Hi Suzi. We've got a few women here who are having or have had FEC-D. @lrb_03 and @Kellee come to mind. You might like to put 'FEC-D' into the search bar to see what comes up. Always remembering though, that while there are some general similarities, we all react individually to the treatments we're given.
The not knowing how you'll react is the pits. It definitely makes the first chemo the worst in so many ways. I had a regime called TC (Docetaxel & Cyclophosphamide) and had a massive panic attack two nights before I started. It was horrible! But once you're underway it's surprising how soon it becomes routine. You get used to how your body reacts.
Don't suffer in silence. If you're really nauseous or whatever, get onto your oncologist asap. They can almost always give you something more to improve the side effect a bit.
I don't know if there's anything you can do to prepare for chemo, but make sure you keep moving during it. Exercise helps reduce many of the side effects, including nausea and fatigue. I walked almost every day during chemo, starting with a very slow 1.5kms, and building up from there through each cycle. Quite apart from the physical aspects was the mental satisfaction. On days when I did little else, at least it gave me a sense of achievement.
It's important to be really kind to yourself, and accept any offers of help. It will make life a lot easier. Lean on your breast care nurse, they can be invaluable when it comes to answering questions and emotional and practical support.
And lean on the good folk of this forum! We're here for you. K xox
