Needing advice on managing chemo side effects

Hi Jude,

It sounds like you've had such a hard time of it on AC. My heart goes out to you.  I just completed AC a couple of days ago, Tuesday.  Make sure you keep in touch with the chemo ward and the nurses so they keep a close eye on you. Adjustments can always be made to the anti nausea meds, I've been having a combination of maxalon, dexamethosone and last night a bit of ativan.  As far as food goes, I've stuck to soups, dry bread, ginger beer, jelly etc.

Although I'm 48 with two young teenagers, I don't feel entirely old, but I'm past the cut off for the young women's groups (45) LOL! A cancer diagnosis comes out of the blue and changes your life.  I've taken enforced leave from my job, due to the surgeries, chemo and fear that I'll contract viruses (school teacher).

I've just started yoga and acupuncture at the local cancer centre.  It's been really helpful with the energy levels,  hopefully would help with the nausea. And I've also met some other women.  

I have radiotherapy to look forward to. 

A couple of weeks ago I attended a Look Good Feel Better Workshop which I found really helpful to learn to cope with the lost hair and fading eyebrows.  If you happen to be an inpatient while there's a workshop on, it's always possible to attend, as a woman did at mine. 

Later in the year, Oct, I've enrolled in the YWCA encore breast exercise program.  I know they have a young women's group meeting in syd, but I'll be attending the one in Ashfield.

Be kind to yourself in the days,  chemo is so tough on your body.

Sending big hugs, 

Karen xx