Starting chemo March 2013

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  • Starynights
    Starynights Member Posts: 85
    edited March 2013

    Got my first infusion Friday and I get my neulasta tomorrow, already started the Claritin. PRAYING it works. If I havent been sleeping today Ive been weeping. Just plain sucks.

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  • Jlynn0807
    Jlynn0807 Member Posts: 89
    edited March 2013

    Quick question:

    Had my first infusion Friday, and my head (scalp) is actually killing me.  Tender to the touch.  Am I losing my mind?

    So sorry to those of you who are feeling like junk right now.  With you guys.  Seems to be I'm figuring out this isn't going to be as easy as I thought!  Woke up this morning, and feel like I'm in a comatose state.  So, just ignoring the chores, and taking it easy.

    Warm wishes/thoughts to all of you.
    Lynn

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  • dimples68
    dimples68 Member Posts: 46
    edited March 2013

    I get my port today? Was it painful? Can I go to work tomorrow? Desk job.. So I don't have a lot of moving around to do. Port needed because this infusion center requires it. I have great veins!!! Just don't want another thing in my body except for this TE out and the implant in. 😔. My chemo starts Thursday and I've already started buying "supplies.". What does the Claritin help to do?

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  • liffeybloomer
    liffeybloomer Member Posts: 72
    edited March 2013

    Good luck today elmrush and welcome to the new girls. So sorry everyone is feeling so punky. If you need something fun and distracting go to www.drawastickman.com It's cute and fun and will take your mind off of bleeping cancer for a few minutes!

    Jlynn, I'm not much help in the area of tender scalp issues. So far, my hair is holding up although I expect it to start going soon.

    I am headed off this morning to the Cancer society's "Look Good Feel Good" program where apparently they show you how to wear head scarves, put on makeup, and wear jewelry to feel better about your baldilocks looks. Suposedly you also get a goody bag of makeup to take home with you. I am all about the freebies. I also got a scarf from goodwishes.com and agree that it is lovely, so check that out too.

    My back pain went away by Sat. afternoon, so who knows if it was related to cancer or treatment, but I'm glad it went away. So far I am feeling ok, going for my second time at the "bar" (as the Jan. and Feb. ladies call it; if so, I'll have a Pinot Grigio and not that awful red stuff, please) this Thursday. My sister insists on going with me so she has a reason to have some time away from her loving but somewhat clingy husband! She's made me promise not to tell him I really don't need her there so she has a reason for a night away!Wink

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  • Starynights
    Starynights Member Posts: 85
    edited March 2013

    Girl Im right there with you. Feel like Im in a coma, cant concentrate, just walking, piddleing around the house. Got to get the Neulasta shot at 130. Not looking forward to that. Im sure Ill be back in bed asleep again before long. God Bless you ladies that work through this.

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  • liffeybloomer
    liffeybloomer Member Posts: 72
    edited March 2013

    dimples - I could have worked the day after my port went in except for the nasty rash I got. The procedure itself isn't painful at all. It feels a little weird the first week or so but nothing painful or irritating, just a bit annoying at times. Take the Claritin (or a cheaper generic version) a day before, the day of, and a few days after the neulasta shot. It is supposed to help with bone pain. I took it and had no pain, but I have heard of women who have pain no matter what. Ask for a prescription for lidocaine cream to put on the port before you get an infusion. Put the cream on about an hour ahead of time, cover with a square of plastic wrap to keep it from your clothes and it will help numb the port. I did that and didn't feel a thing when the needle went in.

    starynights - I hope things get better for you. Go draw a stickman cartoon; it will perk you up! Or watch the Kid President videos on Youtube for a cute distraction.

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  • meni33
    meni33 Member Posts: 27
    edited March 2013

    Hello ladies I am 34 years old and was diagnosed with stage 1 lobular breast cancer in Jan 2013. I had a lumpectomy a week ago and am still feeling sore from the sentinal node biopsy incision under my arm.

    I have an appt with the medical oncologist this Thursday so I will find out the exact stage and if my nodes are clear. I will also find out if I need chemo. I will be getting radiation for sure.

    I feel so nervous but feel better reading all your posts since I like to be prepared. I will let you know which chemo drugs I will need.

    Thanks ladies and good luck to all of us.

    Mehnaz

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  • elmrush
    elmrush Member Posts: 17
    edited March 2013

    Dimples

    I had my port put in last Thursday and was somewhat sore the next day but not terrible.  I would have been able to work if I wasn't already on medical leave but I also realize that everyone is different. Feeling pretty well today.  First tx is Wednesday. Yell We'll see.

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  • Leenie147
    Leenie147 Member Posts: 4
    edited March 2013





    Hi Everyone,

    I start my first round of Chemotherapy this Wednesday , March 13 th. I am starting with dd A/C ( 4 rounds) followed by dd taxol ( 4rounds) . I am 34 years old. I have stage II b IDC. I had a double mastectomy with stomach flap reconstruction on January 22. I am generally in good physical health. If you are completing the same type of chemo as me. I would like to hear how you are doing? Any tips for side effects? I appreciate any advice or support you can give me. Thanks so much! :)

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  • JoelleKC
    JoelleKC Member Posts: 24
    edited March 2013

    Hi leenie147

    I had my first dose of A/C this morning. The infusion itself was uneventful but I did have a massive headache and pretty consistant nausea even on meds later this afternoon. /p>

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  • elmrush
    elmrush Member Posts: 17
    edited March 2013

    To Leenie147

    I have no words of wisdom for you but can share in your experience as we will both be starting the same chemo treatment on the same day.  I am very apprehensive as there seems to be a vast difference in how each person responds to treatments. I had double mastectomy on January 31st with expanders. Will you also be receiving the neulasta shot afterwards?

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  • JoelleKC
    JoelleKC Member Posts: 24
    edited March 2013

    My night went well, got through the nausea and headache. Was awake most of the night though. The nurse warned me that would happen with the steroids. I took her advice and just chilled out watching TV and reading rather than trying to clean the whole house. Up this am after 3 hours of sleep and feeling pretty good. Going for my neulasta injection later today.

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  • Soccrmom13
    Soccrmom13 Member Posts: 13
    edited March 2013

    Starting chemo today and have been wide awake for a few hours. Must be due to the steroids. I did manage to sleep some so that is good. I really am just wanting to get the first one over with so the dread of the unknown goes away. Thank you for all the hints. My chemo bag is packed and ready to go. :)

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  • liffeybloomer
    liffeybloomer Member Posts: 72
    edited March 2013

    Welcome to Mehnaz and leenie. The women here have lots of good information to share, as you have found out. Don't forget to check out the link that the mods posted about what to expect with chemotherapy,  lots of great ideas and information there.

    Joelle, You were on my mind yesterday, so glad to hear your report but so sorry about the headache and nausea. Here's hoping that improves.

    elmrush, I, too, am amazed at the differences in how our bodies react to the chemo and the neulasta. I go for my second round this Thursday and although I have been told that how we react to the first is similar to how we react to the rest of the chemo, I am still a bit nervous because the effects are cumulative and each one is a little more intense.

    soccmom, I was glad to just get it started too. I am sure that the waiting and anticipation is one of the worst things about chemo. Keep a positive attitude and think of the chemo as your foot soldiers against those blasted little cancer cells!

    For all of you, I have a little TMI to report. The hair on my head is still hanging in there, but the hair "down under" is starting to go along with the hairs on my chinny chin chin!

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  • dimples68
    dimples68 Member Posts: 46
    edited March 2013

    JoelleKC could you drive yourself home from the first treatment? Or were you too tired/out of it?



    I stayed home today because this port is sore as crap plus it's raining out today so no need to be extra miserable. I'm going to try to go in tomorrow.



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  • Denise51
    Denise51 Member Posts: 65
    edited March 2013

    Hi All,

    I would like to join your group. I met with my MO today for the first time for treatment for IDC. I will be having my port placed and be having my first chemo treatment on 3/22/13. 

    I had a lumpectomy in mid February for a grade 1, 1 cm tumor; 3/4 lymph nodes biopsied were positive so I was bumped up from a stage 1 to a 2. My BS said it was ususual, but not unseen for positive nodes with a grade 1. Any one else with this? 

    In any case, today I received my bone and CT scan results. Bone scan was negative (great!), but CT scan showed a larger than normal uterus and 1 larger than normal adrenal gland. So, before chemo  begins, I have to have a uterine ultrasound and a CAT scan. After doing a little research, I find that some unusual breast cancers metastasize to the adrenal glands. Question - Am I UNUSUAL? Has any one else had adrenal or uterine issues? 

    Feel great about the bone scan, but still worried. Also wanted to say your tips for starting and coping with chemo are appreciated. Thank you and positive thoughts for all.

    Denise51

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  • JoelleKC
    JoelleKC Member Posts: 24
    edited March 2013

    Hi dimples,

    I could have driven home, in fact, one hour after my first chemo I had a job interview and drove myself. I felt fine until later that evening. You may want to call the infusion clinic to see what "cocktail " you may be receiving. I had a good day today, slightly tired, but I was out and about all day. Had my neulasta injection today. Took the Claritin and and just had some mild achiness tonight.

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  • rivercottagegal
    rivercottagegal Member Posts: 38
    edited March 2013

    Would definitely like my old life back...but since that's NOT possible am trying to be a big girl. ;-) I start chemo March 20 with 4-6 rounds of TCH then Herceptin for one year. Was VERY LUCKY to have clean tumor margins and no lymph node involvement. Hyperventilated when I found out I had HER2 and would need chemo. Have been reading lots and making notes...feel as prepared as I can be. Am a JUST 60 year old grandma who has too much to do to quit! Onward and upward fellow soldiers!!! THANKS for helpful tips and positive thoughts and caring hearts!

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  • cbear
    cbear Member Posts: 33
    edited March 2013
    rivercottagegal: Welcome to this thread. And yes you can do this to. Like others on this site mayby we will come back on here 20 years from now telling other newbies that they can do it to. Positive thoughts and hugs :)
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  • cbear
    cbear Member Posts: 33
    edited March 2013



    rivercottagegal: Welcome to the thread. And yes you can do this to. Positive thoughts and hugs :)



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  • cbear
    cbear Member Posts: 33
    edited March 2013






    Denise51....Welcome. I just want to welcome you to the group and send positive thoughts.:)






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  • Denise51
    Denise51 Member Posts: 65
    edited March 2013

    Thanks cbear,

    Reading these posts has helped a lot. I hope I can contribute as well.

    Best

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  • Lolalou
    Lolalou Member Posts: 30
    edited March 2013

    Hello Ladies and welcome to all of the new ladies. I start TC on Thursday and have been going through all of the posts to try and prepare myself. I'm ready to just get going and be one step closer to DONE.

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  • liffeybloomer
    liffeybloomer Member Posts: 72
    edited March 2013

    Just a quick note here before I head off to what seems like an endless series of doctors' appointments lately, but had to share with you all that the head hair is going. I woke up today to a tingly scalp and felt some come out during my shower. When I dried my hair with a dark towel it was covered with my gray hairs. (I started going gray in my teens so have never bothered covering it.) I think I'm gonna have a pity party today!Frown

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  • liffeybloomer
    liffeybloomer Member Posts: 72
    edited March 2013

    Ok, I have a little more time now so welcome Denise and rivercottage. This is a great place to vent, share, moan, groan, or whatever floats your boat! River - I am HER2+ too so we can go through this together. I have heard that herceptin has minimal side effects so that should be good. I am 57 and a new grandma so we have that in common too.

    Denise, Here's hoping that the new scans are good. I have not heard of this spreading to the adrenal or uterus, but you might want to post on a few other threads for information on that. There is a women here named beesie who seems to be a fount of knowledge on stuff like that so maybe you can find her and ask her.

    To all the rest, keep on keeping on!

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  • TXSockMonkey
    TXSockMonkey Member Posts: 42
    edited March 2013

    Hello fellow Marchers,

    I had my first infusion on March 4th, and I'm a very nervous cold cap user.  I'm doing my second on March 15th - not quite two weeks apart but I want to switch to Friday's because it's easier for my friends to get off work to help with the CC's on Fridays.  I was terrified before my first infusion, but 10 days later I'm actually ready to go again!  I'm doing neoadjuvant chemo before surgery because of my age (38).  I started chemo late because I froze my eggs first (18 eggs!!) doing the new vitrification process. 

    I confess I took an Ativan before my first chemo.  I'm doing 4 DD AC's followed by 4 DD T's spaced every two weeks.  The chemo nurse told me I was the most relaxed first time patient she'd ever had.  Lol.  Yes, because I was high as a kite on that Ativan. 

    So a few things for those of you starting:  I've basically had no side effects from the Red Devil - I'm hoping against hope that it continues.  I was really tired the day of chemo, but I think it was not sleeping the night before combined with the benadryl.  I begrudgingly did the steroids and had a tiny steroid "crash" 5 days after chemo which involved a couple of naps.  My doctor says depending on how I do we can wean me off the steroids over time.  The neulasta shot - DO THE CLARITIN D!!!  Don't believe anyone that says Zyrtec, etc. work as well - they don't.  I was on Zyrtec already and they thought I'd be fine, but 4 hours after the Neulasta, the bone pain set in but vanished within an hour of taking the Claritin.  Also, I brought two liters of water with me to chemo, and have continued to drink 2 per day.  The first 3 days post-chemo, the "C" caused a little bit of burning when I went to the bathroom but the more water I drank, the less I felt it.

    My heart goes out to those getting terrible side effects.  I will keep all of you in my prayers.  With the neo-adjuvant chemo I think my tumor is actually shrinking.  It felt smaller 4 days post chemo and I thought it was totally all in my head.  Now I'm 10 days post chemo 1 and it's definitely smaller.  It's not wishful thinking. 

    I think the most difficult part for me has been the looks of pity no one seems to be able to wipe off their faces when they see me and talk to me.  I'm also a single gal who lives alone, so having to recruit my friends as cold cap helpers was difficult for me - I hate asking for help.  Plus my mom had the exact same Luminal A breast cancer 16 years ago and did the mastectomy and tamoxifen and last year it came back metastatic, despite having seen her oncologist every 6 months for years.  It's terrifying knowing that there is really no way of being able to tell if it comes back. 

    I'm grateful for these boards.  I've learned more from all of you than I have from any doctor.  I feel like I'm practically an oncologist!  I do have a question:  I'm a long distance runner and don't have enough fat for a flap, so I'm doing TE's, and then implants.  I really wanted to go Sientra Gummy Bear.  My PS really wants to go 3rd generation silicone.  She says the Gummies are too firm, even with fat grafting.  I keep reading that they are more firm, but look more real.  So, what's more important?  Looks or feel?  I kind of feel like looks.  I mean, I won't have that much sensation after my mastectomy anyway...  Any thoughts? 

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  • elmrush
    elmrush Member Posts: 17
    edited March 2013

    I completed my first chemo tx today and have to say my day was very thankfully uneventful.  To make it an even better day it was an unseasonably 65 degrees in South Dakota which I enjoyed by taking a nice walk with the dog.  Tomorrow I will receive my first neulasta shot and I hope it is equally as uneventful.  Who knows what the next day or week will bring but I am learning to only focus on today.  Wishing you all uneventful days to come.  

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  • cbear
    cbear Member Posts: 33
    edited March 2013

    Hi Elmrush....I am so glad your first treatment went well. The neulasta shot - DO THE CLARITIN D!!! is what TXSockMonkey just wrote on the thread, I didnt have to have the shot yet so i dont know what that brings. Here in Tn windy and about 65 degrees to but now its 23 degrees:( I hope its a nice day Friday when i have my 4th treatment so that i can get out after a week due to bad weather. Best wishes for a uneventful week and you can do this:) TXSockMonkey has a nice post on what happened the first week for her.

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  • Lolalou
    Lolalou Member Posts: 30
    edited March 2013

    I'm thinking maybe i shouldnt have gone cheap and bought the walmart brand of claritin. Has anyone used that?

    I have my first tx in the morning and shot Friday. Hoping for minimal SEs.

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  • BevDe
    BevDe Member Posts: 3
    edited March 2013

    Hi everyone can you please add me to your group. I have been looking around on here for about a week and think this is just what I need to keep me positive. Already had my first AC on March 1st go for my second on March 22nd.

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