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MissyMoo's avatar
MissyMoo
Member
13 years ago

Herceptin, Abraxane and beyond ...Day 2 some side effects

Well today was treatment number 3. A speedier visit but still quite lengthy (3 hours)

*constipation -  warning - in case you are not wanting to read about that topic*

Last week my Dr advised coloxyl and senna for constipation. Take 2 at night and see how you go by 9am the next morning. If no joy by Friday ring because it can be a self perpetuating condition and we want to avoid that. That was a great solution and the nausea was so much less once my body was getting rid of stuff.

I returned to work this Monday and have been working full days (half day today for visit to the HOCA). I wash my hands frequently and happily use the alcohol gel.

My hair is still on my head but I suspect it won't be long. My daughter and I reckon that my part looks 'less densely populated'...hmmmm. Not looking forward to the wig transition at work.

What are your thoughts good people of BCNA?

Wondering about telling people at work or letting them guess, talk about me but never confirm with me, possibly get stared at, and of course the kids at school will notice.

Here is the go...I work in a primary school. During the week I work pretty much everywhere including the office. I am friends with and see socially some parents (my children went to the school years ago). I know my wig will obviously be a wig - if you know me you know my hair isn't likely to stay neat all day. lol.

**Do I tell my work colleagues now or later after the wig is on. ** Do I not tell them anything ever. **Do I say I am now/recently on a new medication for my chronic disease and that it will cause hair loss or at least thinning so I'll be wearing a wig (not mentioning chemo = less sympathy). ** Do I give up work, go broke and sulk at home (not really an option)

Your thoughts and opinions are welcome....particularly on how to explain to the little people in Prep and their parents.

 

Wendy

 

 

herceptin
side-effects

4 Replies

  • mgndam1603's avatar
    mgndam1603
    Member
    13 years ago

    How rude, I am  sure your own hair looks nothing like a wig. lol.

    My staff suggested that we have funny hat fridays to make me feel like i'm not so different and today at lunch with the men folk  I looked around the table and most of them have varying degrees of baldness, so i should fit in beautifully with them.

    I have ordered some lovely scarves at an online store and bought a beautiful colourful scarf in Sorrento so I'll be looking hip and happening........

    I got my hair cut last week from long to short I think that has been more a talking point around the office than my cancer as very few have seen me without long hair.

    Anyway I wish I was there to hold your hand and help you through this. I hope like me youy have some family and friends supporting you.

     

    love and kisses

    Donna

     

  • MaureenH's avatar
    MaureenH
    Member
    13 years ago

    I was upfront with all my family, friends and their children.

    I suggest you try and do a dress up day with wigs for all the children to try on (make them out of raffia Straw, Wool or anything ) and then when they see you with a wig they won't be upset.  Explain that you have lost your hair and while it is growing back you need to keep your head warm.  I forgot to tell one of my nephews and while  talking at a family gathering one night I was asked to show how my hair was growing back, but the look on my nephew's face when I removed my wig was one of utter shock..... we all laughed about it, but I hope it didn't play on his mind over the time.

    I think if you can be happy around people, they react to you and are happy as well.  Being positive is the big thing.  My best wishes and love to you, sending you strength.  MaureenH

  • mgndam1603's avatar
    mgndam1603
    Member
    13 years ago

    I have been open with the people at my work, I felt that it was something that was good for me. I work for a large corporate that is male dominated so I don't have kids to contend with just men and to be honest they are amazing.

    I fully intend to work as long as I can but I also understand that I will get to a point where it may not be an option, the uncertainty has been something the ladies on this forum have taught me to embrace.

    So all I can suggest is that you do what is best for you, if you are comfortable talking about yourself tell people and your students too as kids are mamazing little popel who show empathy and understanding.

     

    cheers

    Donna

  • Mich_x's avatar
    Mich_x
    Member
    13 years ago

    Hey Wendy

    My personal thoughts is be up front with everyone. They will respect you for it. If they don't they are people not worth worrying about. It beats the Oh my god what has happened to you. They will be a lot more understanding of the situation. There will be empathy. You will soon learn the real people from the plastic people and you will know who you can rely on through the tough times.

    Don't walk away from work unless you feel it is something that is best for "you", and no one else but you!! cause at the moment you are the most important one, please remember that and at the times when it gets tough cause unfortunately we all have to endure some tough times.

    In relation to the lil ones, my heart goes out to you but they are the ones that you have to be most honest with cause they are the ones most vulnerable. All I can say is I wish you luck with that side of your journey cause that will be the toughest but honesty is the best medicine. If they can see your strength and watch you grow through your journey it will be a wonderful lesson for them but if that is not to be I am sure they will have lots of opportunities later in life as to how to deal with the tough and unfair times we come across in our lives.

    I wish you all the best and the strength and love that you need to get through this part of your journey.

    I am here for you every step of the way.

    Lots of love always, Mich xoxo