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joanned's avatar
joanned
Member
12 years ago

First Chemo

Hi All,

Well my first chemo is on Thursday. Having my Picc line inserted on Wednesday. Did not want to think about having to find a vein each time I had chemo as my veins are thin so we looked at best option.

Having FEC cocktail for 3 treatments every 21 days which is (Fluorourcil/Epirubicin/ Cyclophosphamide) and then 3 treatments every 21 days of Docetaxel. Then will start radiation every weekday for 6 weeks after chemo. Then after that will be having aromatase inhibitor hormone therapy for next 5 years but not sure what drug.

Was impressed by the team at GCUH oncology headed by Dr "San" and Kate the Cancer Nurse. I am lucky that I only live 10 mins up the road and it is a lovely new hospital.

Whilst I am still recovering from surgery, I have found that I am almost in a nesting period where I want to make sure everything is ready before I come home. I guess I just want to try and  make it as stress free as possible.

I already had a hysterectomy over 5 years ago but as I stopped taken hormone tablets, my hot flushes have come back with a vengence so would love to know if anyone else is using natural therapy to assist them for that or chemo in general. I get a lot of relief from chiro and accupuncture.

I am looking forward to the LGFB workshop as well as I do not know if I want to wear a wig. But it is all a learning experience.

Hope I will sleep well before it all starts, been keeping busy to keep my mind occupied.

Thanks to everyone for great support.

JoanneD

 

chemotherapy

23 Replies

  • Sandra_M's avatar
    Sandra_M
    Member
    11 years ago

    Thank you Jo. I'll keep you posted. I'm having positive thoughts about what a hassle free experience it's going to be! I've walked and done some tai chi this morning so I hope that will get me in the right mindset.

    Best wishes, Sandra

  • joanned's avatar
    joanned
    Member
    11 years ago
    Hi Sandra All I can is it always seems daunting at first but try and remain positive and you WILL get through this. Relaxation music and meditation helped me. take care Jo
  • Sandra_M's avatar
    Sandra_M
    Member
    11 years ago

    I'm starting my first round of FEC-D tomorrow and am feeling quite nervous, particularly after reading all those horrible side effects. I haven't had a port fitted yet, that will come the following Monday. I also start Herceptin with the first of the D cycles. Any help/support would be much appreciated.

  • Sandra_M's avatar
    Sandra_M
    Member
    11 years ago

    I'm starting my first round of FEC-D tomorrow and am feeling quite nervous, particularly after reading all those horrible side effects. I haven't had a port fitted yet, that will come the following Monday. I also start Herceptin with the first of the D cycles. Any help/support would be much appreciated.

  • joanned's avatar
    joanned
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Joy

    Lovely to hear from you.

    And thanks for those tips as I get through the next few days.

    Take care

    JoanneD x

  • joanned's avatar
    joanned
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi All

    My first chemo went well and the picc line made it so much easier. Only have bruising around the entry area but I bruise easy anyway. The nursing staff make you feel so relaxed and comfortable, so I chatted to them and some other chemo patients. I was pumped full of anti nausea drugs as that is something I do suffer from so that made a huge difference. They took the time to explain what was happening so I knew what to expect.

    I have christened my FEC drugs my "Singapore Sling" cocktail  !

    The time was spent listening to relaxation music, playing a game on my Samsung tablet ( which keeps me busy during waiting times) and enjoying a chuppa chup lollipop to keep my mouth moist.

    Took advantage of Moniques Transfer Bus today and that was great so I had someone waiting at home when I arrived. Felt good most of the night and just had a bit to eat and some panadol and heaps of water. I put some ginger juice in my water to help allieve any nausea.

    Had a reasonable night sleep and no high temp or other issues yet so just have to go and have my injection in stomach this afternoon at my local GP and then see how the rest of the week goes.

    But I am prepared for all contingencies based on what I may need for any side effects and I have my  'domestic goddess' husband  here as support as well as some emergency friends if needed.

    Thanks again for your support and advice - it does make it a bit easier.

    Will keep in touch.

    JoanneD ?

     

  • Bearteggie's avatar
    Bearteggie
    Member
    12 years ago

    Glad your picc line went in well and hope you got a good night's sleep.  The Pick Chicks are great aren't they?  

    All the very best this afternoon with your 1st chemo treatment.

    Big hugs

    Joy xx

  • Deanne's avatar
    Deanne
    Member
    12 years ago
    Hope you slept well. All the best for your chemo this afternoon. Having the picc will make it much less stressful. Take care. Deanne xxx