Chemo Advice

Hi Janette,

Do you know what regime you will be having? Different rehimes can have different sideffects. Also different people experience them differently.

I have documented my initial few weeks in my blog (I have been having AC chemo) and you are welcome to read them if that helps... I did have some unusual sideffects though so do not let them scare you.

Actual experience of receiving Chemo is not that bad. Way way way easier than you would have imagined it.

One thing I belueve is common to all chemo is the strong steroids and anti allergy drugs they give you pre chemo and they will cause tou to become contipated pretty much overnight so very important to keep hydrated and also make sure you get some movicol from the Chemist and take it day of Chemo and twice daily the next few days... Helps avoid hemmoroids and fissures...

Also it is not uncommon to get "Chemo brain" (a few days of disorientation and finding it a bit difficult to think properly) in the 1st course so it is good to have someone supervise your meds the first few days...

All in all - you WILL be OK and that is the main thing. Take it easy and be kind to yourself and just run with how you feel on the day (each day).

Hugs

Jel

Hi Janette,

I started Chemo last August for 4.5months. I am now 6 months post chemo and never dreamt I'd be so well in every respect. It is frightening absolutely! I found once I did the first infusion, I knew what to expect and you take it from there. I went in with a super attitude to it, I know alot of Women cope so so well. I found it hard as I was drug sensitive worst luck. But can I say...take a deep breath, get through the first one and then you'll have an idea how you will be. Communicate alot with the Staff they will be your rock. Depends how you go, for most of mine I didnt take anyone, but for about 4 of them I did and it was a lovely distraction. The best advice I can give is, just go with it, don't pre-empt or make plans, just honor yourself all the way. I had to stop work but it felt great to put me first above it. Step at a time..and I promise you, you'll do better than you ever thought you could. You've got this!

Hugs

Melinda xo

I can understand that you might be a bit apprehensive. A lot depends on what chemo you are getting as to what side effects you might develop. I had 6 rounds of TCH each 3 weeks apart. With my first day, it took almost twice as long (which is normal) as they have to make sure you're not going to have a reaction. I didn't feel anything as the drugs were administered, but did feel a bit "spacey" afterwards. Actually, after the first round, I wasn't too bad. As each subsequent round occurred, the side effects hit a little earlier & lasted longer. Just had my last round on Friday & I'm only just starting to feel up to leaving the house on Tuesday, but I took the kids to the movies on Sat, go figure! Just listen to your body & don't push yourself to do anything you don't feel like doing.

Thank you for response and hug!  Will make sure I am hydrated and occupied. xx

Hi yep chemo is scary they tell you all the side effects and you start to worry about it, that is normal. Try and take someone with you as it can be a long process. Books,computer, colouring books are good, anything that will keep you busy. I made sure I had a couple of glasses of water before so you are hydrated. I didn't have a port or picc line, depending where you go and your choice I'm sure they explained this to you. Also when you go home remember all they have told you and look out for side effects.

I know this is hard to hear but you will be ok, it is hard and harder for some . You might be fine through it, one day at a time, sending you a hugxx