Hi, I am taking what seems to be a very good idea and asking if there is anyone from Stafford or the surrounding area?
TillyB
Hi Tilly
Spotted this post the other day, then lost my internet connection (as frequently happens…grrr!) and completely forgot to go back and check if you’d had any replies.
I’m in the southern tip of Staffs (the bit that is sandwiched between Shropshire and the West Mids); there is also another of my contacts in Tamworth, so we’re both in striking distance of you. What stage are you currently at?
Rosie x
Hi
I’m from the Shropshire/Staffs border and have my ‘summer home’ not far from Stafford. I know Rosie and the contact from Tamworth.
Nicky x
Hi good to get some replies. I had surgery in April for a reoccurence, had bi lateral mastectomy in 2006. Finally saw the oncologist today who advised I should get referred to Christies in Manchester rather than be treated by him (due to a long winded medical history). So no idea where I am at really. How about you guys? x
Hi Tilly,
I’m from South Staffs, just over the border from West Mids, so had my treatment at New Cross in Wolves. All my details are on my profile, but as I was DX in Jul 07, I’m a little way down the line now. Still check in on the site here from time to time, but generally feel fine and getting on with life and try and keep any fears and worries tucked away in a little box!
Shannon
Hi Tilly,
I am from Stone. I finished chemo 12 weeks ago and am continuing with herceptin every 3 weeks. The cancer had spread to my back resulting in crushed vertebra and the continuing pain from my back has resulted in my radiotherapy being delayed as I cannot get into position.
Liz x
hi ladies, another one from tamworth here 
I am currently opening up a cancer support centre in tamworth after gaining charitable status
you are all free to come along and support each other !!
we also have a charity shop to the front of the building where you can get a bit of retail therapy HANDBAGS !!
keep smiling xxx
Hi ladies
Yet another one from Tamworth, do you think its something in the water? Hey smallstar, I will come and visit your shop shortly, think I met you at the bf xmas party last year in sutton. Take care all xxx
Hi i,m from brereton/ Rugeley,
Have had lumpectomy, first appiont for 6xfec at Wolverhampton Mon 30th April.
Anyone got any advise- what to ask? try cold cap? where to go ? any info on wigs/hair clinic? “Strength in Style” ?
AS you can see it’s all about the vanity. lol
Would appreciate any sugestions as am a bit aprehensive
Viv x
Hi ladies I am from staffordshire too and wishing I was in the “I haven’t got cancer club” rather than this club! 6 months down the line and frying to get back to “normal” whatever that means these days.
Hello all,
Another Staffordshire lass here - I’m from North Staffs, and live in Leek. Getting quite an old hand at this now: diagnosed June 2008, bone mets Jan 2010, still going strong!
Viv,
i didnt have chemo so cant help you there.However I had 4 weeks rads at New Cross - and they were wonderful. They try to make sure you are seen by the same staff - so you can get to know them which helps if there are any probs. Even the woman who runs the tea bar is so friendly and interested in how you are doing! It made the situation so much easier.
Hoping your chemo goes ok
kaj
xxx
Hi Viv,
Re advice on chemo: I haven’t had FEC but did have 2/3 of it - the E and the C. For me, the side effects weren’t too bad, mostly fatigue and nausea, although thanks to the anti-emetics I had with each dose I never actually vomited at all.
Hair loss is a daunting prospect, but I went with it, and found it not as bad as I had feared. I didn’t try the cold cap (I did later with a different chemo, but decided to stop after a couple of sessions). I had 2 wigs and a variety of hats and buffs, and once I got into it actually quite enjoyed being able to change my appearance at whim. The hair on your head is a very obvious part of you, but remember that other hair may well be affected too: not having to shave/wax for several months is a definite boon, but the water in the shower running straight down your forehead and into your eyes because you don’t have brows or lashes is not such fun, and when your nose runs it really runs!
Tips I would recommend are:
Take a friend with you if possible - it can involve a lot of waiting around, and it is reassuring to have someone there if you feel a bit tired afterwards too. A second pair of ears to make sure you take in all that is happening is useful too.
Warm hands make finding a vein easier, so make sure you are warm: maybe take an extra cardi.
Magazines, a book, kindle, computer, ipod - whatever helps you pass the time is good to have with you.
Your taste buds may well be affected, so you may need to experiment with different foods/drinks. I found fizzy drinks more palatable than flat, and couldn’t stomach coffee for a few days each cycle, but found that bovril went down well, as did soup when I couldn’t fancy much else to eat. Certainly for me, and most people I think, this only lasted a few days out of each 3 weeks, so don’t panic too much.
Fatigue can come and go, and I think as far as possible you need to be kind to yourself: if you feel tired and have the chance to put your feet up or go for a nap, then do it.
If you are prescribed steroids, follow the instructions carefully, and try not to take them too late in the day or you may find it very difficult to get to sleep.
Sign up for a “Look Good, Feel Better” course - ask at your hospital for details.
And don’t feel embarrassed to ask for or accept help from friends and family!
Sorry, this posting has turned into quite a ramble, but hopefully you may find some things helpful. All the best for your chemo,
Julie x