Hi
Im Lou (35), was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. I start my chemo tomorrow (FEC-T) I had my PICC line fitted yesterday, which for some reason I thought I was more nervous about than the chemo. I wondered if anyone has any tips/ways they think of the chemo in a more positive way. I keep thinking I’m going in to be poisoned. My son is 15 and coming to the first session with me, I think this will help me put a brave face on and keep it together.
xx
Hi Lou and welcome to the BCC forums
Along with the support you will find here our helpliners are on hand with practical and emotional support, lines are open weekdays 9-5 and Sat 10-2 on 0808 800 6000 so please feel free to call to talk any concerns over
You may find it helpful to join the September sunbeams thread where you can chat to others at a similar stage to you:
forum.breastcancercare.org.uk/t5/Chemotherapy-monthly-threads/September-Sunbeams-2014/m-p/882261
Here’s also a link to the BCC treatments information and further support ideas:
breastcancercare.org.uk/treatment
Take care
Lucy BCC
Hi Lou,
Please try to stay positive and think about the fact that your cancer has been discovered and is being treated whilst the drugs are going in. Ask the wonderful oncology nurses for the anti-sickness drugs and you should be ok. I had four cycles of chemo and wasn’t sick once. Try to eat just what you fancy when you want it as “normal” meals can be a bit overfacing. You have definitely done the right thing by having a PICC line inserted as the epirubicin causes problems with your veins. I had my first treatment through a canula and now have a “dead” vein, but then no problems with the PICC line fitted - it is also much quicker to connect up for your treatment. Good that your son is attending with you - you will be stronger for hiim just keep thinking one less treatment now after this and continue to tick them off. Good luck
I found chemo to be a very positive experience. I felt that no matter what the side effects - and I didn’t have many - the cancer was being poisoned, not me. I looked forward to losing my hair as it was proof positive that the chemo was doing it’s stuff. The actual days I went for my treatment were a joy. All the nurses and other patients were so friendly and positive. I made several friends. Good luck for your treatment, I hope you have as easy a time of it as I did, with minimal side effects. Sending hugs. xx