This topic is for anyone starting chemo in April to share thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment.
You can find more info on chemo on our pages: Chemotherapy for breast cancer | Breast Cancer Now
5 Likes
Hello, it looks like I am the first to join this group 
I found out yesterday that I will be starting Chemo in April.
I was diagnosed nearly one and half years ago. Unfortunately I was unable to have an operation or chemo at that time and have been on a combination of Ribociclib, Palbociclib and Letrozole. These stopped working and I am now classed as Stage 4. More biopsies were performed to find out what was going on.
I received the results of biopsies yesterday and found out that my cancer has mutated from HER2- to HER2+. Apparently this is rare but means I can now have chemo as a line of treatment I am trying to think of this as a small win 
I am planning on trying the cold cap and decided on a PICC rather than a port.
Anyway that’s a little about me. I will wait patiently for more lovely people to join the group. 
9 Likes
Just wanted to say you’re not alone in this 
even if it feels a little quiet here right now.
There’s so much to take in at the beginning, and it sounds like you’ve already been through such a lot. I really admire how you’re holding onto even the smallest wins, that takes so much strength.
I hope more people join in soon, but I’m really glad you shared. Sending you so much support as you begin chemo in April 
1 Like
Hi, just wanted to reply as I have been watching all the forums since being diagnosed in Jan and time for me to get involved.
I start 4 cycles of EC every two weeks on Monday 30th March but feel this fits with the April chain 
then plan is for 4 cycles of Palictaxel. My story is a bit wild, as went for a check on left boob (which turned out to be breast tissue) but a routine mammogram at same time - as over 40-discovered something on the right. Fast forward and after a lumpectomy and sentinel node therapy in Feb, margins were clear but it was in 1/2 nodes. Mine is grade 2 ER/PR positive. HER2. So I am ready to start my chemo journey. My nipple was at risk as was 8mm behind it and I was so focused on potentially losing that chemo was the last thing on my mind 
I am having a port which will be after my first cycle and before my second apparently, waiting to hear back from hospital on the date.
I just want to get started now (am I weird!) Wig fitting earlier in the week, I did my research and decided cold capping was not for me. Invested in Polybalm for nails which was pricey but I’m obsessed now with applying and hoping it works. Just enjoying feeling normal and well, but there is this anticipation of what is to come. I’m staying off work for now. Anyway that’s a rambly bit about me but sending you all the positive thoughts for this next step and to everyone else joining the crazy 2026 chain we did not want to be on!
7 Likes
Hi 
welcome to the currently very small group
I am going to be on Docetaxel and Phesgo (6 cycles over 18 weeks) . I am in a dilemma whether to cold cap or not. The more pros and cons I read the more undecided I become. I’m not sure I could stand iced hands and feet as well as head!!!
I am the same as you, I wish it would just hurry up and get started. I have an echocardiogram next week and I am still waiting for another PET scan and to meet the chemo team on the unit.
In the meantime while I wait for it all to get started my Amazon basket is growing by the day - full chemo treats and essentials
1 Like
It is so difficult to decide on the cold cap. I followed loads of blogs and in end made decision for me, but go with whatever you think works. I have seen a few at least try it for first few cycles.
Ha I am like you on the shopping! I have invested in Polybalm for nails and started using religiously. It felt a crazy purchase with the price but the reviews are so good. Also bought a journal for logging side effects etc but my hospital gave me one after it arrived but I prefer my cover 
6 Likes
Have you heard of Little Lifts? Little Lifts Boxes - Little Lifts
A friend shared months ago and I didn’t apply when I had lumpectomy as felt a fraud but decided it would be good for chemo (lovely bits that meant to be really helpful) so went for it. Lovely company 
xx
2 Likes
Hi
I’ve been stalking these forums for days and thought now was a good time to get involved and say hello.
I was diagnosed in Jan with ER/PR positive and HER2 negative Grade 2 breast cancer. Had a lumpectomy in Feb with clear margins and no lymph node involvement. Because of my age (35) my lump was sent off for oncotype and Ki-67 scoring and I found out 10 days ago I needed chemotherapy to reduce the risk of reoccurrence.
I start treatment on 1st April (if only it was an April fools joke) x3 EC and x3 docetaxel every 3 weeks. PICC line is being fitted on Monday and I’ve already received my first Zoladex injection which starts years of hormone treatment.
Currently in the calm before the storm. But hoping we can all support each other through the difficult months to come 
6 Likes
Had my little lifts chemo box delivered today. What a wonderful company.
Have also order PICC line covers from PICC Pals. https://store.piccpals.co.uk
Also found this lady on instagram who does preloved headwear, PICC covers, wigs etc. Thought I’d try out some different styles before committing to buying any of my own. All free, she just asks for a donation towards postage.
https://www.instagram.com/prelovedrel0ved?igsh=d3I1ZzY3MXF3N3Rh
4 Likes
Hi, I’m supposed to be starting ACT for HR+ stage 3 on 4/10 (still waiting for date confirmation). I have a 2.75 and 5 year old, no near by family but a good network of friends and neighbors. I am thinking to just accept the hair loss. And try to avoid a port. I think I’m going to look for scarves and maybe a wig. I had a double mastectomy 2.5 weeks ago. What can I do to find head covers? What else could help with things? I’m tired and just not sure what else I should be considering/preparing.
3 Likes
What treats and essentials? I’m not sure what to get! 
I love the book 
Hello
Thank you for getting the April group started and sharing your journeys so far.
I will be having my first chemo on Monday, so almost April
, with 3 doses over 9 weeks then weekly for 9 weeks, then radiotherapy.
I had a lumpectomy in January and there was cancer in 1 node. Scored high risk on the Prosigna test so on with chemo. I went for a picc line on Thursday but had problems with insertion so the first one will be by canula.
It will be good to hear how you all go on over the next few weeks/months.
Sue
XX
2 Likes
Hey I’m just popping over from the March group to say good luck for tomorrow I’m 2 x EC in now and physically it’s nowhere near as bad as I expected! Once you get the 1st one done you’ll get into the swing of things! Like you I couldn’t wait to get going either and still feel the same ticking each one off! I’m almost half way through now, and although mentally challenging, keep trying to live your life in between sessions 
7 Likes
Hey I’ve just popped over from the March group and your post caught my eye, I have a 5 and nearly 3 year old too which was my biggest fear going in to chemo (EC-T - 3 x EC and 3 x Docetaxel).
I was diagnosed in October, surgery in December and started chemo in March, my girls still have no clue anything is wrong which was my biggest fear them seeing me really poorly. In my mind I imagined I’d be lay bedbound for the next 4 months (how the movies portray it), it’s been far from that! Throughout chemo I find I need 1 complete chill day (still manage the school/nursery run and can function) which just happens to fall on the 1 day I have a completely child free day when the eldest is at school and youngest is in nursery, but other than that it’s been business as usual with a couple of added in naps here and there 
but we’ve still been going to playgroups, kids parties (extra hygiene measures), fun days out, I’m day 6 post 2nd EC and it’s easter holidays here and we have a jam packed 2 weeks of fun days out planned and we’re going to book a little 1 or 2 night seaside break next week I still walk alot and go to the gym in between sessions.
I’m still clinging on to my hair! I cold capped but the shedding ramped up on day 21 after 1st EC, still a full covering so far but I have a lovely wig topper I got off amazon (I’ll post a pic) and a wig. I’ve not told anybody other than 1 friend about my diagnosis so I’m trying to stay looking as normal as possible
Anyway sending you lots of love xxxxx
3 Likes
Hi 
. Oh gosh where do I start .
Iced face roller,
green velvet turban with earrings attached,
other various head scarves,
Batana oil for scalp,
jojoba oil for nails,
straw basket to carry everything in,
moogoo shower milk,
pencil case for my colouring in and then realised my hands are going to be in iced mitts
Shower sleeve for picc line
Stick on eyebrows
Pretty sure there is even more in there, will need to check
Hi
It’s good to hear from someone a few weeks ahead in the journey.
All tips and advice gratefully received
X
1 Like
Also starting chemo on 30th March.
4Ac and 12 weekly taxol. Already had right masectomy and auxillary clearance. Onco score was 35 so chemo definitely needed. 43 with a 16 and 14 year old daughter. Still feels surreal.
My daughter said to me last night that she was sad because it was the last night where she would go to bed with everything being OK tomorrow. Broke my heart. Keen to get started and finished!
5 Likes
Good luck to all of you that start your treatment tomorrow
My journey has definitely seemed harder with children involved. I have three girls 10, 8 and 5years. This weekend was most probably the last ‘Normal’ one for a while.
Love hearing all your suggestions on goodies and products you’ve bought!
2 Likes
Thanks Katie for popping in with that lovely positive post. You are doing so well!
Thank you for all the other tips and you are in my thoughts coping with this with children.
My bag is packed, dark nail varnish on ( a real mess as I don’t use it) and I can’t wait to get started!
4 Likes