May 2010 Chemo
Comments
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Cleob - glad to hear you are making progress and you have such a positive attitude!
Packjen - OMG you're nuts!!!! Happy Birthday to the girls - it sounds like you/they had a great time. I have my daughters 12th birthday party today.
Day - thank you for all the herb info!
To all those who are done or finishing up this week - CONGRATULATIONS!!! You all must be so relived to have this step over with. I hope you will all stay on here though and let us know how rads go. Who cares that it's called "May Chemo"....
Paxton {{{{{BIG HUGS}}}}}
So have my daughters birthday party today, then tomorrow is her actual birthday so we do the "family thing" and then my first Taxol tx is on Wed. - a little nervous of the unknown! I really didn't have it so bad with the AC so I'm slightly scared that I will be one of those people who have a harder time with the Taxol. Then again maybe I'll be lucky... LOL
Seems like everyone has a busy week coming up so good luck to all and for those of you not feeling at the top of your game - know you're in my thoughts, Chin up!!!
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fotopet: I think I read your post 4x today. I have hit the same wall.. I work as well. Your right nobody has any idea how lousy you feel. I am glad I am not the only person who cries elephant tears when I get home.. My usual day consists of being in a hot mfg facility, going home, tearing off my wig, sleeping for an hour, then picking my granddaughter up. Luckily she goes to bed by 8pm and so do I just to start the next day over again. The weekends I sleep sleep sleep.
I too am short of breath and very dizzy. Is anyone else dizzy or just me. my onc wants me to see an neurologist..so now another doctor to visit..oh YEAH>
LeeAnn..Thanks for your info on taxol.. For me my first treatment was last wednesday. Between the 10 steroids and benadryl I was high as a kite for 36 hours. Well at least I wasn't tired. Next treatment I have to ask for a sleeping pill. I was up all night on Wednesday. Thursday some sleep then I crashed on Friday night into saturday afternoon.
For all who are done with chemo or done this week I SAY HURRRAY FOR YOU!!!!....so so happy for you all....
NY girls: hey let's definitely plan an date when it is not so darn hot...this summer is killing me. I want snow!!! (lol)
I just reflected on how far we have all come. From our first diagnosis, to surgeries,to treatments.It is so amazing all the knowledge we have gained and how we all came to be on these boards. It is my sincere hope that this time next year we are all still writing each other and that we have our bodies back (with hair)....I pray for that day.. for all of us
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I locked myself in the bedroom yesterday and listened to a meditation CD and told my bf I was going to lose my mind if I sat around feeling helpless about the whole baby thing. He took the baby out and I felt better so the day really did go better. But this poor kid has so many teeth coming, one aftter the other. We're up to like 14 and he's not even a year yet. Another back one is swelling up this morning so he's been really cranky today. I put a little of my magic mouthwash on my finger and put it in his mouth along with some baby tylenol. He's napping now so we'll see.
Is anyone else's voice dry and changing? I think its from the Decadron. Sucking on a cough drop helps but it feels weird.
Another tx tomorrow. Bf's mom said I must be able to see the tunnel coming. I had to laugh. The tunnel I was looking at was until tomorrow. The "big" tunnel seems too big and it feels like it will either be the end of the tunnel or the headlights from another train. Ever feel that way? lol
Well, good luck to everybody this week. Sorry I'm such a downer.
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xraygirl, everything went well. I just got home. I did find out I will need the neulasta shot tomorrow. Have you had that, I remember awhile back there was some talk about it, but haven't heard much lately. I will need for my last three treatments. I go there to get it tomorrow and for the last two, I will be able to give them to myself.
sacphotomom, do the SE ever end? I have found my eyes aching at night. I am not sure if it exhaustion or just another SE. Woke up at 4:30 this morning, hopefully will sleep tonight, but that is hard after all of the steroids.
Stay well everyone.
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Day - I can't believe that nurse. I would have to request that she not do my infusions also! Oh, and the syringe in your arm had me cracking up... in a bad, dry humor way!
Davia - Thanks! My bad days are 2-5 days after treatment.
Patricia - Love the wig pic!!
JennyB - I hope you do start to feel better very soon!! Congrats on being done!
Paxton - (((((((HUGS)))))))). I do have some voice changes too... odd that so many of us had... maybe steroids?
Judy - Glad you were able to have a good time with your best friend! Sounds like it was a nice relaxing visit!
Summer - My son will be 4 tomorrow. His party is on Saturday. Not sure how I'll be feeling, but we'll tough it out! Don't fear the taxol. In my opinion it is better tolerated, and SE are cumulative. The GI and taste are bothersome, but not awful, and I think the GI side effects actually come from what they mix the taxol in. Having been on it for 9 weeks now, I'm curious to see how others will do on it.
NJbhwgirl - Yes, I forgot to mention the steroids pre-taxol usually keep me up for 1-2 nights afterwards... depending on the time of treatment. After that I crash... i.e. most of yesterday and went to bed at 7pm and slept until about 8am. Then I still want naps!!
Nanaof2 - Hope you will sleep well too - that's a long day! I find myself not getting good rest the night before treatment; just thinking about it I guess, and then the steroids hit! What an awful combination!
So, I got a new profile pic! I did it today after the LGFB class... which, umm, how do I say this nice... I know they are all volunteers.... but I wasn't impressed with...... Boo, sorry, if it's only me, but I got a little bit of makeup that doesn't even match my tone. The eye shadow I got is light blue, dark blue, yellow and pink. LOL!! Ah well. It was good to get out of the house. I picked up my wigs today too... not sure when I'll feel ok wearing them! And, my head is so sore/raw.
Feeling a little better...
HUGS to all! -
Leanna: I love your profile picture. You look great!!! I'm glad you finally took the plunge, it's one less thing to worry about. I wear a lot of hats, only wear the wig for special occasions. Hope you have a great time at your sons birthday party on Saturday. I'll pray that you feel great! I am with you with the LGFB. I was really upset because I thought they helped with tying scarves and trying wigs on. All I got at mine was make-up lessons too. Only a few pieces of my make up works for me too. After reading from several of you on line how great your sessions were I was rally bummed out.
Day: I think you should write a book when you are finished with all of this. I can't believe what a terrible time you have had with heath professionals. I fave been very lucky. After hearing your stories I count my blessings.
Nanaof2: I have had 3 Neulasta shots. I had some bone pain about 5 days after my first one. But shot 2 and 3 I was fine with. I had read about taking claritin the day of the shot and a few days after and that's what I did. Whether of not that is why I really didn't have any pain I don't know, but I figure it can't hurt to take.
Paxton: I really wish I lived near you so that I could come and help you out. You guys with young kids are my heroes. I can't imagine how I would handle all this with young kids. I have trouble some days handling a 12 and 15 year old. I will keep you in my prayers.
njbhwgirl and fotopet: I am so sorry you guys are having such a tough time. I wish there was someway that you guys wouldn't have to work full time.
Summer: I hope you had a fun time at your daughters party and enjoy the party tomorrow. Good luck on Wed. with your treatment.
HUGS TO EVERYONE!!!
Barb
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Paxton ~ wow, my heart goes out to you and to anyone with babies! I can't even imagine! I have 2 teenage girls and a 9 yr/old son. I often feel guilty that Luke watches so much t.v. and I'm not engaging him more. At least he is quite self sufficient and independant. Babies are not - esp. when they are miserable because they're teething. Oy vay! I haven't experienced voice changes - sounds like you're not alone from what I read here. Hope tomorrow's tx is uneventful!
Summer ~ was the party today? how did it go? or is it tomorrow? Hope it's a blast!
Judy~ yes, my husband gives me the neulasta shot the day after tx - I dread it b'c I am one of the ones who gets bone and joint pain. It's not fun in the least. A nurse suggested I take claritin the day before, the day of, and the following day to help offset the SE. Unfortunately, it didn't help me last time. That steroid and hyper combo is for the pitts! I wonder if anyone has taken sleeping pills? I have just toughed it out and gotten a few things done with the extra energy.
Leanna ~ love your new profile pic! Gorgeous!!! For the record, I wasn't impressed with LGFB either. I did, however, get a nice Chanel pallette that I use daily - the rest of the stuff was cheap and nothing I'd ever wear.
I went to Hopkins with my best friend to Image Recovery to pick up my prostheses - my clothes look better with them popped in my bra. Since I'm gearing up for round 4, we decided to go to one of my favorite restaurants on the way home and enjoy a couple martinis. Espresso one, then chocolate - YUM!!!! We laughed and laughed and talked and talked. Oh yeah, we also got pedicures. It was so therapeutic. My goal is to do something super fun the week of my chemo treatments. I'm off on Wed. so still plan on something fun that day - not sure what yet. I so want to be a survivor who THRIVES. It's not something that will just happen by chance - I'm amazed how much mental and emotional energy it takes to try to stay strong. Dear May Chemo Warriors - lets strive to thrive through this hellacious experience.
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Hi everyone - just popping in to say hi. I feel like it's been a while.
Leanna - I love your picture. That goes for you too x-raygirl. I've been meaning to tell you that.
Nanaof2- I guess your doctor decided you should have the 6 TC's. Good luck with the neulasta. I'm hoping you don't have too much pain.
Day - you can write a book with all that you've experienced. Also, I found the thread you started a while back about dumb things said to/about you. You can write a book with that one too. So much funny/crazy/sad/shocking stuff. I'll probably be spending lots of time reading it this week.
Paxton - hang in there. I'm sending you big (((((hugs))). I've said it before and I'll say it again. I can't imagine going through this with kids. Speaking of kids - Packjen - WOW just WOW!
Redbarb - congrats on being almost done! Sounds like you've done really well so I pray this continues.
njbwhgirl, summer and irishtess- of course you can count me in on any get together in the area. I can't wait to meet you all. njbwhgirl - I hope you feel better soon.
As for me, I have my last TC tomorrow. I'm on my steriod high now so don't expect to be sleeping any time soon. I'm bringing Crumps cupcakes to celebrate and thank the fabulous staff. I still have to go there for a year for my herceptin but tomorrow is the last day for the cold caps which I know is a little extra work for the staff even though they don't show it. All has gone well for me too. Still have the hair. My eyebrows are starting to thin and I have some patches on the right side. Nothing a little pencil can't cover. I'm going to LGFB class on Thursday. I'll let you know how my experience is. I have been feeling a little bloated lately and guess what came back. Yes - my period again. What happened to chemopause. The last period was very weird so hopefully this one isn't going to be but I'm not holding my breath since I got no cramps or anything so is this another fake an-ovular one? Still having insurance issues with rads. Not happy about that.
Have a good sleep everyone. Next time I talk to you all I'll be done done done!!! Woo Hoo!!!
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x-raygirl: I'm with you at how much energy it takes to try to stay strong.
There have been some nights lately that I sit up and cry when everyone else is sleeping. I sit here and read everyone's post at all the side effects everyone is having and mine have been so minimal in comparison and then I start thinking is this stuff really helping. It just all sucks. I want this all to be over, but then again once I am done with treatment will I start thinking when will it come back! Sorry, just venting. I so need to go on vacation to the beach. Friday, Cape May Court House here I come!!!
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njbbhw== I have not had any dizziness, but I do often get shortness of breath. When I do anything to exert myself (or even holding a long conversation) I feel like I can't get nearly enough oxygen. I had my final tx today (more on that later) and spoke w/my onc about it. She said (like others on this board have been told) that the shortness of breath is probably due to low red blood cells. I had my lab work done yesterday and I am just below the acceptable low end on 2 indicators of red blood cells. My doc said it should get better in about 3 weeks, but I think I will get an iron supplement to help (something gentle like SlowFE). Your dizzyness is concerning, you may want to talk to the doctor about it.
Paxton== Your posts make me so sad for you. I wonder if you can find a support group through your medical center or your local American Cancer Society. I think you are on the right path with the affirmation CDs, but actually talking to people who are going through this may help. And you never know, maybe someone will offer to help with the baby or bring you a meal. As for baby's teething I know how hard that can be. My girls didn't have as many teeth coming in at once as your son, but I did have 2 babies teething at once. A few things that I found helped (which you may have tried) are: baby orajel to instantly numb the gums; let him suck on ice cubes, but take them away when they get so small he can swallow them -- or better yet, take a very thin dish towel and put an ice cube in the middle then put a rubber band on just below the ice cube to give him something better to hold onto while allowing him to suck, soothe and cool his mouth; I also tried wetting a washcloth and freezing it to give them to suck on, but I can't remember how successful that was; give him a cold,raw carrot to gnaw on -- but only do that when you are in the room, don't want him to actually bite off a big chunk and choke. Hang in there and think about finding a support group. I worry that you are isolated and not getting what you need to make it through this tough journey.
xraygirl== I have been taking Ambien to help me sleep since my diagnosis back at the end of Feb. I have found sleeping to be difficult during this entire process. I have a very high tolerance to drugs and unfortunately the Ambien hasn't worked for a while. Now I am going to try taking 2 Ativan to help me get to sleep. My onc said she was OK with this. Also, for what it's worth, I found that if I take anything with Hydrocodone (Vicodin or Norco) shortly before bed I either cannot get to sleep or I cannot get into a deep sleep.
Day== You are so lucky to have this gift of knowledge of plants and their uses passed to you from your family. I have always wished I had someone to take me by the hand and point out different plants and tell me their uses. Sort of like Native Americans did with their kids. The few things I know about natural cures I learned from being a mom and my training as a lactation specialist. I know about Arnica for swelling and bumps and bruises, Fenugreek to increase milk production, celery juice as a diuretic. But those are things I buy (or would buy -- I will never need Fenugreek again!) already processed at the health food store. I don't have a lawn, so don't have dandelion, but I wouldn't even know which part of the plant to use -- flowers? leaves? stems? When you make your teas, do you just boil the herbs and then strain, or do you have one of those silk bags like a tea bag to hold the herbs, or what?
I finished chemo today! I will write again tomorrow to tell you about THAT party. I know you are all on the edge of your seats
I will tell you that at the very end I was given a Certificate of Achievement "for having successfully completed a course of chemotherapy". It was signed by all the nurses and my doctor. At the bottom it said Congratulations for Having the Courage and Committment to Perservere. That message brought a tear to my eye.
Hugs to all.
Jen
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Jen,
Congratulations on being done!!! Your last post brought tears to my eyes too. I can't wait until Thursday to be done!!!!!!
Barb
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PackJen! Congrats!! That also brought tears to my eyes!!!
And, I can't wait to hear about your party!!! -
PackJen Wow what a wonderful group you had been going to! that made me tear up too....
I am so jealous of all you being done ...Congratulations to you all...
Leanna 9 ...nice pic I sorry you didn't have such a good group with your LBFB ..I guess since they all get the stuff donated its not always good...but now I am so glad they showed me how to put eyebrows on ..I need it now.. only have few hairs left on my brows....they will probably disappear with Taxotere. I also noticed this week that I have almost no hair on face...
Question for everyone ..What are you putting on your head to keep it moist but not itchy?..my head has been so itchy lately the Pure Aloe isn't working anymore
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Good Morning May Warriors, It is raining and thundering in Ky this morning, so I have to wait to walk later. I will listen to my meditational cds, and if the rain continues, walk on the treadmill. No complaints about the rain, we need it. I do wish it would rain in my mouth! Ha. My mouth sores, dry mouth, annoying cough have hit there all time worst this morning. For every wondering about the voice change, ect. I know it is not the steroids, because I have not started them yet. Tomorrow is my first, before my first Taxol on Thursday. I think it is the cumulative effect of the chemo on mucus membrane cells. PacJen, I can't wait to hear about your last party. I am so happy and jealous(in a good way) for all you(Drim, RedBarb) who are finishing chemo! Yeah! You deserve it and I hope it is no time till you are feel much, much better! Drim, I am glady your hard work paid off and you have kept your hair! Leanna, I love your picture! I still have not attended LGFB, because the schedule has not worked out. I am sorry to hear that there is such a variation of experiences with that. I guess I will go, if I am up to it. I was hoping they would help me deal with eyebrow issues. Sacphotomom, mine are there, but fading fast. I may just let my daughter do this. She is a redhead and has drawn her's in since she started wearing makeup.I wash my head and body with Dr. Brommer's Citris Soap and use Avenno Lotion on my body. I do massage my head after a shower to get the blood flowing. I use a towel and just briskly rub my scalp. I do not know if any of these things help. Seems side effects just come and go at will Nana of two-, I only had pain with the first neulasta, and I did not start on claritin until recently(for other allergy issues). But heck, I say take the claritin, if the is any change it helps. I have not had scalp problems or rashes of any kind. . Paxton My heart goes out to you, and my prayers too. I am glad you got the cd. Please try to listen every day, and have at least that time for yourself. Would there possibly be a teen age girl who could come and be a mommy's helper for you? I know this is a long shot, and might not be in your budget, etc, but even a few hours a day would be wonderful. Even a younger girl of 11-12 can be a big help with a young child, when they are supervised. X-ray girl I agree that it takes all our time and energy to stay strong. But it is so important. I am glad you had a great day out. I agree about the prothesis. I feel more myself with the weight of it, and my clothes look more like they used to. This is a big boost! I think the storm has passed outside. I wish it had passed inside. ChemoStorm is raging.
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Hi Girls! I'm so sorry, Paxton, that things seem so bleak. Some of the other ladies have suggested asking for help from family & friends ~ they're right. You really need to do so, as much for your own sake as your child's.
Barb: My 4th tx was a breeze compared with 3 ~ I'm sure you'll be fine on vacation. I also have a cough ~ my lungs are clear, so I chalked it up to one more SE. JennyB: Sorry you had to see one more doc, but good outcome. Patricia: Your theory about the cough makes sense. Like your sense of humor about Tuffy. Same comment about Brandy to Sacphoto: Gotta keep laughing! Glad to hear things are improved for your Dad. I've also had heartburn from hell (had been popping Zantac and Tums to no avail) so onc gave me a generic of Prilosec 2x per day, which has helped tremendously.
Nana: Hope your 4th tx went ok. Daiva: Good luck on your 4th this week. Leanna: Like the new photo ~ keep your chin up, girl! Day: What an awful experience with the nursing staff - hope you can make sure you have better care moving forward. Golfergirl: Congrats on finishing ~ I'm envious!
I have my first of 4 Taxol tx this Fri ~ onc says not as many SEs as with the AC (assuming no allergic reaction!!). Anyone who's been through Taxol already, I'd really appreciate your input. Thanks!
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Hi All!!
Njbhwgirl - I have actually had several dizzy spells. It's not constant but it just kind of shows up whenever it feels like it. I told my onc and he doesn't seem really concerned, said it is a known side effect just not very common. Let me know what the neurologist says. Also, Lets hold off on wishing for snow!!! LOL I agree it's hot but I'm certainly not ready for snow yet!
Leanna - I LOVE your new picture, you look fabulous!! Happy birthday to your son, enjoy the day with him and I hope you are feeling well on Saturday. X-raygirl - I love Chocolate Espresso martinis! Yummmmmm. Sounds like you had a great "girl day"! Drim - good luck today! Redbarb - I can totally relate to your post. I often feel "guilty" for not having such a hard time so far with my SE's and then it hits me.... "OMG is it not working???" I talked to my onc. who did say that he was amazed at how I made it through AC and he explained it that me & my cancer are 2 separate things - just because I wasn't reacting to the chemo doesn't mean that my cancer wasn't. Made me feel a little bit better. Packjen - Congrats on being done! Can't wait to hear about your party. Also, great advise to Paxton! Sacphotomom - Honestly, I'm not putting anything on my head and it doesn't bother me - no itching or anything. Patricia - The dry mouth is one of my worst side effects, drives me crazy! Paxton {{{{{MAJOR HUGS}}}}}
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Thank you all... yes it's unbelievable the "luck" I had with medical staff on this journey! At least, the BS was amazing, and so were the male nurses in the chemo room. And my oncologist, I start liking him.
Packjen,
Herbalism can be pretty complicated, and it is a lot to learn. I was fortunate to be born not only in a country in which natural remedies are no.1, before the pharmacy ones, but also in a family of knowledgeable people in this domain.
The dandelion - well, depends what you are using it for.
The leaf :
Fresh, in salads, is great in preventing osteoporosis and helping bone health.
Dry, in infusions, is good as a diuretic; helps in eliminating bladder and kidney stones; helps with losing weight; helps in diabetes; helps in regulating blood pressure in oscillating blood pressure (careful if you have low blood pressure) ; etc.
The root:
It is also a diuretic; as a plus, it regulates endocrine system; contains beta-carotene (anti-oxidant that has such a great role in defeating cancer and re-juvenating a tired immune system); various dermatosis/eczemas; good for the liver function (during and after hepatitis, or drugs heavy on the liver); it is even good in rheumatism;
The whole plant (minus the blooms) is used in a tea (decoct) for various problems: acne, heart problems, vascular problems, anemia, various types of cancer (including breast cancer), various skin conditions, varicosis, and many others.
The stem of the yellow bloom, fresh, is used in a treatment that helps with diabetes, 10 fresh stems daily in a series of 20-30 days.
From the yellow blooms can be made a syrup that is good as a tonic, and also for re-invigorating the immune system (it's also called "dandelion honey" in Romania).
The milky sap is good for all kinds of discoloration/dark patches of the skin.
Leaves and root steeped overnight in cold water - use that water for a great cleansing of the face/skin.
The root can be dried, ground and used like a coffee (can be mixed iwth dried, roasted and ground chicory root for better flavor).
And there is much more to say.
The problem is: there is no "one-fits-all" thing with the plants. The combinations of plants used for teas/infusions/etc depend on the total picture: what are the exact health problems of the person; what medicines/supplements do they take (yes, plants CAN and WILL interact with drugs); their vital signs; their diet; and so on.
For example, the mix I am using right now, stinging nettles-dandelion-corn silk. For the obvious reason of eliminating the extra water in the body (dandelion and corn silk); I AM on the low side when it comes to blood pressure, so that is one of the reasons why the nettles are added, and the quantity of total plant tea ingested is so high (extra liquid will keep my blood pressure in normal parameters); nettles are also added to help with anemia from chemo, to help with the health of my veins (as I don't have a port) and with losing weight.
I could talk for ever on this subject, lol. I hope I didn't get you too bored.
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Sacphotomom - My head has not been itchy yet...so, I don't know!!
Patricia - Yes, the LGFB can definitely help with eyebrows, but I would buy a color that you want, and maybe something waterproof. Hope you were able to get a walk in outside today!
IrishTess - With taxol I've noticed more cumulative effects - the most bothersome immediately are the GI, constipation, taste... and the usual sleeplessness from the steroids.
Summer - I agree SE do not equal how well chemo is working... you just are lucky enough to be on the lower end on most of the SE!! Lucky! I hope I get that lucky on AC also! Treatment 10 is tomorrow... so, I'm almost at the point of thinking about what to ask about the AC because its coming soon for me.
Day - wish I had your knowledge too! We're just doing asparagus!!
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Ok Ladies I have a new SE. Has anyone had their ankles swell up? I came home tonight and my ankles and calves are swollen. Not sure if I should be worried or not. I don't remember seeing anyone else comment on swelling.
Barb
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Redbarb - I had my last chemo today and before I went in I was in with the doctor. Interestingly, for the first time she checked my ankles and calves for swelling. I didn't have any swelling today but told her that my feet do swell up a bit when it's really humid. She said this was not a problem. Unfortunately I did not ask her what she was checking for but it sounds like fluid retention. I think you are going on Thursday so maybe you can wait until then to ask your doctor. If you are really worried you should call tomorrow and report this.
Thanks all for your good wishes. It feels good to be done. Everything went smoothly today so we'll have to see how the rest of the week goes. Now onto radiation. I will absolutely stay connected with you all. You are my new sisters.
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Drim: thanks for the info. Unless it seems really bad tomorrow I figured I'd just wait until Thursday. Congratulations on being done. I'm glad it went well today. I hope the next few days are just as good. When do you start Rads? You'll have to give us the low down once you start.
Barb
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Redbarb - yes, mine got swollen to the point of me going to see my endocrinologist - with my Graves Disease, it can cause mixedema. I got the answer - it's not the thyroid, it's the steroids + Taxotere. Intersting enough, my right ankle was more swollen than the left.
So yes, it's "normal". ahem. That's what they said. My oncologist has prescribed me a diuretic to help with that - it had happened before I had started my plant teas, after the first tx. Before and after the 2nd tx and still going on, it didnt' happen anymore (my teas work, haha). I didn't take the diuretic as of yet. I am reserving it for two weeks after the last tx to help even more with losing weight.
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So yesterday's party was themed ALOHA CHEMO. Two of my good friends (both also twin moms) put together a lovely celebration. Lydia, on the right, made virgin Mai Tai's, brought homemade cookies and Hawaiian chips. She also brought grass skirts and leis. Later my friend Jenny showed up with pulled pork and Hawaiian rolls. YUM.
The tx almost did not happen because my nurse blew out my vein in my elbow of my good arm. Since I had had nodes removed on the left side we were not supposed to use that side. So the nurse went to get another nurse. When she realized what the first nurse had done she said that Taxotere is an irritant and could leak into my arm. She told Lydia to stop making cocktails because we might need to postpone. That is when I told her I didn't care if she had to insert the needle in my ankle -- we were doing this last tx that day! So the 2nd nurse went to speak with my onc and got permission to use my left arm. Just have to watch for lymphedema in that arm. I did have a little swelling when I got home and had to use soap to get off my wedding rings, but nothing too bad.
So other than that the tx was uneventful except at the end when I was all done and sat there for 5 minutes waiting for my nurse to remove the needle. So I flagged down another nurse and said, "I am DONE with chemo, can you please get this needle out of me?" That is the second picture you see here. Along with my Certificate of Achievement and a few tears in my eyes.
I have contacted my rads doctor and told him I need a full six weeks to recover from chemo before I start the next phase of treatment. He didn't seem to have a problem with that. I will be shooting for start date of 8/24, the day my kids start 3rd grade. The thing I am dreading the most is making the 2 1/2 - 3 hour round trip every day. I think I am more stressed about the traffic than the treatment.
Oh, by the way, I used my ice packs on my eyebrows and eyes again yesterday. I think these have helped. I used them every session from about 15 minutes before Taxotere and through the taxotere drip. So far no loss of brows or lashes evident. Still have a few tough chin hairs hanging in there though.
So I don't really consider myself Done With Chemo, because I know I have another month or so of SEs to deal with. I have no more tx's, but I am not done. I have a follow up appt. with my onc in a month to see how I am doing.
Cheers Ladies, I will be sticking around.
No matter how far along in your treatment you are: "Congratulations for having the courage and commitment to persevere."
Jen
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Jen ~ what a trip! That's what I call fun and colorful! Congrats to you on your last treatment. It'll be nice to have the 6 wk break before your rads. I look forward to that day for myself and for the rest of us.
Day ~ I, too, have loved your info on the herbs. It never bores me and I am always up for learning more. So please keep sharing with us and no, we don't find it boring. Sorry to hear about your misfortunes.
Patricia ~ I got my hands on a copy of Noises Off - will let you know what I think.
Drim and GolferGirl ~ congrats on your last treatments! (and to anyone else who may have finished).
Leanna ~ what do you mean about asparagus? I have read it's great for you, but do you do something special? Good luck with your tx.
Summer ~ are you a martini girl? I love espresso ones. Went out for dinner last night and had a good dirty martini with some delish olives. mm... I'm regretting it now, because i am awake and keep vowing that I want to clean up my diet some more and cut back on the alcohol. It's just not easy to do at this particular time. Not to mention, I love wine - though I'm finding that red wine messes with my sleep :-( Also, I wanted to ask you about Tim Tam - how do I PM her? I can't find her to do that. SOS. Have you checked her site? I'm dying to.
Sacphotomom ~ I love my juicer too. What are your favorite juices to make? And how's your dad?
Irishtess~ it was nice to hear your 4th tx was a breeze. I'm not looking forward to mine but reading your comment helped me relax about it a bit more.
Barb ~ did you find anything out about your ankles? I feel like my whole body is swollen!!!
Paxton ~ I'm thinking about you and your situation. I'd send my teenage daughters over to help you if you lived nearby. I'm sending up a prayer for you this very moment. Hugs to you!
I'm taking my daughter, Leah, to NYC today. She's getting some headshots. We're catching the bus from Baltimore and returning tonight. I thought it might be fun before tomorrow's chemo. I can't wait to close my eyes and listen to my meditations. They are helping me a lot. I'm getting so tired of not sleeping through the night. It only compounds the fatigue I already have.
Ladies, we're doing this and we're going to make it though! Soon enough, we're all going to look back and it will be behind us. My heart goes out to those just starting on this journey. We are survivors and we're going to thrive!
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Happy Wednesday, Girls! Thanks, Leanna, for the Taxol info. I was so hoping that the mouth & stomach issues would not be a part of that, but I guess not!
Jen: Awesome pictures! What a great way to end tx (hope your L arm continues to behave!).
Drim: Congrats on finishing! How soon do you start rad?
Daiva: Love martinis ~ haven't had one since all of this started, but I have had some wine. Problem is nothing really tastes right. Good luck with the Baltimore trip, or should I say break a leg?!
Barb: Good luck tomorrow.
Have a good rest of the week to all ~ I'll be thinking of you when I start my Taxol tx on Fri. Onc says it takes 3 1/2 to 4 hours ~ what a way to spend a Fri afternoon! Oh well, maybe I can catch a nap!
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PackJen: you are a hoot! lol here in work...your ppics cheered me up so....congrats congrats congrats on being done.....You too Drim and Redbarb( and god forgive me if I forgot anyone else)
Day: you did not bore me at all. very interesting. the accupuncturist I went to had me boil dandelions and put on my implants to help with the pain. I had alot of nerve pain after my masc.
Redbarb: I love the zoo in cape may... I have a house in LBI on the lagoon.. Maybe in Sept. when most of us are done,, I would like all the locals and non locals (if they want) to come visit. It is relaxing and peaceful..great seafood restaurant around corner too,.....I have not been down much this summer because of the heat and sun. I have been trying to rent it to help offset bills. I will keep it in mind for the fall...Fall is beautiful at the jersey shore don't you think.. Have a great time!!
PackJen: my red count cell is fine. My onc and team hate hate hate giving anything other than the treatment. I can't even take vitamins. I begged. I really don't see how seeing a neurologist is going to help because I cannot get an MRI due to the implants. I have had tons of CT scans on head and all is fine. I am at a loss. It does worry me too....I am more worried about the shortness of breath. Seems worse since the 1st taxol treatment.
Irishtess: I agree Taxol not as bad as A/C...Not as debilitating although the high from the steroids and the crash 36 hours later is really no fun at all.. Hey but maybe that won't happen to you. I think it is also a little tough on the GI system. Although I am not suppossed to I am taking my arthritis medicine (arthotec) to help ward off the joint pain associated with Taxol. I believe it is helping.
My son is going into the Army reserves next Monday(sigh)...please how much more can I cry. I won't see him until Dec. 3rd. Although I support him I will miss him so. He is doing it to help pay for college, wants to be part of the military. He will go back to school next January. As sorry as I feel for all you moms who have little ones,,, I miss that age so much.....
Summer: okay no snow...but how about some 70 degree weather(lol).
have great day ladies
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njbhwgirl: I love the Cape May Zoo too. We haven't been there in several years because the boys have outgrown the zoo, as they put it. I love the Jersey shore, especially in Sept. We use to go every year in Sept. for at least a week. My in laws use to rent a house on the beach for the whole months. Unfortunately they can't do that any more. I really miss it. I was only in LI once for a day a long time ago. I'm in if you get the gang together. I can't imagine how hard it must be for you to see your son go into the reserves and not see him for so long. My heart goes out to you. I will keep you and him in my prayers. Tell him Thank you from me. Without these brave young men and women going into the service who knows where we would be. Have a great Day
PackJen: I loved the party theme. The nurses at your infusion center will truly miss you!!! I am taking some fruit and donuts tomorrow to my last treatment. I figured that way I hit the health conscious and junk food junkies! I am amazed that you have the energy to throw these theme parties together. Congrats on being done!!!!!!!!!
Irishtess: Thanks for the good luck wishes!
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another question...Have any of you gotten Light headed while on the TX drip? I am almost done with the drip ahe had it at 4hours then down to hours and then since I wasn't feeling anything she put it to normal. 45 minutes ...I got light headed so now it back down to finish at 2 hours....just wondering....
Irshtess ..love the new pic....are we all gorgeous with our bald heads....so much better then I thought I would look...now if it was so white and blinding....
Jen Your pictures are great they will be missing you when you are no longer going to the Chemo lounge!
wow I have to make sure I eat just before walking out the door with this one...I'm starving.. stillabout 15 minutes to go....
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sacphotomom... I'm not light-headed just during the drip, but for like 24-hours after that. Fast drip or slow drip, it doesn't really matter. I got used to it. Just one more to go.
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Hi Guys, Tomorrow is my first Taxol. I started the steroid today. I think it may have helped my cough. Well, that makes sense, since they help with inflammation. I wanted to get back to the topic of foods to fight cancer, and share some resources I have. Regarding Asparagus it is an anti-inflammatory. It it rich in vitamin A and K and folic acid. Both A and folic have be effective against breast cancer according to the research. Of course there are so many other good foods. A great book, written by a chef at a top cancer center is The Cancer Fighting Kitchen by Rebecca Katz. The book addresses a lot of things. There is one chapter on side effects and foods that help with specific ones, like fatigue, dehydration, sore mouth. I am working the recipes into my diet and the information is great. Anyway I thought this might be a resource others would like. Sacphotomom Hope you are finished with the treatment and the dizziness is gone. Irishtess, love the photo. Day, where is your family originally from? I am curious because to the knowledge of the herbs. Love and healing, Patricia
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