoping SE are minimal can’t wait until my hubby and I can leave
0 -
Not giving up: great news about the genetic testing! It’s amazinng what a little glimmer of good news can do for our spirits during all this crap.
Sister: so sorry to hear you had a reaction during chemo! Your team of doctors and nurses sound amazing and it’s so great that you’re still able to complete the day!
I got a little piece of good news today. My ca125 (ovarian tumor marker) results came back normal. I wasn’t worried, but my gyne oncologist wanted to test. I also got another call from my BS reassuring me about my PET scan results. I love that my whole team takesmy concerns so seriously and will go back and look at scans to make sure what they initially told me is still the case.
0 -
Patrice, your pup is adorable!! Is he a lab? My lab has been very aware of the changes that are happening around here. He’s extra anxious, but super snuggly with me. Love our fur babies!
0 -
not giving up- that's awesome news about ur genetic testing! I too was so relieved when it came back negative! Congrats on ur first try with head scarves, I got the long pre-tied ones and just loosened it to fit my head, kinda mimics long hair for me until I find a nice wig I like.
Fritz- good news for you too! Woo hoo!
Sister strong - sounds like you have a really great team working with u, that's really wonderful, doctors who are compassionate and work with u make the process easier.
Patrice- “Bad ass walk-in! We got a bad ass walk-in here!!!". Ur doing it! With fur baby love to boot! Morning day 3 have that Lionel Ritchie song in my head, it's combined forces with the previous song, I had a fiesta all night in the loo pissing the night away! But least I'm hydrated! Keep rockin girlfriend!
Feeling tired and hungry this am. Anyone else have an urge to eat a bit more these days? Taking nausea meds on schedule sofar so good, just feel mega tired but otherwise good. Hope everyone is doing good and some of u are headed toward ur good week after round 1! Half way done with AC, can't wait to be done with it!
0
