I am having chemo prior to having a mastectomy. I’m due to start FEC part of chemo on Weds 02/09. Have been given so much information I feel overwelhemed. So many side effects. Anyone have any advice on how to get through it all? Help!
I’ve just gotten through the FEC part nearly a year ago, and just about tofinishherceptin
wish I’d asked more questions about what to do with and how to avoid side effects
heard rather late in the day, that maintaining excercise and a 5:2 diet helps.
Also I discovered something called POMI-T sound like pomegranate juice and brocoli soup are the best.
i started mindfulness as soon as the chemo was done, and I’d recommend that also. ( not during chemo mind you)
i went to a Maggie’s Centre, hope you have something like that near you, cos it really helps Meeting folk face to face and having massages.
Grim times Suzy, but you will get through it, ( I’m one of the pain in the neck people who say they learned a lot!)
Hi Suzy, i have just had my 4th chemo, Fec t and i did really well with the 1st 3 cycles, took all my anti sickness tablets and drank loads of water and raw juice drinks in a nutra bullet. I really feel this helped, but after my 4th i have been awake through the night with achy joints, i rang the nurse and they said paracetamol and ibuprofen, just taken them and see how i go. I must say though it wasnt half as bad as i expected with my 1st 3,eat well, drink well and keep your strength up. You can do it and then your half way there , like me. Good luck and be really possitive because thats got me through it x
Hi Susy, I’m just wading through the side effects of FEC no 3 and it’s been doable. The first was the worst as it is a big leap into the unknown. Everyone is different and you won’t know until it happens how you will be. I’ve had bad nausea and some odd muscle pain, my friend is sailing through it…it’s hard not to be a bit jealous ?. The best advice I had was to keep a diary - it helps you talk to the nurse before round 2 and get your meds adjusted and it is good to look back and say oh yes, that happened last time. Also drink plenty before the chemo to make your veins fill and drink lots after to flush the chemo out - the red urine is disconcerting, but it’s good to see it go and know that it is leaving your body. The main thing is to remember that it does pass. I had chemo on Wed and today will be my last day of lots of nausea and by Monday, I’ll be more myself. I treat myself to episodes of my favourite TV programs and try to get out for a walk every day.
use the forum for support, and the breast cancer care helpline is tremendous.
Big hugs, xxxx
Thank you
for the support. It really helps that you are all either going through it or have come through it. I am scared but it has to be done. I have been living a strange existence at present as I feel like I am holiday but come Weds that will all change.
Hi everyone I’m a week away from starting my FEC treatment. Enjoying reading all your posts. Feeling nervous as haven’t a clue what to expect. Just want to get started now though. I’m having herceptine too. Having surgery after. Willing to try cold cap xxx
Hi lisajane, I started FEC yesterday. Felt very nauseous and was sick, but feel much better today. Take whatever they give you and drink lots. The monthly chem thread has been a godsend as we are all at similar stage of treatment. Hope it goes well. Suz x
Hi all
so glad I found this thread - am just on day 5 after round 3 of FEC - going 4 rounds til Xmas then T and herceptin before surgery next year for bilateral bc. Am finding his one much tougher mentally than the previous 2 rounds - rounds as I liken them to boxing rather than cycles btw - and am nervous about T and herceptin - be good to have others on the same journey to share with. Am just 47 and a little lost as call outside the younger women together groups so haven’t found anyone so far to share with. I do agree, if u can get out twice a day for a little exercise in the first week it helps massively. Also find getting up same time every day with breakfast however green I feel works too. Top food is frozen grapes- soothing and help beat the plastic mouth this time, worse than metal taste before. Stay strong… Ycs