February 2011 chemo pals

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  • DivineMrsM
    DivineMrsM Member Posts: 9,620
    edited February 2011

    Godspeed to you, mamaoftwo; chemo is very very doable. I had my 1st one a week ago.  Not what we might want for ourselves, but I welcome the poison if that's what it takes to kill the cancer.  I don't even think SE of chemo are as bad a having the flu.  Just give yourself time to rest.

    I have put you on my prayer list and will keep you in my thoughts today as you go for your 1st tx.  God bless. 

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  • crog234
    crog234 Member Posts: 801
    edited February 2011

    Will be thinking of you Laura today as you start your treatment.  You will have to let us know what your SE's are as everyone's can be different...  Here's hoping yours are not bad... 

    Cindy

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  • crog234
    crog234 Member Posts: 801
    edited February 2011

    Thanks Paula   I think mine may be sciatica problems.  I had to sleep sitting up in a recliner last night so my foot would not start to go to sleep.  Let's just say I did not get much sleep.

    Cindy

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  • Paula66
    Paula66 Member Posts: 1,728
    edited February 2011

    Laura I will put you in my prayers today.  I hope everything goes smoothly for you. 

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  • charlottesmama
    charlottesmama Member Posts: 250
    edited February 2011

    Hi Laura~I just sent you a PM, but it vanished. I'll be thinking of you today. I've had virtually no side effects other than the weird back spasms around day 10 and occassional heart burn. Tylenol and Prevacid took care of both. With luck you too will sail right through it all.

    Michelle 

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  • dogeyed
    dogeyed Member Posts: 884
    edited February 2011

    Safari, thank you so much for responding to my worries and fears!  It helps so much to have someone encourage me.  I will keep a copy of your post for next chemo, and if it gets all out of hand again, I will do some of the things you suggested.

    Fuzzy, I am now exactly one week away from chemo, and even yesterday morning I was still very weak, could hardly walk, today feels somewhat better, but each day has been an improvement.  I'm on the AC stuff, too, and I wondered same thing, why this and not some other chemo.  One thing I did because my nephew did it when he went thru chemo at the age of 17, is eat extra proteins, he ate steak, and I ate a big juicy hambuger (twice) from the drive-thru, egg salad, Vienna Sausage, just whatever sounded dreamy to me, could be the extra protein helped.  But each person recovers at their own speed.  On the nausea stuff, I quit taking all the nausea drugs after about five days, and before that got it down to one per day, which I think helped me return to more normal, but I felt less and less nauseus so I saw no need for them.

    Mama of Two, let us know how things go for you over the next week or so, at least you're prepared for when stuff hits you.  I was two days out before I got sideswiped by side effects.  But each person has variations on the main theme:  Gosh I feel sick!

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  • charlottesmama
    charlottesmama Member Posts: 250
    edited February 2011

    Just to correct my previous post: I have been taking all the meds prescribed by my oncologist. Without them I'm certain I would be suffering from many SEs.

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  • safari94
    safari94 Member Posts: 19
    edited February 2011

    Laura;

    I am on my way to treatment # 2 of TC x 4.  It is important to only compare notes on those taking same treatment and then again, everyone is different! I am the BIGGEST baby in the world! I just took valium as I cannot deal with the needles! The IV is the worst part for me!! Also, the first time, it was all in my head really! I couldn't stand the thought of being so sick that they needed to run poison through my vains! I am 37 and this was just so devastating for me!! To be honest, it was a breeze (once they got the IV in)!! ;)  I had them pump me with Ativan so I slept through it! Also, they said first treatment would be 4-5 hours as they need to take it slow. No way!! I was out of there in 3 hours! But that is the norm for my TC.  It really was easy.  I felt great that day (minus groggy and tired from the Ativan) and I was fine the next day! The 2 days after that, I just felt exhausted! I took all the meds they said and Mirolax to control possible constipation and never had a problem!  I have my Neaulasta shot the day after and took Claritin as they suggested and that seemed to work for any SE from that.  NOt sure if you remember but all of my negative SE were from my appendix which needed to be removed as it was about to rupture! Ughhhh! I ended up in the hospital for 4 days so do NOT ignore a fever ladies! I did for 3 days assuming it was the 'flu-like symptoms' they refer to!

    Hang in there and know that it is not bad - coming from the BIGGEST baby EVER!!

    Lots of hugs and prayers! You will be fine!! If it helps, perhaps do not read all entries on this board but ones responding to you. It can be very overwhelming I admit. Hang in there gals!

    Mary

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  • thefuzzylemon
    thefuzzylemon Member Posts: 2,630
    edited February 2011

    Good morning all  -  I did a lot of thinking last night.  Its time to concentrate every minute on the fight ,,, for me anyway ...  I have to talk to the docs today but I reallly don't want any more medications ,,, my head is so F'd up and I can't seem to get it clear (sorry about the F part ... ) Has anyone tried to stay upright to help get back to feeling less foggy?  I've been up for a few hours and it doesn't seem to be helping at all.

    I really questioned this whole process yesterday but you all and my one doc (who gave me the "do ya wanna die" sorta talk ... and it worked ... ) and it feels better to have a little understanding.  One step at a time ... damn these steps suck ,,,

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  • NeyNey
    NeyNey Member Posts: 33
    edited February 2011

    I have found that in taking the prescribed meds for SE's given, like Michelle, chemo doesn't control your life.  I didn't take my extra meds last round and this time I have and other than a slow, sleepy 3rd day of rest I do relatively well.  Run a marathon, no, but I can eat, and I do like beef now better, must be the need for iron. Drink, drink drink and eat as many popsicles as you like in a day's time.

    My hair has started falling out but I have THE cutest hats, wigs and scarves and will wear them like a badge of honor!  Ladies, we are strong and can do this!!!!

    "put your big girl panties on and deal with it"!!!!!  Have a great day!! 

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  • NeyNey
    NeyNey Member Posts: 33
    edited February 2011

    Sorry my bio was wrong before.....2nd cycle of E/C day 18

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  • thefuzzylemon
    thefuzzylemon Member Posts: 2,630
    edited February 2011

    where did i leave those panties ... lol  :)

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  • crog234
    crog234 Member Posts: 801
    edited February 2011

    NeyNey  good attitude you have.  You made me laugh.  I put my big girl panties on today.  I was like you my 2nd round.  I took all my meds.  May have taken them longer than I needed, but less yucky feeling this time.  Now I have a problem with my sciatica..  If it wasn't for that I would be getting lots of stuff done before my next treatment next Monday... 

    Cindy

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  • Babyswim
    Babyswim Member Posts: 62
    edited February 2011

    Hi Everone,

    One week post 1st Chemo and although I am feeling "pretty good", overall, I'm having a pretty bad day here. Went to hospital for my 7th Neupogen injection and bloodwork and my White blood Cells are dangerously low only 1600 :( so i have to stay on another week of daily injections which means I can't leave town today for work event, and I have to wear a mask if I go out of the house or if I am around people. Wasn't expecting this at all after only 1 Chemo. Have been feeling really, really tired and a little scratchy throat but nothing else.

    Anyone experiencing anything similar?

    this sucks!

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  • SpecialK
    SpecialK Member Posts: 16,486
    edited February 2011

    Hi All,

    Laura - wishing you luck on your tx.  I was intimidated reading of others experiences before going for my first tx too.  I actually had to stop reading stuff the day before because I was starting to panic.  Being one week out, and it hasn't been a real pleasant week, I can say it is no worse for me than a stomach virus would be.  I certainly can't speak for anyone else but looking two weeks down the road to the next tx I know I can do it.  I have not been overwhelmed emotionally, nor did I have problems with brain fog.  I feel for the ladies who have experienced those problems on top of feeling bad physically.  I hope it will be an easy sail for you.

    Melanie - Just a thought - the lady next to me also had chest pain during the tx.  They gave her some more Benadryl and it went away.  After the tx they seemed to think it was actually anxiety driven as opposed to a reaction.  She had taken something prior for that but I guess it got the best of her.  Do you have any Xanax?  You may be able to try pre-medicating in the morning of your tx and see if that helps.  That is what was suggested to me by some other folks who have experienced chemo.  The other thought is to take some Prilosec pre-tx if it is indeed esophogeal spasms.  Ask about that before your next tx.  Good luck.

    Kathie

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  • pejkug3
    pejkug3 Member Posts: 902
    edited February 2011

    I'm sitting in the chemo room being infused with my "lethal injection" as I type.  So far, Herceptin is in, Taxotere is being infused with 30 minutes remaining, Carboplatin is next.

     I didn't end up icing my nails, but my hands and feet are freezing so I hope that helps.  I am chewing ice and I've drank 3.5 liters of water in the past 3 hours.  (Not highly unusual for me).

     Everyone in the chemo room has been really nice and friendly.

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  • usen2010
    usen2010 Member Posts: 8
    edited February 2011
    Started DD AC on 2/11. Will do the 2nd cycle tomorrow. Hair start falling Cry. I have 2 sweet angels (2 and 8 years) and I don't know how to face them. Think I am blue...
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  • SpecialK
    SpecialK Member Posts: 16,486
    edited February 2011

    Hi,

    pejkug - love the "lethal injection" phrase - nothing like some dark humor, right?  I drank a lot during the tx too - noticed nobody else was!  I did have to pee 4 times while I was there though so maybe that is too much bother for people to drag the IV pole, etc.  I was surprised but most of the people were not on their first tx.

    Usen - My children are 21 and 23 - if you behave like all is normal even when it isn't they will take their cue from you.  I know that is easier said than done.  Sending you a hug.

    Kathie

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  • mamaoftwo
    mamaoftwo Member Posts: 267
    edited February 2011

    Usen2010- have you thought about cutting your hair really short before it all falls out on its own, maybe involving the kids in that so they think it's your choice?  I have two little ones two (ages 6 & 8) and imagine that seeing their mommy without hair could be really shocking so I know what you mean.  Do they know that your hair might fall out?

     I had my EC dose today (similar to AC) and felt fine for a few hours after, but then got extremely tired, and now I just feel nauseous.  I took an Emend before chemo and they also had a drip bag with anti-nausea meds so I don't think there's anything else I can take.  I'll just have to sip tea, and eat dry bread and hope this passes.  

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  • charlottesmama
    charlottesmama Member Posts: 250
    edited February 2011

    Hi everyone. I took my daughter to the local YMCA today. It's a fabulous facility, and it was our first time in the special kids pool. I felt weird with my port exposed. I know it's safe and waterproof, it just sticks out so noticably. Charlotte had a blast. There is a basketball hoop (she LOVES basketball) in the pool, so bonanza! She played for 2 hours. She didn't kick up too terrible a fuss when it was time to leave.

    I was told by my NP to avoid the place (and the museum with the cool climbing playhouse where we went yesterday) next week. Hmmmph. Oh well. Kids will be back in school. Yay!

    I'm sad to say my hair follicals are giving up the ghost. Rather, they're giving up the hair. I'm impressed with how long it's clung to my head, but knew this was inevitable. If I give a little tug, 3-4 hairs come out. Honestly, I'm probably over-reacting because I don't brush or comb my hair, (just a casual muss with the fingers) and have always been a bit shocked at how much would come out when I shampooed it (pre-chemo). Guess I'll go ahead though and schedule an appointment with the clippers.

    Here's something to think about, ladies. I do not take Emend tablets. They give me a of Aloxi pre chemo through my port. Oncologist and nurses think that's why I've had so few SEs. I get Ativan and Benadryl also pre A/C, then take Decadron, Ativan and Kytril for about 5 days then stop. I keep taking the Claratin, Prevacid, Tylenol and Senekot as needed. It all seems to be working well. Ask about getting the Aloxi in the IV pre chemo.

    Fuzzy~good to see you laugh. Honestly, at first I thought the "Doyou wanna die..." approach was harsh from your doc, but my own motto is: Death is NOT an option. I'm a solo mom to a daughter with multiple special needs, so I said, "Bring it!"

    We'll all get through this with our big girl knickers and bald heads, then go out shopping for some sexy lingerie and bathing suits. I for one plan to be swimming in the lake this summer with my baby girl and looking fabulous! 

    Love to y'all.

    Michelle 

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  • EmilyInOntario
    EmilyInOntario Member Posts: 626
    edited February 2011

    FEC-D Start: Jan 28/2011 Cycle 2/6 Day 7

    For those of you who have only been through round 1 of chemo and have had miserable side effects as I have had both round 1 and 2, particularly on days 4 and 5 hang in there. Mentally I was much better prepared for round 2 and though I felt awful I had the knowledge that I would be feeling better by day 6 and actually think I am coming out of the "miserable feeling" quicker this time. And whatever you do, do not think ahead to how you will get through the next round when you are feeling at your lowest. Once you start feeling normal again then you can start thinking of what you need to do to get through this. In my case I had my mom come over and stay with me. She is elderly and can't do that much but for me the company just helped so much and distracted me somewhat. And make sure you talk to your oncologist about everything you had problems with round 1 and ask what you can do to minimize those effects the next time.

    Hope these ideas help some of you who have had rough SE's as I have.

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  • sukie10
    sukie10 Member Posts: 96
    edited February 2011

    Hi everybody, I started neoadjuvant chemo yesterday ACx4 Tx4 3 week cycles. I (so far) haven't found it too bad. Definately tired and feel a little nausea but nothing too extreme and the drugs seem to be working. I'm glad for all the previous posts, everybodys experiences are so helpful. I've used all kinds of advice from all you experts and I'm pretty sure thats whats helping me out right now. Still waiting for the worst day to come. I could be reposting any day now telling you all I'm half dead. (Lets hope not!)

    I came home from Chemo and my son and his wife announced they were finally pregnant. The first good news we've had here for awhile. I think its lifted my spirits so much for this first round.

    Thankyou all for being here with me. I know we'd all rather be somewhere else. 

    . 

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  • JeanH
    JeanH Member Posts: 281
    edited February 2011

    Hi my Chemo sisters,

     I have 2 cycles in on EC, hair is almost gone scalp started tingling on Friday the second day after the 2nd cycle and was coming out by the handfuls all weekend.  I went to work with thinner hair on Tueday and wednesday, wednesday evening picked up the wig and had my rapidly thinning hair clipped very short - think early twiggy for those old enough to know..  I wore the wig all day today, i am happy wth it but also can't wait to take it off when I get home and tie a scarf on (captures those now shorter hairs when dropping and keeps head warmer!

    I also found the 2nd cycle a bit easier than the first, I did use compazine this round and I think that helps but also make me sleepy.  My doctors and nurses have told me to call them with any symptoms I am not sure about, I will repeat the fever warnings - FEVER IS NOT NORMAL.  You need to call onc office immediately for fever 100.4 and higher, they do not want us to have issues with our WBC or infections. The nurses also said if what I have for nausea does not work to call them - they have more in the arsenal. So far I am covered with what is in my pack but if it does not work for you call them.

    I am also getting my blood counts done every other week on CHemo day.  Chemo day I go to the center, my blood counts are done, I see oncologist and then get infused...the next day i give myself the nuelasta.

    I have been getting some pain from the nuelasta, it comes somewhat randomly usually in my back (already a weak spot for me) and this round in my shoulder.  Aleve and heating pads have worked for me.

    Chem brain/chemo fog has been visiting - I am finding I am better after lunch and schedule more brain oriented activities then.  By day 8 i feel prettty close to me again and that is good to look forward too.  We need to take each day at a time and know we are doing this to beat BC and be there. 

    We need to find the support we need to get through this, these boards are amazing, friends and family are there for us and there are support groups at local cancer centers, gilda's clubs, hospitals etc. DivineM I agree we need to let others help us it may not be easy for us but find a way to let people show support that feel right to you.  my sisters and friends are taking turns driving me to chemo appointments so DH does not need to do all of them.  My sister was with me when the nutritionist came my at last appointment and went to grocery store and stocked me up with soups and whole grain pasta. Another friend came last night to get my wig styled and be there when the hair came off. I am getting more comfortable with asking for the help, and my sister used a website lotsahelping hands to coordinate the rides so people could sign up for times that were easier for them.  easiier than calling to ask for me. Having someone visit the days after chemo helps me, my mom comes over the next day just to check on me and make me lunch ( You may have noticed I have lots of sisters!)

    I am finding eating small meals is helping and I need to make sure I get protein in eeach of them.  THe first few days i do need to remind myself to eat but I can.

    Forr those starting don't get scared and worry about what might happen - take each day and each SE as it comes and treat it and don't go looking for more.  Have the antidote box ready (CHeck tips for CHemo thread and more tips and a shopping list for chemo thread for a great list of what should be in the box)  I have not needed everything but it makes me feel better knowing it is all there in case I need it.  I keep it by the bed so I can find what I need when I need it.  We are all different going through several different combinations but we are doing this together and will get throught this......

    ok thats it, I am thinking of all of you hope the day gets brighter for those who need it and good luck to those starting.

    {{{HUGS}}}

    Jean

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  • pejkug3
    pejkug3 Member Posts: 902
    edited February 2011

    So...I had my infusion at 10am.  I had Aloxi and Decadron in my IV.

     I have Ativan, Compazine and Zofran here at home.

    So far, I feel fine.  But when do I take these meds to stay ahead of the SE?  The nurse just said at the first sign of nausea...but I'd hate to wake up with the nausea out of control because I slept through the beginning signs.  I take Ambien CR every night so I usually sleep like a log for 7-8 hours.

    <<hugs>> to everyone. 

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  • Paula66
    Paula66 Member Posts: 1,728
    edited February 2011

    pejkug I would take it before you go to bed.  It seems like I was able to sleep until the next am with little problems.  When I woke up I was able to have a small snack and able to take the meds of.  I hope it works well for you.

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  • pejkug3
    pejkug3 Member Posts: 902
    edited February 2011

    Ok.  Compazine in.

    No Zofran - I should wait?  Or now?

    No Ativan.  I'm taking my Ambien CR -  wants to be able to wake up in the AM.  :)

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  • SpecialK
    SpecialK Member Posts: 16,486
    edited February 2011

    pejkug - my instructions were to try one at a time.   I wouldn't take the Zofran if the Compazine appears to be working. If the first one works, take it according to dosing instructions.  If it doesn't work, go on to the next as long as you have given it time to have worked.  If the 2nd one doesn't work, go on to the third with the realization that Ativan will knock you out.  My onc nurses gave me an order of which to try 1st, 2nd and 3rd.  My instructions were to start at 9:00p.m. day of tx with the first drug to ward off nausea, stay ahead of it.  If you were given anti-nausea pre-meds in your tx that should help also.  I did have a problem in the middle of the night day 2 going into day 3.  At that point I should have gone on to the next drug even though it was in the middle of a dosing. 

    Good luck!

    Kathie

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  • pejkug3
    pejkug3 Member Posts: 902
    edited February 2011

    Thanks, SpecialK and Paula 66.

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  • Salma1971
    Salma1971 Member Posts: 42
    edited February 2011

    Michelle.. I just love your attitude... I am so glad you had quality time with your daughter, it's very important to both of you. My DH is home for the weekend and I so determined to have quality time with him and the children before I start my Chemo - Monday (of course if all goes well with my wound!).

    Mamaof two - I am a mother of two as well (3 & 6) and I am still struggling with the decision regarding my hair... I have the scarves, hats and wig all prepared... but I do not know whether to let them know about my hair... It is very difficult to hide such thing inside your home...I do not like to lie to my children... but I am also worried if they are old enough to handle the truth/ the look... I have not cut my hair.. can't bring myself to do it.. once in a while I tend to spend the day with a scarf on... in order to get them used to the look... They know I am not feeling well and I will be taking medication for the coming 3 months, which will be making me tired... but I promised them I will be well and ready for a fun vacation by the summer!

    Bless you all ladies...didn't get the chance read all the posts... sorry...

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  • Salma1971
    Salma1971 Member Posts: 42
    edited February 2011

    Dear usen2010,

    Just read your post.... Our children ages are so similar...and I totally understand your dilemma... I am afraid Ihaven't reached a resolution to the situation... I cannot believe that I went for BMX without a blink...but I am so worried about the hair situation...

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