@KatWat I had a different regime first being FEC also known as the red devil, there are other combinations like this TC may be the same. 5 fluorouracil (also known as 5FU) epirubicin. cyclophosphamide, that was for 4 infusions 3 weekly and a very hard hitting drug, I didnt cope with it and was in hospital for infusion 2-4 for 2 days to try help. I have Paclitaxel which is Taxol and you're having Docetaxel which is equivalent but different. Generally on your 1st regime cold capping is not successful if you ask majority of people, it depends on your chemo combo. My Oncologist did not suggest it on FEC he said it wouldnt work. If I were having just Taxol he said it may be somewhat. I was too sick turned out to even bother. The other thing is too, if you search here on BCNA on docetaxel there are some threads on this particularly.
Everyone is so different, there are heaps of women who worked through the whole thing with minimum side effects. I went into it all geared up and planned my work etc., and unfortunately went pear shape but the end of FEC I had to cease work for 3 months. I work in Education. So always to be open minded of you wont be in control, once I let go and just gave myself time to deal with it without the pressure of work I could cope ok. I couldnt afford it, I lost thousands upon thousands of dollars in lost income and my own savings. I did have income protection however backdated and was on it for 2yrs but I went back immediately 3 days and they paid 75% of the 2 days but taxed heavily uuugh. Financially has ruined me as Im a single parent and need to work. I cannot recoup what I have lost.
Having said that, its been a long road to recovery and I had to learn to walk again, I spent a year with an exercise physiologist which was imperative. I am back at work 5 days this year in a new School and it is incredibly hard I admit, my Oncologist said Id never be able to work full time but I have no choice. Im 2.5 years post treatment but the pain and fatigue are still tough but I manage most days without panadol osteo now.
All the best, I think you'll blitz it! and no such thing as be positive as a Psychologist at rehab explained, its about handling what comes the same way you handle every challenge in your life, changing who you are doesnt help and only adds stress putting on a constant happy face for others. Im quite positive anyway, but admit chemo was tough for me so I learnt me first....for the first time in my life. :) Nurture you along the way thats all that matters...nothing and nobody else!
xx M
