Neuropathy- need some moral support

HiAnnabannana​ and Sarah-2026​ I developed neuropathy in my feet and hands after the first couple of TCHP doses of chemo for triple positive breast cancer, about 2 1/2 years ago. At the time my oncologist reduced the dose a little, I found this story about how a young surgeon got her dexterity back a good news story and it motivated me 

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-04/kath-goodall-surgeon-bowel-cancer-shock/102554760?utm_source=abc_news_app&utm_medium=content_shared&utm_campaign=abc_news_app&utm_content=link

2 years on my hands are a lot better and my feet are better than they were. I hope this counts as “good news”! The main ongoing effect is felt mostly at night. If my feet are sore Panadol helps. It could sound a bit “woo woo” but yoga makes the biggest difference. It isn’t fun getting neuropathy so I am sorry to hear about your experience. Now, in my case, it is manageable,  so I am oping yours will be in time. Sending you positive vibes for your remaining treatment. 

HiAnnabannana​ , sounds like a roller coaster. I hope things get better. I’m about to start Taxol and interested to know if you tried anything during infusions like cool gloves/socks?? 

Hi Annabannana​ - thankyou so much for sharing what must be a very difficult time right now. Hopefully you find great support here via our Online Network.

It's completely understandable to feel impacted by the changes peripheral neuropathy it can bring. We wanted to  share a few resources below that you may find helpful as you navigate this:

🔹 BCNA’s My Journey BCNA has clear, easy‑to-read information about Peripheral neuropathy, why it happens, and ways to manage symptoms.

🔹 Podcast: Listen to Podcast: Peripheral Neuropathy This podcast offers practical guidance and lived experiences, which many people find reassuring and informative.

🔹 eviQ Factsheet –Peripheral neuropathy during cancer treatment
A reliable factsheet explaining causes, symptoms, and strategies for coping with nerve changes during treatment.

If you’d like help exploring any of these or want to talk through what you’re experiencing, please feel free to reach out 1800 500 258 or connect in with your breast care nurse.

Hi Anna

I can not share any good news, as I feel the same as you. Some days are good, some days are bad. What really helps me is taking off my shoes or house slippers and resting. It also helps me when I ignore it and keep myself preoccupied with some 'distractions' such as swimming or light housework or painting. However, for me it is important to rest between activities. I developed neuropathy after my treatment is finished (chemo and radiation). As I am on hormone blockers, Letrozole and additional medication to complement hormone blockers called Abemaciclib, I believe that all of this together contributed to the development neuropathy in my feet. I do not have neuropathy in my hands, otherwise I would be breaking anything I hold. I also developed lymphoedema so there are a few issues I have been dealing with. But to go through all of this, I have to keep positive. I always report this to my oncologist who wanted to put me on some medication for neuropathy that I refused as I am already taking so many meds. I hope there will be some more positive responses to your question.