Anticipation

Hi Jenny,

I had 2  taxotere/carboplatin chemo (but 6 chemo treatment in all), 33 radiotherapy sessions and the 12 months of herceptin. Chemo made me dreadfully ill and I was hospitalised 3 times. After the 2nd chemo, they changed the carboplatin to cyclophosphomide for my final 4 treatments. I got every single side effect. What I would say is make sure you tell your oncologist every side effect that you get. You'll be amazed what they can do to help. I would also say that every single treatment I had effected me differently, some slightly better than others. Just because you get a side effect one time, doesn't mean you will have it again. And if unfortunately you are one of the unlucky few that seem to have a really dreadful time with it, just remember short term pain for long term gain. You will get through it. Drinks lots of water, if you can't manage anything else, lemonade icy poles are great and eat what ever you want and can manage. 

Herceptin also made me feel yucky for a couple of days but I knew about that so I just planned life around it. If you get really sick, don't make the mistake I did. I spent 4 days on the toilet with a bucket in my lap. I thought that this was the way it was meant to be. If you can't keep anything down for 24 hours, go to the hospital. I ended up being admitted to hospital for 5 days. If I had of gone sooner I would have had it sorted sooner. Don't think this is just how it is. 

I had a port inserted as my veins struggled and this made things so much easier. Accept all offers of help. I made sure I wasn't alone for the first 5 days after chemo. Get as much rest as you can but do try having a little walk every day. It helps with the fatigue. Good luck with it all. Karen xo