My Chemo Journey, sharing for us newbies

Anonymous

1st Chemo Dec. 22, 2015

Sequence of events: Access port, no problem or pain. I did use the lidocaine cream 2 hours before my appointment, slathered it on and covered it with saran wrap. 1st they hung saline, then tarteted drug Perjeta for 1 hour. Then 1 hour of observation for any reactions. All good. Then they hung taregeted drug Herceptin, took an hour. By this time, though, I'm full of extra liquid and had to unplug myself and lug my stuff to the potty twice, lol! This I would repeat many times during the long day. I'm 59 and when I got to go I got to go! I made sure that I wore a poise pad just in case and I'm glad I did. So then comes the bad boy, Taxotere. Before I could have this major drug, the hair stealer, I had to have two separate bags of anti nausea medicine and steroids. I did not get the name of them but I will next time. That took probably 30-45 minutes to drain those then the nurse hung the Taxotere which took a full hour and a half + bathroom breaks. After the Taxotere came Carboplatin for another hour. Then flush port, add a Herceptin block so it does not clot, remove needle, and off we went. After another potty trip! This was an 8 hour in the chair day. The rest will be at least 2 hours shorter because they can drip faster since I tolerated it well. The next two weeks will be short 30 minute appointments of Herceptin only drips, then another long 4 drug infusion. And so on for the next four and a half months. Make sure to bring snacks and drinks with you, my little pillow was a blessing. They have wifi and blankets, comfy reclining chairs, and room for a friend.

This morning I feel...not too bad! A bit shaky, no nausea. Hungry from all the steroids I think. So glad to have the first one behind me I'm extremely comfortable with the chemo nurses, my Dr., and his treatment plan. What a relief! Hang in there ladies I'm with you in spirit!

Emalyn

Birdie56

Thank you! This helps me understand what I will be facing tomorrow.  I found this post by searching "What to bring to my first infusion"  Your post was two years ago.  I hope you are doing well now. 

Emalyn