Starting Chemo July 2012

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  • Melrosemelrose
    Melrosemelrose Member Posts: 3,018
    edited June 2012

    TAB55- Hope the info helps you feel more in control and eases the fear/anxiety of chemo for you.  I know the next question will be about the hair so I'll be back on Wednesday/Thursday after my round of chemo to give you some tips.

    HUGS and keep moving forward!!!!  You are all stronger than you realize and will get through chemoland and be stronger when you finish!!!!

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  • teeballmom
    teeballmom Member Posts: 322
    edited June 2012

    Melrosemelrose:  Thank you for all of the tips!

    Today I went to my hospital and they have a cancer resource library with donated wigs from the American Cancer Society.  I picked out one that is cut in a bob and have had a couple of people say it looks like how I recently had my hair.  Not sure how often I'll wear it since it makes my head itch but I'll at least have it on hand for any public outings at our boys' school.

    Hope everyone is doing well!!!!

    Take care.

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    I wonder, does anyone know somebody who used ThymuSkin shampoo during chemo?  Did it work?  

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  • 25weeks
    25weeks Member Posts: 76
    edited June 2012

    You can add me to the July chemo list. Probably July 19th start. TCx6 every 3 weeks. First MO visit since june 18th surgery was today, so lots still to learn. CT & bone scans first + blood transfusion for hemoglobin level of 8.6. No wonder I could barely function. ;)



    Let's get thru it together!

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  • teeballmom
    teeballmom Member Posts: 322
    edited June 2012

    Welcome 25weeks!  How are you feeling?  Definitely will get through this together!

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  • swimmom01
    swimmom01 Member Posts: 58
    edited June 2012

    I went to the dentist yesterday since not suppose to have cleanings during chemo. He gave me a prescription for NeutraSal. It is designed to replace the normal ionic and pH balance in the mouth. It is when the mouth gets dry that sores develop. I go to my chemo 101 class Monday so if I learn any other new bits of info I will pass along.



    25 weeks- I start July 18th, my Mom's birthday :(.

    Thanks to all of you fantastic ladies for sharing, it really does help to have such wonderful support!

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    Swimmom01: Thanks for the tip.  I need to reschedule my cleaning ASAP.  I will ask my dentist about the prescription.  Did your oncologist OK it?

    25 weeks: Yes, we will get through this!  Thousands of women already have, and we can too.  Certainly not how we wanted to spend the summer, but there are worse things out there. 

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    In honor of Nora Ephron's passing, I share one her quotes that I think is very suitable for us:  "Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim."  So here's to all the heroines on this board.

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  • 25weeks
    25weeks Member Posts: 76
    edited June 2012

    Teeballmom- Overall I'm feeling pretty good regarding surgery, but it took a good 8-9 days & getting off the narcotics before I even had much appetite. My energy should be helped with my transfusion. I can barely hold myself up more than 15-20 minutes without feeling I need to rest.



    I just had a cleaning earlier this month & I use a sonicare toothbrush (must have! :) ), so I guess I'm ok in that dept. but may be worth a visit to get a script for the stuff swimmom01 got! I'm already terribly susceptible to mouth sores.



    So, was everyone explained the differences, pros/cons of the T, A, & C of chemo world? Were you given a choice?

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  • teeballmom
    teeballmom Member Posts: 322
    edited June 2012

    TAB55:  Perfect quote!  We are all definitely not going to be victims.

    I had a dental visit in April (right after my diagnosis) and had to have a tooth pulled (they thought it was going to be a root canal but I had a crack from the top of my tooth all the way down to the tip of the root).  Having the tooth pulled delayed my BMX by several weeks because all of the doctors wanted to ensure I got the tooth pulled out right away.

    I didn't get a choice of my chemo drugs.  My oncologist spent a lot of time focusing on what she believes will be the best for me based on my final pathology from my surgery and said that as long as I do as she tells me, my prognosis is very good.  With those words, there was no hesitation on my part to do anything other than what she told me to do.  She did put me in contact with a pharmacist who does integrative therapy using supplements for people going through chemo therapy and I meet with him on Monday.  He's going to advise me on the natural supplements I can take (in addition to the meds my oncologist will prescribe for side effects) to help with side effects and others for making me feel better during my therapy.  I'm excited to meet with someone who not only knows about prescription medications (40+ years experience) but someone who knows about vitamins and herbs, too.

    Hope everyone is doing great!

    Take care!

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  • Melrosemelrose
    Melrosemelrose Member Posts: 3,018
    edited June 2012

    Glad to hear you ladies are getting the dental situations taken care of before the chemo.  You may also want to check to make sure you can use electric toothbrushes after you start chemo.  I was told to use soft manual toothbrushes to avoid any micro cuts to my gums from the electric toothbrush and not to use dental floss because I could further cut my gums.  Our mouths are really sensitive during the chemo because some of the side effects of chemo are mouth sores, thrush, etc.    I really miss my sonic care tooth brush because it really cleans so well.  But now I do my best to brush after every meal. 

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    My oncologist said that chemo is like pizza.  Everyone has their own recipe, and they all "taste good."  AC+T was listed  one of the proven treatments by the ACS so when he suggested that combination, it was OK with me.  I was worried about Taxotere, but he wanted to use Taxol, so I'm happy with the plan.  I'm having the OncoType DX test, in the hope that it will show that I don't need the chemo, but I'm not expecting that to get me out of chemo.  

    Does anyone know if we have to give up alcohol during chemo?  I like a glass of wine with my dinner... 

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    teeballmom: Please share with us what the pharmacist recommends.  I like the idea of beefing up my immune system during chemo.

     25weeks: Sorry you're still worn out by the surgery.  I hope you feel better every day. 

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  • Lifeonitsside
    Lifeonitsside Member Posts: 250
    edited June 2012

    I have my first appointment with my MO tomorrow and I'm nervous. I know I'll feel better after I talk to him and have a plan. There's just so much unknown right now, I can't even put together a list of questions. But my best friend is going with me, who is very logical and focused so she'll be a great asset. Wish my boyfriend could come. He always keeps me calm, but he's got his kids this week so...



    I'll let you all know what the plan is once I get through tomorrow. Your posts have all been very helpful!

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    Lifeonitside: I'd be happy to send you the list of quesions (30!) that I came up with.   Just let me know if you want me to send them to you.

    soltantio: Welcome! 

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  • Marianne52
    Marianne52 Member Posts: 78
    edited June 2012

    Good luck. I get my news today as well. I will get the remaining tests results and a treatment plan. Found out last week that it is IBC for sure. Praying it has not spread. I am going alone today. I don't want my Family to know how weak I am . Anyway, would love to be a part of your group as I will be starting chemo most likely next week. Thanks for listening. Marianne

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    Marianne52: Welcome to our group.  I hope your news is all good!  You'll be in my thoughts, but you are not weak!  It takes a strong woman to go to that appointment alone.

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  • Lifeonitsside
    Lifeonitsside Member Posts: 250
    edited June 2012

    TAB55 - I'd love a list of questions! I've compiled a handful from this website as well as others. I guess there's only so much I can ask until I find out what drugs, etc.



    Thanks for the support.

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012
    Lifeonitside: I just sent you a private message with my questions.  I know you'll feel better after the meeting with your oncologist.  Just having a plan to fight the disease makes you feel better Laughing
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  • Lifeonitsside
    Lifeonitsside Member Posts: 250
    edited June 2012

    Thanks, TAB55! Big help!

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    Lifeonitsside: You are more than welcome.  BTW, I live outside ATL now, but I grew up in Eagle Rock, so I know Burbank well.  (Well if you ignore the fact that I moved back in the 70s, and that it has changed a LOT since then.)

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  • swimmom01
    swimmom01 Member Posts: 58
    edited June 2012

    TAB55-

    Where in ATL? I am north of ATL in Johns Creek/Duluth!

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    swimmom01: I hate to write it, but I live in Snellville.  (It's so embarrassing!  Please don't tell anyone :-)  

     I used to work in Norcross, so I know Johns Creek/Duluth well.  I still go to the Y in P'tree Corners Circle, and we have good friends in Johns Creek.   I had my surgery at Northside with the Breast Care Specialists.

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  • planetbananas
    planetbananas Member Posts: 206
    edited June 2012

    Saw the MO yesterday. Getting a port on Tuesday, then scans and  starting 8 rounds FEC-100 and Taxotere within 10 days, not sure of exact date. The day after every infusion I have to go back and get a shot of Neulasta although they are trying to see if my insurance will cover a self-injectable from a pharmacy so that I don't have to make another trip.

    I posted in another thread about how emotional it was to see the chemo area yesterday and realize I would be there through Thanksgiving and Christmas. I did meet 2 of the nurses though and they were very very kind. 

    Has anyone else had a port inserted? Any tips on what to expect? they showed me one, along with a diagram of where it would go and it creeped me out a little.  

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012
    Planetbananas: I'm getting my port on July 9, so I can't answer any of your questions.  My oncologist said we can reschedule holiday treatments so I can travel during the holidays.  I told him that I thinking of going sailing in December, and he said that should be fine!  So, you should ask about that too.  Taking time to celebrate the holidays should have a good effect on our immune systems (not to mention our attitudes Laughing)
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  • Melrosemelrose
    Melrosemelrose Member Posts: 3,018
    edited June 2012

    For Those Having Ports Installed-

    Here are some questions to ask your onco/surgeon prior to having your port installed:

    • Type of anesthesia- "Twilight" or Local
    • Length of procedure- How long will it take to install?
    • Which side will it be installed- Left or right side?
    • Can the port be installed so it won't interfere with a bra strap?
    • How long will it take to heal?
    • If it is still healing when I start chemo, can a lidocaine spray be applied to numb the area?
    • Will I be given a prescription for EMLA cream (lidocaine cream) to numb the area in preparation for fugure rounds of chemo?

    I had my port installed when I had my UMX which was 6 weeks before I started chemo.  I was told my breast surgeon that the port area would be sore for a while.  There are some who have the port installed a few days or the day before the first round of chemo.  They usually ask for a numbing spray at the infusion center to numb the area since the EMLA cream cannot be used on an recently sutured area.  Hope this helps!!!

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  • Lifeonitsside
    Lifeonitsside Member Posts: 250
    edited June 2012

    Just got home from the oncologist. Really love my treatment team at Cedars Sinai. They treat my caregivers with as much dignity and respect as they give me. So I'll start chemo around July 16 - allowing me to go to Comic-Con! Yay! I'll be on TC regime , 6 cycles, 3 weeks apart. I will have a port put into my upper arm, not in my chest. I'll see the MO once more for blood tests, etc., and then we're off.



    So glad I did a lot of research because I was not surprised by anything he had to say. And I liked that he was all about using as little medication as possible to treat cancer. He spent a lot of time explaining exactly what everything meant.



    So here we go...

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  • TAB55
    TAB55 Member Posts: 198
    edited June 2012

    MelroseMelrose: Thanks for the info.  It will come in handy.

    Lifeonitsside: So glad that you had a good meeting with your oncologist.  Sounds like you have a great team on your side.  Great news about Comic-Con.  You'll have to share a picture or two when you get back.

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  • teeballmom
    teeballmom Member Posts: 322
    edited June 2012

    Soltantio, Planetbananas and Marianne52:  Welcome to the group!

    Wow, our group is growing.  Sorry can't post much today but I just got back from having a thyroid biopsy and I'm exhausted.  Seriously, the procedure couldn't have taken more than 5 - 10 minutes but I stressed myself out so much about the procedure I didn't sleep well last night and just want to lay down and go to sleep right now.  Praying those results are B9.  

    Take care everyone!

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  • Melrosemelrose
    Melrosemelrose Member Posts: 3,018
    edited June 2012

    HAIR  (I know that this topic is not an easy one for us but here we go!!!)

    As each of you are well aware of, hair is affected by the chemo.  this is just a very quick read on hair loss just to give you a brief idea of what to expect.  Handling the hair loss is very personal and so the decision is up to each of you as to if and when you cut your hair and how much you cut.  There are no written guidelines as to how much to cut or when to cut.  It is what you feel the most comfortable doing.  Whatever you decide to do, take control over the hair before it takes control over you.  I know you won't understand that statement now but you will later.

    What to expect:  Most people experience scalp pain about a week after the first chemo round.  The scalp can become very sensitive, tingle, itch and even be sore.  The hair loss may begin within 14 days after the beginning of chemo.  It will come out a little at first and then the hair loss will increase.  Please be aware that when you wash your hair when you are in the shower, you will become very much aware of the hair loss.   

    What to do:  Once the hair loss increases, the hair will be everywhere.  I used a lint roller to get the hair off of me, my clothes and my pillow and bed.  This is the time when most decide to cut the hair short or have it cut very very close to the scalp.  Just remember the decision is up to you as to how much to cut because it is a very emotional time.  No matter what you do, just remember you are still beautiful now matter how much hair you have on your head.  There are lots of options for head coverings--- hats, scarves, Buffs, wigs, etc.  It's just a matter of personal choice.  You can contact the American Cancer Society and attend a Look Good Feel Good session to get a make up session and can even get a free wig.  Also the TLC catalogue is a great source for headcovers, wigs, etc.

    There is a chemo board thread called Hair, Hair, Hair that can also be a great support and resource for you. 

    http://community.breastcancer.org/forum/69/topic/707348?page=527#idx_15793

    The rest of the hair:  Loss of the eyebrows, eye lashes, leg and arm hair and down south can also occur.  Sometimes it occurs during the chemotherapy or after the completion of chemotherapy. 

    My short hair story:I opted to cut my short bob to a very very short boy haircut about 2 1/2 weeks after my first treatment because I got so annoyed with the hair everywhere. I was the one who took control and made five little ponytails of the longest sections of my bob and clipped those ponytails off myself.  It was a very liberating experience for me since I took control and did the cutting myself.  My husband used his trusty electric clippers with a 1 inch guard to clean up the sides and back so I now had a cute short boy pixie cut.  I opted not to shave my head and glad I did not.  I recently had my fourth round of chemo and have not loss all of my hair.  I have a thin veil of hair with stubs growing.  I'm glad that I did not shave it since some of the gals on one of the chemo threads I'm on wish that they had not shaved their heads.  It was my decision before I started to have to not shave my head close because I wanted to see if the chemo would take out all of my hair and felt that the transition from having waist length hair in February 2012 to being bald by May 2012 would be too much for me.

    Wishing each of you the best!!!  You can do this.... because you are each stronger than you know!!!!

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