Starting chemo Monday!

jmf424

I begin chemo on Monday and I am terrified!  Since this is my second time with breast cancer, I kind of know what to expect but really wish I didn't have to go thru this.  Any thoughts on Adriamycin and Cytoxan?  Would like to know how bad it will be? I am feeling really depressed now and I hope I can do this.  My port has been in for a week and it still hurts...I dread a needle going into it.  Thanks!

dlb823

jmf ~ Although it's been 3-1/2 years since I started chemo, I totally remember how all consuming the fear about it was, and I also remember when my first infusion was over, wondering what the big deal had been all about.  One thing that helped me a lot was a guided imagery CD that's available at www.healthjourneys.com.  It's the one entitled Chemotherapy by BellaRuth Naperstek.  I haven't been on that website in awhile, but in the past you could listen to a little snippet, to get a feeling for what's on the CD.  Then you can download it instantly if you're interested, so you could listen to it tomorrow.

I'm so sorry you're feeling depressed, but I know you can do it!  Everyone's scared going into it, but we all get through it, and you will too!  Do you have someone to go with you?  And do you have a little chemo bag prepared to take?  And have you checked the threads pinned at the very top of the Chemotherapy Forum for a few things you can pick up to have on hand to help avoid some SEs -- thinks like Biotene mouthwash and Dulcolax?   All of those will help you feel more in control.

Good luck ~  I'll be thinking of you!    (((Hugs)))   Deanna 

greenacres

I will be thinking of you and wishing you the best although you've probably already had your first chemo.  How are you doing?  How was the experience?  I hope it went well and you are doing good.  Hugs.

dj59

Hi jmf, I had my first treatment on Thursday, 4/19. Neulasta on 4/20. I had already used up my lifetime supply of Adriamycin last round in 2000...so this time Taxotere/Cytoxan.  So far pretty good here. Some aches and pains... I was advised to use Claritin before my neulasta shot to deter bone pain...for the the most part it worked!!

 Of course you were terrified...Like greenacres said, by now, you have made it through your first treatment.  How you doing??

I went to work for most of the day today (first time since my tx on Thursday) Focused...got a few things done...felt good to be doing something "normal". Teaching dance classes tonight...moving slow mind...just sitting and barking out orders...but keeps me connected to my life this way!!

Sending lots of love jmf. Let us know how you are faring so far!

xo

Dorrie