March 2010 Chemo Start

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  • frosty1
    frosty1 Member Posts: 420
    edited March 2010

    carolsue -- I had the stomach cramps and gas from day 4 through 7, then it cleared up.  By day 9 I felt like I did before chemo.  I used a hot pad on my tummy. 

    Had round 2 today.  Not as a big a deal since I now know what to expect.  Went faster - 5 hours vs 8 (I have 3 different drips).  Blood counts were back up, so that was good.  No neulasta shot scheduled.  We'll see if my SEs are the same as round 2.  I am really thirsty and have already had 2 qts of water -- I'll just keep drinking.  My onc also told me to take prilosec through the whole time -- I had heartburn on days 5 and 6, and every once in a while I burp and feel some reflux.  So on to the yucky mouth for 7 days.  At least I still feel good today -- the yucks don't start until day 4.

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  • JLLG
    JLLG Member Posts: 27
    edited March 2010

    I also have had a terrible tummy....it was reassuring "Frosty1" to hear I am not the only one who has experienced this.  My stomach was really bad from day 4 until today which is day 9.....

    I also have had my head buzzed...having a tough time with getting scarves to look like the ones in the pics I have seen...lots of laughs at myself in the mirror....and the bigger and bolder the earrings the better!  I have lost all the hair in my nostrils...never really gave much thought to those little buggers until they disappeared....now my nose drips a bit....quite charming....

    I did develop a white fuzzy tongue on the 3rd day also.  Called and was prescribed a concoction of nystatin and other things that sort of taste like elephant dung.  It is getting better....not the taste, the tongue.

    And so the journey continues....peace to all.

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  • badger
    badger Member Posts: 34,614
    edited March 2010

    Hey all, just 2 weeks past tx #1 and hair is going, going...not gone yet but will be Saturday.  Already had a hair appt scheduled so will shock my hairdresser when I show up and ask for the clippers not the scissors. 

    She has been wanting to cut my hair for 20 years but I don't think she quite had this in mind.  Surprised

    Best wishes ~ prayers ~ {{hugs}} PRN GH

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  • horsedoc
    horsedoc Member Posts: 512
    edited March 2010

    Thanks for the prayers and hugs, GH! Right back atcha! 

    I have felt somewhat calm about everything for the past few months but tonight I feel myself getting really anxious for my first treatment on Friday.

    hmm, maybe I need to go shopping for some new, big earrings!

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  • badger
    badger Member Posts: 34,614
    edited March 2010

    Yes I can feel my anxiety level rising too, I have tx #2 on Friday so we'll be going through it together.

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  • barb_k
    barb_k Member Posts: 76
    edited March 2010

    Hello ladies; update, My chemo was delayed from the 23rd to the 25th. So I will start my chemo tomorrow morning at 8:30. All tests came out fine, but one of the results did not come in until today, and that is why the delay. Off to bed I go and see if I can sleep.

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  • maxgirl
    maxgirl Member Posts: 407
    edited March 2010

    I just wanted to drop in and send best wishes to all of you starting tx in March.  My own started 3 years ago this month, so I feel a kind of kinship with you. For me anticipation was the worst part -- once everything started, then it was something concrete to deal with--and not as bad as I feared. Good luck on your journey.

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  • teemee
    teemee Member Posts: 122
    edited March 2010

    barb_k, I'm not sure if we're on the same schedule (I go every 3 weeks), but I start tomorrow the 25th. Waiting is awful, isn't it? Good luck to you!

    And hugs to all,

    Toni

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  • Dublin4
    Dublin4 Member Posts: 158
    edited March 2010

    Hello all...the official chemo train leaves tomorrow morning for me.  Please add me to the list.  It is TC x4 for me starting 3/26 and ending May 28th (not that I am counting or anything).  Anyone else who has done the TC route with words of wisdom please let me know.  I have already ordered some cute hats from headcovers.com that someone mentioned and bought a wig.  OK here is a question, do you put anything under the wig or just the wig on your head?  Also what do you wash your head with?  How about skin did anyone find that it change?  Also eyebrows & eyelashes how long before they go?   Bring it on  girls let me know what you know!!!!  Thank goodness for the power of many to get us all through this journey!!!!!

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  • Dublin4
    Dublin4 Member Posts: 158
    edited March 2010

    OK need to add the doctor called is DC with the more common name TC.  So I should be DC x4 I guess

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  • Julia257
    Julia257 Member Posts: 284
    edited March 2010
    Hope it's going well for all of you.  I'm afraid I'm not sure about myself.  Throbbing pain in my back...makes me think my bone marrow is being destroyed.  My nurse called with the results of my labs after first infusion...she said my wbc is dangerously low at 1.9 that I should basically live in a bubble and take my temperature twice a day.  I've been reading about chemo-induced Leukemia.  I know I said I never ask for help, like you Frosty, I'm the one that fixes everything, I'm the one that does all the heavy lifting but I feel alone in the dark place and I'm afraid this one might be too heavy for me.  I sure would appreciate an encouraging word from someone or a good laugh.  Thanks for listening.
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  • Dublin4
    Dublin4 Member Posts: 158
    edited March 2010

    Julia257,

    Ask for the help...people want to help you.  Everyone of us has a cross to bear and ours / yours is just heavy right now.Let people help you lighten the load and make it easier for you to endure.  Remember that although this whole thing just sucks ( the word I yell at my 14 year old for saying - but nothing else really is a better word for it)  we will get through it.  My husband tells me daily that the process/cancer can not take my mind, my soul nor my spirit unless I let it.  DON'T LET IT!!!!!

    Hang in and remember that it will get better.  Now you may need to remind me of that sometime next week after my first treatment.   Much Love! 

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  • sarikasd
    sarikasd Member Posts: 31
    edited March 2010

    Hello Ladies,  I hope and pray that everyone is ok.

    I had my TX#2 yesterday which went uneventful thank god.  But nausea hit me in exactly 4 hrs post TX, the same time lag like last time.  But this time I was more prepared.  I had taken Zofran already which took the edge off.  I still uncomfortable for about 6-7 hrs but by night I started feeling a llittle better and could sleep well.  I am feeling much better this morning and will head out for the Neulasta shot in some time.  The main difference between this time and last is that I kind of know what to expect so I am less scared.  

    Julia257 - I am a young women with a very active almost 6 yrs old boy so I can pretty much say I know what being the fixer means.  But now that I have my own battle (one that no one else will truly understand except those who are actually going through it), I am content with giving directions and delegating work.  I have a wonderful mother in law and a very supportive husband and I use them shamelessly.  I would have done the same for them.  I tell myself this phase is just temporay.  I will be back with all my old energy and vigor and things will be good again. I hope I was able to give you some encouragement.  Hang in there, you are going to get through this.

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  • Julia257
    Julia257 Member Posts: 284
    edited March 2010
    I see your words through tears Dublin, thank you so much.  Thank God for your great spirit.   "I won't let it, I promise".  Wishing you my very best in your journey to the best of good health.
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  • Julia257
    Julia257 Member Posts: 284
    edited March 2010
    Thank you Sarika, yes you absolutely gave me encouragement.  You're right, "temporary" is the key.  Thank you for your thoughtfulness.  Good luck and best wishes to you.
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  • EZH
    EZH Member Posts: 48
    edited March 2010

    Julia257:  Read this in a book somewhere, think it might have been in "Idiots Guide to Breast Cancer"...."THIS. IS .TEMPORARY.", "YOU. CAN. DO. THIS".  Some days, I repeat this, manta like...

    Hope your spirits are up and that you are taking some oxycodone or something strong for the back pain!  Don't be afraid to ask for help or for good meds! 

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  • Lesinindy
    Lesinindy Member Posts: 31
    edited March 2010
    Bits from the other side of the Drip! (my new title for my supporter comments)
    We went to the oncologist today and Carolyn had her first blood work done since the major infusion (the TC of the THC) and her WBC was 1.9 (thanks for the heads up Julia257, I called her and mentioned what you said). She started to get really nervous as soon as we got into the waiting room and I remembered my psychology texts and it made sense (classical conditioning). What a relief, I thought it was just me (I got an upset stomach as soon as we got there). I spent some time looking at the faces of the ladies and gentlemen that were getting treatment today, they all had much in common and it strikes me as a really sad place. From what I have read it is best to keep these comments to myself when we are there (I'm also prone to "Biden comments"). Found a way to keep busy and feel like I am helping. I am now the official "hot blanket dude". When they get cold I get jumping! We supporters can often feel helpless and feel like we are not much help. I remembered a quote from the Red Green show today "Remember, I'm pulling for you, we're all in this together"  and Quando omni flunkus, moritati. (Translation: When all else fails, play dead.)
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  • LillyC
    LillyC Member Posts: 64
    edited March 2010

    Julia257 - I started TCX4 on the same day that you did.  I too had the throbbing in my lower back and a lot of bone pain on Sunday.  The good news is that Monday was so much better.  It seems that each day is a little different.  I saw my oncologist on Tuesday and she said that it should be getting better each day until the next treatment.  Do stay out of crowds  I think that the possibility of chemo-induced leukemia is minimal with TC. I have had cancer before and have felt all that you are feeling.  I did get through it and you will too. It was seven years ago (not BC) and since then it has been a distant bad memory.  I have traveled, sailed, renovated an old farmhouse, and enjoyed life.  Soon this will be a memory also. I'm so glad that we have each other to lean on, particularly when things seem almost too much to bear.  And please do let everyone help you.  They are helpless otherwise and it makes not only you feel good but them also.  Just one day at a time and we'll get through this.  

    Love to everyone!

    One of my friends told me to focus on the big C (Christ), not the little c of cancer. That is something as a Christian that I try to remember and it helps me through the tougher times. Whatever your belief, just remember that you can get through this and you are not alone.

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  • KELL414240
    KELL414240 Member Posts: 69
    edited March 2010

    Please add me to the list. I started 4 x AC March 18. Sun - Thurs have been rough. I have had severe heartburn/indigestion and some mild nausea. Had to go back to doc on Tues to get fluids/potassium. Today I have an added headache and some dizziness. Anybody else feel dizzy or foggy? Waiting to feel a little normal again before we start all over.

    Praying for you all each and every day.

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  • hereandnow
    hereandnow Member Posts: 322
    edited March 2010

    Hi Julia, it's 4 weeks since my surgery, and 1 week since chemo #1 for me. I had a few days of aching after the chemo, and for me I found neurofen helped. Of course, if it hadn't then my old friend oxycodone would have been called on, but the anti-inflammatory helped. Did you have a neulasta shot? I have heard some people say that taking an antihistamine like claratyne helps with the aches after neulasta. If you are unable to find something that works- call your oncologist.

    I felt completely washed out, uncomfortable, and so irritable yesterday - and still dizzy and foggy KELL414240, I think I also just got sick of being sick, and tired of dealing with it. But at 1 week, today I woke up after only getting up 3 times overnight, and feel kind of rested, and my head is clearer, and I feel like the truck isn't going to back over me today - fingers crossed, it's tricked me before.

    My chest wall is still tight, but I can sleep on my front for short periods, if I place my arm under my chest, and also on my right side.

    Hope everyone has a better day than the last,

    Lisa

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  • Taty98328
    Taty98328 Member Posts: 27
    edited March 2010

    Sarikasd -  Yesterday was my 2nd round. The name of my clinical trial - US Oncology 07132, arm 3 (or group 3).

    Hope everybody feels better.

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  • teemee
    teemee Member Posts: 122
    edited March 2010

    Hi all,

    I just got back from TC #1! So glad the dread that comes with waiting is over. I had a quick, severe reaction to the Taxotere and they thought they would have to switch me  to Andrimycin (sp?) but double benadryl plus some other anti-allergy thing like soltemetrol made try #2 go fine (they sure hovered for the first ten minutes!) 

    Right now I'm enjoying feeling really good and strong--prepared not to, and am grateful for what I have now.

    Julia257, I am sending good thoughts to you. TEMPORARY is such an important word, I agree. I tell myself that all the time. And compared to my plan of living cancer-free until I die jumping out of a plane at age 100 and breaking a bunch of bones, I can take those terms! It's just so hard to remember when you are so sick for so long. My chemo got delayed for 7 weeks by a severe staph infection. I was flat on my back for 4 of those weeks. I completely lost my mojo...or felt like I did. Treatment is absolutely exhausting, PLEASE let yourself be helped and held by those who love you. It makes them feel better, too!

    Big hugs to everyone,

    T

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  • horsedoc
    horsedoc Member Posts: 512
    edited March 2010

    Glad to hear everyone is hanging in there!  I was getting a little anxious but I'm feeling better after reading all the posts.

    Dublin, we will be on the same exact schedule!  I'll be thinking of you tomorrow.  I might see if I can take my computer in there with me.  I have a portable WiFi but they may not want me to use it in there, not sure.  Maybe I'll just read.  I don't know what I'll do.

    Right now I'm taking frequent trips to the bathroom due to all the water, and felt hopped up on Decadron all day!  Got a lot done at work, and was a bit of a Chatty Cathy, heehee!  I took a Benadryl about 30 minutes ago because I really want to get some sleep tonight.  

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  • barb_k
    barb_k Member Posts: 76
    edited March 2010

    teemee: Yes I think we are on the same scedule, But mine is being bumped up to wed. next time, So I will have it on the 14th. this is due to my Dr. being switched to a different schedule. I will have 4 treatments every 3 weeks of Taxotere (docetaxel) and cyclophosphamide (cytoxin). Then i will be given hormone treatment and something for my bones. What are your treatments? Are you feeling ok after your treatment? so far I only have a headache and a little heartburn, and some light headedness. But the first day isn't over yet. I go in on Sat for my injection (neulasta). Dr. just want to do as a precaution as I had a little runny nose due to allergy, but I have it all the time until about noon. I guess it's better safe then sorry.

    Julia257: I'm sending my thought your way. I do hope tomorrow is abetter day. "One Day At A Time " This was sent to me by a friend when my husband had cancer. She gave me a pin and said this is how you live and deal with cancer. She and her husband had been with cancer for a while. He went home to be with the lord after a long battle with esophagus cancer. She is still here fighting all the way. We are tough!!! I know how you feel, I am always the one to get things done. And making it happen. It's real hard letting others take care of us. But id we don't let them help, we will be taking a gift away from them. They really want to help. So don't hesitate to ask if you need something. The day will come when you can recipricate. Hope all goes well. 

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  • CBeam
    CBeam Member Posts: 11
    edited March 2010

    So nice to read all of your encouragement!  What a blessing to have you all here.

     My hair is coming out!  It will be day 14 tomorrow.  Had it cut pretty short last weekend (it's normally about shoulder length) and thought it might last a big longer.  But, alas, it is coming out in handfuls.  Is it OK to buzz it short short?  The lady that sold me my wig said not too cut it too short too soon or it might get ingrown?  I can't imagine that happening...  but maybe somebody here has some advice?!  I'm actually anxious to get it gone so I can see if I can start wearing my wig.  :)

     Praying for you all - and sending positive thoughts while we fight!

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  • EZH
    EZH Member Posts: 48
    edited March 2010

    ChelseaB:  Hi and welcome to the group!  My hair was coming out in clumps (last week, days 15 and 16 after first trt).  Finally, I had it buzzed, to like a short crew cut and it was much better than the hair falling out and being sore and me (and my kids!) pulling it out over the garbage pail!  Now, the little pieces are sort of coming out, like after the shower, but no where near as horrible as the longer pieces falling out.  I've not heard anything about "'ingrown" hairs, because, basically, everything is falling out, nothing is growing "in"!  I started to wear my wig, takes a bit to get comfy with whole thing, too.  Have to be confident that its on right and such!

     Anyone else feel just fuzzy as hell as they are on the decadron/anti nausea meds?  I feel like I can't sit still and can't focus and I want to jump out of my skin!  Its the same as the last round, just annoying, but, as we must remind ourselves, TEMPORARY and this too shall pass!

    Hope all are resting comfortably this evening.  Love to you all. 

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  • frosty1
    frosty1 Member Posts: 420
    edited March 2010

    Julie -- ask for help -- call the nurse and see what she recommends and remember this is the chemo fighting off all the cancer cells.  So there is a major battle going on (Luke ... I am your father).  Sorry just had to toss that in. 

    Hair and wigs - you will want something under your wig and hats.  There are lovely little knit caps made to go under wigs -- don't get the nylon (looks like pantyhose), but the kinds that looks more like a t-shirt.  You can wear it under hats too.  I had my hair buzzed (about 1/4 inch long) and it has been fine for 2 weeks.  But, sad to say, not only am I losing it below the waist, it is starting to drift out from on top.  I may go the lint roller route this weekend if it gets patchy.  Otherwise I'll just leave it.

    Heartburn - ask your onc about prilosec.  My nurse told me to start right away and was surprised that I didn't.  My onc told me to start on it day 2 and just stay on it all the way until the next treatment.  I noticed I was getting some reflux the last few days before this last round, so I will take his advice.

    Les - I love it - the other side of the drip.  How wonderful that you found a way to be useful.  I'm sure it is hard being on the other side of the chair.  You have a great attitude and a great perspective that will help both you and your wife get through this.

    No other words of wisdom other than it is truly one day at a time.  For those of you that just started, this is the hardest week -- you wake up each day wondering how you will feel and what kind of SEs you will have.  But then one day you wake up a feel good again.  ANd then (sorry) it is time to start it again!  But you know more going into round 2 than you did before and can better manage.

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  • badgerfan
    badgerfan Member Posts: 4
    edited March 2010

    I am sure you will be fine. I, too, am a teacher-high school math. I have my treatments on Friday and take off Friday and Monday. Tuesday is a slow day but by Thursday I have renewed energy.  My students are great. I told them about my cancer and the physical changes they would see in me. I had the guidance counselor in my room so he could take any questions, etc. I have been fortunate to have a fabulous sub who just steps in and takes over. I have 3 more treatments-April 23 the last!!

    Good luck to you:) 

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  • Julia257
    Julia257 Member Posts: 284
    edited March 2010
    I can't thank you all enough.  I read all of your posts over and over again and it helps me so much!  My back is better, my outlook is better and I just can't wait till this for all of us is a distant memory.  Absolutely..."With a little help from our friends this too will pass".  Les, I hope your wife's wbc count improves.  I assume they'll check that again next week like for me, please let us know and pass along my very best wishes to her.  Lisa, I did get the neulasta shot, hope it's doing a good job of building wbc's.  Thanks again, good luck and warm wishes.
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  • Dublin4
    Dublin4 Member Posts: 158
    edited March 2010

    Hello girls....Well today is the first round for me.  I keep reading all of the post and they help.  I am scared to death but know that I just have to do this.  My itty bitty teeny tiny cancer (6mm) was very aggressive so this is my insurance policy.  I will reduce my chance of recurrence in half. THen with the addition of Tamoxifen I will reduce it even further.  So off I go this morning.  As EZH said the SE's are TEMPORARY and we will all get our life back.  So I start today and baring any complications finish on May 28th (not that I am counting).  Thanks to all for the info, support and prayers.  

    horsedoc, good luck to you today and lets compare notes.....we can both do this! 

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