Starting chemo.

Hi everyone never really wrote on a forum b4 I’ve been reading and everyone is very helpful so Ima give it a shot lol…I’m 29 diagnosed with breast cancer I start my chemo in 7 days and tbh very scared…for the first 3 cycles I’m being given…taxotere perjeta and herceptin and then the last 3 cycles fec and herecptin…any advice or experiences good or bad… I’ve been waitn for chemo no it’s actually coning close the nerves and anxiety are kicking in…x

Hi Lici29,

 

I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I can’t answer your question as such, as I’m only due to start my chemo towards the end of March, however I wondered if you were aware that in the section on the forum about treatment for breast cancer they run a monthly thread for those who are starting chemo in that month and I imagine there will be one starting up quite soon for people who will be starting chemo in March so keep your eyes peeled! If I get started in time, I might see you there! I’m having similar drugs to you however in a different order … FEC for the first 3 cycles and then FEC with Herceptin and Perjeta for cycles 4, 5 and 6.

 

Two useful pieces of advice which I have read are to ensure you drink plenty of fluids while you’re having chemo and to try and have a walk every day. Also to proactively take the meds for the side-effects e.g. anti-sickness medication even if you are not yet feeling any symptoms. My understanding is that for may people the side effects are worse in days 3, 4 and 5 however that we all experience it a bit differently and that you will get to know your cycle … however that if you experience bad side-effects to speak with your care team as they should be able to tweak things for you for your next cycle. 

 

I’m sure there will be others coming along soon who can give you some advice from actual experience however this is the advice which I’ve taken so far from what I’ve read in preparation and hope it is of some help. Take care and be kind to yourself and I may well see you in the March chemo thread.

 

Alderney xx  

Hi and welcome to the forum.  It really is quite an anxious time but the monthly chemo thread is really helpful.  Here is a link to the March chemo starters:  forum.breastcancercare.org.uk/t5/Chemotherapy-monthly-threads/March-2019-Chemo-Starters/td-p/1271534

 

I finished chemo over a year ago and here is my story with lots of tips on how I got through it:  lifeafterlola.com/

 

Best wishes

xx

 

 

With the chemo, you basically spend part of the first week feeling rough, the second week feeling OK but having to avoid people (cause that’s when you’re most at risk of getting an infection) and the third week normal and can do things! Make the most of the third week :slight_smile:

I’ve had 3 FEC and 1 Taxotere so far. Hasn’t been as bad as I thought it might be.

Oh. and it’s quite normal to PUT ON weight because of the steroids you get along with the chemo. I’ve put on a stone so far! #steroidmunchies