Amber - I’ll def take the 2nd lot of steroids earlier then - once again amazing the different info we get when on the same regimes!
Angie / Judy / Kate - yea, I didn’t get the injections with Fec but will get one the day after the 3 Doxetaxel cycles (apparently bloods go really low with Doxetaxol and that’s why the injections are protocol but not so with Fec - seems some do and some dont with Fec) . They are giving me the paracetamol and Ibuprofen for the pains and all the usual other stuff for mouth - I’ll also try and eat good food tomorrow!
Kate - I’ve been told they need to go slow with the 1st Doxetaxol as it can cause a bad reaction however, if you are ok then it’s around 1 hour. You have to have pre meds first though then a wait in between so probably around the 2 hour Mark - I’m sure Amber or Lori will confirm.
Brows and lashes are thinning but still there for now - still using the Talika so this may be helping
Philomena - the nurse did mention an anti depressant that works for some women during menopause so it’s probably prozac she was talking about. Not sure about taking anything during chemo but will ask them
Is anyone getting a shiver (like someone walking over your grave as the saying goes) followed by a pins and needles type sensation through your whole body lasting a few seconds? I’ve had a few of these today - weird! May be completely unrelated to chemo but thought I’d ask!
Lori - hope you are ok x
Take care Angels, Pauline xx
Lori - just looked back and realised your last post was on Monday so apologies for the virtual stalking - it seemed like we hadn’t heard from you for ages! At least you’ll know you’re loved 
Pauline, I had steroids then anti sicks first then the tax which took about an hour. The tax bag has a black covering as it has not to be exposed to light which kind of ties up with the reason for the black nail varnish. I’ve had Neulasta from the start, get it the day after chemo and had no side effects.
Forgot to say loving the new pic, looking good!
Off to bed soon glad the steroids are not going to keep me awake tonight, sending you all big Zzzzz and minimal s/e xxx
Hi Angels,
I haven’t had any FEC. I have had 4 out of 6 cycles of Docetaxel and carboplatin, with Herceptin. I have the Neulasta jab the day after chemo. Diarrhoea and tummy cramps, and weariness have been the worst problems, from days 5 to 10 approximately, plus the worry of the prolonged neutropenia associated with Tax. Dry or slimy mouth with loss of taste is a nuisance, but I have had no major bone pains, due I think to the build up of preventative painkillers I took. I also discontinued with showers and have a radox bath every day without fail.
1000mg paracetamol, You can only buy 500’s over the counter - so take 2 of them!!! LOL.
Steroids - these are important for Tax because not only are they helping to stop sickness, they are also helping to prevent an allergic reaction to the Tax. I take my first 4 about 8-30am with a banana (I’m not an early riser) and my last 4 about 6 hours later, ie between 2-30 and 3pm. My chemo nurse said do not take them after 4pm or you will not sleep. As long as they are taken at least 6 hours apart there will be no problem, so the earlier the better.
Diarrhoea - Imodium is essential and should be taken regularly, ie 2 after first episode and 1 after each subsequent episode. I didn’t have it badly on cycle 1, but on cycle 2 I was really in a mess with it and it was awful. I didn’t take the Imodium properly and lost 9lbs in 4 days despite normal eating and a lot of fluid.
Night sweats - I am 25 years post natural menapause ( I went through mine when I was 40) but I am having the same night sweats as others. So not menapausal symptoms in my case! Has to be chemo induced.
The good news is, you shouldn’t lose any more (or not much) hair, and you will notice it growing back.
In my case, Tax has been OK, but you have to rest and drink, and not be tempted to overdo things.
Good luck. Linda xxx
I’m starting docetaxol next week, but I was told that I would be in for the day, even though it’s an hour infusion. My chemo nurse said it’s because it’s busier on the ward and they have to watch for allergies etc.
My eyebrows are hanging in there, though very thin at the ends. Like you Judy I’m just starting to fill them in. I’ve also started with itchy eyes and have lost a few lashes. I believe lashes and brows go with the TAX. My nails are starting to break at the ends now, so will have to get better at vanishing them. I’m on the LGFB course next week, which is probably good timing.
Take it easy everyone. Hope you don’t all lose too much sleep on the steroids xx
Morning Angels.
Having my first Tax and Herceptin now. Have to stay here all as some people get s reaction to the Herceptin. I have daily injections for 7 days after each chemo as I had neutropenia after the first cycle. I do them myself and have never had any bone pain. I reward myself with chocolate after each jab! I had 8 steroids yesterday but no energy boost and still slept last night, so we are all different.
Had a lovely birthday lunch on Tue With friends, but a high temp and fatigue meant there was no drinking or dancing this year ! Love the idea of walking ‘topless’ in the woods.
Best wishes to you all, Diggy Wiggy
EC cycle 3 day 15
Hello Angels,
Feels like forever since I last posted.have been helping out at daughter’s with baby and toddler and 5 year old on school run - her husband is partially back at work and she is still unable to drive/lift post c-section. Luckily I’ve had no side effects to speak of other than just general fatigue. Don’t know whether that’s chemo related or looking after small children!
Been reading through the posts this morning and there seems to be alot going on!
Angie - three weeks of rads is bad enough without an enforced billeting in Aberdeen. Hope the sun shines throughout September for you.
Pauline - sending lots of positive vibes for good bloods. All the foods the Angels have mentioned have been foods to boost Red blood cells. I would have though it was the White blood cells that need especially boosting. They only thing I can find that seems to help them is vitamin B so fortified breakfast cereals, wholemeal bread and more liver!
Amber - Thanks for the mention of OK to Travel. I’ll have a look at them. It’s great that so many of us are starting to think about life after chemo! I know it’s a long shot but my son and his girlfriend have planned a trip to New York for four days over August Bank Holiday and they’ve asked if we would like to join them. If chemo continues on schedule I’ll be 3 weeks post last cocktail by then but probably a week before rads. All I’d need is good fortune to stay well, a letter from my onc saying ok to travel, a last minute flight, and four pesky days travel insurance. Not too much to ask really.
Kate - Hope you stay fit enough for Bruce. You’ve been very fortunate so far so let’s hope it continues. Sounds like tax can be a lot worse in some ways yet better in others.
Judy - I’m with you on the skin. After first treatment I came out in almost acne. Since that went my skin has been really good. I get cold sores too - always have done. Told onc at last visit (I had one at the time) and he gave me loads of aciclovir tablets (Zovirax in tab form) to take as soon as one appears. Eyelashes shorter, eyebrows just slightly thinner - using dark brown powder sparingly, then twirly brush. Eyelashes are still in their box in the cupboard!
Welcome on board Lynn and Caz. Don’t think there’s a LGFB session near me either but seem to have bought just about every make-up and eye make-up trick going. Latest fave product is Maybelline BB creme in Universal Glow. It’s cheap, has a sunscreen, covers enough without looking thick and gives a realistic healthy colour even though it looks horrendous in the tube.
Best wishes to all on the tax train - and to all we others,
Moira xxx
Fec 4 day 3
Not as bad as last cycle and felt ok yesterday with just a little nausea. Saw the oncologist who explained to me that I will start Docitaxel with a loading dose of Herceptin together with my next cycle. I also have to sign some sort of paperwork to say it’s my choice to have it. I am really worried now.
Linda & Lori - Thank you for your updates. I know your having the Herceptin aswell, but was it a loading dose and did you have to sign any paperwork prior to having it. I do. Also I’m already on 8 Neulasta injections for very low counts so i’m even more sceptical. Going to have to investigate this one.
Debra - Had no idea this is your 2nd dx. No wonder you feel really low. But you beat it last time and you can do it again hun. You really are stronger than you think. x
Pauline - Angie - Cazp - Love the new pictures.
Lynn - Thanks for the insurance advice. Does the T & Cs for BC last for life or only as long as treatment.
Kim - Well done for the dieting. However i’m with Angie on the no will power when it comes to food.
Judy- I too am now having to draw on some eyebrows. And lashes are thinning too. 
Kate - And all starting new regimes wishing you the best ans Se’s are minimal.
With regard to diet and the low counts and dry skin. I was told to eat. Spinach with salads, steak, and liver, oily mackrel or fish for heart health and oil for skin, nails etc to help from within. I do have Guiness just before bloods and plents of water. Was told definatley no suplements. My counts ok again now and veins have been better for blood and infusions.
Just in case your reading thank you De, Chris, Wes, Paul, Dawn, Nicky Tom & Chloe, Sally Dean & Kids, Shane. Mum Spence, Trev Jane, Carol & family, Mum & Dad, Jo, Liz all at church and margi and tory who did our local run for life anyone else ive missed. Margi seeing your T shirt made me cry but in a good way. And anne my hairdresser. Thank you all for your support.
Pauline and Angels - Sending you good vibes. Angel dust and Prayers. x Sandy
Hello everyone, just signed in for a little catch up
Docetaxel day 3
Had dexamethasone day before, and reducing dose following four days, to reduce risk of reaction.
Neurolasta seems to be working, no wound infection this time, but the cording is still there.
Fine on following day, but did a long day’s work yesterday followed by catching up in the garden, now achey and half dead! Nausea returning too, continuing on metaclopromide which helps, horrible sore throat is back.
Angie , I’ve had cording from the beginning of the FEC since first infection. I’ve been doing arm excercises (BCC has some), chemo nurse said gentle massage up the arm may help. I asked about physio, but was told it would’nt have much effect at this point.
High winds and wigs: I’ve only put the wig on if straight into car and inside at the other end, and even then I’ve got my buff in my pocket in case of any wig disasters. I nearly got caught in the mosh pit at Half Man Half Biscuit gig last week - highly alarming!!
Off to Torridon tomorrow, then Durness and on to Thurso, so good luck to you all and catch up after xx
Fec-T cycle 4 tax 1
Still waiting at the bus stop for the bus or truck to hit whatever comes first. Had a good nifpghts keep and feeling fine this morning.
Linda, well done on ticking box 4 and thanks for the tips. Went shopping for Radox this morning, the thought of a nice long soak sounds great.
Mel A, my eyebrows and lashes are thinning too despite using Lipocil. Enjoy LGFB the goody bag is great
Diggy, happy belated birthday, hope all goes well today
Moira, you’ve been a busy girl helping with the kids, they’ll be a tonic for you. Hope you get to New Yofab it’s fab, definately on my bucket list to go back.
Lori/Debra how are you both?
Fecinora, enjoy you’re trip away
Sunshine holding out here, so better make the best of it, have a good day everyone xxx
Hi Primrose Hill,
Yes, I had the Herceptin loading dose, which took 90 minutes. I had this the day before my first chemo, but was told this was only because of the time involved. (I was told to take 2 paracetamols an hour before the infusion to ward off any flu-like symptoms that this can cause. I did as I was told and got no flu!)
Because my regime was TCH x 6 from the beginning I have had Herceptin right from the start so it was included on my initial consent form, so no additional paperwork to sign. I imagine you have to sign the papers because Herceptin wasn’t included on your initial consent form - just a thought.
Once you have had the loading dose, the rest of the Herceptin infusions take half an hour. However, if your cycles get delayed for more than a week for any reason , you have to have another loading dose. This includes the infusions you have after chemo has finished, so if you plan a holiday at any time you are on herceptin, be careful not to miss an infusion date by more than a week.
Linda xxx
[color=#385487]MelA I’ve had the itchy eyes, it’s horrible, I thought I’d maybe got hayfever but the chemo nurse said it was a S/e.
[color=#385487]Diggs Wiggy happy belated birthday and good luck with today’s cycle, hope it goes ok.
[color=#385487]linda, it’s great all is info, It makes it easier knowing what might happen with the s/e.
[color=#385487]Moira, I bought some of the sticky cold sore patches yesterday, I looked a right divvy, no hair, no makeup on so the eyes are very piggy looking, then the clear patches on the corners of my lips … Not a good look!
Hi Pauline…I’m still here!!
I have been feeling ok so been out Tues, Wed and Today. Just a quick note to confirm I was advised same as Amber, to take steroids at 8am & 2pm. I also had the injection next day. Next time I will take Linda’s advice and get myself doped up on paracetamol straight after that and hope for less bone pain this time round. (thanks Linda!)
Now I hope to catch up on all your posts, so hope to be in touch again very soon.
Gooduck to all, love Lxx
Hi Angels Just been reading all your posts, I have not been on for the last couple of days. Was on a bit of a downer yesterday and just so tired.
I decided today was going to e different, met up with another BC patient I met in the hospital and went for lunch, The two of us sitting there with our scarfs on, we got great service though. Also feeling a lot better.
Sorry to hear your bloods are low Pauline, hope they are ok for Friday. I did not get the injection for 1st FEC got it for 2nd and 3rd as I had been neutropinic and in hospital. Glasgow only give it if you got an open wound or you have been in hospital. I asked why I didnt get it 1st time and was told COST.!!! The injection does not hurt and only takes a minute. Easy Peasy.
I got Docetaxel next they told me it will take 3 hours to go through.
My upper arm (chemo one) has been really tender this time sore when I straighten it, just like the cording I had after the surgery on my other arm. Anyone else had this?
Had to phone docs today for my medical certificate (sick line) to be extended, he was total not interested in me did not even ask how I was. He said is your chemo finished, I said no I have just had my third one and have another 3 to go then my radio therapy, before I finished he said I will leave a line at reception 8 weeks, I thought chemo wont be finished for 9 weeks, but hey ho just need to ask for one of the docs I know next time. Sorry for the moan.
I have a picture to put on my profile but could not work out how to change it any ideas guys, I went into edit but could not see anything.
Hope you are all feeling ok tonight, I got a busy weekend so hopfully will be good.
Lynn x
Hey managed the picture thing, I was on my side for a while but worked it out.LOL. Hope its there.
Lynn x
hello girls.
i’m feeling tired, had broccoli for tea, eating lots of yoghurts with vitamins and stuff, and that low immunity ribena, it looks like erubicin or whatever its called, that red stuff they give us, - slightly off putting - that pavlov effect, makes me a bit twitchy. my picc line is a little sore, had it checked and it seems ok, i think ive been flipping too many duvets at work. being a bit miserable and mardy but i wonder if its not just pmt, i suffer bad with that anyway, i thought this fec stopped periods. had enough chocolate to choke a donkey!
judy - i have blistex (blisteze) in the little tube, ang lypsil, always slapping it on because god help us if my gob gets any bigger!! it does seem to be spltting at both ends, i’m just about keeping on top of it. i love that word, divvy, so reminds me of home 
fecinora - you must visit ‘eye candy’ new shoppy in thurso, its fab, very different. its breezy here so hold on to your hat.
Lori - bone pain? have you been aching, i must have missed that post, i’m stocked up with painkillers but i’m not looking forward to it to be honest. hope youre feeling better.
Sandy - i dont like signing things either, was that for the docetaxol?
Moira - oh what fun, i wish i was doing the school run and spoiling my babies, i bet youre having a great time.
Diggy wiggy - happy belated birthday 
angie xx
lynn
i dont think docs know what to say, mine wants to ram loads of drugs down me every time i ring.
nice pic
angie xx
Lynn
I get my ‘sick note’ from the chemo unit, don’t bother with my doctors at all for anything other than difflam mouthwash and paracetamol as my insurance won’t cover those privately and I get them free with my NHS prescription excemption certificate…
Kate
x
Angie i love how you put it… the gob splitting at both sides is just what’s happening with mine, I’ve been using the blisteze and lypsil but they’re not working. I’m a little disappointed too, I thought the chemo stopped periods but I seem to have been on more often than normal since the start of the chemo.
hello lynn, love your scarf.
Lori I’m pleased to read your doing ok with the tax, it’s reassuring.
FEC - dose 3 - day 17
Ooh! Just catching up on all the posts!
Had MRI on Tuesday to see if chemo was working and got results today - it’s working so well they can barely find the pesky lump. Onc seemed very surprised and sent me down for an ultrasound just to double check, and the ultrasound doc wasn’t sure she could see it all. Will still need an op after chemo, but at least I know it’s going well.
I brought my chemo forward to tomorrow as I am going to a Summer “Do” next Friday and really wanted to be well enough after side effects. So tomorrow would be day 18 instead of 21.
unfortunately Onc said my white blood cells are extremely low so cancelled chemo. I told him how desperate I was to go to the Do, much to my husband’s embarrassment, so he agreed we can try again for Monday and if they are high enough I’ll have chemo then Neurolast injection Tuesday. So I am really glad to read your hints and tips on food to eat to boost them .
A friend has just given me some iron in syrup form - would that help? Bit worried about taking it…
Onc said the injections are EUR 1,000 a time, so told me to check my insurance would cover it!
I see some of you are talking insurance, as I am overseas I can’t use the same UK companies but I got insurance excluding BC last year, even though my last BC was early 2010 with rads but no chemo,they refused to cover BC even though all treatment was over 2 years before and just on Tamoxifen. The one a few of you have mentioned that covers it for 90pounds extra sounds good, I would get it if I was in UK. I read somewhere that insurance companies will try to pin anything down to the BC. For example, last time I was on Tamoxifen, so if I got DVT on the flight,they would say it was the Tamoxifen, so nOt covered even if it was completely unrelated to the Tamox,so if I could get BC cover at reasonable rate I would.
Hope you are all doing well xx