November 2009-Starting Chemo

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  • MeNeverMind
    MeNeverMind Member Posts: 42
    edited November 2009

    Ok so I spent the money on the price mouth wash and it was all I could do to spit it out before I puked.  I was thinking of doing the salt water anyway.  I just feel like crap.  I have had a whole bottle of tums today and I just want to sleep.  For like a year.  I think I have to go to work tomorrow but I might stay home Thursday or Friday.  Who know.  I talk to ya'll in the morning.

    Love Kimmy

    ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

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  • kayh
    kayh Member Posts: 37
    edited November 2009

    G'day Everyone,

    Just found this page today. Had my opp 3 weeks ago [ Partial masectomy & sentinel node excision]  and I am feeling very well.  Going to see the Radiation oncologist tomorrow and start chemo on 19th Nov.  I have an Education Session at the hospital on 16th, so I don't know exactly what I am going to get yet. My Medical oncologist says I will be having chemo every 3 weeks for 18 weeks. 

    I expect radiation will not start until after chemo is finished.

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  • Shel
    Shel Member Posts: 41
    edited November 2009

    Good morning, sisters.  I do feel better today -- day 7 for me.  I couldn't eat a real meal, but I can get stuff down and it is beginning to taste more normal, especially fruit.

    Someone asked about diet.  I am going to go over on the "nature girls" thread in the Alternative section and ask about dairy.  I understand the fruit and veggies, non-processed, no-red meat thing, but don't know exactly why dairy is bad.  I eat a lot of yogurt and really think that has helped me feel more normal through this. 

    Welcome to our new international sisters.  And I want to add my thanks to Brenda for keeping all this gong.

    Have a good day, everyone. 

    Shelley

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  • Melinda41
    Melinda41 Member Posts: 672
    edited November 2009

    I have a question or two now that I know my schedule.

    Do you drive yourself to chemo and back. My family thinks I need someone to take me, but I don't know. You don't start to feel bad immediately do you?

    I also need to be at my best on weekends, that is when I work at the nursing home. During the week, I homeschool and babysit. My chemo days can be either Friday or Monday, the onc said I should have chemo on Monday and I will feel better by Saturday. I was thinking if I had chemo on Friday, I would still feel OK on Saturday.

    Or maybe I need to stop trying to schedule side effects and learn to be more flexible!

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  • MeNeverMind
    MeNeverMind Member Posts: 42
    edited November 2009

    Good Morning All.  I hope all my great sisters had a good night.  I was good till about 2:30am.  About an hour before the alarm was to go off I woke up feeling like crap.  I finally today let my guts out, so to speak.  Not nice.  So I am at home.  And I must admitt it feels nice to get some sleep.  I just wish I felt better.  But atleast now I have puked on chemo.  I can not stand the smell in my nose.  I first noticed it on Monday, but it's so bad now.  I just wanted to let everyone know  how I was and now I am going back to sleep.  Maybe I will go into work later?  Maybe not. 

    Have a great day all.  Love Kimmy ((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))

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  • BrendaSharon
    BrendaSharon Member Posts: 506
    edited November 2009

    WELCOME "Warrior Sister"

    KAYH!!!!

    Sorry you had to join this board, but you will be glad you did! You will find a lot af good advice here.  Us "Warriors" are warm hearted and can help in many ways. I believe you are the 3rd lady we have now from down under. It is interesting to see sisters from all over. Just know you can cry, scream, laugh do what ever you wish. This board does help us to VENT when we need to. I will add you to the above list. hen you find out the type of (Meds) just let me know so I can update.

    LiveLife,

    Thanks so much for the compliment!! Hope you sleep well tonight!!  I don't know how you or doronet can give your own shots!!! I would truly freak out!! you are "Warriors" for sure.Again a big welcome to you. You definitely will have somewhere to go on those quite evenings now.

    DORONET!!!

    net,net, net You are so funny!!   Laughing   I do believe you are the "Warrior Whimp" YellUndecidedSurprised champ for sure!!!!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~HANDS DOWN!!! But your doing good with the shots, so good for you!!! You did make me giggle, not at you, but with you girlfriend!! You go BABY, we love ya just the way you are!!!

    Kimmy,

    My gosh, are they proud of that Biotine mouthwash or what!  I'm sorry you don't feel well. I see you are on lots of TUMS. Have you talked to your Doc about maybe taking Previcid or Prilosec? BUT, remember If they think you need it and have insurance, ask them to prescribe you something for the acid reflex. Mine is prescribed and it is way cheaper than the over the counter drug!!!! WAY cheaper!!!!! $4.00 a month versus bout $20.00 Oh Lordy, I'm so sorry you got ill last night!!! Girl go get you some well deserved rest and wake up feeling better.

    CoolBreeze,

    Soya, soy????? I am wondering myself if we can have Chinese food because of the soy sauce. I wonder who might know if there is a difference between the soy and soya? Should I stop eating Chinese?? If I must I must. SUCKS!!! Enjoy the LGFB class on Monday!!! Nice stuff!!

    Alicia,

    Just an FYI, My headaches took about till day ten before they lightened up for me! The Tylenol did help some, not completely though, but enough to be able to deal with it. Now, two weeks post-chemo I don't have any headache. Started a slight one this am, but I think I'm catching a cold from DH. Oh, and Alicia my hip-hair came back already. I was trying to figure out how to put a picture in here, but don't know how. Do you know how to add pictures in here? I can get it on the main heading but not in my post.

    Shel,

    I'm so glad your feeling better!!! And, you are so welcome. I'm enjoying this. I get confused sometimes but I'm gonna keep on keep on trying. Yes, the Yogurt thing I hope it's OK, because I eat it everyday. If you hear anything about NO yogurt, let me know. Thanks in advance.

    MELINDA!!!    Hip-Hip-Hurray!!!!!!!!!!!!!!        Laughing

    So happy for you, NO METS!!!  YEAH!!!!!! I know you still have a lot to deal with, but one less thing is fantastic!! I will update you on the above roll call!! Again, Ya-Whoooooooo

    Well my fellow "Warriors" may all have a wonderful day as can be expected!!!

    ((((((((((HUGS)))))))))) Brenda

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  • mommy2two
    mommy2two Member Posts: 130
    edited November 2009

    Melinda41 - I drive myself to and from chemo because I work 1/2 a day before going on Fridays.  Someone meets me there and stays with me but I felt fine afterwards...I have my chemo scheduled for Friday afternoons and I'm probably not the expert since I've only had one tx so far but I felt fine Friday-Monday.  Tuesday (Day 4), I felt like I had the flu and didn't get out of bed.  Wednesday.  I went back to work and have felt pretty good since.

    MeNeverMind - Sorry you don't feel good today.  Hope you get some rest today!

    This is Day 12 for me and my head is sore and my hair is coming out everytime I touch it.  My husband is going to shave it for me tonight.  I was going to shave it sooner but couldn't work up the nerve.  I knew this was coming and I thought I was ready but I had a major crying jag in the shower this morning.  I hope I don't shed all over work today.  I'm feeling sorry for myself today and I know it's only hair but it sucks when it falls out and I HATE it!  So, I guess that is enough whining for today...sorry! 

    Hope you all enjoy your day!

    (((((HUGS))))

    Toyah 

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  • BrendaSharon
    BrendaSharon Member Posts: 506
    edited November 2009

    "Warrior Sisters" Attention all NEWBIES

    The letter below is one I recieved form a company who will send you a free silk scarf. Please feel free to go th the website and pick one out. The email is the address you send your request to. It takes about 4 weeks, but well worth the request. They are kind and generous, don't be shy.

    Here is the letter I recieved (I copied and pasted so y'all could see) when I made my request.
    Letter begins: 
    Hello,
    I'm very new to the TNBC foundation and am thrilled to have found this resource.  As a tech challenged person, it took me awhile to figure out how to even post a message.  My name is Laurie Erickson and I am the CEO of a fashion accessory company located in Washington State.  A few years ago I launched a program called Good Wishes scarves - a program where my company makes one, free of charge, silk scarf or headwrap for women experiencing hair loss.  This program was borne as a result of an email I received from a loyal customer, Hillary, who bought hair accessories from my company.  She wrote to our customer care address and asked if we had any products for women who are losing or have lost their hair.  I replied no at the time, but offered to make her a scarf at no charge, in a color of her choosing.  When her scarf was completed, we had a staff meeting and had a moment for this terrific woman, silently sending her Good Wishes.  After receiving her scarf, we communicated from time to time and I told Hillary that should she meet anyone along her journey, who might enjoy a Good Wishes scarf to please let me know and I would happily have our factory make one for her - she told me that her Good Wishes scarf had brought her comfort during her chemo sessions.   At a subsequent Chemotherapy session, Hillary met a woman who learned of our fledgling program and requested a scarf - we were so happy to know that our desire to give was becoming a reality. 
     
    I have really struggled to connect, to give, to share our scarves with women.  It seems so odd to have the ability to give and KNOW the need is out there, but struggle to find the bridge to get that done.  Fortunately, I spoke with Malaak Compton Rock earlier this week and she told me about TNBC - I was so happy when we spoke and I said "you're my Bridge!" - she was as always just lovely and helpful and I am absolutely optimistic.  My head has been spinning with ideas and so I write to you here to help me spread the word. It's very simple.  My company works with hundreds of different silks and cottons.  I will give as much as I possibly can to the community of women who are undergoing or experiencing an event where she is losing her hair.  I have two options at this time; a scarf (which can be a bit cumbersome for some) or a headwrap called "It's a Wrap".  I will send you one at no charge.  We don't have these all up on our website yet at www.franceluxe.com, but I can send you swatches or a scan of the available fabrics at this time. 
     
    If you or someone you know would enjoy either a scarf or an It's a Wrap - please email me at laurie@franceluxe.com and me and my staff will work to get it done for you.
     
    In closing, I've worked in the fashion accessories industry for over 20 years.  It is an honor and a pleasure to put smiles on faces through sharing our work - I believe in the power of sending good wishes.
     
    Thank you and I look forward to working together with you to perhaps send some comfort to women from women.

    Letter ends here!!!

    Don't forget to check out and register at www.heavenlyhats.com  for more FREE hats

    So girls what do you think??????? Make your request!!! Brenda

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  • livelife
    livelife Member Posts: 38
    edited November 2009

    Hi. Been looking forward to catching up with you all but had a headache so waited for painkillers to kick in- which has taken about 6 hours. It is amazing isn't it- normally if I get a headache a few painkillers and I am back to normal after 30 minutes. That is one of the good things about sharing with you all- you read about sisters thousands of miles awaywho have exactly the same issue- Brenda, Alicia- which is good (in a not so good way).

    Hope I haven't got you all worried about the non dairy thing- Shel and Brenda after reading the book  where it was mentioned I did try and read more of the science but didn't get very far. I am sticking with it just because it has me eating in a much healthier way- I think I would be sat here eating chocolate and cake 24 hours a day otherwise. It was frustrating in the book by Jane Plant that she didn't say whether her breast cancer was estrogen positive ( or oestrogen... UK spelling). Talking of food instead of stuffing my face with choclate I stuffed my face with a bag of spicy crisps ( uk word- think you might call them chips???- fried thin potato snacks?) this afternoon- oh my goodness they slashed my mouth to ribbons !!!

    I was wondering how many of you are taking time off work- I noticed a few sisters- melinda, me nevermind, mommy2two- talking about going to work. I have been off since my surgery Septemeber and probably wont be back until Summer 2010- after chemo and next mastectomy.

    Out with my children tonight to see a comedian doing a massive gig, he is called Michael MacIntyre, he has just made it big in the UK- he might have some stuff on Youtube. I think humour is a great help in these not as funny as normal times. 

    Welcome kayh- I was only welcomed myself on Monday/Tuesday (allowing for our international time span) and here I am on Wednesday feeling so very much part of the group. I think this group of friends are people we will never forget.

    Enjoy your day- which ever part of our lovely world you are in. livelife/natalie xxx

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  • JustmeAlicia
    JustmeAlicia Member Posts: 1,529
    edited November 2009

    Morning girls.  KIMMY sorry you had to give in and do the puke thing, but hopefully it gave you relief.  I hope you treat yourself and take the day to rest.... 

    For me the headache is crippling.  I have been up since 5 am ~ and I spent about a good hour crying in pain with the headache and just utter despair feeling.  I have a call into my Oncologist.  I would love some vicodens to help with these headaches.  THEY SUCK! 

    But ~ I am going to rally and take my kids who are off for Veteran's Day to see their cousins and grandma !   

    I believe no one starts chemo today ~ so I hope everyone has a good day.  Brenda I so want to see your Hip Hat HAIR, but now your rockin' bald girlfriend.  Toyah, thanks for sharing your hair is coming out.  THAT means I'm next.  UGH ~  BIG hugs honey.  Just think of the fun wigs we will be able to play with.  I have 2 wigs and 1 halo of hair to wear with hats. 

    Good day girls !  ((((((HUGS))))))

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  • BrendaSharon
    BrendaSharon Member Posts: 506
    edited November 2009

    My picture shown today is one with my new Hip-Hair for Hats that came in yesterday. It is my own hair that I cut and sent off the first day I received Chemo. My hubby said I look like my ole self again. He was pleased, but added that i only need where it if I want to. He loves  me with or without and said he was getting used to the beautiful me even with the bald look. He said I had a pretty head with or without hair.  So Sweet and such a good liar, gotta love him XXXX I Do!!!~~~~

     I can't believe what a good job they done, came all pretty packaged and all with a pretty bow, etc

    To all a good afternoon, I'm kinda dizzy today, think I'm getting sick~~maybe catching hubby's illness from earlier in the week. Keeping my fingers crossed.

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  • JustmeAlicia
    JustmeAlicia Member Posts: 1,529
    edited November 2009

    LOOKS great Brenda and that hubby of yours is a special guy !!

    :)

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  • Mouse6694
    Mouse6694 Member Posts: 88
    edited November 2009
    Hello girls today is day 9 and feeling better. JustmeAlicia i too am having those horrible headaches i have leftover pain meds to help but they suck. have you gotten a t/e fill yet? Going fri. just curious as what to expect. Melinda Great news on your scan. BrendaShore Love the hair for hats, sending mine out today. Cut it myself and the kids are laughing at my hair because some chunks were closer to the scalp than others. Mommy2two I put off the hair cut forever too but once you do it you will feel better because you took it and not the cancer. i found it easier to do myself rather than have a audience, but your choice everyone is different. Kimmy sorry to hear you are feeling so sick just sleep and hopefully it will pass with time.
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  • deletemyaccount
    deletemyaccount Member Posts: 17
    edited November 2009

    Hi Ladies, sorry so silent on my end.  Today is day Six for me and I'm beginning to feel normal, I *think* Went back to oncologist today for just Herceptin (HER2+ for me) and my counts were low so I had to get a shot --  not the neulasta shot, but a shorter acting version of it? Anyway, my stomach is a mess.  My Dr. did not prescribe Emend for the first TX, but once I told him of my issues today (crippling constipation) he gave me a RX for next time.  Can anyone share with me (TMI I know but I need to  know) if hte Emend caused them to get constipated?

    BrendaShore: Congrats on the new Hip Hat Hair -- that is awesome! I bought two wigs but can't bring myself to have boyfriend shave my head yet.  I suppose I need to do it this weekend.  It will be one week out for me.

    Kimmy, hope so much by the time you get back on the board you are feeling better.  Getting sick blows, no pun intended.

    JustMeAlicia, I had headaches for hte first three days and then they pretty much passed.  Today one is back but I think it's from the Herceptin and/or the shot to make me grow white blood cells //grin . In any case, I'm loading up on Tylenol.  If it gets really bad I have some darvocet left over from the surgery at home.  Do you have any good pain meds or are you OTC?

    Mommy2Two, I hear you.  I seem to cry all the time lately, and feel as if I could cry now if I let myself.

    Peace and love to all of you today  Remember, this too shall pass.  Susie

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  • MeNeverMind
    MeNeverMind Member Posts: 42
    edited November 2009

    Good Afternoon.  So I have slept all morning and feel better.  I let myself upchuck this morning in hopes that I just had a bug and that it would get out of my system.  I am on a pepcid a day and yes tuns of tums.  I feel lucky that I am not having the headaches like lots of people seem to be dealling with.  I am sleeping good with very little pain.  So maybe I just needed to baby myself today.  My hubby is WORRIED that this is only me a week after treatment 1, and how am I going to feel in 3 months.  I quess I am afraid of the same thing.  Before this morning I had a screaming crying fit in the bathroom.  I can't be strong forever.  I think I did good for a week.  Now I had my breakdown and I am set for another week.  I am really going to have to pay alot more attention to what and when I eat.  It seems that meat and cheese is not good.  But bread is great.  And soup is my favorite.  Chocolate seems to be nice as well.  I am just trying to figure a way to get this smell out of my nose.  I was thinking about it and I know that OLD people near the end get a smell.  I think that is what I am smelling.  Thank goodness nobody else can smell it but me.  But it still gross.  Oh had blood work done yesterday.  My numbers were down but right where they should be.  They said Ilooked really good.  I quess thats good.    Hope everyone is going to have a great day.  Talk to you later.  Off to take a nap.  Love Kimmy ((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))))

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  • doronet
    doronet Member Posts: 342
    edited November 2009

    I agree with mommy2two:  BrendaShar...HOW CAN YOU KEEP IT ALL STRAIGHT??!!  I am reading postings, trying to remember "who" to answer "what" about and am scrolling back and forth and back and forth and up and down til I'm dizzy!!!  Thank you so much, B, for keeping us all straight, informed, and together!!  You did us all a huge service just starting this thread and then to keep it going??!!  Hats (and wraps and wigs) off to you!   

    hmmm...to comment on some of the earlier postings...

    Re:  Neupogen (to improve white cell count) are the daily shots for me: 8 days starting on day 3.  Neulasta is the one-shot-after chem-day and lasts for 2 weeks, but with stronger side effects.  Salt/soda mouth rinse is all I've used and I've no mouth sores, yet.  I premake a few days worth, keep it in the fridge, and warm it in the micro. before using.  My instructions are to use it after eating anything and often during the day to "keep the mouth cleansed and moist."

    Re: Scheduling TX day...After my first (and only, so far) TX,  and I know that whenthe SEs hit are truly different for everyone,  I felt my worst the next evening when I felt like I was coming down with the flu. So a Friday TX for me prob. wouldn't have worked out.  As it was this last time, with a Tuesday TX day, I was feeling better by the weekend.

     Re:  Soy...  it is my understanding that if soy is only a small ingredient in the food, that it's okay. The soy supplements or foods with mostly soy are very very very bad for us, E+ women.

    Re:  heartburn...Pepcid AC works for me, as needed, but my burn has been sporadic and mainly based on what I've eaten right before that, ie not as severe as others have mentioned.

    Re: headaches...I was a 2 per week migraine sufferer until this.  Mentioned to my chem-nurse what I should do if I got one.  Wasn't sure I could still take my ol' Imitrex and Fiorinol.  She said if I got a migraine, to call the office, as she didn't know about the interaction of Imitrex with the TX.  Luckily, I've only had one bad one, and I know that was due to caffeine withdrawal, because I no longer have the taste for my beloved coffee.  I can honestly feel for everyone having to deal with the headaches on top of everything else. 

    Re: working...I was a substitute teacher for the last 9 years (taught school for 10 years pre-children), but have stopped doing that until all of this is over.  Am hoping to at least get some days in the last few months of the school year.  I miss subbing terribly, as I love, love, love teaching, but it will have to wait. I'm so blessed that I don't have to work and I tremendously admire those of you who are going through all of this and still hold down a job.  Is there a word stronger than "warrior"?!

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  • CoolBreeze
    CoolBreeze Member Posts: 4,668
    edited November 2009

    Doronot, I am a migraine sufferer too - my biggest feaar of an SE is migraine.  I am trying to save my meager supply of imitrex for when I get chemo as my oncologist  was very non-committal about treating me for migraine side effects.  I And, the nurse just thought I was a whiner when I mentioned it so I wish her the biggest, nastiest migraine ever so she knows what it's like.  I sometimes get 20 a month - very debilitating as you know and have had them for 22 years.  I only get four shots and 9 pills (imitrex) a month, so I also take fioricet and norco.  I will NOT be able to finish chemo or herceptin if I get the dreaded herceptin headache,which for me will be aa full-blown migraine.   Somebody is going to either have to get me more imitrex or get me percocet or something! (By the way, my doctors don't think there is any problem with imitrex during chemo - I'd give up chemo first - see what migraines have done to me?.) All these stories of headaches are freaking me out because for me, it's never "just" a headache.

    I also work in a school as a school secretary. My onc says it's up to me if I go back in that environment or not.  I'm thinking not right now.

    BrendaSharon, that picture is tiny but I can see the lovely hair. I'm glad it came out so well.  I guess next week I'll start wig shopping.  I have my prescription for a cranial prothesis. :)  Oh my, I'm going to be the uglist bald women in the history of bald women.  No Sinead O'Conner look for me. Ack.  Hey, maybe I have a birthmark or something there, who knows?

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  • BrendaSharon
    BrendaSharon Member Posts: 506
    edited November 2009

    Susie,

    So good to see you. I was quite worried about you. The "Emend" did make me slightly constipated, but not bad. I ate about 4 prunes a day for 3 days and was fine. I can't get those "SmartPrunes" here in my small town. I didn't think of it when I went to the city of Tallahassee either. Oh well, the regular prunes will do. And,portergirl the "Emend" is worth it!!! 

    Oh yeah and my hair when it came in yesterday, I cried as hard as when I had it all cut off two weeks ago. I was getting frustrated cuz it wasn't here yet, so I took a pic of my bald (fuzzy blonde) head and sent it to "Facebook" Kinda freaked my 36 yr. ole son out. Right after I did it here came UPS with my Hip-Hat-Hair. Then I sent that pic to "Facebook" Boy was he happy to see that. Then I didn't even wear it all night. Hubby doesn't care, so I left it off. It really is comfortable not having hair on my head. I believe today is the day I would actually have started to loose my hair though.  My scalp is starting to hurt and my head is soooo frigging itchy. BUT, it might be this cold trying to come on also. I'd rather the hair, I don't want to be sick at all!!~~~~

    Net & Toyah,

    PLEASE, and Thankyou!!!! I am not all that brilliant. I too must scroll up and down and back and forth, then up and down again. I take notes and dot my i's and cross my t's and hope I don't miss anything.  This past weekend got really rough with over 65 posts in a weekend. I promised DH I would leave the weekends for him. (I did sneak a peak to see how all was, just didn't post,Shhh) Toyah, You said your hair has started to come out? I think I should have started too, but the fuzz is still there. I sure hope I didn't cut all mine off like a brave "Warrior" for NADA.  My head does hurt some and is itchy, is this a sign?

    Net,why do you spose I don't get Nulasta or Nupogeon? Not that I'm complaining. Enough is enough already, but so strange the different meds. No one is on what I'm on. If they are for fighting infection or boosting cells, why don't they give it to me as well? The only word stronger than "Warrior"would be "Gladiator" They where the The Kings of Warriors" !!! So I guess in our case, we would be:                 "The Queens of Warriors"

    Guess I can have my Chinese?? Right???

    AroninMia & Sherri,

    Toa really good day tomorrow!!! Try not to stress. REMEMBER, drink a lot of liquids starting today, then drink some more, when done with that DRINK EVEN MORE!!! Also, don't go on an empty stomach. If you already have acid reflex be sure to take pepcid or something to that effect. It doesn't interfere with chemo. Popsicles are my only other thought while in Chemo!! Trust me when I say, You will feel better to finally get this underway. I realize you won't believe it until you yourself get thru this part of your journey. May everything go smooth. You are in all of our hearts and in our prayers tonight!!!!!

    To all a good nights sleep,

    (((((HUGS))))) BrendaSharon

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  • ccnani
    ccnani Member Posts: 46
    edited November 2009

    Good mornin all my sisters! I started a post last nite and it got lost in cyber space, so have to start over. All us LADIES IN WAITING are really benefiting from all you sisters honest, sincere posts re. SEs and how you are dealing with them. You are SO BRAVE!!! None of us will be taken by surprise when it's our turn because of your willingness to share so openly!!

    BrendSharon, I think you are rocking the hip hat hair thing looking good sister, and that hubby of yours is GREAT!!! I saw your post re. the TOPIC, but didn't know where or how to go see it, can you direct me?? Still don't no how to work all this site. Just kind of figured out the happy face stuff I'm going to try it . BTW, BRENDA, we all need to have each others backs and you are an inspiration to me and ALL us GIRLS, you keep me thinking I can do this too!! 

    Sister renee thank you!!! Your video was amazing and we are all facing this HAIR THING together with a little help from our Been There Done That Sisters .

    COOLBREEZE, I'm signed up for Look Good on Dec. 2nd. I'm glad your going too!! Hope we have a good time there!!

    Alicia, I was happy to hear about minimal SEs from Neulasta, but felt so bad about your headaches!!! Are you allowed to take Excedrin Migrain, Tylenol PM, or Ibuprofin 800 ? Check with ONC cause those could help u out with the headaches. Looks like you are not alone in this, some of the other sisters mentioned bad headaches too!!!

    Melinda, Hooray!! No mets!! Thats a big plus. About your question re. driving yourself to and from chemo. I asked my ONC nurse and she said NO WAY, cause of some of the pre-meds they put into the infusion before chemo. You probably need to verify with you ONC, especially if they give you pre-meds. About scheduling for your work, you won't know how or when will be your best days till your 1st TX, your ONC probably can guess that one.

    Doronet ,dear sister so glad u had breakthru on stomach issues, but sounds like you are having a rough time, I am feelin so bad about that. You are in my prayers. You made me LOL when you explained how you used all those special distractions to get thru that shot!! You are definitely very creative and it worked!! Take all the meds you need. I never want to take any DRUGS, but I"M planning on getting BOMBED the night before and day of the CHEMO, which is the 17th, the day of your 2nd TX. It's ALL GOOD my sister, you just keep on fighting and I'm so glad your hubby is there 4 U. None of this makes you or any of us BABIES!!!

    Mommy2two, glad to hear U are doing pretty good . You are a real trooper. How is your family doing?

    Shel, Sister was right you can buy prevacid or the other , OTC, but are cheaper with RX. Those would really help you fight these SEs. So glad your day 7 is going better and that things are looking up.

    CAFELOVR , Glad to see your post. You, me, Mouse and Doronet get TX on 11/17, heres hoping we will have a smooth sail. I'm praying your liver biopsy is going to come back clean, NO METS!!!!!! Good luck sister.

    Kimmy so glad that you and your man are pulling closer, just goes to show that sometimes hard times will draw us together!! Wow, who knew that soup could taste that good and settle your tummy, glad it tastes good and the chocolate milk too!! So sorry U feel bad today and had to PUKE, I hate to PUKE I'd rather have the runs. I's just so RAW and Wretching!! Hope thats over now!! Stay home rest and regenerate today! Don't no about the  smell in the nose thing, that seems to be a new one, maybe one of the other sisters has a clue!!

    Sherri, Glad U enjoyed Look Good Class and got a great wig. I'm going on dec. 2nd. I was glad to hear you had a nice dinner with your man, thats the best!! Have you got FISH result? Your 1st TX is coming up on the 12th, U are in my heart.

    LIVELIFE, you are a comedienne, I was rollin when you talked about tapeing up your saggy left girl to match your rock hard right one LOL. I have two rocks myself but I guess they match sort of !! Hope your fancy nite out goes very well and your GIRLS match up!! Just think when this is over, we will have the FOOBS of 20 yr. olds, looking good !!! Re. soy, you are estrogen + so you should avoid soy cause it feeds your cancer and as far as diets, you say your at a big cancer center in UK so they should have a dietician there make an appt. but as far as I know  the ticket is everything in moderation and don't leave out any food group!! Good luck sis we are all tugging for you!!

    Welcome sister KAYE, another Aussie girl  We love this international group of Warriors. Come on in and meet your new sisters!!!

     Well sisters I had a not so pleasing talk with the ONC nurse and she basically blew me off about the Emend and the Neupogen, she stated " Oh we have never had to use those meds on our patients!!!_____REALLY???? I don't think they know what UP FRONT means!!! I'm going to have to fight with the ONC about this the day of 1st TX!! This sucks!! Like BrendaSharon and other sisters have posted I guess the GOOD STUFF, is reserved for the rich and famous of which I am neither. She said I only get Compazine, which I believe is what sister COOLBREEZE is getting.  For all the other sisters I'm hoping today will be a better day and that the sisters coming up on the 12th will do great!! Meanwhile I send alota love out to you all. Oh I forgot , I got reg. flu vaccine and H1N1 , I feel ok just a little achey, but still ticked off re meds. Bless us all!!!

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  • AroninMIA
    AroninMIA Member Posts: 18
    edited November 2009

    Hi All,

    It's the evening before TX day, and I am nervous.  Once question that just jumped into my mind... I go to the clinic at 9 am, so should I eat breakfast?  Or would it be better to go on an empty stomach?  You would think I would have asked my onco nurse this question last week when I saw her!

    Ladies?

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  • BrendaSharon
    BrendaSharon Member Posts: 506
    edited November 2009

    AroninMia

    Do not go on an empty stomach, Please take care.

    Be sure to drink as much H2O as you can today as well.

    (((((HUGS))))) You will feel better once you have made it thru tomorrow!!!! Your journey will have started and you can then get on with life. Trust me, once you have been the Sheer terror & the Fear will be over, it gets better.

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  • AroninMIA
    AroninMIA Member Posts: 18
    edited November 2009

    Thank you thank you thank you BrendaSharon! 

     Appreciate the advice and encouragement.  Am a little freaked, but almost anxious to get the first one done so I know which of the lovely SE's everyone has been talking about will apply to me!

    Tongue out

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  • mommy2two
    mommy2two Member Posts: 130
    edited November 2009

    Brenda - The hip hat hair is looking good, you go girl!  Lauire emailed me right away after re-sending my request to the correct address to tell me she would be sending my scarf.  I can't wait!

    ccnai - glad you are doing okay.  I love your posts..they always make me smile and encourage me.  Keep giving your ONC nurse hell about the meds you want.  My family is doing okay, better than I am actually  :-)

    Good luck to all the ladies getting tx tomorrow. My thoughts will be with each of you.

    ((((HUGS))))

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  • Shel
    Shel Member Posts: 41
    edited November 2009

    Melinda, I have to say I cringed when I read your question about the best days to work.  I am at work (day 7) and haved been here everyday.  I can't honestly say I have been very productive.  I do a lot of work on the computer and the monitor seems to be vibrating all the time, only magnifying my headaches.

    I think everyone is different and you can't schedule side effects.  But, please, take all the help you can get.  People, especially family, want and need to help.  If someone wants to drive you and be with you, I would let them.  You will apppreciate the company and it is really important to have a second set of ears during any encounters with the medical community. 

    Re dairy question, apparently the rap on dairy is that dairy fat stores toxins, etc.  However, if you are eating low fat or organic stuff, it should minimize the risk.

    Looking forward to day 8 and maybe my world will stop moving!

    Shelley

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  • BrendaSharon
    BrendaSharon Member Posts: 506
    edited November 2009

    AroninMia, You are the only one I see that is getting the Fluorouracil like me. As well I get the Cytoxan and Adriamycin. I'm doing pretty good so I hope you do as well. I was never sick. Guess I'm a lucky one. A little bit of dull headaches, and i got burby and gassy. I never puked. I couldn't sleep the first 3 days. Very hyped out form all the steroids. I handled  that OK. After 10 days all I could do is eat and think about food, especially cake. OMG!!!!! sometimes as another sister said, can't remember who now, I felt a Whoooosh in my head. And sometimes my ears would ring. All in all I feel blessed not to have any really bad s/i!!! Have a good nights rest!!

    I know easier said then done. After tomorrow like I said you will feel a little more encouraged about everything.  (((((HUGS)))))

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  • AroninMIA
    AroninMIA Member Posts: 18
    edited November 2009

    Thanx again Sharon, and we have two out of three in common:

    Fluorouracil
    Fluorouracil is a chemotherapy drug that disrupts processes of DNA and/or RNA synthesis, preventing cancer cells from dividing. The DNA components called bases are classified as purines and pyrimidine. Because Fluorouracil disrupts the pyrimidine bases, it is called "primidine antagonist." The brand name is Adrucil.
      Epirubicin
    Epirubicin is a type of antibiotic that is only used to treat cancer.  It slows or stops the growth of cancer cells. The brand name is Ellence. Epirubicin is classified as an anthracycline.
      Cyclophosphamide
    Cyclophosphamide is a chemotherapy drug that targets cancer cells' DNA, and prevents the cancer cells from reproducing. The brand name is Cytoxan.

      I hear the Epirubicin can be a pain with your fingernails and toenails, but will have to wait and see.  Hopefully with 2 out of 3, I will be lucky like you!

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    • Cafelovr
      Cafelovr Member Posts: 1,534
      edited November 2009

      Thank you ladies for your well wishes, but alas my liver biopsy is positive. I guess I'm still in shock. I guess I can't do anything half hearted...I have to go full monte! 0 to stage IV in 6.2 seconds. I'm the Jimmie Johnson of breast cancer. (Hopefully someone is a NASCAR fan :) I'm agog at the moment. Hubby is speechless, family is devastated. I'm determined. I'm gonna beat this crap! I may be poor and ugly, but I'll be alive and healthy! Onc is very determined too, and expects wonders for me. The part that sucks for me is changing my darn profile from stage III to IV. One can hope, right?

      On a side note, my onc said that my nasal cavity would really be irritated and smells would make me sick. He recommended sucking on cough drops during my treatments so the smell/taste of the menthol/camphor overtakes the chemo smell. He said the 72 hours after chemo to eat an "aromaless" diet...potatos, ice cream, rice, plain pasta, etc. Plenty of veggies and salads and dairy was just fine to have whether it was milk, yogurt, cheeses. LOTS of protein.

       Thanks for the posts and a glimmer into the future. You guys, even though I haven't met you, are very important to me! Brenda...I love the hair!!

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    • doronet
      doronet Member Posts: 342
      edited November 2009

      oooo, oooo, Coolbreeze...when I shaved my head, I  found out that I have a humongo "birthmark" about an inch long, that has very few hair follicles, smack dab in the middle of the back of my head!  I never saw it before!  (Wig lady figured my mom dropped me on my head, but if I asked my sweet, dear, sensitive mother, she would be mortified if she had dropped me and had to admit it!!!)  And so now, I'm not only the biggest wimp on this site, I also have to have the ugliest shaved head!!!  Laughing

      Love hearing from ya, ccnani!!

      cafelovr:  so so so sorry re: the liver. Frown  BUT!!   YOU ARE A WARRIOR WOMAN!  or gladiator woman, or something like that.  and YOU CAN BEAT THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yell

       BrendaShar:  thanks for the reminder to drink, drink, and drink some more.  I was not told to start drinking the day before the TX day, but I'm definitely going to do it next time.  I was told to eat a "full meal" before going in, but I was too nervous and didn't.  Was not a good idea, but saltines got me through it.

      Good luck to the warriors having their TX tomorrow!!! 

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    • JustmeAlicia
      JustmeAlicia Member Posts: 1,529
      edited November 2009

      Cafelovr ~ I do not even know what to SAY.... my heart is breaking for you.  BUT fight like crazy, try to be positive and I HOPE and pray you can beat this thing.  You will be in my prayers. 

      Sherri and Aronin ~ good luck tomorrow.  Eat before and drink lots of water all DAY.  Take something for constipation too ~ stool softener or Miralax !

      Everyone else, I am too tired to read.  Went to the dr today for the headaches.  They saw me at Triage at the Oncologists office.  Gave me something they use to treat migraines.  Hopefully it helps.

      (((((HUGS))))))  hope everyone has a good night.

      :)

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    • Sherri_V
      Sherri_V Member Posts: 159
      edited November 2009

      Thanks for the well wishes.  I'm so glad my appointment is in the morning because having to wait all day would be too hard!  I'm going to drink yet another bottle of water then try to get a good night's rest.  My sister is picking me up at 8 a.m. for the drive in to town.  I'll try to report in tomorrow night :)

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