My Chemo Cocktail

Hi Narelle,

I'm still new to the all the medication names, is EC that you were on the same as what I'll be on? I've been told I'll feel miserable for the 1st week, OK the 2nd then almost normal the 3rd....just in time for week 1 to roll around again :P I'm interested to here how you go with your reconstruction. My oncologist seem to imply that even though I haven't had the BRCA tests done yet, the results may show a false negative & I might still have to mutation.....Really, so much to take in!

Thanks for the walking & breakfast tips. I may be tough, but I suffer from anxiety, so I'll really make the extra effoert to eat well the morning I have the chemo.

I've had to give up work, which Im really disapointed about, but my job really isn't chemo friendy. I might have to start knitting.  :) 

Hi Michelle, Im on the front seat of the roller coaster with my hands in the air!!!

My oncologist also said the the taxol, even though its weekly, will be better tollerated that my 1st 12 weeks. Ill deffinatly add the buzz cut photo next week once I've done it...I'm actually looking fwd to it & getting everthing moving.

If by gene tests come back positive, my mum & cousins will then be tested as well, then my kids when they're older. I'll be making regular updates. Thanks for being there.....Sam xo

Hi Sam,I had EC every three weeks for 12 weeks and now I am half way through Taxol. I have also found the taxol much easier than the EC. Constipation being a major downer. Make sure you have a good breakfast befor chemo and keep walking. My journey began on boxing day 2012 and I thought I would be done within 4 months. Then I was told chemo would be 6 months and I was so looking forward to going back to work. I have been diagnosed with the BRCA2 mutation which has extended my time off to another 6 months after chemo as I have 3-4 months off to get fit for my double mastectomy and recon surgery. I will start radiation next year but I am hoping I will be back at work in January.My biggest hurdle was coming to terms with having no energy and not being able to do a whole lot of normal stuff. So good luck and take it easy and your recovery will be better if you dont exhaust yourself. And go for a walk everyday.Narelle xxoo

You are on the roller coaster well and truly!  In less than 2 weeks you start chemo, and the sooner you start the sooner you finish.  I found Taxol (Paclitaxel) was kind to me so far as side effects went - hope it is for you, too.  My other treatment was different so don't know about your first 12 weeks.  Will cross my fingers for you.Put up a photo after your buzz cut - will be thinking of you!  Short hair is still a shock - I am not used to it yet but have to admit it's far easier to manage.Let us know about your BRCA tests when you find out.  It is great to hear you so positive and full of fight.  They can't prescribe that!  Stay in touch -Michelle xx