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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

 

23 Replies

  • Hi Everyone,

    Thanks again for all the lovely messages and advice. It is like having all these special people in your life that even though you may not know them well, you feel like you can share your thoughts and fears as you know they understand

    Will keep you posted.

    Joanne D

  • Hi Everyone,

    Thanks again for all the lovely messages and advice. It is like having all these special people in your life that even though you may not know them well, you feel like you can share your thoughts and fears as you know they understand

    Will keep you posted.

    Joanne D

  • Hi Everyone,

    Thanks again for all the lovely messages and advice. It is like having all these special people in your life that even though you may not know them well, you feel like you can share your thoughts and fears as you know they understand

    Will keep you posted.

    Joanne D

  • Good luck for this week. Remember anticipation is always worse than participation.

    We are all here on your side.

    Donna

  • Hi Joanne,

    I had the very same drugs for my treatment. Hope it goes well for you huny. You are an amazing and wonderful woman Joanne, and don't forget it ok?

     

    Good luck and take care always XXX Mia.

  • All the best with your chemo.Try not to worry too much,as a lot of ladies ( me included) have found that the start of chemo is a bit of a non event.It is such a build up of emotions,and then when you finally get through that first one,and get home again,because of the steroids you get given,you actually feel ok.It usually takes a few days before you will start to feel fatigue.Just remember to drink your water,as this is so important,and try to get out for a walk each day,as it alleviates the fatigue really well.I didn't want a wig,but I had several hats and turbans,and some scarves.All the best Joanne,and stay on here and let us know how you go.There is always plenty of help on here if you have any side effects and need advice on how best to manage them.xoxo Robyn
  • hope all goes well for you. I may be having chemo soon too (still not decided) - be interested in your updates. look after yourself.

    Marg

  • hope all goes well for you. I may be having chemo soon too (still not decided) - be interested in your updates. look after yourself.

    Marg

  • Good luck with ure first chemo I get my port inserted Tuesday and the following Tuesday is my first chemo