Pre Step 5

Hi KJ

I am glad you got to take some time off for Xmas. My first treatment was on 18 Dec and while I had a good Xmas it seems like I have been running ever since. The hair (what little I had) under my arms was the first to go. I just shaved my head today which was day 16. Other parts of my body have followed. My head started to get very sensitive a few days ago, almost like bad sunburn, and I could pull out quite a bit of hair when I ran my hands through it. I was worried that I may cut it off too early, but am really happy with my decision as the discomfit stopped straight away. I had really long hair so I think it was the weight of it that was making it hurt. I have tried on wigs but they are just not for me. I think I'll be happy to get around in scarves while at work or special places. Today I went to the supermarket with just my bald head and it felt liberating. I even change my Facebook profile pic to a photo of the new bald me. I've just decided to embrace it rather than feel as if I have to hide it.

My experience with chemo so far has been definitely better than I expected except for a stint in hospital with neutropenia which you can read about online. Now that I am home I still feel great with no nausea or fatigue. My first dose of chemo was a 'loading' dose which meant I had stronger chemo drugs that what will be my usual dose so I am hoping that I will ok with the next few treatments. I have an appointment with my oncologist on 11 Jan but expect to say I will go back to work in a week, at this stage probably full time unless something changes. But everyone is different and many of us have different chemo combos. 

Keep a journal or notes on your side effects. If you have treatment every 3 weeks it can be hard to remember what side effect hit you on the early days of your cycle. Wishing you all the very best for your first treatment. Keep in touch.

Nadine

 

Hi good you had a break over christmas. Chemo is different for everyone I ended up in hospital after first round and my hair I had cut off just after 2nd dose as it was falling out in handfuls.. Yep you do lose your hair  everywhere .If you are going to get a wig organise now, this is what I did so when the time came it was a decision I had already made. My friends decided I needed  a laugh so they brought me a present. It was some merkins these are wigs for you know where, I loved it I couldn't stop laughing they had to order from the Uk and on the parcel where you declare what is in it was written Fanny wigs.

Tell the oncology staff all your side effects things can creep up on you. Good luck it does come to a end, it just feels like it dosen't end.

Remember this site is for us all to vent and chat when we need support from others that understand sending you a laugh.

Hi KJ,

Don't worry about expressing your feelings on this site.. We've all been there and understand the need to vent, please feel free to be yourself here, this is a safe place to say just how you're feeling.

Im so sorry you had to have a mastectomy, this horrible disease is a rude and unexpected interruption to our lives. God bless your thoughtful hubby for putting treatment on hold over Christmas and New Years. You'll be stronger physically, mentally and emotionally with the extra recovery time post-op.

When it comes to how you'll go with chemo, everyone is different. The key seems to be preparation & communication. Work together with your treating team to plan anti-nausea & pain meds, be kind to yourself & get the rest you need, if you can manage gentle exercise it will help too. 

I lost my hair 4 weeks into treatment, and yes it is an all over thing. Haven't had to shave my legs or under my arms, lost eyebrows & lashes and although I would never have asked for a Brazilian, I'm told they are all the rage ?? I am far too old to be so trendy!

Good luck with the chemo, keep in touch and let us know how you are going. We are here for you, Tracey ??

Good luck with the treatment. What a great descrption "carnival ride"...

Do as they say and in particular keep up the water.

Take care Christine xx