1st chemo done!
After being diagnosed in August, 2025 with invasive, triple positive breast cancer, stage 1, grade 3… Following a biopsy, which produced clear margins, successful removal of the tumor, and negative lymph nodes, I had my first chemo last week, 9/11. First drug given was Paxlitaxel, I’m also receiving an infusion of Herceptin, as I am HER2 positive and hormone receptor positive.
This whole process is very frightening. A bit more info, I am 70 years old, turning 71 in just a couple weeks. I’ve never had prior cancer. Although my mother, grandmother, aunt/s did have breast cancer during their lifetimes.
I am encouraged that we have a good prognosis, but getting the other 11 chemos done, followed by 20 radiation treatments, followed by immunotherapy for the next five years after that, I don’t know, it’s a lot. Right now, taking it one step at a time. One chemo treatment at a time.
I’m open to any suggestions, advice, thoughts, whatever… This is my first post, and first time on this site.
Thanks for hearing my story out. This is just the beginning! I am staying positive and will do my best to stay that way throughout the process.
Comments
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Hi @cmartynowicz , welcome! It can definitely feel like a lot, that's normal. Most of us manage by taking it one day or one treatment at a time.
The monthly cohort groups i.e. "Starting chemo in September" can be helpful because you can compare notes with others and support one another through it. There are also live support groups (via zoom) that you might find useful.
I did taxol as part of my chemo. It was...OK, mostly manageable. What worries you about chemo, specifically? The hardest side effects for me were fatigue and bone pain. I'd already lost my hair (some regrew during taxol). I also had anemia and low white blood cells - the latter meant I needed to be careful not to get sick. I was still able to work and do things around the house, but had to manage my energy so I didn't get too wiped out by doing too much.
Hope this is helpful. There's a ton of info on this site, so keep browsing and keep posting 👍
Best wishes on the journey ahead. You got this!
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