Chemo Starting Sep 09

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  • BarbAnne41
    BarbAnne41 Member Posts: 380
    edited November 2009

    Holly- glad your TX went well, and you are right Thank you Patty for the uplifting story. I forgot to mention that in my super long post. I hope you have minimal se's and a relaxing weekend.

    Hugs

    Barbara

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited November 2009

    Hello all of you outstanding women,

    I love, love, love, reading all of your posts.  We really are a special group of women!  I am feeling better today, I didn't sleep well, but I got up on schedule and made it through.  SE wise I think this was my best day yet, go figure.  I even polished the silver, why anyone who says they love you gives you silver as a gift I don't know.  It looks awesome though!  My house hasn't been this clean since I started working full time 5 years ago.  I'm not sure why I am so motivated, but I am not going to argue.

    I picked up my Rx for Tamoxifen today and the literature listed weight loss as a possible side-effect.  Could I be so lucky?  I had actually thought that just the opposite was true, but hey...  I don't actually start taking it until Dec. 15th, but I will keep you all posted on how it goes.  I keep forgetting to tell you all, but my onc also said to take a baby aspirin daily with the Tamoxifen.  She said it has amazing results for bc patients, and is also helpful for your heart.  The heart part I knew, but not the bc part. Has anyone else heard this?  I guess it can't hurt, I just hadn't heard that before. 

    Okay, I think I have lost my ability to post to everyone, I have gone on long enough, and I am sleepy.  I will try again tomorrow.

    Know that I love you all, and you are in my thoughts and prayers, especially everyone getting tx's this week.  Blessings on all of you!

    Love & Hugs,

    Susan

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  • chinablue
    chinablue Member Posts: 545
    edited November 2009

    Has anyone had the BRCA testing?  Do you think that you will get it done?

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  • Scoobydoo
    Scoobydoo Member Posts: 499
    edited November 2009

    Yes.  I am planning to talk to my onc for the testing.  I have a 15 YO daughter that I would like to be aware if I carry this gene.  I am adopted so I have no known family history.

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  • chinablue
    chinablue Member Posts: 545
    edited November 2009

    How do you think your daughter would benefit?  

    I have two daughters (14 and 17) and no family history of bc.  Since I have/had bc, wouldn't they be advised to have more frequent mammograms than the average gal just because of their family history?  Suppose I test negative for the gene, aren't their doctors going to look at them more closely anyway?

    My sister-in-law, a wonderful doctor, suggested the real benefit of gene testing is that I might be able to qualify for future clinical trials.  Hmm.... I guess I am just afraid of bad news. 

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  • Scoobydoo
    Scoobydoo Member Posts: 499
    edited November 2009

    Good points.  I think it just would put her in a special category so that she might possibly qualify for more tests..like MRIs in the future. 

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  • hbowser
    hbowser Member Posts: 253
    edited November 2009

    Good morning.

    Scoobydoo, chinablue:  I had the genetic testing done, since like Scoobydoo I am adopted.  I have a biological sister and she two daughters.  When I met the genetic counselor, she will do a personal risk assessment to determine the chance that you are carrying a BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation.  This is what she told me, about 7-10% of cases with breast cancer are due to an inherited gene mutation that causes a signficantly increased risk for cancer.  Of these, approximately 85% are due to a mutation in one of the two genes.  Women with mutations have a significantly increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.  The identification of gene mutation(s) in a family enables other blood relatives to determne whether or not they share the same herditary cancer risks.  This does not necessarily mean you passed that gene to your daughters or sons, since you only pass 50% of your genetic blueprint to your kids. 

    The cost of testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations is about $3,200.00.  I believe there is only one company that does the genetic testing in the United States.  Usually insurance coverage for genetic testing is excellent.  When you select the insurance billing option for your test, you will be limited to $375 or less coinsurance (based on your insurance coverage).  They will contact you before testing if your obligation will exceed $375.  I was only billed $375.  If a mutation has been idenified in a family, the cost for other family members is approximately $440.00  The test itself is very simple, they take a simple blood test.

    I hope this helps.  Have a great weekend everyone

    Holly

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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited November 2009

    Hi Ladies,

    Holly is spot on.  I haven't had the testing, but I am also adopted and have no family history.  I have 2 daughters 18 &17.  I plan to wait to have the test for a few years and here is why:  my sons doctor is a bc survivor and her husband is an oncologist, she advised me to have the testing done when my oldest is 25 there is no benefit to my daughter knowing and worrying about it before that but at 25 she will be able to decide to be tested too if I were to be positive. And at 25 if she were tested and positive she would still have time to have a family and just be careful and watchful.  It seems like good advice.  I am following it.  Sorry for my poor sentence structure there.

    I just heard on the news that they are changing the guidelines for cervical cancer screenings too! Again, lessening the number of tests and increasing the age at screenings.  They are changing 1st screening from 18 to 21 and they are saying after 30 every 3 years.  I don't understand.

    Okay, I've said my piece,

    Have a lovely day!

    Susan 

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  • positiveme
    positiveme Member Posts: 157
    edited November 2009

    Hello SOS

    Just a quick post. I am at work and not feeling so great and plan on leaving in a hour. I had my last tx yesterday and had another allergic reaction.( severe stomach cramping, turned reddish purple and short of breath) they stopped tx and gave me more benadryl, pepcid, and steroids. I got all of these IV before my tx also. after an hour we started again and where able to finish. Alittle tired and have a headache but not too bad. The next 5 of 6 days seem to be worse.

    Susan- I will start tamoxifen in about 3 weeks. I will talk to my onc about baby aspirin.

    Chinablue- I had the BRAC testing. My insurance company pays for it if you are under 45 ( am 44). I wanted the info for my daughter, sister and nieces. I tested neg. My daughter will still be watched more closely but I wanted to info.

    I seems everyone on taxol is doing ok. That is great to hear.

    Have a peaceful, restful enjoyable weekend

    THINK POSITIVE

    Catherine

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  • vickilynn
    vickilynn Member Posts: 422
    edited November 2009

    Chinablue  I was reading about the BRCA and for those of us with Triple Negative the test is not necessary because our bc is likely not heridatary  There was some info on this website, so check it out.

    Had my taxotere (switched from Taxol because of the SEs) on Tuesday... felt like garbage yesterday and feel about half that way today.  I have these every other week so looking forward to some good days - especially for Thanksgiving!   Just 3 more to go.  I'll be done Dec. 30. 

    Vickilynn 

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  • Scoobydoo
    Scoobydoo Member Posts: 499
    edited November 2009

    Hi Vickilynn - I did not know that.  I am triple neg as well.  That may change everything.  I will still bring it up with my onc.  I will be done with my taxol txs on Christmas Eve.  Yay!!!  Not long from now.  I am so ready.  However, I then start my rads.  Oh bummer.  But hey better than chemo.

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  • msmpatty
    msmpatty Member Posts: 818
    edited November 2009

    Taxol ladies...like you the ONLY thing I've found to dislike about Taxol versus the AC is the length of the treatment.  Four hours today!  Yikes!  The pre-meds took 1.5 hours, then they started the Taxol slowly at 1/5 the normal rate, moved it up to 1/2 rate, then full rate, for a total of 2.5 hours. Of course the slow drip keeps us from having hyper-sensitive reactions in the chair, so the lengthy time is actually to our advantage..but still. Ladies who have Taxol coming up, don't believe the "1-hour infusion" protocol.  Plan on at least 4 and schedule your appointments accordingly. (For me, I have to leap out of the chair and race to school in time to get my son...activities which are completely doable since the steriods have kicked in at that point. HA!)

    AC ladies...hang in there!   The last treatments were definitely the toughest and I don't think I actually got my bounce back from AC #4 until I started Taxol.   I just kept telling myself...after this I've had my life time dose of the "red devil" and will NEVER have to do it again. 

    The route to my son's school this morning put us smack dab in the middle of the Susan G. Koman 3-day which started today in San Diego.   The street and the walkers were a sea of pink. People were honking and waving.  It was really touching to see so many men and women walking to find a cure for this disease.  It definitely made me feel less "alone" as I headed off to the CHAIR.

    Barbara, thanks for the Eucerin tip for radiation burn.   Someone else suggested it for the extreme dry skin I got on AC...so I  bought barrels of it and even use it on my face.   Guess my chest will be getting a daily dose or two as well.

    I hope everyone has a good weekend!  

    Patty

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  • Melinda-Tma3
    Melinda-Tma3 Member Posts: 168
    edited November 2009

    Hi SOSIsters...

    It's so exciting to see so many finishing up and the rest getting some relief from the "hard stuff".  We get closer everyday to our cancer free life! Now if a miracle hair growth med would come around with out SE"S Kiss Problem is, we'd have hair everywhere and look like apes....oh well...I can dream right!  Week 4 after A/C had been much better.  Most days have been good and no pain from my lumpectomy.  Just a little healing twinge here and there.  So far all is good...still waiting to hear margins from my pathology report.  Brca testing for me was denied by insurance because I am 46 and no history of BC in my family.  However, I have around 10 other cancers in my immediate family.  Very disappointed, as I would like to know and the connection to Ovarian cancer is very high and hard to diagnose early. It's a worry in the back of my mind.  I think waiting isn't a bad idea for the kids.  What pressure it would be, to be positive so early, but then again knowledge is power.  Myriad owns the patent on BRCA testing exclusively.  I've heard they are in litigation to allow other co's to offer it in the future, which hopefully will create better testing and more reasonable pricing for people like me to be able to afford or maybe insurance co's would broaden their guidelines for more people to be tested. Hopefully this happens soon!

    Honestly all the new guidelines being offered up for PAP and BC are very scary for anyone not diagnosed.  I worry for my friends, family and myself, if this begins to be acted upon.  I'm trying to keep up on what's going on & if I learn anything new, I'll keep you posted.  

    My daughter is home from college and the kids and I have so much planned over the next 10 days.  Also have 50 coming to my house for Thanksgiving dinner...everyone brings a dish.  I provide the home, drinks and appetizers.  Can't wait to see everyone and get that good old family time that I have grown to love since I was born.  I have so much to be thankful for this year including you all my sisters who have joined this family bond!

    Gotta make breakfast....chat soon....hugs!

    Melinda  

     

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  • budoml
    budoml Member Posts: 17
    edited November 2009

    Hello ladies;  glad to hear that mostly everyone is doing OK.  Thank you for the advice and answers to my questions. I will do my best, as we all do, to hang in for the rest of it.  It seems that I am over my flu (although my cough is still crazy) and I will be going ahead with my first round of taxotere on Monday.  Keeping my fingers and toes crossed that I get through this easier then the FEC.  

    When I think of how hard it was for women  so many years ago I realize that I have it so much easier with all the meds available, etc.  I just don't know how they did it back then.  

    In Canada we had our Thanksgiving in Oct but I have some friends in CA that I have celebrated American Thanksgivings with in previous years.  It is such a lovely holiday....no worries about presents for anyone .....just hanging out with family and friends and enjoying great food and wine.  I hope you all have a wonderful holiday!

    Hopefully I will be online next week and all will be well with everyone.

    cheers, Marilou 

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  • msmpatty
    msmpatty Member Posts: 818
    edited November 2009

    Speaking of miracle hair growth, a friends hairdresser has been singing the praises of this Ovation stuff.  My friend has really thin hair (although not as "thin" as mine right now, ha!) and she's going to try it.  Once I see some signs of regrowth on my scalp I may try it myself.

    Patty

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  • barbt0323
    barbt0323 Member Posts: 99
    edited November 2009

    Hello!

    Had last A/C treatment on Thursday.  After this 4 taxotere treatments then surgery.  Have to say doing much better this time.  One of the nurses told me to take Advil.  Have been taking it every four hours and so far so good.  Still don't feel great but a lot better than last treatment.

    Watched the movie today "The Proposal" with Sandra Bullock with DH.  It was a cute movie.

    About 9pm now and I am ready for bed.  Hope everyone is doing well with minimum SE's.

    Barb T Cool

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  • Neece
    Neece Member Posts: 270
    edited November 2009

    hello lovely SOS sisters

    Have been a bit out of action the past few days - while my tx 4 last week has been gentler than previous ones in terms of nausea etc, the weather here in Eastern Australia this weekend has been outrageous - over 40C - well over 100F - with bushfires starting all around my state, a few some km from our township - Dh did some fire preparation this morning (in the heat!) and we are not terribly worried about the fires as such just yet, but the heat just knocked me over, trying to cope with SE's (while less severe than previously thank goodness) was really hard.A cool change arrives tomorrow hopefully so next week should be better.

    I have caught up on everyone's posts and will not try to mention everyone by name, but I am so glad to read that many are finishing their A/C treatments and starting taxol or taxotere, I really hope your wishes for lesser SE's from this one are fulfilled. I am having all three at once so it is hard to tell what SE comes from what drug. Lovely to hear from those who have been away from posting for a while too!

    I just wanted to mention on the genetic testing front, I read an article just yesterday that indicated that a BRCA1 or 2 mutation is potentially significant for men as well as women, as it can be associated with higher rates of prostrate, male breast, and possibly pancreatic cancers too. Not to mention association with ovarian cancer. I am planning to ask my onc about the possibility of the test for me; I have a sister who would be interested in the result, and for my son's sake as well. Not sure if I would be eligible and what the funding arrangements are here; but I think I should at least find out.I have read a bit about women choosing prophylactic mastectomies and /or removal or ovaries if they test positive. Another issue however seems to be that the tests can often give inconclusive results - not sure where that leaves you if that is the case.It is all so tricky isn't it?

    The issue of govt guidelines for screens raises its head here too on occasion - in Aust the recommendation is for women over 50 to have mammograms and to have PAP tests every 2 years from the age of (I think) early 20's - but like many of you I had my first biopsy (negative result) at the age of mid 30's, then annual mammograms / ultrasounds since then because of lumpy breasts, diagnosed with DCIS in 2002 and ILC /DCIS /LCIS this year! SO as many are saying if I had waited until 50.......

    love and hugs to all my gorgeous friends

    Neece

    PS Chemotarded story that could have ended VERY sadly - put a pot of eggs on stove to hard boil,  walked away to do something else, you know the rest.... the house would have burned down except DH spotted them and turned off the gas!!Embarassed

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  • jezza
    jezza Member Posts: 698
    edited November 2009

    Neece.. I read that article too. It was in the magazine section of the Melbourne Age and I think in the Sydney Morning Herald,

    It worried me. I have a biological son and an adopted son and daughter.

    I think you have to have a fairly significant family history for the test to be funded here although I do know ppl who have had it done. I also don't know what a male could do if he knew his mother carried the mutated gene other than being vigilant. Women have options of prophylactic mast, etc? And yes I know of ppl who have had "inconclusive" results.

    Great to see the ppl on this thread coming towards  the downhill run to the end of chemo.

    Hang in there!

    jezza

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  • RonnieKay
    RonnieKay Member Posts: 2,067
    edited November 2009

    Good Evening Love Bugs!

    I finished reading the last 5 pages of "our story" and it's so much better than any book or magazine!  I could hardly wait to read each post..not having been on the computer for almost 2 weeks, I was worried about all of you & thought of you each day but somehow couldn't get myself to log on. It was a very strange feeling...also didn't answer text messages and had friends worried about me, thinking I had had a rough #4 tx. On the contrary, I did very well. My onc said I was pretty much a poster child for chemo..lucky me, something to aspire to???   Yep...I'm totally finished with this adventure...and now, what the hell do I do? Seriously, everywhere I went, every time a person looked at me, I blurted out, "I just finished my last chemo treatment!" I think I totally freaked people out...but there was nothing they could do but congratulate me!  For 6 months, this has consumed me physically, mentally, emotionally, what do I concentrate on now? Do you think I'm crazy? I need to get a hobby...ok girls...along with the cleanest house in town, I also cooked & baked for company last week...there were brownies for you all..hope you enjoyed!

    MELINDA:  You and I should've met for a mental health weekend a few weeks ago!  I knew you were having your lump on the 17th & said a prayer for you!  Like Barb, I could never have eaten out after my lump...I was happily drugged!  I also thought the SNB was worse than lump..I healed well & had virtually NO pain. Put on a wedding reception 10 days later and think it helped me heal. My surgeon said do whatever you want if it feels good & I did. I think your Thanksgiving for 50 will help (normally I would think you're crazy...LOL...but I think it'll be a good thing!).  Now praying for healing and clean margins!

    JANE: You darling angel...HAPPY ANNIVERSARY...31 years is AMAZING!!!  You're almost done...and then you'll hop on the herceptin train with me!  I only have to have it every 3 weeks til 9/10..it sounds like you'll have it every week...OMG...can you ask them why?  I have a friend who's also on it and has it every 3 weeks.  Maybe it's the dose dense thing but...I'd ask!  And I agree, something will come through for us with your letter writing...we're patient (how do you like that, as long as you do the writing Wink). 

    SUSAN: YEAH YOU!!!...I'm doing the happy dance for you...finished with the nasty stuff!  I so agree with your dr on the BRCA testing...sounds like a smart guy/gal. My onc said that she's requesting my insurance pay for me to be tested due to family history of bc and for daughters' benefit..she said if I'm positive, their insurance will automatically pay for them. They're 33 & 31 and even though I'm not a youngster like most of you, a couple aunts died younger from bc. I wondered if HER2neu+ is hereditary but she said no (thank goodness!). FYI..I found my lump too, in the shower, doing what I guess the panel has labeled as a stress-inducing self exam. How stupid are those people!  I had a mamo & ultrasound 10 months earlier and a clinical exam 5 months earlier. In those 5 months, it'd grown to over 2 cm. What if I'd waited 2 years. OMG. I miss my hair too..more each day. Mine's growing and looks pretty goofy and if I'm outside without a hat, the wind blowing through the little hairs is quite ticklish!  PS..boxed up all but a couple pieces of my silver 4 years ago...haven't missed it!  My MIL is rolling over in her grave, bless her soul!

    BARBANNE: Thank you for the confetti celebration...it was delightful!!  I can't believe you're almost finished with AC..I remember when you were waiting to start!  I told my oncologist before my last tx that I thought I was lucky to not have had to have A. She agreed and said that it's a tougher drug...you are all so brave and I have admired all of you for your strength and spirit. What would we have done without each other???  Glad we never have to have that thought!

    CHINA:  You said you're planning your Anniversary trip.  When is the date? Did I miss it??  ONTY had great info on BRCA.  AND...thanks for the B6 tip.  With my very last tx, I had the first tiny inkling of neuropathy in my toes and fingertips.  I told DH that it felt like someone cut my toenails really short and I could feel the end of my shoes :)  Hope you're having a great weekend!

    NEECE: OMG..I laughed at your son's lawnmower antics! Love the suggestion of a sign for free lawnmower...you just proved him right...Mom is fine, humor intact!!!  Plus..the shark attack scars..OMG..PAM'S got an opening act!!  OK..I just had to cry over your vein dilemma and I was holding my breath to get to the point where you did get to have your tx.  Thank heavens they found a vein without any trouble. I truly HATE my port, it's a power port so it sticks up and the tube up to my neck freaks me out if I accidentally touch it...but it has been such a blessing. My dr didn't think I needed it but I asked every nurse I talked to & decided to go for it. Herceptin every week for 12 weeks was a big factor too. If I'm right I think you only have 2 tx left. If you had more than that, I'd suggest you go for it. I had tx just a couple hours after having it put in, like AMY. Thank you for the "perks" of chemo (plus Pam's)...I needed that!!  Although you're all younger & I think you probably already had lovely skin!  I actually asked the onc when I could consider botox for my forehead..she looked stunned. I said I hated the wrinkles and if I don't have hair to cover them up I want them gone!  I asked what the difference is when it comes to poisoning your body...she didn't laugh and I assured her I was joking :) (sort of...it's that I'd never pay for it!).

    ONTY: You are such a wealth of info & appreciated so much!  Do you have a medical background?  Whatever it is, please keep helping...I've learned so much from you.  I usually live in the moment and am not good at researching so I admire those who are more curious and know how and when to go about getting information.  I'M SO HAPPY YOU'RE DONE WITH A/C!!!  Will you move on to radiation or are you done, done?  I'm with you in spirit & wish you total wellness!

    VICKILYNN:  HAPPY, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!  I think you win the prize for being married FOREVER!!!  Doesn't it seem unbelievable - 37 years...when you're barely 37 yourself!  I, for one, am happy that you're on Taxotere!  I think it was fairly kind to me & I hope it is gentle on your body. #2 tx I got a black line on my thumbnail and with #4 a tiny bit of tingle in fingertips and toes, but very mild and is subsiding. I took tylenol & aleve and had very little pain. Got a line up my thumbnail but that will go away! It sounds like the first few days were a little testy but hoping it's SO much better as the days go by!  Thank heavens you were proactive, knowing your body, and listening to it!  It was the right thing to do!  YOU GO GIRL!! 

    CATHERINE:  YOU ARE A STAR!!!  You're DONE...what a fabulous feeling!  I'm sorry that it was a tough go...it was so unfair, on your last tx!  It must have made finishing all that much better!  Now on to tamoxifen & a LONG, HEALTHY LIFE!  Your picture has always made me especially happy...you look like a friend of mine!  I think it's funny...I always wonder if you'd look like her if you had your hair!  I was sad about your tooth!  I go to the dentist on 12/7...I think my gums have receeded. My onc said that doesn't happen on chemo but I'm a fanatic about my teeth & gums and I can tell!  Guess I'll see before long...good luck to you!

    BARBT: Dear One...big accomplishment...AC DONE!  I totally admire you!!!  I've said it to a couple of others...Taxotere was kind to me and I truly hope the same goes for you!  I did get a black line on my thumb nail and last tx a little bit of tingle in fingertips and toes..very mild. My nurse told me at the very start to take tylenol and aleve for 4-5 days after my TC, and I truly think it helped. Good luck..I'm sending my love!

    AMY: You are a saint!  You're going through your battle with bc & taking care of your mother with Alzheimers...God Bless You!  I do hope your sister will continue to help you. Your schedule for the next few months is daunting. I wish I could be there for you..I really do. I pray you sail through your surgery next month and after your A/C...you'll hop on the herceptin train with Jane & I...and then we'll be done & never think of bc again (I WISH!!!). 

    MARI: Your husband stinks...this moment...but I bet most of the time he's amazing!!!  He has to be an incredible man to have snagged a hottie like you!  I'm sure my husband would love to take his place any time!  But sometimes he stinks too!  So, hang in there gal...this is a tough trip and none of us had reservations so there are some bumps in the road!  Love you and know this will pass & we will find joy again!

    DOMEGAL: Grandma...didn't that little angel just make your day!  Even if you were pooped out after her visit...I know she made your heart sing!  Happens to me every day when I watch little Hank!  Glad your taxol went well! As for the staring people: I've become so accustomed to not paying attention to people paying attention to me :)  I've actually had people ask how I am...seeing me in a hat. It never happens when I wear the wig but I'm sick of wearing it so I don't care. I think there's so much cancer that if people are still that curious, they don't get out much! My hair's also coming back but it's sparse in the very front...where hats & the wig rub.  I hope it starts growing there...or it'll really look goofy when I go au natural!!!

    HOLLY: You are soooo loved!  I can just imagine how touched you were by the wonderful people you work with. Two weeks is lots of time to heal...how wonderful!  So glad your rash cleared up...and it sounds like benadryl did the trick!  I'm also foregoing the wig most of the time, like I told Domegal...I'm just very curious when this thick, beautiful, curly hair's coming in :)

    SCOOBY:  Thanks for the B6 hint!  Just might try that for a little bit of tingle in toes & fingertips.

    FLACRACKER: YEAH...last T/C day on Thursday!!!  Is your C Cytoxan?  I was on Taxotere/Cytoxan, 4 tx.  I'll be thinking of you, sending strength and hope for an uneventful, joyous end to treatment!  Will you be completely finished, or is radiation or surgery coming?  I'll be watching!

    PATTY: I did the very first 3 day walk in Seattle...was one of the 1st 100 (out of 2000) to finish...little competitive here!  It truly is a sea of pink, isn't it.  A friend of mine who did the walk with me was diagnosed 3 years ago.  When we did the walk and all of the survivors were together, we said, "That's one club we don't ever want to join!"  We went through her treatment (she had only radiation) and then when I was diagnosed, I just called and said, "I'm in the club now."  She screamed, and then cried. Unimagineable that so many people work so hard to find a cure & then the gov. decides to call it all unnecessary!  You're Mom is truly an inspiration!  Give her a hug for me & may we all be blessed with many, many, decades of being healthy and happy!Do you live in SD?  We lived in Poway for a few years...best years of my life :)  Loved the sun!

    MARILOU:  Good Luck on your Monday taxotere...DO take your Advil or Aleve and Tylenol, if you feel ok about it.  My nurse told me to take Aleve and Tylenol for 4-5 days after T/C & it worked so very well!  I only had aches from Neulasta.  My BIL is Canadian and I have always envied your Boxing day! 

    PAMELAJO: What can I say....you are my walk in the sun, my dip in the pool, my white russian (the drink, although if there is an available white Russian...just joking!), my chocolate cake, all those things that I really look forward to and know will make me tingle with joy....that's how I feel, waiting to see what you have to say to all of us!  Thank you...for putting into words what this experience has done to us...and how we will continue healing, living and loving. 

    Just an FYI about my last tx: my onc said my insurance questioned neulasta each chemo...and she said they didn't say they wouldn't pay (they paid the first 3), but she said that my counts were so high she didn't think I needed it. In response, I got a couple of nosebleeds and the biggest whopper of a cankor sore that would make Angelina Jolie jealous!  So, even though I hated that stuff...it really did the job keeping those little white cells working!

    This is probably enough type to be page 31!  I've been typing for 2 hours & wish I could've just called you all up!  You are my life line...and I'm going to hit submit before I lose all this and have to jump off a cliff!  LOVE YOU!

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  • msmpatty
    msmpatty Member Posts: 818
    edited November 2009

    RonnieKay, your long post is a joy to read.  Congratulations on your last chemo! 

    Patty

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  • DomeGal
    DomeGal Member Posts: 58
    edited November 2009

    Good Morning to all of you....

    RonnieKay, your long post was amazing.  I truly wish that I had the energy to even blog today, but my first tx of Taxol hit me Thursday night with severe hip pain and then Friday/Saturday, aches and shooting pains throughout my abdomen and legs.  Today, still some pain, but at least I can walk today...yesterday not so much.  Missed seeing our last home college football game, but felt that it would be better to park my butt in the recliner.  Really disappointed that I am having se's with Taxol since I had few with the AC...but it is a different drug and a higher dose.  I hope that everyone is having a good weekend...I just want to make it through noon Wed. when we will get off for the holiday.  I pray that you all are doing well...my BF was very worried yesterday because I guess I actually looked like I was in pain and not feeling well.  Told him that there would be days like this and that I have been lucky.  I am looking forward to seeing family and I wish all of you the happiest of the holiday with lots of food, drink, family and laughter.

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  • Scoobydoo
    Scoobydoo Member Posts: 499
    edited November 2009

    Domegal - I had the same issues with my first taxol tx.  I had to resort to percocet for a couple of days.  The pain went away around day 5 for me.  I am hoping you get relief soon.  It can be pretty bad but I am sure your good days are ahead of you.  Once the pain subsided I felt really good.  So much better than AC.

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  • jadams1264
    jadams1264 Member Posts: 417
    edited November 2009

    Hello SOSisters... well here we are on day 2 of txt 4 and I'm afraid I am going to jinx myself but so far so good!  Went out the dinner on Friday to celebrate 31st anniversary, had a nice meal and it tasted good.  Put up Christmas decorations yesterday and had our Thanksgiving today.  Figure by Thursday, taste buds will be gone....

    Scoobydoo-glad your feeling better and your flu is gone.  2 more txts for me too.  Thanksgiving won't taste good but Christmas will be wonderful, followed by my last txt on 12/31. Happy New Year to me, than Herceptin till Sept 2010 and rads starting late Jan. or Feb. for 6.5 weeks.

    ChinaBlue- jogging, eating healthy?  Wow!  Wish I could say that.  I can appreciate going back to work, I so much rather be working than at home.  I have worked so long it just doesn't seem right to be home so much and especially on the couch napping.  Don't look up anymore stuff on radiation on the internet since you have scared yourself.  Listen to your sisters who have gone before you!  I have talked with several people who have gone thru rads already and everyone tells me compared to chemo they are a breeze.  We will be fine and share this next step together!

    Patty - how did your txt go?  Any side effects?  Will you be doing rads after or will you be finished?  Thanks for sharing about your mom, we love to hear that kind of news!  They had a walkathon here for BC last week, it does make you feel good to see all the people, survivors, families all walking for such a worthy cause.

    Kim- I get flushed when I get taxotere.  Don't have to use any blush for days!  Been having hot flashes but had those before I started txt (ha).  Hope you are feeling well, no se's and having a good weekend.  Advil every 4 hours helps with bone pain, I just took a couple a little while ago.  Only se I have had this time so far!

    BarbAnne41 - I will be with you in spirit for your last A/C txt on Tuesday.  I'll be so glad when I can say last one.  I'm in the chair on Weds. but just for Herceptin.  Don't want to lose my post, what is next for you?  Are you joining the taxol crowd?  Rads?  Sorry I can't remember.

    Holly - I only have 2 more txts also.  Hope this weekend is treating you kindly with no side effects.

    Susan - clean house, energy?  I want some!  I will also be waiting to see how the Tamoxifen goes, I not sure when I start, after rads and Herceptin I think.  I like the idea of weight loss!  Hope you are taking it easy, when do you go back to work?

    Catherine - so sorry to hear you had reaction and on your last txt.  What a bummer?  How are you feeling now.  It will be interesting to hear from you also about Tamoxifen, you and Susan will be leading the way.  Hope you are now enjoying the weekend with no or minimal se's!

    Vickilynn - sorry you first txt of taxotere left you feeling bad.  Hoping by now you are feeling better and looking forward to turkey and all the trimmings.  How is hubby and Kemo doing?  Are you having a large family gathering?  Do you have to do rads also or will you be finished after the taxotere?

    Melinda - glad to hear you are doing so well after your lumpectomy.  When will you get the results from you path report?  50 for dinner, I wish I had that many family members!  Lost my mother and 2 aunts within the last 3 years.  Have a few cousins scattered around here and there.  There were 6 of us today for our Thanksgiving.  Being an only child I always wanted a large family but it wasn't meant to be.  Try not to overdo getting ready for your crowd.

    Marilou - glad you are over your flu.  We'll be with you in spirit tomorrow and praying for no side effects for you.  Yes, Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday and time for us all to reflect on the many blessing we receive throughout the year.  It's a positive day and how we spent it here today since we did Thanksgiving early due to daughter having to work and the fact I will be yucky and with no taste buds come Thursday!

    Well sisters, I am out of steam, not even going to try to acknowledge all those I haven't mentioned.  Just want you to know how much I appreciate all of you, this website,  finding and getting to know all of  you has been one of my most wonderful blessing of the year.

    All take care.  Thoughts & prayers are with you!

    Jane

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  • Melinda-Tma3
    Melinda-Tma3 Member Posts: 168
    edited November 2009

    Hi SOSisters...there us a petition to sign (small (5) questionnaire) here on breastcancer.org concerning the new mammogram guidelines...if you get a minute...check it out! It just took a second to do it.  I believe there is a link at the bottom of this page.  if not go to the home page and you should find it. Thanks! Melinda

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  • hbowser
    hbowser Member Posts: 253
    edited November 2009

    Good evening everyone,

    Jane and RonnieKay - you guys are amazing that you remember everyone's posts.  You're my heroes.  I think I am suffering from "chemo-brain" I will tell myself, oh, I have to remember that and two seconds later it has left my mind.  People used to tell me that I must have a photographic memory, but not anymore.  It is really frustrating.

    Scoobydoo, Marilou - I hope you guys are feeling better and over your flu and that you will be able to enjoy Thanksgiving.

    Had 2nd Taxol Thursday and I had to have a neulasta shot on Friday.  I woke up Saturday with my whole body aching; it hurt where ever I touched.  I pretty much stayed in bed and only got up when necessary.  I only had Tylenol and was going to call the doctor to get something stronger, but as long as I didn't move, I was okay.  I am feeling much better today, but I think the neuropathy is stronger.  My fingers and toes are more numb and tingly (not all the time) than last time.  I am having some shooting pains under my arm that runs down to my breast (it feels like to the clip they put in to mark the tumor).  Is that normal?  It is not continuous.  I don't want to call the doctor for every pain, but I get so nervous.

    My sister is coming to visit for Thanksgiving and I want to go out and do things with her, but I have been so fearful of getting an infection or something that I haven't been out a lot.  Am I being silly?  I can take her out to a restaurant, can't I?  Why am I so scared?

    Susan - Envious of your clean house; I don't know what that looks like anymore :)

    To all who are suffering from SEs and generally feeling unwell, I am praying that you will recover quickly.

    I am getting tired, so I will sign off by wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. 

    Love, Holly 

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  • jadams1264
    jadams1264 Member Posts: 417
    edited November 2009

    Hello SOSisters....alittle chemo brain going on here.....

    Hey Ronnie Kay - I'm sorry, I had a reply to your wonderful post and then forgot to post it.  Ok, chemotartedness for txt 4 has officially started!  I have two more txts and I when I'm through I'm going to tell everyone I see I'm through with chemo!!  I don't care if they think I'm crazy.  My Herceptin schedule at this time is based on my MUGA results followed by an eckocardiogram.  My MUGA was 43%, echo greater than 55%.  I go back for another ecko soon and that will determine if I do Herceptin once a week, every 3rd week or not at all.  I really want to do the every 3rd week, but concerned about heart damage.  I also have 6.5 rads starting end of Jan., first of Feb.  Oh joy!  In the meantime I am going to find us a sponsor!  PS - I'm giving you longest post award.  It was great.  What hobby are you going to start?

    Holly - people used to compliment me on my memory and organizational skills.  Now I like Pamelajo use a lot of post it notes!  Have you tried Advil?  So far this txt bone pain has been my only complaint and Advil does help, two every 4 hours.  Also moving around does help even tho I know you don't want to get up!  Hope you are feeling better now.

    To everyone else I forgot - sorry.  Try to do better tomorrow.

    Thoughts & prayers are with you!

    Jane

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  • chinablue
    chinablue Member Posts: 545
    edited November 2009

    hbowser - Call your doctor.  Don't feel shy.  What you are describing sounds really tough.  Hang in there.

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  • chinablue
    chinablue Member Posts: 545
    edited November 2009

    I have read a couple of posts from gals that are done or close to being done with chemo.  Bravo! Bravo!  

    For those of us who are not as close to the end,  we will get there.  Just imagaine......

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  • Neece
    Neece Member Posts: 270
    edited November 2009

    Dear RonnieKay, you darling thing - your post was such a delight to read and sooo good to hear how you are doing. I can totally relate to your feelings about "where to from here?" after chemo finishes (even tho' I still have two more to go) because you are right - it is so all consuming in evry possible way. I was talking about this with my husband and we agreed that when you are doing chemo it kind of makes you part of this special club and makes you "special" in a funny sort of way - and once it is over and your hair grows and life is meant to be back to "normal" everyone just expects that we too will be "normal" again - my worry is that I no longer really know what that means. I know people who have had cancer say you never really put it behind you completely - there is always the worry for a start, of recurrence; and it marks you in a way that is difficult to describe - so while our lives, I am sure, will move back to a more "normal" state once tx is finished, I don't think we will ever be exactly the same again.Hopefully we can all stay connected and share this part of the journey too.

    Domegal I am so sorry you have been in such pain - pls speak to your dr if it continues.

    Jane happy anniversary!

    Holly I understand your concerns about  infection etc. It would be a shame not to enjoy some time out with your sister. What i have found useful is a little container of hand disinfectant in my purse - when I eat out I just rub that on before I eat - and make sure everything is clean around me - then I can relax a bit more. Have a great time with your sister.

    Just an update on our crazy Aussie weather - the cool change came thru about 2 am this morning and woke to grey, showery , cool day - about 20C less than yesterday! What a crazy country I live in. While we were battling record November heat and bushfires in my state yesterday, the state of Victoria further south had torrential downpours! nyway enjoying the cooler weather today.

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  • RonnieKay
    RonnieKay Member Posts: 2,067
    edited November 2009

    NEECE:  I think I'm on Aussie time :)  I've been taking little naps after dinner & then I'm up in the wee hours :)  We've been having incredible wind storms...trees down all over the place & people without electricity. We're in a very protected area so haven't had any problems but the snow has arrived in the mountains (you're probably snickering SUSAN, right!), so we'll probably have to use chains going to the cabin this weekend. 

    JANE: My onc said I don't need a MUGA since I had taxotere & cytoxan. She said there's no reason to be concerned about heart problems with herceptin....hope she's right!  I'll have my blood test on Friday to determine if I'm post-menopausal (I wasn't before chemo) and if I am, will start femara.  So glad you had a nice Anniversary celebration & WOW!  Thanksgiving dinner and decorated for Christmas...you're one motivated gal!  Christmas will definitely be a time of great joy for you & your family!

    HOLLY: I agree with NEECE...you should enjoy time with your sister & you're right to access where you go, but your neulasta gives you special powers!!!  Yes, it may give you great pains in every bone in your body, but it does build your immunity...I had it 3 of the 4 treatments and I can tell you that this last tx, without it, I noticed not having the same umpf, plus getting cankor sores, etc., nothing too serious but much of it because white blood cells were depleted for a while. I could always count on my bones aching for 2 days, 2 days after the shot. The best thing for me was to stay on schedule with extra-strength tylenol & aleve. Did you use claritin? I used it & it seemed to help a bit, others had great relief with it. Sorry about the neuropathy too..and I also think you should call your doctor. I actually got in trouble for not calling when I had questions. I don't know about the arm pain...but think you'd feel better talking to your dr.  It's totally ok to be scared...we have good reason to be...nothing we're going through is normal!  Glad you're here...there's so much love & support....AND experience!   Good Night to All!  Thankful for all of you and wishing you a beautiful Thanksgiving week!

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