Starting Treatment

MHerzberg

I went to my oncologist this post week and got our plan of attack together.

I go tomorrow for a MUGA heart test for the baseline reading. Then Tuesday I have surgery to "install" my port.

I start chemo on the 25th, paclitaxel. I'm not sure what to expect as the side effects vary so much. I will have 12 round of this, along with Herceptin, but that is for the next year every 3 weeks.

After I an through with chemo I will begin radiation, 6 weeks of that. I will also start Tamoxifen for the next 5 years.

So this is a long road ahead, but I'm ready for it.

ElaineTherese

Hi!

Just some thoughts....

While going through chemo, it was very helpful to be a part of a group also going through chemo. If you haven't already, I'd suggest that you join the Starting Chemo in January 2018 board:

https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/69/topics/860990?page=4#post_5127050

Personally, I found Taxol (paclitaxel) and Herceptin to be manageable. You do lose your hair, so you might as well get your preferred head coverings ready. (I went for a wig.)

Taxol can also cause diarrhea; mine was mild and I managed it with Imodium.

Taxol can cause peripheral neuropathy; some ice their feet and fingers. I had very mild neuropathy in my fingertips.

Taxol can make things taste awful. I remember eating a lot of really bland foods while on Taxol.

Yes, triple positive breast cancer is a marathon not a sprint! Best wishes!

IntegraGirl

Just remember that it's like eating an elephant: one bite at a time. I was diagnosed almost a year ago and it was quite the year....but I got through it and so will you

LKinKC

Hi we must have been constructing our posts at the same time. Mine is titled starting chemo in January hopefully to get us newbees with chemo this month to connect. Good luck with your port placement on Tuesday