I am due to start chemo in a few weeks. To get Epirubicin or something similar as part of my ‘cocktail’ so I know I’m going to be losing my hair. I have very fine hair so can anyone let me know how quickly they started losing theirs? The only reason I ask is because I work for a large supermarket and intend getting my hair shaved off at work, in public to make money for breast cancer care and also tickled pink. The local courier will be there and as you probably aware these things take time to organize and I really want to make a big impact and make a LOT of money. I don’t however want to leave the organising until my hair starts to fall out as then I might have nothing left to shave off!!! Any rough ideas would be greatfully appreciated and I wish you all the best whatever stage you may be at. Barbara x
Hello Babalicious
Welcome to the forums, I’m sure other users will be along to support you soon.
In the meantime, maybe you would like to talk things through with a member of our helpline staff who are there to offer practical information as well as emotional support. The free phone number is 0808 800 6000 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.00 and Saturday 10.00 to 2.00.
Best wishes
June, moderator
Hi barbara, I have had FEC-T which includes the hair loss one. Mine started falling out day 13 after round 1. Most ladies seem to be around 2 weeks or so. I hope that helps and good luck with your fundraising.,
Val xxx
Hi Barbara. I had FEC-T too - last session is tomorrow. My experience was the same as others - hair started to fall out about day 14. I had already cut it really short before that though as it’s a certainty that it will fall out, and I had already bought a wig! I think it’s great that you are going to shave your hair off for charity - I hope you raise lots of money. My advice would be to do it before you have your first chemo. FEC can cause nausea for a lot of us and you might not feel up to doing it then xx
Hi teasel thanks for the response. I think you have really helped make up my mind - as you say I might feel pretty nauseous plus there are other side effects that I may or may not get and being honest who wants to sit in the public eye not feeling that great! So off the hair will come - probably before the chemo starts. Makes planning that little bit easier!!! Thanks again and take care xx
Hi Babalicious,
I shaved mine off on the 4th May, started chemo on the 8th May. I didnt shave it bald, just on a very short grade to get used to the idea. I opened a Just Giving page online for Breast Cancer Care and plugged it constantly though my Facebook page for about 4 weeks beforehand. I have managed to raise £926 so far and still going after the event!! I have very fine hair also so decided to take the bald approach rather than the cold cap. Good luck with everything, Lou xx