Newbie with Stage IIIC starting TCH monday

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NeedtobeSTRONG
NeedtobeSTRONG Member Posts: 101
edited June 2014 in HER2+ (Positive) Breast Cancer

Hello everyone.  I have been lurking on this site since being diagnosed.  I am starting my Chemo treatments on monday.  I am starting to get a bit nervous.  I am 33 y/o with 2 little girls 4 and 7 and not sure how to handle the hair loss with the kids.  Also seeking any chemo tips ect... Lots on my mind esp. the future.  I am so so scared!  I just finished nursing school in May of this year passed the state boards in July got my RN license and then got this news in September while searching for a job.  Life was so good!  Now I feel like all of the happiness was ripped away from me.  any advice appreciated.

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  • lovetosail
    lovetosail Member Posts: 544
    edited November 2011

    Hi - so sorry for your dx and that you're having to deal with all this.  I did TCHx6 and found it do-able.  I worked the entire time - I was tired, but could function.  I don't have kids, so I can't give you advice there, I know you're worried as much about them as you are about your own tx.

    I know it seems like your life has irrevocably changed - it WILL get better.  treatment will be done before you know it - your hair will come back fast - mine came back thicker than ever.  You are young and you are stronger than you know, this time next year you'll be amazed at how far you've come.

    And - congrats on getting your RN - quite an accomplishment.  I suppose your background really helps you with understanding your various paths/reports etc.

    Anyway - advice - drink lots of water.  I did 2 quarts a day while on chemo.  Try to exercise a little each day, it really helped with fatigue.  Get a scrip for ativan - it helps to take the edge off and helps with any sleep issues you might get from steroids - you need to get a good night's rest!

    Hang in there and let us know how you're doing

    Sue

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  • mauimom
    mauimom Member Posts: 80
    edited November 2011

    Hi there...I second the water plan. If you can't because of nausea, get iv fluids. They definitely helped me. I didn't do TCH but went through Taxol with herceptin and DD AC. I also have three kiddos. My friend gave them the book Nowhere Hair and it was helpful to start the conversation with my 5yo.



    You'll make it through this. Hugs.

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  • dragonfly1
    dragonfly1 Member Posts: 766
    edited November 2011

    needtobestrong I'm so sorry that you have to be here but you'll find wonderful information and support. If you haven't already been there, please check out the TCH (Taxotere, Carboplatin, Herceptin) thread which is very active and has wonderful tips for coping with SEs. 

    By the way, I notice that you on Long Island-I am as well. Send me a private message if you want to talk. I'd be happy to share my phone number if you ever want to talk since I've also received TCH. I also work in healthcare (hospital social worker) and worked throughout chemo. It really does get better. Wishing you all the best! 

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  • kriskat
    kriskat Member Posts: 163
    edited November 2011

    Needtobestrong- sorry we have to meet this way but glad you found the boards! There is a wealth of info here. I second what dragonfly said- the TCH thread is great with all kinds of tips. I was dx this past Jan had TCH and 35 rads-there r definitely better days ahead. Start drinking water the day before and day of and after treatment -I think it's key. I also worked every day except the day of infusion- I am in sales and still travelled quite a bit. Good luck and pm me if I can help!

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  • NeedtobeSTRONG
    NeedtobeSTRONG Member Posts: 101
    edited November 2011

    Thanks so much everyone! so far so good.  Wed night I had horrible heartburn that I think actually burned my throat but i started prilosec and it got better. Just a bit tired.  I am so thankful for these boards and glad I found them.  reading all of these stories and knowing I am not alone is a nice feeling.  I also got some good results had a Pet scan and Brain MRi prior to treatment and they came back good!!  woo hoo...  I am so terrified of this coming back.  Any of you ladies change your diet afte being diagnosied?

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  • lkc
    lkc Member Posts: 1,203
    edited November 2011

    Hi There Honey. I WAS another Stage IIIC er with the same receptors as you. I say Was because I was dxed May 0f 2005! I am fine  today and you will be too.  ( I am also a nurse and spent lots of time on L.I. !)  anyway, I just wanted to come on and welcome you and let you know there are many many of us out there doing great .The   initial days are the hardest. It does get easier.

    Please PM me if I can help in anyway!

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