Starting TC Chemo Tomorrow Any Tips?

Good luck for tomorrow... I’m sure everything will go well. It’s the unknown that is scary. I was diagnosed exactly 12mths today so have finished chemo (TC), radiation and have just completed  6mths on Arimidex. Like many of the ladies on here I searched the  BCN site for any hints to assist me - I found the 'What helped you through your journey' blog which was sooooo helpful.

 I was one of the blessed one who didn’t suffer from fatigue at all. For me days 3 to 5 were the worst and even with taking Maxalon I felt nauseous for quite awhile and of course my mouth was revolting.  My Oncologist advised me to take Krill Oil and Magnesium to assist with joint and muscle aches - not sure if it was the tablets or I was lucky but didn’t suffer any aches and pains. I also took Mega Vit B and probiotics .

 Because I was worried about getting mouth ulcers:

·         I used Biotene toothpaste & mouthwash (gargled at least four times a day) - I tried the bicarb and salt mixed together in warmwater but found it dried my mouth out too much.

·         I bought a packet of kids soft toothbrushes using new toothbrush for each chemo cycle.

·         I didn’t floss while having chemo because I didn’t want to cut my gums as I could get an infection

I took my temperature every morning on waking and wrote all detail in my diary.  My temperature did fluctuate and I did manage to get an infection in my Breast (after 1^st Chemo session)  and then again when having radiation.  Seeing I was worried about suffering from Neutropenia I kept a small emergency bag packed in case I had to go to hospital (as I read many ladies ended up with high temp and put in hospital) With all the goodies I might need.

 I wore disposable gloves for cleaning or when preparing dinner cutting up raw meat, chicken etc.  And was very careful when out shopping, in supermarket I always wiped the trolley handle (with antiseptic wipes)before using.

Found I ate any food that I felt like even if it was unhealthy because much of my normal diet I couldn’t eat as it tasted awful. I really enjoyed the ‘Mini Calypso’ ice blocks suggested in the blog.

 As soon as I noticed my hair falling out - I got my partner to shave my head was much better than having clumps of hair falling out.  I bought a synthetic wig – looked good but only ended up wearing it a couple of times... it annoyed me.  The rest of the time I wore bandanas, scarves and for around the house/neighbourhood I found a cap I liked to wear.

Make sure you book into ‘The Look Good... Feel Better Workshop’ as it is a great morning out. I don’t wear a lot of makeup but they showed me some good make-up tips and of course show you all about scarves, wigs, hats etc. I also got to talk with ladies who were undergoing treatment and it put my mind at rest.

Any way Kirrillyb my list could go on and on - if you have any specific questions give me a yell and I’ll answer them if I can.

Best Wishes Greta