Preparing for AC-T

July2017

Hi, so scared to start this next process. AC-T starts next Wednesday.

Any recommendations, words of wisdom!? Would appreciate support and help.

Me being vulnerable and asking!

C

Denise-G

Looking back, I wish I would have asked my doctor to prescribe me Ativan before chemo started. It is so frightening to begin.

And they give you Ativan during chemo, so why not before it begins?

A few years after my year of treatment, my sister was diagnosed. I told her to get an Ativan script which she did. It REALLY helped

her on the first day of chemo. She only took it when she really needed it.

I'm not big on pills, but I do think it is helpful.

ElaineTherese

Hmm.... Well, I bought my wig before AC-T, which was helpful. I also had my hair buzzed off before it started falling out. I just wanted to get ahead of the game.

I was worried about nausea and vomiting, but I never had those side effects. Nevertheless, I filled prescriptions for two anti-nausea drugs, just in case.

I often advise new chemo people to keep a journal of side effects so they can anticipate them. For example, Taxol gave me diarrhea two days after I had chemo (Friday). So, I would take Imodium first thing on Friday.

I also had a prescription for Ativan while on chemo but used it as sleeping medication. They give you steroids with your chemo, and they can keep you up at night!

I worked through chemo, but took it easy. I worked at home a lot and my boss agreed to reduce some of my work duties.

I guess I would just tell you not to expect too much of yourself while on chemo. The house isn't perfect? Whatever. And, if people ask if they can help, say "Yes!" It helps to have a list of specific requests so people know how they can help you. I really needed help with picking my daughter up from sports practices. It was so nice to know that others could help out with that!

Good luck!