As I had expected, oncotype test confirms chemo. Three rounds of EC and 3 of Docetaxel, followed by radiotherapy.
Bloods taken. I hope to have timetable in next 2 weeks. I guess I’ll be joining December chemo starters. Pixie haircut booked for end of this month. Will do some batch cooked meals for the freezer.
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Same as me except for the radiotherapy. It seems like a lot now, but take it one treatment at a time with something to look forward to at the end and aim towards. You can do it, and it really will be over soon than you think.
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Hi
Having been through it please can i share, please dont be too quick to cut your hair either short or completely off, before you start get an idea how much hair comes out on daily brushing of your hair, and opt for the Cold cap treatment, it may mean your treatment session lasts longer but you havean 80% of keeping all your hair, i only lost 20% ie it thinned, but boy has it come back marvelously and with curls.
Try also to make daily notes, and plan and look forward to doing things in your 3rd week, the best week each time during chemo.
Your taste will change and the veins in your arms will appear to disappear. i wish to add more so look out for part 2…
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to is it really me part 2. Docetaxel has greater side effects but many appear after treatment ie the line in your nail bed or your nails thinning, and some separating. But these too grow back and much stronger 12 months down the line.
Having prepared food a great idea, although your taste buds might change. Ready food for when you get home the best, and ensure you have a wooly hat to wear over a hair turban after cold cap a great help. again take a blanket to cover yourself up with cold cap can make you cold. good luck, you will get through this and you fellows are your freinds. have fun with the nurses and laugh often, especially when you get to try on your free wig, which like me i’ve never needed. Lots of love M
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@moonsox
Thank you for your time.
I’ve decided against cool cap. I had let my hair grow a bit longer than usual in the summer but it’s driving me mad now. I’ve been waiting till nearer the time to have it cut. I don’t have my hair cut very often but when my hairdresser certainly earns her money! After chatting with a friend who trod this path 13 years ago, I have put a couple of thin soft hats on my Christmas list. She says I’ll need them in bed and around the house. I’m already in Letrozole and I’ve noticed more hair wrapped around the vacuum filter and in the shower plug trap.
I have seen comments about nails. Another job to do before I start. Cut my nails short!
I have watched a youtube video from the cancer centre at my local hospital where I am having treatment.
I’m not going to take the wig too seriously. I plan to use hats and head scarves as it’s winter. I have had a play with tying them. I need more practice!
Thank you again for your tips. I’m waiting for timetable for it to kick off now x
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Hi ive just had 1st Docextal after 3 EC, this one has affected me worse with side effects
Highly recommend Annabandana hats, there are funky scarves to accessorise too
The tiredness is the biggest factor i found, rest, rest and more rest. Accept any offers of help you can - if peolpe didnt mean ask for help they wouldn’t have offered
Best of luck we will get there xx
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@Craftyj
Thank you for the recommendation for Annabandana. Ive just looked at the website. They’re quite local to me, so I may visit Axminster sometime.
I guess you have 2 more Doc left to go. You can do it! X
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I have my dates through. Picc line Dec 4th, 1st session Dec 5th. I did have to have a word about the pre chemo phone call. They made it for half an hour before an actual appointment with bcn. They were understanding that I would rather not have a phone consultation while I am on the p&r bus coming to hospital. They will phone much later in the day.
Busy week next week. Haircut. Wig appointment. Bcn and pre chemo phone call. Have to fit in coffee with a friend and her friend who went through all this 20 years ago.