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Topic: Starting Chemo April 2020

Forum: Chemotherapy - Before, During, and After —

Regimens, side effects, and support from others going through chemo.

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Posted on: Mar 25, 2020 02:16PM - edited Jun 20, 2020 12:21AM by jelloelloello

jelloelloello wrote:

Hey everyone! I'm starting the group for those of us starting chemotherapy in April 2020 (or the end of March, whatever works for you). Please join in!

I actually don't know my start date yet... I'm waiting to find out if I was approved for a clinical trial, which will determine my treatment plan and start date. The call/email should come this week, so I'm just anxiously waiting for it, but the plan is to start chemo next week. My treatment plan is 5-6 months of chemotherapy (AC-T), mastectomy plus lymph nodes, then radiation.

This is a super weird time to be dealing with cancer and the COVID-19/Coronavirus pandemic, but I think sharing the weirdness, frustrations, questions and positive thoughts with each other will be helpful.

Thanks! Much aloha!

Jess

-------------------------

APRIL 2020 ROLL CALL

Username (name we can call you) - [location] - known or likely start date for chemo

  • ARmom4 (Kelly) - [Arkansas, USA] - 3/27 / 4/17
  • AuthorSpot (Stacey) - [Illinois, USA] - 3/31
  • bazcla (Claud) - [Texas, USA] - 5/14
  • Bon43 (Bonnie) - [Nova Scotia, Canada] - 4/6
  • BostonGal (Allie) - [Massachusetts, USA] - 4/16
  • ByHisGraceTwice ( j ) - [Texas, USA] - 4/1
  • CCgirl (Nan) - [Massachusetts, USA] - 5/4 (but we're keeping her in the April family!)
  • CocoB122 - [Kansas, USA] - 4/?
  • Dawn1027 (Dawn) - end of April
  • Debra1111 (Debra) - 4/15
  • Dup403 - [Alberta, Canada] - 3/31
  • Emmyvan - [New York, USA] - 4/2
  • Faith2020 (Faith) - [Texas, USA] - 4/9
  • HI109 (Emma) - [New York, USA] - 3/31
  • hnsquared (Heather) - [Colorado, USA] - 4/1
  • hog_co-pilot (Les) - 4/30
  • Hurricaneblair (Erin) - [Illinois, USA] - 4/9
  • ipenelope (Katie) - [Minnesota, USA] - 4/20
  • JavaJana (Jana) - [Texas, USA] - 4/8
  • jelloelloello (Jess) - [California, USA] - 4/2
  • Jettie - 3/11 (started in March but there's room for everyone in the April family!)
  • JustyneF (Justyne) - [Illinois, USA] - 4/6
  • LiseC (Lise) - [Florida, USA] - 4/10
  • Molly5678 (Molly) - 4/15
  • Mudstick - 4/22
  • NicoleRod (Nicole) - 4/23
  • Oldest4Sis (Michelle) - [Delaware, USA] - 4/2
  • pennythepest (Penny) - 1/3... then a break... then started again in May
  • pjb61 - [Illinois, USA] - 4/20
  • Shareliz54 - [Nova Scotia, Canada] - 4/24
  • ShellyRM (Shelly) - [California, USA] - 4/22
  • Smitty1963 - 4/24
  • Sueshe55 (Robin) - [Florida, USA] - 5/26
  • Sugar77 (Sherri) - [Mississauga, Canada] - 4/3
  • sunandsea (Vilija) - [California, USA] - 4/30
  • wahoomama87 (Kris) - [Georgia, USA] - 4/10
  • zee72 (Zarin) - [Dubai, UAE] - 4/7

*** NEW! Join our private Facebook group! ***

If you're interested in connecting with us on Facebook, send a PM to wahoomama87 (Kris). Be sure to give her your email address that you use for FB. That's the only way she can "find" you to invite you, since we're not "friends" on there (yet)!

Dx 2/13/2020, IDC, Right, 6cm+, Stage IIIA, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2- (FISH) Immunotherapy 4/2/2020 Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy Surgery Lymph node removal: Underarm/Axillary; Mastectomy: Right
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Apr 14, 2020 05:24PM AuthorSpot wrote:

Kris— I would say my worst days for fatigue were Day three after AC until day 8. I have had some acid reflux as well and since I already take Prilosec (I had esophagitis last year), I have been taking Tums. It's a good way to get extra calcium. Also, your picture was beautiful!

Erin—yay for joining us in St. Louis! The more the merrier. 😊

I'm here for my second AC treatment today. After they push the Adriamycin, my chest gets really heavy and breathing is an effort. It lasts a couple of days. But it could be because I have the nodules in my lung. 🤷🏻♀️ The nurse said not to worry unless it got a lot worse. Unfortunately, I've had allergic reactions enough to know what she means.


Here's a pic of me getting my infusion today.



Love to all 💕💕

Dx 3/2/2020, IDC, Left, 6cm+, Stage IV, metastasized to lungs, Grade 3, ER-/PR-, HER2-
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Apr 14, 2020 05:34PM jelloelloello wrote:

Hi Stacey (AuthorSpot)! It’s great to see you smiling at your infusion! I also love that Erin (Hurricaneblair) posted one of her, too, so I guess I’ll join the trend! Here’s my Fancy Day outfit for chemo session #2 last week Thursday.

To everyone else, please don’t feel pressured to share photos on this public site! But if you are comfortable with it, it’s always nice to meet each other that way, too. :)

-jess

Dx 2/13/2020, IDC, Right, 6cm+, Stage IIIA, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2- (FISH) Immunotherapy 4/2/2020 Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy Surgery Lymph node removal: Underarm/Axillary; Mastectomy: Right
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Apr 14, 2020 05:37PM - edited Apr 14, 2020 05:39PM by ipenelope

Hello ladies. Sadly I will be starting Paclitaxel (protein bound) within the next couple weeks. I will be doing this weekly for 3 months with Tecentriq every other week the 3 months. It's weird thinking I have to do this again.

I hope everyone is staying safe during this trying time!!

~Katie 💗

ipenelope (Katie)- Minnesota, USA

Katie💗 Diagnosed stage IIB at 42, diagnosed stage 4 mets to left lung age 44 Dx 9/12/2018, IDC, Left, 4cm, Stage IIB, Grade 3, 1/21 nodes, ER+/PR-, HER2- (IHC) Surgery 11/15/2018 Lymph node removal: Left, Sentinel, Underarm/Axillary; Mastectomy: Left, Right; Reconstruction (left): Tissue expander placement; Reconstruction (right): Tissue expander placement Chemotherapy 12/20/2018 AC + T (Taxol) Surgery 6/13/2019 Reconstruction (left): Fat grafting, Silicone implant; Reconstruction (right): Fat grafting, Silicone implant Hormonal Therapy 6/22/2019 Tamoxifen pills (Nolvadex, Apo-Tamox, Tamofen, Tamone) Surgery 11/21/2019 Reconstruction (left): Fat grafting; Reconstruction (right): Fat grafting Dx 2/24/2020, IDC, Left, 1cm, Stage IV, metastasized to lungs, ER-/PR-, HER2- Surgery 3/18/2020 Chemotherapy 4/20/2020 Abraxane (albumin-bound or nab-paclitaxel) Chemotherapy 10/12/2020 Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Gemzar (gemcitabine)
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Apr 14, 2020 06:16PM Bon43 wrote:

Hi Friends,

Erin, thanks for the links! I ordered some hats on Amazon last week and I’m looking for some more as I’m not really sure how I will handle the no hair thing! Not looking forward to that at all. Did anyone order a wig? If so, from where?

I get my port in Thursday and my next round of chemo is the following Monday. If anyone has any advice for me on the port feel free to share your experiences. I am worried about my low blood counts and surgery but apparently it’s safe.

I don’t know if anyone is on the same chemo regime as I am. I too am still working but I don’t seem to have lack of attention or fog. I do however have acid reflux (it’s new as of yesterday). I hate taking pills and was healthy prior to all this so it’s difficult to feel like you’re now not healthy.

On a good note - it was super sunny here and 15 degrees Celsius which I think is about 60 Fahrenheit. I went for a walk at lunch and again after work. The nice weather makes you feel better for sure. Now if this stupid covid would just end!

This is my and my fiancé at our Easter Dinner

Love to all

Bonnie

Bonnie Dx 3/10/2020, IDC, Right, 3cm, Stage IIB, ER-/PR-, HER2+ Chemotherapy 4/5/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Ellence (epirubicin), Fluorouracil (5-fluorouracil, 5-FU, Adrucil), Taxotere (docetaxel)
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Apr 14, 2020 06:17PM - edited Apr 14, 2020 07:00PM by Bon43

PS don't mind the tape on Ceiling in background - haha! mark is going shack wacky and needs little projects to keep busy - he's painting. Happy

Bonnie Dx 3/10/2020, IDC, Right, 3cm, Stage IIB, ER-/PR-, HER2+ Chemotherapy 4/5/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Ellence (epirubicin), Fluorouracil (5-fluorouracil, 5-FU, Adrucil), Taxotere (docetaxel)
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Apr 14, 2020 07:54PM jelloelloello wrote:

Hi Katie- I’m sorry you are going through all this again, but welcome to the group! You’ve already experienced a lot that some of us will face soon or have questions about. I added you to our Roll Call list at the top.

Hi Bonnie- Nice to meet you “in person”!

Dx 2/13/2020, IDC, Right, 6cm+, Stage IIIA, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2- (FISH) Immunotherapy 4/2/2020 Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy Surgery Lymph node removal: Underarm/Axillary; Mastectomy: Right
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Apr 14, 2020 08:01PM BostonGal wrote:

Jess,

I was glad to hear from you - I was just thinking today that we had not heard from you in a while.

You have articulated the way I have felt about working, irregardless of the surgery I've had since January, all the tests, all the consults, all the all!

The last two weeks of work before I left on medical leave were very difficult. But then again, my work was very difficult ANYWAY without the additional factor of cancer! Some say that work can be a welcome distraction...however, given some of the specifics of my situation, that was not entirely the case.

Now I am both antsy and scared waiting for chemo to start. I had my port inserted about one and one-half weeks ago, had my "chemo training", etc. and now I wait. I think like everywhere else, hospitals and cancer centers have been struggling with scheduling a bit.

But all this waiting and sitting, especially in lockdown because of corona, is a bit unnerving. My energy is actually starting to return after my mastectomy in March and I would love to start "getting out there again." I had a lot of projects planned before the cancer diagnosis and I wonder if I will ever be able to get back to them the way I envisioned. On the other hand, maybe a re-envisioning will yield even happier results...

BostonGal....

Dx 1/2020, ILC, Right, 4cm, Stage IB, 4/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 8/31/2020 Lymph node removal: Right Surgery Lymph node removal: Right, Sentinel; Mastectomy: Right Chemotherapy AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy
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Apr 14, 2020 09:37PM - edited Apr 14, 2020 09:37PM by jelloelloello

This Post was deleted by jelloelloello.
Dx 2/13/2020, IDC, Right, 6cm+, Stage IIIA, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2- (FISH) Immunotherapy 4/2/2020 Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy Surgery Lymph node removal: Underarm/Axillary; Mastectomy: Right
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Apr 15, 2020 01:35AM zee72 wrote:

Dear Kris,

Here is some information that can help you with your acid reflux.

https://chriskresser.com/how-to-cure-gerd-without-medication/

What helps me, is starting my day with warm lemon water, drinking lots of water during the day (not during meals), very low carb diet, eating low glycemic index fruits, lots of bone broth and veggie soups to keep my energy levels up. Not sure if you have green fennel seeds at home (most Indian stores will have them). I’m from India so have these handy! Chewing about 8-10 seeds of them whenever you get your symptoms really really works. And of the course the rest.. like being active.

Seems like we are on a similar regime. Weekly chemo for carbo/taxol and every third week perjeta and herceptin?

Do let me know how you come along with trying the above!

Good luck!

Zarin

Dx 3/23/2020, IDC, Right, 2cm, Stage IB, Grade 3, ER+/PR-, HER2+ (FISH) Chemotherapy 4/7/2020 Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Taxol (paclitaxel) Targeted Therapy 4/7/2020 Herceptin (trastuzumab) Chemotherapy 4/7/2020 Chemotherapy
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Apr 15, 2020 02:15AM zee72 wrote:

Dear Bonnie,

Just read your post! Somehow missed it earlier. The above post should help you with the acid reflux. About the port...I too was super nervous getting it. It’s been 10 days now. I’m getting more used to it. The bruising is almost gone. Have less tightness along the chest and the weighing down feeling is a lot less. You are of a slim build so you might experiment some tightness along the chest. More than pain it is all more of a discomfort. Keep up with doing deep breathing exercises, gentle shoulder squeezes, just laying flat on your mat/floor for 10-15 mins can help keep the front of the chest open.

Since I’m getting my treatment in the same hospital where I work. I’m thinking of starting a 15-20 breathing technique group before the start of the chemo sessions. Is there anything similar offered to any of you in the facilities you are going to? While we are in this lockdown stage, I would like to work on getting a program together and possibly even initiating a research clinical trial.

Look forward to hearing from you all!

Zarin

Dx 3/23/2020, IDC, Right, 2cm, Stage IB, Grade 3, ER+/PR-, HER2+ (FISH) Chemotherapy 4/7/2020 Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Taxol (paclitaxel) Targeted Therapy 4/7/2020 Herceptin (trastuzumab) Chemotherapy 4/7/2020 Chemotherapy
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Apr 15, 2020 09:02AM wahoomama87 wrote:

Jess -

Glad you are feeling well in between! Having a good day is definitely a good thing. I am still working, but since it's all from home it's manageable. My boss is really great and giving me some slack where I need it. My newest thing yesterday and today is feeling weirdly STARVING and not wanting to eat all at the same time. I don't know if that makes any sense. I'm sleeping well, but also very fatigued in general. I'm hoping as I head towards the end of Week1, that will improve. I definitely have some brain fog, mostly from the fatigue I think. I just have to concentrate pretty solidly when I'm doing something.

Kris


Dx 3/23/2020, IDC, Right, 2cm, Stage IIB, Grade 2, 1/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2+ Chemotherapy 4/10/2020 Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Taxotere (docetaxel) Targeted Therapy 4/10/2020 Herceptin (trastuzumab) Targeted Therapy 4/10/2020 Perjeta (pertuzumab) Surgery 8/24/2020 Lymph node removal: Right, Sentinel; Mastectomy: Right; Prophylactic mastectomy: Left
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Apr 15, 2020 10:25AM BostonGal wrote:

Hi Jess, and all,

Well...I'm officially part of the club now: chemo starts tomorrow. I am hoping I will feel reassured once I get through this first session. Until now, I was in denial - until I get that first chemo date, I can pretend it will never happen...

I enjoyed reading all the posts since last time I was on. I am glad to hear everyone is doing reasonably well - there are aches, some stomach upsets, port area tenderness, etc. - but it sounds like everyone is able to manage them AND live their lives at the same time.

Many good suggestions I've read. I did order some "chemo beanies" but from where, I don't remember! I've been doing SO much online ordering these days, it is a blur where and when everything is coming from!

I've managed to get my sewing machine working again and so may take a stab at creating some headwear and pockets for my current bras! I'm thinking about modifying my bras so that they will work with some sort of prosthesis and am looking forward to adding some "glam factor" to them!

Fond regards,

BostonGal - you can call me Allie!

Dx 1/2020, ILC, Right, 4cm, Stage IB, 4/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 8/31/2020 Lymph node removal: Right Surgery Lymph node removal: Right, Sentinel; Mastectomy: Right Chemotherapy AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy
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Apr 15, 2020 10:47AM BostonGal wrote:

Stacey - you look great! Thank you for sharing! I start TOMORROW!

BostonGal (who is now Allie...)

Dx 1/2020, ILC, Right, 4cm, Stage IB, 4/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 8/31/2020 Lymph node removal: Right Surgery Lymph node removal: Right, Sentinel; Mastectomy: Right Chemotherapy AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy
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Apr 15, 2020 12:31PM Sugar77 wrote:

It's nice seeing everyone's pictures. Here's mine taken during my first infusion on April 3rd. Scalp is getting tingly now so I'll be buzzing it off very soon. I've been feeling like my normal self since last Friday (a week after infusion) but I did feel crappy for about three or four days after.

.

Surgery 9/24/2009 Lumpectomy: Right Dx 10/27/2009, IDC, Right, <1cm, Stage IA, Grade 3, 0/2 nodes, ER-/PR-, HER2- Chemotherapy 12/6/2009 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel) Dx 12/5/2019, IDC, Right, 3cm, Stage IIA, Grade 2, 0/3 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 1/26/2020 Mastectomy: Left, Right; Reconstruction (left): Tissue expander placement; Reconstruction (right): Tissue expander placement Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel) Radiation Therapy Whole-breast: Breast Hormonal Therapy Tamoxifen pills (Nolvadex, Apo-Tamox, Tamofen, Tamone)
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Apr 15, 2020 01:40PM ByHisGraceTwice wrote:

Hi Everyone and welcome to all the new folks since I last posted.

I have good news to share. Finished Radiation to my lumbar spine on Friday 4/10/20. Had an echo on Monday to assess heart function after first “Herceptin“ treatment on 4/1/20. All good there.

Have confirmation of a new Medical Oncologist. Am so glad. I’ll see him on the 23rd.

Found out even more underhanded things the other Medical Oncologist had done, besides being incredibly rude to me and dismissive of my concerns which proved well founded.

He falsified my medical records after my allergic reaction saying he’d done the things I asked like extra saline, slower than normal infusion rate, benadryl, Pepcid, because of my concern for an allergic reaction — I was given zero premed and zero during infusion except what I brought with me.

When I was vomiting during infusion no zofran was given in the iv, I had to use the pills I’d brought with me because he couldn’t be found. I cleared with the chemo nurse before I took anything and every time I took another zofran. It took 16 mg of zofran to slow down the vomiting. I spent the next 12 hours with 102.5 fever, chills, shakes, and intermittent vomiting, and diarrhea. Two radiation treatments had to be postponed because of the allergic reaction.

I’m allergic to proteins in other animals and Herceptin is made from Chinese hamster ovary protein. Turned out I wasn’t even given the actual Herceptin but a bio similar which is made from mouse protein — Kanjinti. My consent form said Herceptin, not Kanjinti.

He Never Mentioned this as I stressed to him I had great concern specifically about mouse protein used in Rituxin and what horrific allergic reaction a friend (Who is allergic to nothing) had experienced. My allergic reactions can go as far as passing out and respiratory failure.

Oh — I also found out he’d gone to medical school at American University Of The Caribbean School Of Medicine. Ladies, please check your doctor’s credentials better than I did. This nut was referred to me by another doctor and I didn’t investigate his credentials myself. Also double check you’re actually getting what you’ve been told you were going to get

This is one happy woman I never have to see that man again.

j

Dx 11/18/2016, IDC, Right, 2cm, Stage IIA, Grade 2, ER+/PR+, HER2+ (IHC) Surgery 1/30/2017 Lumpectomy: Right Dx 11/18/2019, IDC, Stage IV, metastasized to bone, Grade 2, ER+/PR+, HER2+ (FISH) Radiation Therapy 11/18/2019 External: Bone Dx 3/13/2020, IDC, Stage IV, metastasized to bone Radiation Therapy 3/18/2020 External: Bone Targeted Therapy 4/1/2020 Targeted Therapy 5/7/2020 Herceptin (trastuzumab) Chemotherapy 5/19/2020 Taxol (paclitaxel)
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Apr 15, 2020 02:29PM Hurricaneblair wrote:

j....I am so sorry that all that happened, but so glad you have a new doctor!!

Erin

Dx 3/25/2020, ILC/IDC, Right, 3cm, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2+ (IHC) Targeted Therapy 4/9/2020 Perjeta (pertuzumab) Chemotherapy 4/9/2020 Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Taxotere (docetaxel)
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Apr 15, 2020 02:32PM Hurricaneblair wrote:

It was so good to see people’s faces! Here is a pic of the items I ordered the other day. I am very happy with the quality. Erin

https://hatsscarvesandmore.com


Dx 3/25/2020, ILC/IDC, Right, 3cm, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2+ (IHC) Targeted Therapy 4/9/2020 Perjeta (pertuzumab) Chemotherapy 4/9/2020 Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Taxotere (docetaxel)
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Apr 15, 2020 04:36PM LiseC wrote:

J - I am so sorry that happened to you. This process is scary enough without a doctor that won’t address your concerns and sounds very unethical! I am glad to hear that you found someone that will meet your needs.

Lise


Diagnosed at 42, married 13 years and have a 4 year old son Dx 2/23/2020, IDC, Left, 2cm, Stage IIIA, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2- Chemotherapy 4/9/2020 AC + T (Taxol) Hormonal Therapy Zoladex (goserelin)
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Apr 15, 2020 04:49PM Molly5678 wrote:

Hi --

Please add me to your list. I'm Molly and I started chemo today (4/15/20). I got the Taxol, Carboplatin, Herceptin bags. I'm fine now but it's too soon to figure out how they'll affect me. Also, I think I said I was 70 in the last post but I'm actually 71. I can't even blame chemo-brain. It's just "old brain".

And for Bon43 -- don't worry about the port. I got one put in Monday and it wasn't bad at all. The process itself was just going in and waiting to be called back. The surgeon locally numbs the area and inserts the port into the upper chest with leads into vessels. The only bad part was later on at home when the numbing wore off. You sort of want to curl down into a fetal position because you feel like you were kicked in the chest. By the next day I was just sore but that's all. And you'll love the port. I got chemo today and it was so much easier than having to chase down a vein. I did order a couple of "port shirts" from Amazon that had zippers at the top to easily access the port. That helped. A shirt that opens up in the front or that has a lower neck would work too.

Dx 3/2020, IDC, Right, Stage IV, metastasized to bone, Grade 2, ER+/PR+, HER2+
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Apr 15, 2020 05:15PM jelloelloello wrote:

Sherri - So nice to see you in the pic! :)

Sherri talked about her scalp being tingly and knowing it's time. Well, I just had that this morning and my hair started falling out in small clumps today! No plans to shave it or anything yet... gonna try to play around with it first before I lose it completely... maybe see if it will hold up if I dye it pink??

Allie (new name for BostonGal!) and Kris - Thanks so much for the messages... it's nice to be missed! We really do share a lot of the same experiences and it's so comforting to read everyone's posts. Good luck, Allie, on your big day TOMORROW! We are thinking of you and we are with you! <3

By the way, I'm the opposite of Kris when it comes to food... I am hungry most of the time and my appetite is impressively strong! No worries about an under-nourished chemo patient here. Seriously, I'm the heaviest I've ever been, which would be depressing but it's kinda freeing to realize that this is one time in my life that it's actually truly ok to pig out (while I still can). No doubt I'll be shedding those pounds soon along with all my hair! haha / cry-cry

J - Oh I'm so sorry for your horrible experience with that doctor! I am so glad that you know your own health needs and body reactions so well, and that you're able to look out for yourself. A good reminder to all of us that we truly know ourselves best, even better than the medical experts we're working with, so if anything feels off or if they try to rush anything past us, it's our job to speak up and ask questions. I think Erin also wrote a great message to all of us earlier that was similar and really empowering. :)

Zarin - Thanks so much for all your tips and ideas about diet, exercise and well-being. It's super great to hear these things from one of us because it makes it feel more real than when I read it on a random website. I definitely need to incorporate more self-care things into my life. I had been planning to when I was first diagnosed, but was disheartened when the virus hit and all the cancer support groups closed, shutting down the free yoga and mindfulness classes I was looking forward to, and all the other cool things to help me step away from my routine life and rebuild new patterns and practices that will help my new future. You asked if any of our cancer centers have breathing technique classes-- are you kidding? Everything has been totally stopped because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like everything! Even our self-image center (I don't remember what it was called but it's where you get fitted for a wig) is closed. Literally everything is closed. Ugh it's really frustrating. But all that complaining aside, what I meant to say was that I think your idea is really cool and I super wish I could do that with you!

Shout-out to Jana (JavaJana) because it's been a week since we last heard from you and your crazy long chemo day. Hope you are doing well!

Dx 2/13/2020, IDC, Right, 6cm+, Stage IIIA, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2- (FISH) Immunotherapy 4/2/2020 Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy Surgery Lymph node removal: Underarm/Axillary; Mastectomy: Right
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Apr 15, 2020 05:17PM jelloelloello wrote:

Hi Molly! You're on the list already but I'll add your start date. Congrats on starting! Hope your side effects are mild and that you feel ok.

Dx 2/13/2020, IDC, Right, 6cm+, Stage IIIA, Grade 3, ER+/PR+, HER2- (FISH) Immunotherapy 4/2/2020 Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy Surgery Lymph node removal: Underarm/Axillary; Mastectomy: Right
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Apr 16, 2020 07:49AM wahoomama87 wrote:

Allie -

Thinking of you this morning! I hope everything goes smoothly. Let us know how you're doing!

Kris


Dx 3/23/2020, IDC, Right, 2cm, Stage IIB, Grade 2, 1/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2+ Chemotherapy 4/10/2020 Carboplatin (Paraplatin), Taxotere (docetaxel) Targeted Therapy 4/10/2020 Herceptin (trastuzumab) Targeted Therapy 4/10/2020 Perjeta (pertuzumab) Surgery 8/24/2020 Lymph node removal: Right, Sentinel; Mastectomy: Right; Prophylactic mastectomy: Left
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Apr 16, 2020 08:05AM Bon43 wrote:

thanks Molly, Zarin and Erin! I am sitting waiting for the port now. Here they put you to sleep to get the port - everything I read was just local anesthetic but Maybe because I’m in Canada. I don’t know. That is horrible what happened to you J, as if this whole process isn’t stressful enough! Erin you look great!

Bonnie

Bonnie Dx 3/10/2020, IDC, Right, 3cm, Stage IIB, ER-/PR-, HER2+ Chemotherapy 4/5/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Ellence (epirubicin), Fluorouracil (5-fluorouracil, 5-FU, Adrucil), Taxotere (docetaxel)
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Apr 16, 2020 09:59AM pjb61 wrote:

Hi everyone. I love reading all of the updates to see how everyone is doing but dang it, I feel like I need a cheat sheet next to me to keep everyone straight! And I haven't even started chemo yet so I can't blame it on chemo brain! Good Lord, what will I be like after I start?!!! Loopy

So rather than use names, I'll just offer a few comments. Lol. I'm in central IL and only about 75 minutes from St. Louis, so if covid ever ends and a meet-up is planned...count me in!

I'm also a person who leans towards natural solutions to health problems (I think it was Erin who said that as well?) so chemo is like the opposite of all I believe in! And yet, here I go! I just had to adopt an attitude of, it's only 3 months, so suck it up and survive and worry about recovery after it's all over.

I appreciate the link about how to deal with hair. I had also planned to have it cut into a cute shorter before starting. My natural hair color was dark brown and I loved it so had never colored it until the gray started. Over the last several years I went gradually lighter to make the "skunk stripe" less obvious when it was getting close to time to color again and it is basically a darker blond now. So I was going to be a brunette one last time before it all fell out. Of course, that's not happening now. But it was good to have some direction in that article. My husband has been bald for years so we are going to match. Hug

I also love the link about drawing in eyebrows. I have not been too upset about losing my hair (maybe the bald husband helps...lol) but having no eyebrows will just be weird! So I'm going to give that a try!

Chins up, everyone! We are in this together!

Dx 2/5/2020, IDC, Left, 2cm, Stage IIA, Grade 3, 0/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- (IHC) Surgery 3/4/2020 Lumpectomy: Left; Lymph node removal: Sentinel Chemotherapy 4/20/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel)
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Apr 16, 2020 10:20AM pjb61 wrote:

Sorry for the second post in a row but the last one was getting long and I didn't want this to get lost in the shuffle. I start chemo on Monday, the 20th. So it's getting real now! And I'm TERRIFIED! I have a lot of plant sensitivities and seasonal allergies and then I read that Taxotere is derived from a plant. And I read about allergic reactions to it. And I read about people dying from an anaphylactic reaction and I'm just starting to freak out! Is there anyone else out there who has plant sensitivities and took Taxotere? Am I being unreasonably paranoid?

Dx 2/5/2020, IDC, Left, 2cm, Stage IIA, Grade 3, 0/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- (IHC) Surgery 3/4/2020 Lumpectomy: Left; Lymph node removal: Sentinel Chemotherapy 4/20/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel)
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Apr 16, 2020 10:28AM Sugar77 wrote:

pjb61 - you will be given a bag of Benadryl before the Taxotere infusion. You'll also be given steroids along with the treatment so that will help things. You'll also be monitored really closely. Chemo is scary but the way I wrap my head around it is welcoming it into my body. I try to avoid thinking of it as poison but rather as a nectar that's accepted with open arms for it to enter my body and do it's thing and then I flush out as quickly as I can by drinking lots of water when I get home and for the next couple of days. Good luck and please keep us posted how you're doing!

Surgery 9/24/2009 Lumpectomy: Right Dx 10/27/2009, IDC, Right, <1cm, Stage IA, Grade 3, 0/2 nodes, ER-/PR-, HER2- Chemotherapy 12/6/2009 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel) Dx 12/5/2019, IDC, Right, 3cm, Stage IIA, Grade 2, 0/3 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 1/26/2020 Mastectomy: Left, Right; Reconstruction (left): Tissue expander placement; Reconstruction (right): Tissue expander placement Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel) Radiation Therapy Whole-breast: Breast Hormonal Therapy Tamoxifen pills (Nolvadex, Apo-Tamox, Tamofen, Tamone)
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Apr 16, 2020 11:11AM JLBinPDX wrote:

Just stopping by since I came across this thread. Pics 1 and 2 were in 2017 during triple negative and AC/Taxol chemo. I went bald a lot in my day-to-day life, but scarves, too were my best friend. Start at the back nape of your neck with it in the middle, bring to the front (covering your cute, bald head), tie simple in the front, then twist each side and tuck in underneath near the back. It's easy, quick, and works with lots of different sizes and shapes of scarves.

DO remember, it really does grow back and much more rapidly than I remembered previously. This is less than two years later. Ladies, YOU can do this!

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Apr 16, 2020 11:56AM - edited Apr 16, 2020 12:13PM by BostonGal

JLBinPDX, thank you for your words and advice. Your photos are beautiful. Welcome!

I am in my first round NOW...adriamycin and cytoxan! Wonderful center, nurses...I am so relieved.

Allie (formally BostonGal)

Dx 1/2020, ILC, Right, 4cm, Stage IB, 4/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 8/31/2020 Lymph node removal: Right Surgery Lymph node removal: Right, Sentinel; Mastectomy: Right Chemotherapy AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy
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Apr 16, 2020 02:19PM BostonGal wrote:

Jess, what a fabulous photo! Fills the heart.

Allie

Dx 1/2020, ILC, Right, 4cm, Stage IB, 4/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 8/31/2020 Lymph node removal: Right Surgery Lymph node removal: Right, Sentinel; Mastectomy: Right Chemotherapy AC + T (Taxol) Radiation Therapy
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Apr 16, 2020 03:09PM Sugar77 wrote:

JLBinPDX - your hair looks great. Thanks for stopping in and providing us with encouragement. I sure hope I get the nice curls again :)

Surgery 9/24/2009 Lumpectomy: Right Dx 10/27/2009, IDC, Right, <1cm, Stage IA, Grade 3, 0/2 nodes, ER-/PR-, HER2- Chemotherapy 12/6/2009 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel) Dx 12/5/2019, IDC, Right, 3cm, Stage IIA, Grade 2, 0/3 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- Surgery 1/26/2020 Mastectomy: Left, Right; Reconstruction (left): Tissue expander placement; Reconstruction (right): Tissue expander placement Chemotherapy 4/2/2020 Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), Taxotere (docetaxel) Radiation Therapy Whole-breast: Breast Hormonal Therapy Tamoxifen pills (Nolvadex, Apo-Tamox, Tamofen, Tamone)

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