Anyone due to start chemo in April? - Awesom April Angels

[Lola65]

Hi Diggy and welcome,

I'm also grade 3 and HER2+++. My regime is TCH (Docetaxel and Carboplatin x 6 and Herceptin x 18). I start on 8th April with the loading dose of Herceptin, then chemo on 9th April.

I thought some of you AAA's might be interested in the Lancashire chemotherapy protocols. This link has links on to the various regimes. Most of you will be on the FEC or the FEC100, which includes FEC-T. You can see what the various protocols for each of the regimes. http://www.cancerlancashire.org.uk/your-network/Resources/professional/ChemotherapyProtocols/Chemoth...

Linda xxx

[Amber_D]

Welcome aboard Diggy, you've come to the right place, you'll get lots of support here and make new friends. I had WLE & ANC surgery on 9/2 and start chemo Fec-t next Tuesday.
on countdown, just want to get on that chemo train so I can count the weeks til I get off again. We're all going through the same thing on here soo it's good to learn from others experiences.
take care xx

[diggywiggy]

Hi I'm starting chemo in April, 3 x Fec 3 x t, 18 x hercepin. DX in Jan with 7mm grade 3, lumpectomy and SLN.
Looking for some support and the chance to support others.
diggy

[Amber_D]

Hello Lovely Ladies,
Zuzy - hope you get your drain out soon, I clipped mine on to a belt when I got home, told the kids it was the new must have accessory!
Littlescoot - glad yours is out, freedom again!
Mel A - welcome to the gang
Wendy - good luck with Muga tomorrow, it's a breeze
Lori - good luck for number 1 tomorrow, keep us posted I'll be joining you next week
Debra - also good luck for number 2, I'll be on my first same day
Linda- thanks for the dog tips, my hubby works away so Iam going to have to feed, clean up etc after our two at some point, have bought loads of disposable gloves, do you think that would be sufficient
take care AAA's xxx

[Littlescoot]

good morning everyone
welcome mel and Debra. Hope you find this site useful and that we are a very friendly lot 🙂
blimey zuzy you must be having my share of fluid draining too!
Quick update. Lump started to go down yesterday and pain really really eased off but the surgeon still asked to see me and gave me an ultrasound anyway- I think for everyone's peace of mind. Turns out I have a very high bony chest wall and the tubing got stuck round it and the surgery inflamed it so there's nothing to worry about. I also had 2 ENT drs come to my room and shove a camera up my nose and down my throat. Yuck that was not nice. My vocal chords are a bit bruised but they will heal themselves and my voice should be back to normal in about a week or so. I was reading to my OH this morning and it was getting higher and higher until I came to a final squeak!!
The good news was that they gave me the all clear yesterday and released me and so I spent last night at home much to the relief of my puppy who had obviously missed me and more or less sat on me all night! Hence I'm staying in bed for a while today to get a bit of peace lol. My results are on April 3rd

hope you get your drain out soon zuzy it's a massive relief when you do not to mention the freedom you get back too
have a good day everyone
Mandie xxx

[Zuzy]

Still draining........ another 200ml so doesn't look like it's coming out today, grrrrr!
mandi, hope you're feeling ok and get home today
Mel, welcome to AAAs, I'm 38 too, no children also got chemo, rads and tamoxifen (which I've already started ahead of surgery)
Debra, well done on getting the first one done and good luck with no 2

[Louis]

I have had my first chemo in March and the next one in April, I too was and am frightened. I felt sick after it and stayed in bed. The anti sickness tablets help a lot. Write everything down it helps I am writing all about my feelings.
I am on E CMF and I am trying the cold cap. I am dreading the 2nd of April. I had BC 11 years ago and then in Feb a new cancer came in the same breast resulting in a masectectomy. I am so angry about this and am receiving counseling to cope with body image etc.
Debra.

[Mel_A]

Thanks Jo,
Much appreciated.

[Jo_BCC]

Hi Mel A

Welcome to the BCC discussion forums where you'll find there's lots of support from the many informed users of this site. While you are waiting for replies I have put for you below the link to BCC's publication regarding Chemotherapy - I hope you find it helpful.

http://www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/treatment-side-effects/chemotherapy-breast-cancer-b...

If you feel you would like to talk to someone in confidence away from the family then our helpline team are just a free phone call away, 0808 800 6000, lines open Mon-Fri 9-5 and Sat 10-2.

Take care,

Jo, Facilitator

[Mel_A]

Hi everyone,
I'd love to join your group if you don't mind. I'm 38 years old, with a 14 year old son, a 9 year old daughter and a fantastic hubby, who is so supportive. I was diagnosed in January and had a right breast masectomy on 20th February. I had multifocal tumours, 1 of which was 6cm and grade 3, though only 70% invasive (I'm assuming that's a good thing!). Fortunately they removed everything and my lymph nodes were clear. The next step for me is chemotherapy, followed by radiotherapy and 5 years of Tamoxifen. I'm waiting for an appointment with the oncologist to determine dates and details, but should be starting chemo in April.
Though naturally scared I have kept pretty upbeat about everything. I'm nervous about losing my hair etc, but picked up some tips from February and March forums, which are helping me to prepare. I've ordered a hat and bandana from Annabandana and I'm pleased with how good they look. I've also ordered the dvd from the 'look good feel better' website. I'll definitely enrol on one of their courses. I'll need all the help I can get as I don't usually wear makeup. My next step is to get my hair cut into a Pixie Crop on Thursday.
I'm really looking forward to sharing experiences with each other and helping to keep each other upbeat. Though it's not nice for anyone to be in this position it's good to know there are people who understand what you are going through. At least Easter is early this year so we can enjoy some chocolate before the sickness kicks in.

[WAC]

Hi everyone
Zuzy - hope you soon have your drain removed - and glad you have done, Mandie. I've had two lots of surgery in the past 6 weeks and the having a drain/not having a shower has been one of the worst parts of the experience. I can't believe how delighted I was when they were removed - it's strange the things that make us happy in this weird world of treatment, isn't it?!

Karen - as Lola said, thanks so much for popping in. I keep trying to convince myself that the chemo won't be too awful but then quickly slip back into the fear and pessimism, so it is very heartening to hear that some people come through relatively unscathed.

Amber -quite envious of your Amsterdam trip but hope you have a wonderful time. We're going to a cottage in Cumbria for the Easter weekend so are just hoping that the snow drifts have all gone by Thursday!

Linda - thanks again for practical and detailed advice. (especially useful for a fellow wuss!). I'm going for the MUGA heart scan at B'burn on Wednesday but still havent heard anything about the port fitting so I'm not much nearer having a starting date.
Have a good week, everyone - think we all need lots of treats before we actually start the chemo.
Take care
Wendy x

[Lola65]

Morning AAA's,

I've started my chemo bag. The main contents are pain killers because I'm a wus. I am on 6 x Tax/Car/Herceptin. The Tax can be a killer on the joints and muscles, so plenty of Ibuprofen seems to be the order of the day. (Non-paracetamol based painkillers are recommended for continued use because Paracetamol reduces body temp and can mask any lurking infections, although you can take them periodically.) My chemo nurse recommended Vitamin B6 high strength, plus zinc & copper tablets to boost blood cells. On my list are constipation tablets, diarrhoea tablets, stuff for mouth ulcers and oral thrush, heartburn remedies, antiseptic wipes for handbag to wipe cutlery etc when eating out, and so the list goes on!!!!!!!!

Amber - I am also worrying about my pets. We have a boisterous dog and 3 old tortoises that are now out of hibernation and living in an enclosure in the shed that needs daily mucking out. I also have an army of garden birds that I feed. I think it is just a matter of constant hand washing, sanitising, and not touching any excretions or dog/bird food. My OH is being trained in looking after the tortoises and the birds, much to his dismay!

Thanks for popping in Karen. Your post has given me a lot of hope!

Lots of hugs to everyone, Linda xxx

[Littlescoot]

Hurrah they have removed my drain.!!! What a relief :). If the lump doesn't go down its an ultra sound later. But it already seems a bit easier and I'm sure it's going down. My OH will be able to give his vote when he arrives in a little while. They've redressed my site and I have had my first shower since Wednesday (don't worry I have been having bowl washes like the old ladies do) and have washed my hair. I feel as though I'm back in the human race again. Who knows I may even be able to go home today 🙂 xxx
zuzy- that's an awful lot overnight. I may start calling you "juicy zuzy"
love from a not so stinky mandie x

[Zuzy]

Oh no Mandie, hope it gets sorted soon, the pressure in mine went yesterday as well so had to go have it changed and then drained nearly 300ml last night so need it changed again today as is nearly full! Xx

[Littlescoot]

Good morning AAAs
oops I think my post was a little over zealous yesterday. It turns out my drain wasn't working. The pressure had gone so they changed the bottle. And I've been in agony since! I have had an extremely hard lump appear on my chest sort of half way between my throat and the op site. Almost feels like bone but they are wondering if the drain has kinked and is causing pressure build up. So they are removing my drain today then having an ultra sound. Thankfully they upped my meds from tramadol to morphine last night. feel blinking frustrated as I was doing so well and now everything hurts like bu*gery!
The GA tube has also affected my voice and Im alternating between sounding like dot cotton and joe pasquale
harrummph!!!
Hope everyone else is doing ok and you all have a happy Monday 🙂 xxx
mandie

[Zuzy]

Happy Monday AAAs.
Finally dragged myself out of bed after a v lazy weekend. less background pain than after last op but when it does hurt is much worse (does that make sense?!)
littlescoot hope you're feeling ok and get home soon, I also hope my drain comes out soon, although I still have lots of liquid draining, it's really quite gross!
angiepops, chemo essentials pack is nothing formal, just what we think we might need from what we've gathered from others who are further along the journey rather than what hospital have told us, as Pauline says the how to get through chemo thread has some handy hints
Lori, glad your wig was a hit, i've an appy to get mine in a coupke if weeks, I've also stopped my contact lenses for the duration, will be £150 I can spend on a something nice instead!
Amber have a great time in Amsterdam
Hope you all have a good week xxx

[angiepops]

hi
just reading your posts, what exactly is the chemo essentials pack, i dont get much info it seems. seeing onc this week but now i'm wondering what youre all on about.
sorry for sounding a bit dumb
angie.

[Amber_D]

Hi Lori,
thanks for the reminders, bought my thermometer ages ago and forgot about it, got the sanitising hand wash. Iam a bit concerned about our two dogs though when Iam prone to infection. I know I'll need to be extra careful do you think I should be overly concerned. Must get a soft tooth brush though.
Pauline - thank you, my last taste of freedom for a while
take care xx

[lori28]

Hi Everyone,
Kept the new wig on all day y'day and had a couple of friends round for a visit today so popped it on to gauge the reaction....when I opened the door one said "oh youve had your hair cut again, its lovely". A while later I came clean and said "glad you like my new cut as this will be my new look for a while....its my wig!!! So I guess it dont look too shabby!
I have started a little chemo kit too....
I have got some soft toothbrushes, mouthwash and bonjela. I have some sleep caps, my wig and a couple of hats for those colder days. I have also stocked up on antibacterial hand wash and sanitizer's for when immune system is at a low ebb....I plan to give up on my contact lenses for a while too during treatment and treated myself to some new specs, also have some fake tears incase my eyes do get dry. I'm still using E45 wash and moisturiser since my op so will continue with that....I'm hoping that with all this and the medicine pack from hospital should see me through. Another thing I was given by my In-laws was one of those temperature monitors like they use in the hospital (hand held thingy that goes in your ear) This will be great because when I had my pre-assessment they said to get into the habit of monitoring temp daily during chemo.
Its great to hear that folks are feeling more positive and feeling more in control, feeling that way has got to help on this journey.....
Take care
Lori x

[Guest user]

Oh Amber - well Jell on the Amsterdame trip!!!! We were due to go to Amsterdam the weekend after my 1st Op so clearly had to cancel, also had to cancel 2 other hols we had arranged this year - having said that, looking forward to the mega holiday we'll have at the end of treatment 🙂

Have a fabby time
Pauline xx

[Amber_D]

Hi all you AAA's,
Had a lazy day again!
Countdown time, I have felt a bit like you Pauline over the last couple of weeks, cramming in lot of things, meeting up with friends, eating out etc just in case, got another busy week. hubby home on Thursday then we're off to Amsterdam for the weekend before boarding the chemo train. I bought lots of scarves, bandannas and sleep caps, I got a bit carried away but they're so nice. Got 2 wigs sorted now, one straight and one with a curl in it for anticipated nights out or if I just want a different style. Oh and a wig stand, who would have thought I would have got excited about that. Bought the medical and some foody items too, can't find pineapple ice lollies though, may have to make my own.
Zuzy, glad u r home, take it easy
Littlescoot , u too
Joan, welcome aboard
Lori, any tips in preparation

[Guest user]

Hi there, I was diagnosed last year in April, i finished my chemo in September last year, i had quite intense treatment too but i sailed through it, so please don't be scared that chemo might make you poorly because it didn't make me ill. As for losing your hair, you will get used to it. It's not the most pleasant experience but it grows back. Sorry if i am straight to the point but if you're positive all the way then you'll be OK..

Good luck with your treatment..

Karen xx

[Guest user]

Hi Ladies

Just back from local pub with OH, have a couple of days/nights out planned over easter weekend - think I'm trying to cram a few things in now just in case I can't manage during chemo !!

Lori - I'm looking forward to my hats/ scarves arriving, hopefully tomorrow 🙂 'scarf hut' also has some lovely stuff - lots of pre tied scarves to save all the faffing about 🙂 i really like the headband ones with the scarf attached 🙂

Deborah - do you have your start date yet? If not, what are the next steps?

Littlescoot - your post made me laugh and so inspiring, keep the spirits high mrs!!

I now feel like i really need to get organised ie stock up on some of the items on the 'how to get through chemo' thread, book my LGFB session, get more scarves etc.....after a post op lull, things now seem to be moving at pace .....less than 2 weeks to get organised!

Lori - anything special you have done to prepare???

Amber - not long for you, all ok?

big hugs , Pauline xx

[Panacea]

Littlescoot its great to hear that you're doing well after the Mx. I've very impressed with how organised you are. I've been THINKING a lot about wigs, hats and getting ready for chemo, but haven't actually DONE anything. Hope you get home on Tuesday.

Deborah

[Littlescoot]

Hi everyone,
well I am now 3 days post complete Mx still in hospital and will be in until tuesday when hopefully my drain should come out. What a totally different experience to the first 2 ops (WLE/ANC then a re excision) I was so poorly after both of those and ended up both times as an emergency re admittance. I have no pain to speak of, just sore and bruised -bit like a hippo is sat on my chest. But something has definitely changed in my head. Instead of feeling like I'm on the path of dread, each op spells something worse etc I have now got rid of the little( or not so in my case 49mm grade 3 with further extensive areas) bu**er and can start to move onto the treatment path. I actually feel amazing.
I had an idea yesterday with my genie bra- I took the pad out of the LHS and put 3 pads in the RHS and it evened me up ( Somewhat solid though-could probably launch spacecraft off it!!). Can't tell I've even had an op. well chuffed. Hope this euphoria lasts!!!

I went on the "Look Good Feel Better" afternoon a couple of weeks ago. What an absolutely amazing afternoon that was. It was heaps of fun, loads of tips, very professionally run and the goody bag was crammed full of skin care and make (more than £250). Thank you so much to the organisers 🙂

I have also had a headstrong session- also very useful and run by volunteers who have had bc themselves. I even came away with a really nice scarf.

My wig is also waiting for me in the salon. I've had my own hair cut to the same style so hopefully the transition will be seamless if the cold cap doesn't work.

My chemo essentials pack is all done too- from bonjela and difflam to ginger tea.

I feel so much more positive now that I'm organised and feel back in control. So hopefully I will now be able to be included in the April thread-just waiting for final referral as I'm changing hospitals.

I really hope Elliedog is ok -her Mx was the same day as mine.
love to everyone and a happy Sunday!! Xxx

[lori28]

Hi there,
About the sleep hats Angie, I think linking in like you have to places like bohemia etc is prob your best bet. You can also search on line for Chemo hats scarves etc...there are quite a few websites out there which should make things esier for you if living quite remotely.
Wendy, with regards to the wig venture today I'll be honest I went in not knowing what type (synthetic or real) to go for. I went purely on style and what we thought suited me best and what felt ok. I am sure there is a big difference in the price from synthetic to real too. I have chosen a synthetic one purely as out of everything I tried I/we preferred the look of this one. I can only advise that you try a few on and see how you feel.- Good luck I am sure you will find one you will be happy with!
Lori x

[angiepops]

hi again
noticed the link, its ok i'm on it
angie x

[angiepops]

hi girls
tell me what the sleep hat is? my research is obviously not great, not come across them yet, where do i find them? ive got no shops close by, nearest town is inverness 125 miles away so i have to try and do it all on the same day as my onc appointment, or online.
thanks
angie. x

[WAC]

Welcome, Joan - glad that you have found the Awesome April Ones!
Thanks for the info about wigs, Lori - have read a bit but don't really know where to start. Did you choose a real hair or synthetic one or does it not really make much difference? And I love the idea of going out for dinner scarves, Pauline! Will definitely check out the Bohemian website.

Wendy x

[lori28]

Hi Everyone,
Many thanks for your good wishes for Wednesday - I will be sure to let you know what this Fec-T feels like first time round!!
Well today my fiance and I took a run down to The Metro Centre in search of my new wig.....can't say its my first as I have been known to take part in some crazy fancy dress do's!!
Anyway all I can say is go with someone you trust like your other half or kin as it really does help you choose. Also the advice of the assistant was great as I first tried a few that I had spotted on line but ended up with something a little different and I'm really quite happy with it!
I had shoulder length dark hair which I had cut into a bob but the style I have gone for is a little shorter and lighter with highlights!
Pauline, I ordered some sleep hats too from bohemian headwear on Thursday, they were delivered today, I have not tried them on yet but look ok. Who knew we could get so excited about wigs and sleep hats....what's happening to us? You've gotta laugh really....
Ann, thats great news I look forward to meeting you when you arrive at the Wed session at The Wansbeck!
Time for a cheeky little red wine....
Speak to you soon
Lori x

[Guest user]

Hi i go for pre assessment next week for chemo and so i wil be starting in april, dont know quite what to expect a little aprehensive. I had lump removed from breast and lymph nodes, they got all the cancer from my breast but of the 16 lymph nodes 12 were clear but 4 not, hense chemo . great to join the april girls. joan b x

[Ann_W]

Hi lori I am from Beadnell in Northumberland and yes I have been attending the Wansbeck. Ive had my first op a WLE and sentinal node biopsy on 6th march and I have to see (edited by moderator) on Wed regarding the chemo I'll keep you posted as to how it goes. Might even be able to meet you once my Wednesday sessions start.
Ann

[poemsgalore]

Hi Angels, have just sent a message to a lady called Joan B, who posted in the Feb Vals thread. She is expecting to start chemo in April, so I've pointed her in your direction. Hopefully she will find you and come and join you shortly. Take care.
Kath xx

[Guest user]

Hi Ladies

Zuzy - that's great news, hope you got some sleep eventually!

I ordered some lovely scarves and sleep hats from www.bohemiaheadwear.co.uk - they have some really nice ones. I got a gorgeous black one with little beads on the end - ideal for a night out (yes I am still thinking I will be able to go for dinner etc 🙂 )

will search for a few more and keep you all posted

Pauline, 44 Glasgow - FEC-T , 1st course 5th April

take care xx

[Zuzy]

Hi AAAs
they let me home, yeah! can't sleep despite drugs and much better being awake in own bed! Just catching up on the recent flurry of activity so apologies if I miss someone.....
there is a list of centres on the look good, feel better website, you just ring the number and bookmark direct with the one you want to go to, apparently there's sometimes quite a waiting list so I'm thinking of booking now in the hope I'll have it quite near beginning of chemo. a number of people have recommended browzings by benefit for eyebrows, not cheap but think I might give them a go.
I'm also booked on a headstrong session in a couple of weeks, am hoping hey might be able to recommend some scarf/hat/wig places, if they do will pass on!
nicki I think I can see myself as a cava and chemo girl?
Deborah def stay with us! I suspect a few of us might slip into May but I'm liking getting to know you all in advance
Welcome linda, Ann (and anyone further you the post who i've missed)
off now, really must try to sleep!
Zuzy xx

[Panacea]

Here's the link to the LG - FB workshops

http://www.lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk/site/workshops.cfm?search=&workshop_location=all

I've been meaning to ask this, but my head is like a sieve these days and keep forgetting - has anyone joined in the live chat sessions on a Thursday? I've been meaning to, but usually remember at about 11 o'clock!

Deborah

[Amber_D]

Evening Girls,
My onc nurse gave me a leaflet on the Look Good Feel Better workshops which take place at my nearest hospital. I had to book an appointment, there are only so many ladies allowed for each clamissed was too late for the March one but have booked the next on 16/4. She said you get a goody bag worth aprox £200 from whichever company is holding the class. They give advice n skin care, make up, eye brows etc
Ann - welcome to the gang, great thing about here is you can ask any question and somebody will be able to help
Nikki - glad all is well
Lori good luck for Wednesday, you'll be our leader, I start 2/4 so not far behind you

Have a great weekend everyone xxx

[poemsgalore]

If anyone has access to a 'Maggies Centre', pop in and have a look round, they are marvellous and have all kinds of support and events for ALL cancer sufferers and their families. They sell the most gorgeous little chemo caps and headscarves. All money for sales go to Maggies Centres. The hat in my new photo is one of them, they come in all colours.

Kath xxx

[Guest user]

Pauline 44 Glasgow, Triple Neg. 2/13 positive - Fec -T , 1st cycle 5th April....

Wow - it's all go now for the AAAs!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There are so many of us now that I thought it might be useful to start with the intro above just as a reminder of what stage etc we are all at. I saw this on another thread and thought it was a good idea. I'll continue to do it and please do likewise if you think it will help as a reminder of who everyone is and what stage we are all at

Deborah - what a decision to make, I couldn't imagine what you must be thinking right now - I'm sure you'll make the right one!
I think you can locate the LGFG classes via the Macmillan website, then you just phone and book.

Lori - we'll all be thinking about you, enjoy the vino this weekend and please keep us posted - big hugs

thanks for the headgear websites 🙂

Take care, Pauline xx

[lori28]

Hi Ann,
I just noticed your additional post to say you were from Northumberland too. Are you having your treatment at The Wansbeck?
Lori x

[lori28]

Hi All,
Just to say I managed to send away for the Look Good Feel Better DVD and Booklet, It is very good. I have managed to locate a class which is run from The Freeman Hospital in Newcastle (the nearest one for me to attend) I believe it is fortnightly but with starting Chemo next week I have yet to book a place. I would check with your Oncology unit as that is where I got this information. I have booked something similar though called 'Head Strong' there are details on this website about these classes so hopefully there may be one near you. Not sure if anyone is from my neck of the woods, Near Morpeth in Northumberland but in case anyone joins in the future this might help. Although I have to say at this point I am originally from Stirling and I notice from previous posts that there are a few more scottish lassies on line!!
Just back from Physio this morning still having trouble with the 'cording' in my arm from elbow all the way up, surgery was 20th Feb and still have numbness under arm too but all in all I dont feel too bad at the moment......Ha - I dare you to ask how I am feeling on Wednesday morning at 9am when I am sitting in that chair waiting for my first infusion of FEC-T.....
Hope you all have a great w/e as you say the wine is still on the go.....I did actually check if this was ok to have the odd wine after starting chemo and my nurse said yes in moderation and if you feel like it, I think there was a clue there so I will definately have some this weekend just in case the notion leaves me after wednesday!!!
Take care everyone
Lori x

[WAC]

Hi Ann
Good to have you on board - strength in numbers! There is such a wealth of information and positivity on here, both of which give loads of support.

Kath - it's very inspiring to hear that your side effects haven't been too awful and hope this continues with the Tax.

Nicki - so glad you are recovering quickly from your op. Cava & chemo - interesting! I read that Jennifer Saunders' preferred tipple during chemo was vodka (but I've never drunk this and don't think it's the best time to start!)
Have a lovely weekend 🙂
Wendy x

[Ann_W]

Hi all AAAs can I join the gang please? I had my results today and doc said node biopsy was clear and my large lump (51mm) he removed was clear at the edges so in a way its good news. I am to have 8 sessions of chemo at 3wk intervals then rads and tablets. I have to see the onc who will explain everything he didnt say when . I have been trying to read all your letters but am getting really muddled up with things I dont really understand Im 69 and I think my mind is starting to wander a bit (lol)

[Ann_W]

sorry I meant to add I live in Beadnell in Northumberland

[poemsgalore]

Pauline, I'm on Fec T, had Fec 3 yesterday. Haven't had any problems really, no sickness, although on the odd occasion I've taken anti sickness pills just in case, but didn't really need them. Had oral thrush though, and a burning acid stomach. Onco has given me tablets for both these this time, so fingers crossed. I found Fec easier than I'd expected, so now, on to the adventures of Tax.

Amber, glad you like the poems. New one going on sometime today.

Linda, does this mean you're leaving the Valentines? Hope not, your knowledge is invaluable. xxx

Good luck AAAs who have their starting date.

Kath xxx

[angiepops]

hi all,
my nurse came today and i told her about the hair and wig thing and she said we have a local support group for the bald stage, must be like the 'look good feel good' thing, but only the medical people seem to know about it and they tell each patient individually so maybe the bcn's are the ones that know where these things are.
re the wig, ive looked on ebay and seen some very nice inexpensive 'hairy hats'
angie x

[Guest user]

Thanks Deborah
Yes, recovery much quicker as I guess less anaesthetic this time and no involvement under arm. It's two weeks since first op and I can definitely feel armpit so the block thing they put in must have worn off. It doesn't look very nice though but hoping that's still swelling and quite ironic that I am desperate to shave under there!
That's great you got the results on other scans so quickly, it must have been a great relief to know everything else is OK.
This whole process does seem to give us a full MOT before mayhem breaks loose, and I am pleased to say that (although only a social smoker really) I have now given up! The wine is definitely not going though, and I read somewhere that cava is good during chemo?
Nicki

[Panacea]

Hi Nicki, sounds like you're recovering fast. Amazing that the numbness has gone. Mine has improved a lot, but it stills feels very weird when I touch it. I've had CT and bone scans, and they turned them round quickly and in fact my nurse gave me the results rather than waiting for consultant so hopefully you won't have too long to wait either. Fingers crossed for you.

I've had my hair cut v short too now, and have dentist booked for Monday. I feel like I'm having a complete overhaul!

Deborah

[Guest user]

Hi ladies!
Back up and running after 2nd op on Wednesday and seriously hoping to get clear margins this time when I go back on 2nd April. Wasn't sure whether to go back to beginning with excersises or carry on with week 2 - in the end I am doing what feels comfortable, working arm without putting strain on boob and have added a few lunges for good measure! All numbness under arm has gone now (5 nodes positive out of 12 and had it took 2 surgeons to find them!) so a bit sore. Got CT scan on chest, torso and pelvis area on 5th and bone scan to come. Absolutely terrified they will find it somewhere else.
Luckily I can work from home, but can't keep my mind on things. Feeling quite agitated today actually, but lovely to have my daughter home from uni for easter.
So if I have clearance I am guessing I will start 6 x chemo towards the end of April but obviously not seen oncologist yet. Have got the number for a wig lady (Julie Veazey in Maidenhead is apparently very, very good), need to get the hair cut quite a bit shorter asap as there is so much of it, and will get rid at first sign of loss like you Pauline. Apart from that, dental check and flu jab booked!
I will now go back and read how all you other AAAs are doing! Deborah, that's a tough decision. If we get bumped, I am thinking Amazing May Maidens!!
Nicki xx

[Guest user]

Hi all,
Don't know if any of you have seen this (sorry I haven't checked through every post to check!)
Its a link to a website for head wear and they have money off through March- just thought it might be good for someone! x
http://www.randrconfidence.co.uk/Home.html