Starting Chemo July 2013

honeybunny96

Grace that sounds good.  I am so bruised and yellow now where I got my port.  I wish I did not forget my ativan at home that's for sure.  I swear they did not give me enough sedation as I really didn't have that great of experience.  Had my first chemo yesterday too.  Today I am just groggy and tired.  I'm a thinking nap time.

love n lights (hugs)

Hannariggs

Hi All, 

   Still recovering from 1st round.  Cant complain much as first two days were ok with mild headache.  Today, day 3 is a little rougher but still managable.  Sleeping alot.  Hopefully day 4 will be better.  Love and prayers to all my sisters.  Be strong.  

Pattysmiles

Regarding wigs...and haircuts...



First the most important...hair.

Please consider NOT shaving all your hair off. I went from should length hair to pixie cut...was shocked and then discovered I actually liked it. Then I attempted to go even shorter and the stylist (different one)wouldn't do it, she only trimmed so i wasted my money. When my hair started coming out i took the barber clippers i own and clipped mynhair, using a number 6., and on the top i chopped away using scissors...what the heck, i wasnt paying for ANOTHER haircut (this was two days after sylist refused to cut me shorter) and i figured not too many people would be seeing it! despite my hair falling out I have not lost all my hair! It cqme out for anout a week (started 12 days after first treatment) and then stopped. almost none came out again until 3rd treatment, and it isnt significant as first time around. Yes, it IS thinned out, but it isn't all gone. I have 3 kids, youngest is 10 yr girl...she has been fighting my hair changes, with tears, but then is quickly accepting, as I think she realizes I am still ME, just with a different look.

A number of women on the other chemo threads have shaved their heads and complained of "stubbies" that hurt, are rough, and are annoying. They have said they wish they didn't shave it.

It IS a personal choice, yes it IS taking control too, but not allof us loose all of our hair.

The first thing I do when I am home is whip off my head covering and maybe slip on a yoga band...which pushes up my hair to look like "Bart Simpson" hair . I'm fine with that, my kids are good with that and I even let the neighbor kids in like that. (It's so darn hot who really wants to keep their head covered!)



Wigs....

Check with your insurance company to see if they are covered. (Mine wasn't). The oncologist had written me a prescription (and darn ifi can remember the technical name for wig! Lol)...some sort of prosthetic.



Also check your local Look Good Feel Better program, it is run by the American Cancer Society. They provide free makeup and instructions and provide a wig of your choice (well, based on what they have, which is a pretty decent selection) and if they don't have wigs on site they set you up with a wig bank for your free wig.

Here is their link, scroll down in the left side you will see to enter your info.

http://lookgoodfeelbetter.org/



Also, when buying wigs they come in sizes! Petite, Average and large...my noggin is large, so I am not comfortable in the "average" size wig I chose, my mistake!

Here is a link to reasonably priced accessories and wigs and I believe they get into the description of the different types of wigs too...not sure about that. http://www.tlcdirect.org/default.aspx?crcat=branding~tlc+words&crsource=adwords&crkw=+tlc +direct&crcampaign=11565736714&gclid=CIexjM7irLgCFVOe4Aod71wAZQ



I did go to a professional wig shop, and did not like the idea of a wig for me. Personally I just couldn't see me wearing one. I didn't like anything I tried on, I was miserable and then I found out the insurance didn't cover the $400 wig I "sorta" liked....for $400 I BETTER like it!

I DID like what I learned from the wig people though...I think a monofilament wig is good, hand tied better...that's for the "fake" stuff...obviously real wigs were even better, but a heck of a lot more money.



My preference is the buff. I have purchased 4. One for working out in....the others for "everyday". What I really like is that I found some shirts that almost match them, so I am practically coordinated! Lol (I'm a t-shirt sort of girl, so this is a step up for me!)

Here is their website. Www.buffusa.com. They also have them with UV protection! (Not all though)

With my sporty buff and my makeup done (I'm usually a no-makeup girl) I feel really good about myself. There are many ways to wear the buff, I just pull it on and pull the extra material into a high ponytail in the back...which comes in handy when my daughter wants a hair tie when we are out (so now I am sure to put two pony tail holders on my buff)

Here is a link to get the idea of a buff pulled into a pony tail...just ignore the hair in the photo!

http://www.itssimplyzen.com/Buff-Headwear-p/buff-storm-headwear.htm



I have not gotten "into" tying scarves. I LOVE the look, but it is so much easier for me to whip a buff on and off. I have also purchased the cotton head coverings and gone to the dollar stores to buy hair bands to layer with. Ive used that look once or twice, and liked it. Even found a black turban in a dollar store and accessorize it with a headband, or a scarf.



Yoga bands...my cousin sent me some headbands. These are them. http://yogitoes.com/tools-accessories/hband-headbands. At first I thought, "what the heck am I going to do with that!" But then I relized I could use them under my buff to catch sweat when working out, or for everyday to add a layer of coolness...they are stretchy and comfy...these are what I use for my indoor Bart Simpson look. I imagine it could also be used as the hatband "liner" when wearing a hat, to hide baldness....



So there are alternatives out there...keep looking!



Pat

kayezzy66

Hi,had my first chemo Tuesday,did ok so far,but today im pooped...more so than the other days..know i have to eat,but nothing i can think of..have 3 more to go chemos ,that is ,and the next one is the 23rd.I had the red stuff too,and i drank so much water i was floating...thanks for being here...Kay

peace777

nocomprimises2013   Going back again in a week or so to try wigs again.  Good idea to take it slow and going between wig and scarf. 
Do most women loose hair?

I know Im going to like this thread and the support you give each other.. 

dulcemaliit

Hi Hannariggs



How was your 1st treatment. I'm a day after you. I had my 1st treatment of TC yesterday, so far I'm ok. I feel really wired from the steroids & hungry. I haven't lost my sense of taste. I'm going Monday for my neulasta, they nurse said to take Claritin the morning of & 2 to 3 days after to help with bone pain. Good luck with your treatment & I hope your first one went well. Take care

Nocompromises2013

Don't worry patty smiles. There are no clippers going near my hair unless I am certain it has gone beyond the point of no return. The date is pencilled in but definately changeable. The wig shop ladies are all hairdressers and will shave your hair free when/ if you buy a wig. Yes wigs expensive the one I liked ( Reece in chilli red) was $330 I don't think anyone can really know imagine what they will feel most comfortable with

Sounds like maybe you were luckier than some with your degree of hair loss ??

Day 4 TC. No symptoms yet and bowels happy again )

honeybunny96

day 1 post 1st chemo treatment and extremely tired.  I also had severe migraine going into my treatment which didnt' help my mood.  So after we did chemo, went shopping for a few supplies that I needed post chemo came home and crashed.  I have been up for a few hours, so that's good.  But it's like bed time again.  My figure is... This will all be good, I will feel good, I will feel good, I will feel good... then I will feel good.  I just keep saying that to myself and with the positive thoughts flowing through my body, I want to believe it.  Will see after treatment 2, in 2 weeks.  

Love n light to all.  G'night

option

honeybunny96, hope things get better with the rest and meds. 

First week post treatment #1, I try to take some walk everyday. Some days definitely better than others. Had some bad diarrhea, hopefully that will pass. 

Hugs to everyone.

soriya123

Honneybunny, I hope you feel better soon.



Option, Did you use anything for your diarreah?



I wonder how sweetheartTx is doing.



All the ladies who had chemo earlier this month, I hope SE go easy on you.



My day is getting closer and I am getting nervous.

m1970

I have had a migraine since Thursday night.  It wouldn't respond to Tylenol, Ibuprophen or Alieve.  I found some Fiorecet left over from my surgery and that seems to work for a little while but I am conserving the pills because I don't know if I can get anymore.  I called in and my onc said that it may be a side effect of the Zofran, however I've been off of that for 36 hours and the headache is still here.  She suggested Compazine but I already know I can't take that (makes me extremely agitated).  She suggested I take Ativan, which I already have a rx for anxiety, so I've been doing that but sometimes Ativan can give me a hangover.  I'm trying to drink lots of water.

I feel slightly better than yesterday, so I am hoping Saturday was my worst day.  I took a bath and washed my hair this morning, so that made me feel a little better.  I'll be curious to see how I feel Monday.  I am trying to gauge how long it lasts so I can consider going back to work and what I can commit to in terms of being there.

I'm really lonely.  My son is on vacation with his Dad for a week.  People think I don't want to be disturbed, although I never said that.  I did get a few text messages.  Everyone was full of offers to bring meals after my surgery, when my Mom was here to take care of me and I declined and said please offer later when she goes home.  Now even though everyone knows I started chemo no one is offering.  My family doesn't live in town and hasnen't called.  When I call them they don't ask how I am feeling.  Really I try not to have expectations, but it feels like people are just "over" me having cancer -- especially the second time.

Hannariggs

Hi Kayezzy66,

Still hanging in there.  Just so darned fatigued.  Better that than nausea and vomiting so I am blessed.  Lost one of my caps today so off to the dentist tomorrow. Good thing I didnt swallow it!  Always something to be thankful for.  Hopefully we will all have a strong week too to battle the 2nd coming.  Chins up almost half way!!  Love and hugs.....

siatea21

Hi, my name is Tea and I am 51 years old on july 2, i just had both breast removed due to stage 2 cancel and yea i am scared because now i have an apointment on the 16th to see when i start chemo.Why do i have to do chemo if they have got it all.I have no family to support me on this or to be there with me please can someone give me answers on this ty

BabyRuth

Marsh1970-so sorry you are feeling alone at this time. I wish I lived close to you because I would be more than willing to help with whatever you needed. I know what you mean about it being hard the second time around. People do tend to respond differently and are not as quick to offer to help. Is there someone who you are comfortable asking for help? They may not realize that your son is out of town and that you are alone. I will be thinking of you and sending good thoughts your way.

Tea- if your cancer is Her2+, you will probably need chemo no matter what. I am not sure how much information you have yet but just know that you can do it. While chemo is not fun or easy it is doable. Keep us informed after your appointment on the 16th.

My chemo start date of the 18th is fast approaching. I am ready to get started but still a little scared. I hope all of you that have started are hanging in there. Stay strong firecrackers!

Kathie100

I started Chemo July 11. Sick the 3rd day and today. Not so much sick but hurting all over. I hope this is the worst cause I feel I can get thru this. My neck, jaw, chest and throat hurts more than anything. I guess this is normal. I hate just laying around also but don't have much energy. I just needed to say how I'm feeling. Thanks for being here Ladies!!!!!

soriya123

Kathie100, hang in there. I guess chemo is not easy, but seems like most women here say it "doable". So I hope my chemo on the 17th have mercy on me.

BabyRuth

soriya123- I am right behind you! You lead the way and I will bring up the rear!

Kathie100- Try to go for a walk if you can. It will really help you feel better. Also, try to drink a lot of water.

soriya123

Babyruth, I will let you know. I am praying for minimal side effects. O:-)

daisy72

kathie100, I had my first treatment on the 11th also. I woke up today with NO energy and a sore throat, neck and chest also. I was begining to worrry until I read your having the same thing today. We can do this! I'm resting all day in my recliner, my port was put in on the 10th of July, I wished I'd had it in sooner because It hurts to get up and down and sleep. They did call me in something to help me sleep, that's been a life saver! One day at a time, and I'll be glad to get back to a normal life. If there is a normal after cancer.....We got this! 

Hannariggs

Hi Marsha, 

    Hang in there honey, we are all in the same boat!   What keeps me going is knowing a family friend that has esophogil cancer and has only weeks/months to live.  I am sure he would love the chance to be given our choice at having treatments(as tough as they are).  I try to keep a stiff upper lip for those who have no choice. We will survive and live on just like millions of other women before us.  Keep the faith sisters.  We can and will do this......love to all  

honeybunny96

Hello fellow warriors. Day 2 post chemo and still have a headache. And extremely tired. I hope that tomorrow is better. I do need to get up and out, but I just have no energy. I will attempt to hit work tomorrow (work is my happy place and a way to forget about cancer and where I can be me).



Tea, depends on what your pathology report came back as? Do you know? I know when I had my DMX they said they got it all, will have to talk to the oncology but may or may not need chemo. He leaned towards no chemo. Then the pathology report came back. I don't want to scare you, but just be prepared. I am having chemo because it started to go into the node. And I want to fight. I want no regrets to this. So fight I will, even if it means having chemo. Hang in there. We will be here for you.



Love n light to all.

wyllikers

I started dose dense AC on July 11th (my birthday) and was told that taking a Claritan could help stave off the headache than can come from the Cytoxan.  The headache came and the Claritan took care of it!  I've been following the drug protocol to the letter and have had minimal side effects so far (knock wood).  No mouth sores, some loss of taste, but not much.  Enhanced sense of smell.  No bowel movements in five days, though.  I sure hate being bloated!  I was too nervous to go on the day of chemo and haven't been able to since.  I started Milk of Magnesia today.  I've been drinking tons of water and eating dried fruit, but no joy yet.  I've been napping twice a day and the steroids have not made me crazy or energized like I thought they would, but they have had a great effect on my sore shoulder!

I hope you all have a wonderful week!

Wyllikers

option

A week after round 1, changes start to emerge. Suddenly got mouth thrush and senses in the mouth are just weird. Have been rinsing diligently with salt/baking soda, though. Still haven't lost appetite, so that's good.

Scalp got more sensitive, expecting hair to fall in a week or so. Diarrhea got slightly better. 

Nocompromises2013

Good to hear your updates day 5 for me (july11th)



wyllikers ( we r same day)

hope you get a bowel Motion soon dont leave it too long before using something stronger



option

I Entirely understand the weird mouth sensations, have u tried nilstat for mouth thrush ??

Keep posting ladies. right there with you.

Rambo50

Good Monday morning Firecrackers!!!

This is the week for many of us (I begin chemo on Wednesday - Soriya, I think you do too?).  I had a wonderful weekend getaway with my mom, cousin, and aunt - it was refreshing and briefly took my mind off the fight 

LOVE hearing updates from those of you who've already begun treatment - we're all learning from you trailblazers!  Stay strong, my prayers are with you all!!!

Have to share this very minor victory - I pulled my steri strips off of my mx site ;-)  Now I'm just sticky!!!  Someone said there's an adhesive remover, so I'll have to ask the nurses when I go on Wed.

Also, found a site with beneficial info/resources:

Guide2BreastCancer - check out the "Tools" section for a meds chart and chemo calendar!

{{Hugs}} to ALL of you!

~Lynn

LanaM

I start chemo This Friday so I've been watching updates from those of you who started last week - thank you! I'm getting anxious as I'm sure we all are. We all need to keep our chins up and fight the good fight! We CAN and WILL survive! No not just survive, survive and thrive!!

Hannariggs

Good Morning Sisters!

Nonocompromise -  What are you taking to keep regular?  

I have a few questions if anyone can answer them:

Are all of you that have received treatment continually taking the zofran or only when/if needed?

Does anyone know if the continued infusions get accumulative or are the side effects basically the same?  

   

    

zimmy

Had my first TC Friday July 12. Later that night I noticed tingling and burning in toes, feet and a tingling aroung my lips and mouth.

I am afarid this is the start of neuropathy, it happen so fast! Has anyone else had this happen ?  I am worried I will not be able to continue with the chemo.

dfwmom70

Start neoadjuvant chemo tomorrow. I'm scared but ready. I'm eager to start something that has an end.



Today I have scans out the wazoo. I think I am more nervous about those results.

Mellie289

Good morning, Firecrackers! I spent an exhausting weekend moving my boyfriend out of his apartment (starting Friday night) and into my townhouse. I still have boxes in my car and it's going to take weeks getting his stuff put somewhere "away" in here, but I'm so glad he'll be here with me once I start chemo.

I got news of my FISH result on Friday that my Her2 is not amplified. I'm so happy I'm not going to have a year of herceptin! Lymphedema clinic tomorrow to get my arm measured and some info finally, but I don't see my onc until next Tuesday, so no date yet to start. She was waiting on the FISH results from my first oncologist to decide on treatment course, so I'm going to call today to make sure she got the faxed results and can order the chemo meds so I can ASAP.

I'm sorry to hear about the SE those of you who started are suffering. It's making me very nervous and I'm seriously considering fasting before my chemo as I've seen on here per the Valter Longo studies. My first oncologist thought it couldn't hurt. The second one thought it wasn't a good idea because people doing clinical trials with fasting would have a lot of support. I might do it anyway, although I don't know that I can go 4 days without food because I like to eat too much! LOL!

Tea - sorry you are feeling so alone. I know how you feel! A couple weeks after my surgery, things were shaky with my boyfriend for a bit and I wasn't sure that he'd be here with me through this. My family lives about 3000 miles away and I don't have a lot of close friends nearby, having moved to this area for work 5 years ago. I was feeling really isolated and devastated by the idea of facing chemo alone. 

We're here for emotional support, but there might be some local support available to you to help you get through chemo. Depending where you are, there are volunteers with the American Cancer Society that can drive you to and from treatment if you sign up for their transportation program. You might also be able to get your home cleaned while you're going through chemo through Cleaning for a Reason. I hope your onocologist will put you in touch with a local support group.