Starting chemo

Seebha

I am starting chemo next month and am really scared, is it too tough? Do I have to be in bed all the time? Can I go for groceries, dropping my kids to school........??????

Moderators

Seebha, you'll find much more information at the Chemotherapy section of the main Breastcancer.org site, including articles on Dealing with Chemotherapy Fears, and Chemotherapy: What to Expect.

What type of chemotherapy will you be receiving?

You may want to join the Starting Chemo July 2013 thread too, to connect with others at the same stage of treatment with you.

sciencegal

Hi Seebha. I know it is scary. I worked all through chemo but it was hard because I was tired all the time. I definitely needed naps in the afternoon.

Shopping was no problem, I always love shopping.

I dont have kids, how old are yours? do you have ayone to help you with them?
I am so sorry you have to do chemo but honestly, it goes by pretty fast and then life can resume. I am pretty much back to "normal" now, four months later. All SEs including the edema are gone now. brows and lashes I think are starting to grow back. Energy levels are back to my pre-chemo days.

GOOD LUCK!!!!

christina0001

For most of us, chemo is not like what you have seen in the movies. Everyone is different, but for me, I had 4 days after each treatment (days 4 through 7) where my energy level was low, and I spent a lot of time lying on the couch. Didn't get up for much other than to use the bathroom, prepare simple meals, etc. Other than that I was able to work full time, take care of housework, etc. You are sure to get lots of advice here: the best suggestions I can make are to stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If you need to rest, rest. If you feel good, do what you need to do. Pace yourself; try to not overdue it. In the beginning chemo seems impossibly scary, but it is doable. Good luck!