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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

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  • Bearteggie's avatar
    Bearteggie
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Joanne

    I too am having the same treatment as you and have just had my second last Docetaxel at GCUH under Dr San.  She is very good and I see you have already met Kate.  Kate has been a huge support to me as I have had some set backs but I am now back on track with port in place and travelling ok.  Today is my 5th day post treatment and I am very fatigued and have some back pain but knowing that it is the white cells being produced makes it less problematic. 

    I too live only about 10 mins from  the hospital which is really good.  You will find the nursing staff in the day unit really supportive and caring and I am sure you will be surprised at what a non event the treatment day really is.  Good advice has been provided in previous posts regarding possible side effects and remember it is only a few days out of the three weeks where you will possibly feel very low.  You can do this and I look forward to hearing more on your progress.

    All the very best and big hugs.

    Joy xx

  • joanned's avatar
    joanned
    Member
    12 years ago

    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

  • joanned's avatar
    joanned
    Member
    12 years ago

    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

  • joanned's avatar
    joanned
    Member
    12 years ago

    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

  • mgndam1603's avatar
    mgndam1603
    Member
    12 years ago

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

    We are all here on your side.

    Donna

  • Mia1965's avatar
    Mia1965
    Member
    12 years ago

    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.

  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    12 years ago
    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
  • margiemoo's avatar
    margiemoo
    Member
    12 years ago

    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

  • margiemoo's avatar
    margiemoo
    Member
    12 years ago

    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

  • Liztay82's avatar
    Liztay82
    Member
    12 years ago
    Good luck with ure first chemo I get my port inserted Tuesday and the following Tuesday is my first chemo