Forum Discussion

kazza4450's avatar
kazza4450
Member
10 years ago

Did anyone ever ask - What if I wanted to stop during chemo?

One question I've never asked, chemo starting next week. 

Can you stop chemo if you want to? In other words - say I did 1 or 2 cycles of chemo and said....No, I'm not doing this anymore.. Are there medical rammifications to not finishing the full 4 cycles etc. Does that make sense. I get that the treatment may not be successful, but does it harm you physically to quit before full treatment. 

Love to hear others opinion or experiences with this.

Cheers, Karen ?? 

5 Replies

  • Kazza,come on now please don't let this disease beat you get your fight like a girl mindset and start and complete your chemotherapy there are lots of things the oncologist can do for you I never  knew this my first 2 treatments wish I had anyway they can add phenergan which is an anti histamine to your drip and you will have a great sleep while your having your treatment wake up and your done it's great apparently my Sister said I was snoring really loudly and she found it hilarious.So ask for that also anti naseau meds can be added get them all I say LOL and keep your meals light I loved crackers and cheese and yogurt but you find out what you like to eat so please have all your treatments if you don't you will always regret not doing it your life is important Kazza to give it your all to keep it and this time next year it will be done xxxx

  • Hi Karen, I'm not sure there are any ill affects from stopping chemo midway.I remember being in the emergency department after No. 5 and saying to the doctor that there was no way I was coming back for No. 6. He said nobody does 75% of chemo, not advisable as you must give yourself the best chance of no reoccurance. It is up to you, it is your body. Just thought I'd share my experience. All the best with whatever you decide, take care, 

    Hazel xx

  • Hi Karen it is always up to you what you do with your body, I know it is a hard trip my first 2 were terrible I ended up in hospital after the first. The second was as bad so my oncologist dropped the dose forthe last 2. I'm with the other ladies I want to be here so I will do anything to help me be here. There is no gaurante that it will not come back, but I have to everything to be for al least another 20 years would be nice. Take care and talk to your oncologist they can generally answer your questonsxxx

  • Hi Karen

    I had such a dreadful time with the first round of chemo that the onc said she was surprised I came back. I was astonished and asked if people actually don't come back and she said all the time. I'm not sure of any medical ramifications. It's not easy but I just kept telling myself short term pain for long term gain. I've reduced my chances of reoccurrence from 50% down to 10%, which in my books, made it definitely worthwhile. I also know of people who have put off chemo for a week or two as they just needed a breather from treatment. Your best bet is to ask the onc of any issues this may cause. Good luck for next week. Karen xox

  • Anonymous's avatar
    Anonymous

    Hi Karen, I've just finished 6 rounds of chemo, and from my experience I received support in managing the side effects. The oncology unit gave me a number to ring for advice, and everyone was wonderful. Chemo isn't fun, but I have always kept top of mind that I don't like the alternative if I don't do the treatment. I was told that I have a a 50/50 chance of getting cancer back without the treatment, but if I go through the chemo and radiation, it reduces my odds to 30 percent. I'm fully aware that cancer could reappear in my life, but I want to live every day to the fullest, so that I can see my daughter get married, spend time with my husband and see my grandkids when they come. I've been given a second chance at life, and want to embrace every day, 1 day at a time. Sending you a big cuddle, and best of luck with your decision about your chemo treatment, Tracey B ??????