anyone starting chemo in Nov 2005

jetjill

LynnZ,

I had IDC on my left side and went with the Bi-lateral mastectomy. I am not sorry I did (however my surgery was on 10/20 so not too much time has passed) My only set back was my margin on the skin side was only 1mm, so now I need radiation as well as the chemo. I think you should stick with your gut feeling and remember "better safe then sorry". Sometimes too much thought can cause us to second guess ourselves.

Be strong and go with your gut.

HUGS, Jill

twingle99

OMG!!!
I just remembered I was supposed to have a MUGA scan today. I have seen so many Doctors this week I totally spaced it. My AC starts on Monday I wonder if i'll still be able to do it??
I can't believe I forgot.
Rhonda

awjkej

Hi Nancy,

I had a port put in when I had my oophorectomy on 10/25. I had my follow up visit with my surgeon a week later, and he said that the port area would take about a month to heal...this was confirmed my nurse at chemo today....hope this helps, and I hope you have speedy recovery

Anne

kim825

I had my port put in Oct. 31 and had my first chemo treatment Nov.1. Yeah, the port was very sore but didn't hurt when they used it for treatment. I was told it would be sore for about a week. Oh yeah was it sore. Still is a little, but much better. I had my treatment and all my scans, but didn't have a MUGA test. DO you think I should be concerned? Hugs to all the Nov. chemo ladies.
Kim

MomaJunk

I got the port two weeks ago and it is still sore but also did not hurt in use. First FAC on MOnday went fine but Tues, Wed and Thurs I had upset stomach and couldn't drink or eat much. I made up for it Friday when my appetite came back with a vengence. I wanted chicken and went KFC and got a dinner, which I ate all of. I will have to try to eat more healthily this next two weeks. My grandchildren got me two hats made of fluffy boa like material, very soft and light. They may look a little Zhivago. We get winter here in Colo. so I'm sure to wear them when the hair goes. I usually have my hair between chin and shoulder length but cut it when I did the mast 8/23. It now looks shaggy and if it weren't going to fall out I would have gotten it trimmed.
I've not had a MUGA yet but did a hysterectomy after the mast. I had an ovarian tumor but it was borderline and is now gone, it wouldn't have been discovered if I hadn't gotten BC and had a CAT scan.

grace05

Hello everyone,

Great to find this thread, I could not sleep (mind on Chemo)so here I am at the computer, found November Chemo, YES! I would like to be apart of this journey with you. We are all in the same boat but not sinking because we have each other's support, I belive knowledge and faith is power.

Married for 9 years to a wonderful husband and 3 children (not living at home).

I was diagnosed with IDC, in late September, core biopsy. Lumpectomy 1cm, stage 1, grade 3, neg nodes, HR2 negative. I've had my port put in November 2nd still somewhat sore.

I have elected Bilateral with reconstruction after Chemo. Genetic testing is also underway. I am a D to DD right now so a C cup would suit me fine and less to carry around.

My Chemo is scheduled for Tuesday, November 15, 6 round of A/C and taxotere (together). Husband and I attended a Chemo class yesterday but thanks to these threads I just about knew everything also had mugga test done November 11th. My technician was going on vacation so he was a little rushed, had the needle ready when i arrived!?!?, I really didn't know what to expect. I asked him to slowwwwwwww down and he did, anyway when when it was complete, he said that my heart was normal so that was a relief! I was a smoker 10 years ago. I so thankful I quit when I did.

I have read everyone's thread this morning it's a good feeling to have such a wonderful support group, you are not alone.

(((((Hugs))))) and Prayers are coming your way.
B L E S S I N G S!
Grace05

Msklapkin

OK- I am in the Chat Room all the time, but have not done a lot of posts. I am 50 years old
Here is my DX-
IDC, 1 Sentinal node +, Ax nodes-, ER/PR/Her2 -, BRCA2+

Surgery-
Had Bilateral Mast on 10/11 with AND and Expanders

Treatment-
Dose Dense Chemo 4A/C, 4 Taxol
Had 1st Ac on 11/3

I was Ok after 1st Tx, just wiped out first night- had bad case of blues coming off Steroids and a little nauseous now and then- copazine helped.

Had blood test on day 8 and WBC very low so worried about infection.

I was a small B before and am now done with Expansions- waiting until after chemo for exchange and will have Oopherectomy since I am BRCA+

Been married 29 years- Hubby has been great but does freak out sometimes too
1 Sister- our parents died many years ago.
I have 2 wonderful golden retrievers

Just wanted to introduce myself to the thread and will be checking in.
God Bless us all thru this journey
Susan

Graycie

Hey Rhonda, check "starting chemo in Oct" post as you have a lot of replies to your post.......Good Luck

mrsz0619

Hi there, everyone. We are getting quite a group going on here. That is wonderful. I was supposed to page my surgeon yesterday, to let her know my decision on the re-excision, or the mast/recon. I suppose my lack of paging her, is a clear answer that I dont want the re-excision on Monday. It is so hard to make a commitment to the bi-lateral mastectomy, but my gut tells me to do it. Reading all the message boards, has helped too. I have been talking about the possibility of it for many months now, so I am not afraid of it. So, i guess my schedule of treatment will stay the same. I am having an RVG heart scan thursday morning, 11/17, meeting with my oncologist then having the first round of AC. It will be a long day, I am sure. I heard mention of steroids, benedryl, and anti nausea all in the IV, prior to the A/C. Does this sound right? I have never heard of a MUGA scan, but am wondering if it may be the same thing as the RVG scan I am having, to check my heart function. Have a good saturday, sunny/chilly here in coastal Massachusetts. LynnZ

Msklapkin

Hi lynn,
I had a bilateral mast with expanders, so please feel free to contact me.

I did not have a MUGA- I had echo cardiogram because I have heart murmur and my cardiologist has 10 years of history to monitor my heart

Re meds prior to chemo A/C
1. I took emaend 1 hour before
2. IV anti Nausea- Aloxi given before
3. Continue Emend after chemo for 2 days
4. Given Decadron for a few days after chemo-steroids
5. Had 4th drug to take as needed

Regarding benadryl- I was told that was for Taxol, but I had reaction to Adriamycin, so they may give to me as well during A/C- not sure

Hope this answers some of your questions
Hi from Connecticut
Susan

mrsz0619

Thank you Susan, for your post regarding all the meds. It is overwhelming trying to remember all this stuff sometimes. and your info on the bi-lat, too, thank you. Rhonda, your wig looks great, and actually looks like the one I have. I didnt lose any hair from the 12 weeks of Herceptin, but i know I will with the A/C. My girlfriend came over last night, and we talked about shaving my own hair off, before it falls out. I dont think i want to wake up to clumps in my bed, or in the shower. what have you all done regarding this? Rhonda, I was thinking that since you accidently missed your MUGA test, maybe you could page your oncologist, and see if you can have it in the morning, of your scheduled chemo. I am having my RVG scan done the morning of my first treatment, and that seems do-able for you too. my calendar is full too, so I know about running around and being spaced out.

Graycie

Lynn, I am actually from the Oct group so I have already been through the hair loss. You probably won't start losing your hair until after your second AC. For me, it started coming out around 3 days after....I didn't notice it on my pillow but the comb was loaded with hair...It was hard but when I couldn't stand it any longer I had my husband buzz it off. Just a few stubs left now but I am sure after my next treatment(#3) that will be the end of it. I hope this helps with your decision....

lana17775

Lynn-
I was reading an excellent thread just this morning, but now I can't find it again! Anyway the overwhelming concensus there was that shaving your head before it starts to come out in clumps is a way of taking control. They were all glad that they did it ahead of time. Those that hadn't wished they had. I plan to have my hairdresser shave mine a few days before my second AC - right around the 10 day mark.
I like the idea of having control over SOMETHING!!
Lana
PS. We've got lots of New England states represented here! MA, CT, RI, ME!! hmmmm....

Nancy-SanDiego

Hello bosom buddies. It is so good to log in and find you out there. Jill, congrats on 1 down and sounds like Day 0 went OK. Keep ahead of the side effects and drink your water (did you ever think you could drink that much?) I would also guard those wigs, I suspect the guys are just waiting for you to nap so they can slip one on. I love the different lengths.

Oh Mary Lou, don't you know that "nice people don't gloat." Can we clone your husband? He sounds incredible! I hope everyone here has someone supportive and caring to help you through this, even if we don't get breakfast in bed. My port was really sore for about 2 weeks, each day a little better. It is very low in my breast and I have only begun to sleep on that side again. I imagine another week and I won't know its there except when I get to avoid another vein stick. Tylenol PM helps once you stop the painkillers if your onc agrees.

Lynn, what a tough choice you had to make and I know you'll do whatever is best for you, your life, and your girls. Our doctors can give us all the odds and the options, but ultimately you have to listen to your voice--don't second guess your decision.

Days 4-5 have been a little rougher than days 1-3. Nothing serious, just a little seasick, tired, and jittery. I also noticed this morning that my face had a few bumps (haven't had that problem in about 100 years--do they still make Clearasil?) I figure that the little chemo soldiers have started the invasion and everything is stirring up. Kick that cancer's butt, right.

Ellen, how did it go on Friday? Deb, hope Thanksgiving was terrific. You're so right about the taste buds. Debbie, you doing OK?

Hugs to all of you warriors.
Nancy

Anonymous

Hi Lana, I am also a triple negative. I thought I would be bummed about being her2neu negative because my oncologist was so PRO herceptin. Then I thought I would be excited about not being er/pr positive-I didn't want to take Tamoxifen, because my hubby and I had been trying to have our second child when all this started. Then the surgeon told me that they couldn't guarantee a better survival rate because I can't take Tamoxifen. Know what I say? What does she know?!?!?! I WILL have a second child, and I WILL SURVIVE!!!!

I think it was Nancy who asked about the little guy in my arms...he is Daniel, my pride and joy, and he is a miracle boy. He was born 9 weeks early (I had toxemia and HELLP syndrome...another medical nightmare). He is 17 months old now, and is so much fun! I hate that I am feeling so tired because I am not playing with him as often as we are used to. I also hate this wretched non-stop headache. I called the triage desk today and they said it could be because they gave me the cytoxin too fast. Ohh...the things I learn nowadays.
Hope everyone is coping well w/their treatment!!!! Lots of love, Debbie

grace05

Hi all, speaking of ports and their locations has anyone been watching the television program "Starting Over" one of the ladies (Allison) has had breast cancer, she wears beautiful clothes and her port scar shows when she wears low cut blouses or dresses. I just figured out what it was last week. My incision is lower toward my breast and located under my bra strap. Yes, a real breast cancer survivor protrayed with everyday problems who apparently has had chemo just like us and they even mentioned that she had reconstruction and no nipples yet.

B l e s s i n g s!
Grace05

Mary-Lou

LOL Sorry Nancy,
but the man really is amazing

This board is also amazing So much info here. It has really helped me with the pain of the port.

I really had no idea it was going to hurt so much. I know I don't let my pain meds get to far away from me now. I think I was waiting to long in between.

I have tried to sleep as much as I can, don't feel like doing to much else. But even that gets old.

I will be shaving my hair too. I already cut it and donated it to locks of love. So that part is behind me. I really liked my hair, but I can grow it again. Just wonder what will grow in it's place.

Thanks to all of you for coming here to share.

jetjill

Quote:

---

I will be shaving my hair too. I already cut it and donated it to locks of love. So that part is behind me. I really liked my hair, but I can grow it again. Just wonder what will grow in it's place.

---

I am cutting off my hair next week and sending it to Locks of Love as well. It's a nice feeling to have something good come out of something not so good. I am going to miss my hair though, it is down to my waist and being 6 ft tall it's a lot of hair. Oh well, maybe it will come back curly or something fun. But I won't hold my breath

grace05

Hello again,

Regarding medications before Chemo: when I picked up my prescriptions there were 5 different kinds (didn't expect so many)even with my insurance co-pay very expensive. My nurse had only told me to take 2 steriods pills eac with breakfast and dinner before my chemo,the other 3 are as needed, Compazine, Zofran and phenadose for nausea and vomiting then there is also Levaquin to take as directed. Lots of medications. I take nexium anyway so I'm not sure if I should substitute it with compazine before I take the steriods?!?.
It's the weekend so I cannot call anyone but I still have Monday, Chemo is Tuesday, November 15th.

Grace05
B l e s s i n g s!

Graycie

Grace,
Keep taking the Nexium .....I am on prevacid and I was told to keep taking it. I think it will help you with the heartburn and indigestion that sometimes goes along with the chemo...Grayce

twingle99

Hi Lynne, I did page the Onc. and she said to call first thing Monday morning and maybe they could do it before my appt. which is at 9:45. I think I'm going to ask them if I could just start the Chemo on Tuesday. MY husband had a meeting scheduled with a new client for Tuesday and now the client has rescheduled it for Monday morning. My inlaws said one of them will come with me(they are great) but I want it to be my hubby the first time. I know I will be a basket case!! And I still haven't gotten the results of my PET scan and I want him to be with me then also.
I am just so bummed about the hair!! My girls were brushing and putting my hair in ponytails today (they love to do that) and it just made me so sad knowing in less then 2 weeks thay won't be able to do it anymore.I HATE THIS!!!!
Lynne, I will send you a picture of what my bilateral reconstruction looks like if you want to see it.It's not so bad. If it still didn't hurt a little I would love it. I never wear a bra for one they are still uncomfortable but you don't need to. I'm not even sure if I'm going to get the nipples when the time comes. It's funny I had implants before and I always would still wear a bra. I am SO GLAD I did both. For peace of mind and for look wise I wanted them to match. Let me know if you or anyone else wants to see the picture.
Rhonda

LindaC

Hi All,
I just had my first of 6 rounds of TAC on 11/3.I'm 31,was Dx on 8/10, had bi-lat mast on 9/20 and immediate recon with expanders,2cm tumor, 4 of 19 nodes positive,stage 3a est+/pro+/her-.My counts were low going into treatment so I have to get Neulasta and Aranesp shots the day after my chemo to boost my red and white counts.I also drank tons of water to get that red stuff out of my system.I was fine the first two days after, but the 3rd and 4th day had nasty side effects from the shots,mainly muscle and skin pain.It started in my neck and worked its way down then my spine throbbed for 2 days.By day 6 I felt pretty good again.The medicine Emend they gave me for nausea worked great, I didn't get sick at all-my insurance covered it Thank God,because 3 pills cost $285.So far so good with the hair for now.My only gripe now is my port I had put in on 11/1 and it still hurts pretty bad.My aunt had a port and never had much pain.Anybody else still have a lot of pain with the port?

grace05

Hello All,

Gracie, I will continue to take the Nexium because I have heartburn so easy just drinking a small amount of orange juice I get it. Thank you.

Grace05
Blessings!

Urs0crazy_2

Hello everyone!

im about to start chemo this week. what should i buy before i start. like lotion, purell? please let me know what you think i may need before i start.

thank you
christine

Anonymous

Hi everyone, I have had to call the triage desk twice this weekend. I had such a raging headache yesterday I couldnl't stand it anymore. They had me up my dose of Ibuprofen. Then today, I was on a clever little schedule of Ibuprofen and compazine every six hours (was so excited to not have to keep track of times), but I had the oddest reaction to the compazine. It made me have tremors in my right hand, and I couldn't control my hand. Then it felt like the tremors moved to my head-I couldn't keep my head up!!! The doc said it is a rare reaction that few people get-I had to take benadryl, and it cleared right up.
Hope everyone else is ok1!!! Hugs, debbie

twingle99

My first Treatment is in an hour and I am so scared. I don't want to do this at all. I hate putting my kids through this it's not fair!!!
I know I have read these post a million times but now i'm not sure what I should be taking with me or what to expect when the treatment is over today. Did you just come home and go to sleep or are you able to still do stuff. I know everyone is different. I'm just so scared right now!!

Wish me luck
Rhonda

mrsz0619

Hi Rhonda, i woke up thinking about you this morning, wondering if you had your appt today or tomorrow. I know your husband cant be there, but you are lucky to have the support of your inlaws. sounds like a nice family you have. I cant give you any experience on AC treatment, as mine start thursday. I can attest to the fact of being very nervous, heading into it though. I did do 12 weekly doses of Herceptin/navelbine, and I felt pretty normal afterwards. i was emotionally tired, and had some indigestion. I expect the AC treatment to be a little more aggressive. after all, it is searching and killing any remaining stray cells,has to be tough stuff! try to look at is a good thing. You are a strong woman, and will get through this, and your daughters will be fine. if you feel up to it, come online and tell about your first treatment. i will be praying for your treatment to be easy on you. lynnz

twingle99

Well I did it!!!And my husband was able to cut his meeting short and showed up when they were giving me the pre meds. I was pretty emotional when they first started and when I saw my husband walking in. But other then that it was fine. We went and had lunch afterwards and stopped and got my meds. Now I am straightening the house b/c my good friend from Indy decided she was coming up for the reat of the week.
I am nervous about when I will start feeling bad. Hopefullt I wont. ha ha
I thought of all of you while I was there. I wish i would of had a laptop with me!!!
Well I will check in later.
Did you send me your email address???

Rhonda

Nancy-SanDiego

Hello Bosom Buddies. Wow! what a lot of activity. Rhonda, one down, right, and it sounds like it went fine, including a nice lunch. Try not to worry too much about what might happen--everyone is different. And, as you can see from all these messages, you'll have all the support and medication you need. Rest, take care of you, stay on top of your meds, water, etc. and holler if you need anything. We're here for each other and we are so much mightier than this disease. By the way, your wig is darling.

Welcome Christine to our elite club. I always carry Purell and water, along with my little notebook, etc. At my center, they gave me a "kit" the first day full of some samples, meds, a great zipper bag to carry my meds, etc. There was even some playing cards in the package--go figure. I think its from a pharmaceutical company. They also gave me a chemo hat (ugh). They really are terrific.

Speaking of hats and hair. Locks of Love is a wonderful thing for you to do and you both sound like you had a lot to give. Doesn't it make you feel good to know that someone will benefit from this temporary loss. How do you like the shorter do?

Debbie, feel good friend. Daniel is a lovely little guy and I'm sure he is adapting to mom needing a little more rest.

Debbie, how's the port? Hopefully, its not as sore now. Gracie, that was most interesting about the actress in Starting Over. I don't know that show, but will definitely check it out. I'm glad that they are showing real women battling the beast.

This is the best I have felt since September 29--YAHOO!!! Really a wonderful day. Tomorrow I am meeting Brenda S (from Oct chemo thread) for lunch. One of the gifts of this wonderful site is meeting fantastic women.

Hugs to all you brave warriors.

Nancy

grace05

Hi everyone, my Chemo is due at 9:00 a.m. in the morning, Tuesday, November 15th. I can't believe the day is approaching. I too Rhonda just don't know what to expect but if you all can do it so can I. I'm sure your husdand being there made a big difference. My husband will be there also and I pray we can go eat lunch and do regular thingsn when we return.

Debbie hang in there it seems like you are on top of it. I may taking compazine so thanks for the tip regarding side effects and I'm sorry you had horrible headaches.

Nancy thanks for being so encouraging. And it's fantastic that you feel great keep feeling great and strong.

Blessings!
Grace05