first appointment with oncologist

Hi Julia

These are some things that have worked for me while on FEC - I'm on to taxotere now.

Mouth Care - I use biotene toothpaste and mouthwash twice a day and have the mouth spray and gum during the day.

Nail Care - Plenty of hand cream. I also use revitanail to strengthen my nails.  I'm not as good with this as I should be but it is something my onc nurses really push. Some of the girls on this site also use dark nail polish.

Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.  Lemonade and lemonade icy poles are good.

Meals - accept any offers for meals.  I've been so lucky as the mums from my daughters school deliver meals during my chemo week.  I leave an esky at my front door during the day as some days you are just not up to visitors. They all understand this and are just happy to help. Homemade soup and toast is about all I eat when I feel nauseas but the family still needs to be fed.

Accept any offer for help made by family and friends - it's time for you to concentrate on you. Cleaning, ironing, shopping etc it will be a great help for you and they will feel good too.

Hair loss - This happened 2 weeks after 1st FEC. I wear a wig when out and a 100% cotton beanie at home. I picked the beanies up at surf shops and on ebay,  I find acrylic hats too hot.  Hair loss was really hard for me at first, a good cry and time to get used to it and I'm ok with it now.

Skin care - like your hands just keep moisturising!  I have a few favourites but only use plain sorbolene when I feel nauseas as some of the stronger smelling ones make me feel worse.

Rest when you need to and don't feel guilty .  The fatigue for me was really hard to get used to as I am normally very active but you really need to listen to your body.  Read, watch tv - record your favourite shows to watch in the days following your treatment. I rest up when the kids are at school so I have the energy to enjoy time with them when they are home.

Go for walks when you can - it feels good to get out even if it's just around the block at first and then walk for longer when you are up to it.

Smile a lot and think positive thoughts.  I have been given a few books with inspirational quotes and find them quite uplifting when I am feeling down.  I really believe the mind is a really powerful tool in healing.  I cry when I need to though which hasn't been too often but once the flood gates open it really comes flowing and I feel much better afterwards.

It's hard going but there are still lots of good days between treatments.

Hope this helps

Take Care

Ann-Marie xx