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Kazzi's avatar
Kazzi
Member
11 years ago

Starting Chemo!

Hi everyone,

Well today is officially 2 months since my diagnosis of bc.  After 3 surgeries resulting in mastectomy, I start AC treatment today.  What a roller-coaster ride this journey is. The mastectomy came as a shock and I'm still coming to terms with that.  Now I have to contend with chemicals to lose my hair, damage my nails, shrivel my ovaries, etc

I think I'm just really nervous about what to expect.  I've been told all the side effects but not sure how all the chemicals will effect me because it's so individual.  I spent last Friday in the oncology unit having a little orientation (just like orientation day for school). 

I've decided to take a break from my work (primary teacher).  My oncologists were very adamant that a classroom of little ones wouldn't be a good thing for my immunity especially during peak cold/flu season.

I shouldn't complain, I've been told my outcome is good.  Just a little scared about it all.  Radiotherapy to follow. 

What a difference a year makes.  This time last year, my family and I were planning a European holiday, Paris first stop followed by Greece.  (My avatar is the church in Skopolos, the site for filming Mama Mia).  Boy, did my daughter and I sing lots of ABBA songs that holiday!

Wish I was on a different journey to this current one. 

Well, I think I've babbled on enough.  I think I'm putting off getting out of bed to face the day!

All the best with everyone's journeys,

Karen xx

 

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  • Daring's avatar
    Daring
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Karen, I was diagnosed around the same time as you. It is a roller coaster. I started Chemo( EC) last week. The nurses were so informative & lovely. My breast care nurse had given me information & my oncologist was also willing to answer any questions. I stayed in hospital overnight, as my oncologist recommended it. I feel like things have finally slowed down. Remember, everyone is different, and take each day as it comes. All the best for your future treatments. Cheers, Danxo

  • rowdy's avatar
    rowdy
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Karen I hope your chemo went well. It is scary walking into chemo you have been told all the side effects but that dosen't mean you will have them all. We all cope differently. Another step forward in treatment is always good. Take care of yourself

  • Anonymous's avatar
    Anonymous
    Not applicable
    11 years ago

    Hi Karen, you'll be well looked after by the Oncology staff, and you'll be followed up the whole way. Keep your communication up with the nursing staff, as they are really helpful. I've just completed chemo number 5 of 6 today. The time has gone really quickly, and I've just taken it 1 treatment at a time. Best of luck with your chemo and radiation, Tracey B ??

  • Hazel_M's avatar
    Hazel_M
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hey Karen, good luck today, I hope everything goes well for you. Once that first one is done it is a step closer to being finished. Probably not much comfort, I know. It's a hard road sometimes, but you will get there and be able to travel again. Good idea to have a break from work, have to be very careful about picking up germs while on chemo. Hope the side effects are not too hard on you, take care,

    Hazel xx