Forum Discussion

KatyJoy's avatar
KatyJoy
Member
9 years ago

Chemo over and done!

i have had 3 fec and then 2 of my planned 3 dosetaxol with hormone therapy as part of the eliminate trial. My originally estimated 9cm invasive ductal carcinoma has responded well and can now not be felt at all on palpation. Unfortunately, my oncologist thinks I have had an allergic reaction to the dosetaxol which has caused a persistent tachycardia (very fast heart rate). I will see a cardiologist next week and start medication (beta blockers) to slow my heart rate. She feels my heart will return to normal but may take some time. Bottom line is, no more chemo! I can't believe I've actually finished this stage! But I'm also a little sad that we are stopping because I couldn't handle it. I also get kicked out of the trial because I couldn't have the full course of chemo. So now on to surgery! Seeing the surgeon next Monday, so I will see what's next then.
chemotherapy

6 Replies

  • jadziatoo's avatar
    jadziatoo
    Member
    9 years ago
    You did the best that you could do. Sorry that you didn't get to stay in the trial but you need to be healthy. All the best with the surgery. 
  • Zoffiel's avatar
    Zoffiel
    Member
    9 years ago

    There are so many variables and things beyond our control. It's a pity about the trial--I have enjoyed being part of research programs in the past, it made me feel like I was contributing in some way rather than just being a passenger. The bit of extra attention isn't bad either; I can understand your disappointment with getting dropped from that.

    You are one month closer to having your taste buds come back. Lucky you! I am so sick of my tongue being a lump of grey meat that just sits in my mouth being useless.

  • socoda's avatar
    socoda
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi @Katyjoy, Ok it's a shame in one way but your team are obviously looking at long term health and that's excellent. I reckon you'll have to feel heaps better getting the tachycardia under control too. So... Congratulations!!! And all the best for the appointment with the surgeon Monday. Xx
  • melclarity's avatar
    melclarity
    Member
    9 years ago
    Katyjoy wonderful news about the outcome of the tumor! Glad they are on top of things with seeing a Cardiologist and then onto Surgery. Wishing you the very best, let us know how it goes. Melinda xo
  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    9 years ago
    You can only do what you can do, so don't have regrets. You've given it your best shot which is all any of us can do. Beta blockers can be very effective. I got an arrhythmia, probably as a result of surgery and chemo, but it's very manageable, responds well to medication, even if it takes a while to settle. Best wishes.
  • primek's avatar
    primek
    Member
    9 years ago
    Yes it's a relief and scary at the sane time.  I had to stop Herceptin due to cardiac issues which hopefully will resolve in time. Best of luck with surgery.