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Viv_C's avatar
Viv_C
Member
12 years ago

Having fun on chemo

I am back at work after a wonderful 5 day holiday in Tasmania, spending my 59th birthday last Thursday exploring the north, then on Saturday paddling in a 41 kilometre, ‘Almost a Marathon’ dragon boat event down the Derwent River in Hobart. Now I am feeling great and ready for my 3rd FEC treatment tomorrow.

In my first chemo cycle I had almost no side effects but got a cough I couldn’t shake off and ended up in hospital for 3 nights with a fever and low blood counts (febrile neutropenia). The day after my second chemo, I had a neulasta injection to boost my white blood cells and it worked a treat. On day 11 my blood counts were at normal levels and I was feeling fine, so I quickly finalised arrangements for my holiday.

My partner and I caught the ferry from Melbourne and had a wonderful time, eating and drinking delicious Tasmanian produce, visiting MONA, and best of all getting back in the boat with my dragon boat buddies. I even managed to paddle the full 41 kilometre distance, taking a few more short rests than the rest of the team, but keeping going for 5 hours. I did this on chemo and only 14 weeks after a left mastectomy, axillary clearance and TRAM flap reconstruction. I am feeling very proud of myself!

I am organising another mini-break before my next chemo as well and think it is good  to have something to enjoy and look forward to (one of Deanne's tips),  though it is a terrible disappointment if you have to cancel, as I did in the first cycle.

I feel almost embarrassed to write this blog, as so many people are having such a hard time with their treatment. I am sure it is luck as much as anything else that determines how our bodies react, but for those of you starting out, it might be good to know things can go well. It is possible to have fun on chemo.

Viv

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  • Rosanna's avatar
    Rosanna
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Viv_C

    I can't see why embarrassed to say something in such a wonderful and enjoyable message to share.

    I haven't had my Chemo yet, but I am prepared, maybe I'll overthink or over-worry (I always do) However, when seeing you "enjoying" the chemo period, you gave me such a good reminder, don't think too far, step by step, 

    Keep us update your journey, I like it.

    Xoxo

  • tannie53's avatar
    tannie53
    Member
    12 years ago

    Good to hear Viv! I am starting my 1st chemo tomorrow and your blog has eased some of my fear so thanks! The thought of treating myself to little holidays is very appealing. Keep smiling Viv! xo

  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    12 years ago
    Well done! How fantastic,and I think that it's most important to show that for a lot of us ,chemo is not THAT bad.It still has that real fear about it that really needs to be broken down,and stories like this,help to do just that!!I On the other hand,maybe it's something about being 59. I am 59 and I have never had so much energy!(touch wood;). All the best for your 3rd chemo,and I like Deanne's idea too,about having something to look forward to on chemo.Take care Viv.xoxoRobyn
  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    12 years ago
    Well done! How fantastic,and I think that it's most important to show that for a lot of us ,chemo is not THAT bad.It still has that real fear about it that really needs to be broken down,and stories like this,help to do just that!!I On the other hand,maybe it's something about being 59. I am 59 and I have never had so much energy!(touch wood;). All the best for your 3rd chemo,and I like Deanne's idea too,about having something to look forward to on chemo.Take care Viv.xoxoRobyn