Working during treatment
Hi ladies. I'm hoping someone can help with my questions. I'm newly diagnosed with invasive lobular bc and have yet to see the specialist. I've been reading heaps of stories from everyone and I know e...
Forum Discussion
Wow you've got a lot going on! Full time work, four kids, BC treatment coming up and a wedding! Not surprised you're feeling exhausted. So sorry to hear about your diagnosis. It must be quite strange and emotionally draining dealing with the stress and fear surrounding BC at the same time as planning a happy event like wedding (even if its' a low key event).
I have three kids myself, work part-time from home and had four rounds of chemo over three months last year. From my experience - and you're right everyone is different - you won't be able to work on the days you receive your chemo. It is quite time consuming and then I always felt a bit wrung out afterwards. The next two days after that I felt ok but but by the end of the second day I was starting to feel pretty bad - achey, exhausted, slightly nauseous (and various other symptoms).
Days 3 & 4 were always the worst. I couldn't do much on those days and spent most of the time in bed or just slowly pottering around the house doing essential chores. By day 5 I was starting to improve and could get up and about again, although I was still not feeling great. Then I gradually improved again until the next cycle.
So I would say you would have to plan at least 3-4 days in each chemo cycle where you probably won't be up to working. But even though I felt better during some of it, I never felt completely well. There was a continual lethargy that got a little bit worse with each cycle. You can get things done though and working from home should make it a bit easier.
Having said all that, try not to put too much pressure on yourself to hold everything together. Chemo is tough and you will be going through a hard time both physically and emotionally. Accept whatever help is offered from family and friends. Delegate responsibilities where you can and only do what is essential. Don't worry if the house gets messy. You have to put yourself first at this time.
The very best of luck to you Tanya. I hope it all goes as smoothly as possible. And good luck with your wedding too. Take care. Janet.