Hair starting to come out on day 15!

[CK]

Chaffinch
I had mine cut in 3 stages with the last one being bit like a number 2. Day 21 when it started to really fall out and because I have dark hair it's annoying finding hair everywhere....so I keep my hat on during the day and wear a night cap at night. Seeing lots of bald patches now and when I look in the mirror I thought I would be upset but instead I'm talking to the chemo and thanking it for working! Im going crazy!!! X

[Ali49]

Chaffinch its a great time to try a new style that you've never tried before. I already have short hair so went choppy short with my cur a few weeks ago. I love the freedom of short hair. Got my wig today and love that too xx

[Chaffinch17]

I talk to myself with both my inside voice and outside sometimes I'm not even sure which 🙄.
I have rebooked my hair appointment for Thursday morning. I had originally thought that my chemo would be later next month so had booked it for the 5th at 9am. Not good because my first chemo is on the 4th at 3pm. Just got to decide how short to go. I have a just longer than jaw length bob at the moment. I feel that it will be less distressing if it comes out as short lengths not longer strands but who knows.

[CK]

I'm doing it a lot lately Jencat! Usually telling myself to pull myself together!!!🤣🤣

[Jencat]

I always talk to myself CK! xx

[Jencat]

I love your attitude CK, I hope I'll be as strong, but I've got a feeling I'll cry xx

[CK]

Hi ladies! Been wearing my wig a lot more now and feeling comfortable.
Last night 21st day was when the most hair fell out whilst washing. So I stood over the basin and shook all the loose hair out. Everytime I look in the mirror there's more bald patches.
I'm expecting it but it's just weird!
I started to talk to myself and said thank you to the chemo for working🤣🤣🤣
Coconut wax ready.xxx

[Ali49]

How did it go today Jencat?

[Ali49]

Thats good news CK. Us girls and women and hormones. My girl is only 12 and geez are tjose hormones kicking in. Glad you are friends again xx

[CK]

Hi Ali and Jencat
She had came down by the time we got in and my friend had spoken to her. My daughter is quite stubborn but we had a heart to heart before bed. It's difficult for her too and I understand rhat but she also needs to understand my hormones and emotions are haywire at the moment and no one understands this feeling apart you ladies! We get each other and what we are going through. Anyway, she came anf did yoga with me at Maggies Centre today which was nice for her to see and its involving her. She liked the tea and cakes!

Rubber gloves is a must! A different pair for kitchen and toilet/bathroom! Sanitised too in every room and handbag!!!xxx

[Chaffinch17]

I don't really want to have to wear gloves around the house but if needs be I suppose. I tend to wear them in the garden to stop my hands getting stained but otherwise don't bother at the moment. I have a great immune system at the moment. I will miss it, no more out of date food either, have been a bit blasé about that since the children grew up

[Anniej]

Hazmat suit, I'm afraid, Cherrybakewell, and for the rest of your life if you have LN removed! Not so much the dirt but the chemo does funny things to your skin, so I was advised to wear gloves for cleaning and washing up. Nasty chemicals in our household stuff so be careful. I bought packs of disposable gloves from my local supermarket. Nice and thin so easier to wear,mi thought. I had a full lymph node exision so have to wear them forever, now as my immune system is compromised. Also, remember if you are gardening you will need to wear gloves as cuts etc will be very slow to heal and get infected easier. Same washing up and knives. Probably not what you want to hear! I always carried sanitiser and antibacterial wipes when I went to the supermarket and out to restaurants. I got some funny looks as I wiped down the trolley handles ! You are so prone to infections after your gsf injections finish I never thought it was worth the risk. X

[Ali49]

I bet she is worried and probably feeling guilty thst she is leaving you too CK xxc

[Ali49]

CK sorry to hear about your daughters outburst and how it has hurt you. The things we do and say to our mums!! I am not excusing her but it is probably due to being anxious about everything. She is watching her mum going through real tough times and going through a massive change herself. It is a time where, if you were 100%, probably all your attention would beon her and everything would be focussed on her move to uni and leaving home! You probably both need to sit down together and have a chat and a whinge - and you need to tell her she was out of order too! Sending you a big hug. I hope she says sorry and you are both friends again soon xxx

[CK]

That would have been uncomfortable. I wouldn't do rhat with my ex bit getting treated to meals is deffo no problem.xx

[Jencat]

Hi Ck, sorry to read about your daughter's meltdown, but it probably wasn't really aimed at you personally. My YD hasn't felt well recently and had to go to the doctor's and having blood tests, but she said it's improved since we were told my scans were clear, so maybe your daughter's anxieties have come out in her sudden outburst. Not nice for you though and I can understand why you feel so hurt.

Funny about our ex's-didn't think I'd be staying in his caravan and his wife would sort out my wig! But as you say, I don't care now! I did draw the line with him coming with me to my oncologist's appointment tomorrow though! Both my daughter's suggested that he could take me! xx

[CK]

Hi Ali
My daughter had a meltdown last night with finishing her Summer job, preparing for Uni and worrying about me but her anger was aimed at me which quite shocked me as it came from nowhere.
Today we haven't spoke but it's for her to approach me as she was out of order! I know it's hard for her too but I really didn't need it with what I'm going through and trying not to show how worried and tired I am. We try to protect our children, yet it can backfire. I'm sure it will blow over but it was such a shock and now I'm worried the stress may have triggered something off. Hopefully not! Its so hard when it comes to trying not to worry my mum and her yet I felt like a slap in the face!
Anyway to get out of the house I took my mum to the dentists and we went to Dunelm Mill to get my V shaped pillow and Satin Pillowcase (SueWs advice) £12 for pillow and £5 for the case. I also got a Dorma cotton satin pillowcase £12.99, dear so hope it helps now I'm slowly losing my hair:(

Then took her for a flutter at the casino with my ex!.Its amazing how I have changed and how people change when we are going through this tough journey. In the past I wouldn't have dreamt of going for a meal with an ex but right now I will take any support I get and enjoy whatever anyone offers! I used to worry about what people thought and what people say but since diagnosis I dont care! Like it or lump it!!! I've become a hard woman:0

[Ali49]

My boys are 13 and 12 and my daughter is 12 (twins). I think hormones are k8cking in with her too.

Hopefully will find out my apt time tomorrow ck.

Cherry how about a scarf? A big dramatic wrap around!!
Right i have got to go to sleep xxc

[CherryBakewell]

Hmmmm, don't think I've got a coat with a hood actually. May have to invest in one. I'm thinking something long and furry like those that Boney M wear in the Mary's Boy Child video. Will go perfectly with my Danny la Rue wig and surely won't stand out in sleepy Clatterbridge. I fear I may have already morphed into the third member of your chums' drag act... 👯💃

And I am a sicky person so shall definitely try to wheedle Emend out of the chemo nurse xxx

[CK]

CherryB
Why not wear a coat with a hood on. That way you can wear hood if needed and non if not needed....and good if raining.xxx

[CK]

Blimey, not to give something good because of budget is so wrong! Move here so you can have it, haha!!! I was given as a prevention. Tell them you are a sicky person and then they might give you. It wasn't oncologist who prescribed it, it was the chemo nurse who I saw a few days before treatment started. Ask her instead as her team will be the ones treating you not the onc! Xx

Ali
I'm glad my posts help. You are starting on my second cycle 27th Sept. I'm having blood tests first , then oncologist at 11am, take Amend at 12 noon and then chemo at 1pm. What time is yours?
Tour daughter will be like mine, worried and anxious for us. Boys just get on with it. How old are they?xx

[CherryBakewell]

Hi Ali

I still haven't figured out what hat I'm going to wear on the way home from hospital. I looked at bobble hats with the big fur poms poms but whereas some people look really cute and loveable in them, I'm working more of a Benny off Crossroads vibe. My hair will also be full of ice and conditioner from my the cold cap treatment so whatever I wear with get all cruddy. I've seen a sort of 1920s cloche hat which was passable but not sure Lady Mary from Downtown Abbey would pair it with the soft fleecy top I'll be wearing. Ha.

Given I'm still concerning myself with such trivia possibly indicates I haven't fully grasped the enormity of what's about to hit me. Denial is marvellous thing... xx

[CherryBakewell]

By the way, CK, I asked my oncologist about Emend as I said I'd heard it was very good. She said it was not a first line anti-nausea drug. That I translated as "it's expensive and you'll only get it if you're sick as a dog". She mumbled something about it brings with it its own problems - but I think those are mostly budgetary!! 

She also told me that the cold cap would give me an ice cream headache for 7 hours!!! I've researched my fingers to the bone and absolutely nowhere have I read anything even approaching that. I'm guessing the cold cap adds both cost and increased hassle for the nurses, so that'll be a black mark on my file!! Bet they've got me down as Princess CherryB already. Wait till I pitch up with my Earl Grey tea bags... 😜👍🏼 

Anyway, night night everyone. Hope you all have a pleasant Dream Cream/Valerian/lavender-induced night's sleep. Thanks so much for everyone's advice and support - think you're in danger of putting the Breast Care nurses out of a job, who needs to ring them when we can just hop on here with a question!!! Brilliant xxx

[Ali49]

I start next wed 27th CK. I am getting a wig sorted and have bought some bobble hats! I never wear hats or anything so a new thing for me completely!! My hair is short and i really thought i wouldnt be bothered but now like you, i keep trying to see what i will look like bald!! I think i will feel very vulnerable! My daughter is struggling a bit at the mo, worrying about me, so i am doing my best to try to reassure her and be positive about everything. My 2 boys seem ok so i hope they are. Its so bloody hard for kids. Anyway, thanks again CK for your great posts xx

[CherryBakewell]

Annie, thank you so much for popping back over here with your helpful advice and CK, I knew I could count on you!! Just finishing my mass Autumn clean of everywhere. Will I still be able to do housework with my newly enfeebled immune system or will I have to wear a hazmat suit every time I clean the loo or empty the bin?! 

😷 Xx

[CK]

Hi Ali
Just washed my hair and only a few more on the floor and the towel. It's slowly preparing to fall out! I'm resisting pulling them out! I'm ok as I'm prepared! Haha, tights over my head really was something! Got the pics!!! When do you start Ali?xx

[Ali49]

Where would we all be without this forum? I think of questions and when i come on someone else has asked them and they've been answered! Its reassuring to know its not just me!! CK hope you are ok xx i do like the nun and robber thing though xx

[CK]

Haha, Annie beat me to it!!!
I wore a loose fitted cosy top with loose sleeves and a scrappy vest underneath to keep away any chill. Best not to wear a jumper with fitted sleeves as will need to roll sleeves up at some point! Leggings and boots were comfortable enough rather than jeans! My hair was still at a fair length so didn't wear a hat but I will most deffo will next cycle next week! I wore Ester Laura foundation and ear rings and my ring on the hand not with cannula!
I also took some sweets and biscuits to nibble on and a mate for company and the brews keep flowing! As Annie about 45 mins for treatment but needed to wait a bit before they let me go to see how I felt. I must have gone to the loo 3 times b4 treatment as was anxious. Cannula went in easily after the heat pad which made my veins more visible! Took a bottle of water to drink on the wa t home to start the flushing!!!

Remember to ask for extra anti sickness Amend which you take one hour before treatment.xxx

[Anniej]

Hi Cherrybakewell, popping in from May chemo. I wore comfy clothes - not at all my usual style. Layers in case I was hot so could add or remove as needed. Short sleeves to get at arms for cannula in case hands didn't cope. I ended up with a selection of cotton tunics with front fastenings. Cotton because my skin sensitised, and also it is absorbent. Front fastening as I ended up with a Hickman line in my chest so needed to allow the nurses access.  My chemo lasted over an hour, so I made sure my trousers had some stretch so I could recline nicely in my chair! Always had the earrings, and as the hair disappeared my earrings got bigger! Always had my nails manicured with a dark varnish just before chemo. Used Aveeno moisturiser from day 1, and the hospital replaced it as needed. Check make up has no parabans or other nasties that will irritate your skin. Got to keep up the appearance! Good luck X 

[CherryBakewell]

Yep, this Wednesday, CK. Starting to feel slightly trepidatious. Quick question - what did you wear for chemo. I'm assuming something comfortable? May have to wear a slight heel. Can't let my standards drop just cos I've got cancer... 👠💋😂 xxx

[CK]

I think we will be doing a version from Sister Act at our charity event Ladies!!! So keep those silk night caps!!!

CherryB
Hope your Chemo gets off to a great start and as manageable as possible! Regards the hair I hope cold cap works for you and you keep your lovely head of hair. I can imagine you in your heels, suit and red lips chatting away with the other chemo patients and having them in stitches! Is it this Weds?xx

Chaffinch
It's good you have peace of mind with your dentist and yes sometimes you do wonder how everyone thinks when they are with you but do we care???To the ones who cry or look upset can be quiet tiring reassuring them rhat I am going ro be mended as if they don't believe me:0

Jencat
You are right, there are others wirh more serious situations (which makes me so sad)Losing our hair is a small price to pay to be mended! You won't be too upset if you are in control! I'm not doing cold cap as I'm hoping to have a new head of stronger, healthier hair than my last lot:) Seriously I don't like the cold on my head! I've always worn hats in winter so I'm sorted!!! Are You?xx

Rosie
We are so allowed to be selfish! I found that recently I can't put up with people's winging and moment and not as tolerant with people being inconsiderate and thoughtless! I'm also speaking my mind more than b4. Ooops!!!!xxx

[Jencat]

Thanks Cherry and hope you have a good evening! Your description of your hair made me laugh xx

[Chaffinch17]

I have had to cope with a few people getting upset but I take this as a compliment, hopefully it shows that they care. I could also mean oh heck that could be me!
I love your attitude CK I hope to be much the same. I have been pretty stoical so far.
I had my recommended dental check today and had a filling between two of my teeth and had them cleaned. I have been assured that everything is now in good condition and ready for chemo. My dentist says that he sees loads of people about to have chemo and he sees the vast majority for many years later. He was very straightforward and reassuring.

[CherryBakewell]

Oh, and evening Jencat!! Xx

[CherryBakewell]

Evening CK, evening Rosie!!

Feels like ages since I was last on here. Allowed myself one last weekend of freedom/denial before chemo starts on Wednesday.

CK, as ever you're taking things magnificently in your stride. I think I've been pretty stoic since my diagnosis but I know for certain that I'd be feeling extremely sorry for myself if my hair was falling out in clumps. I'm sure it will happen despite me giving the cold cap a go. In some ways I need to lose a bit of hair or I'll have the worst of both worlds: my real hair looking like manky rats' tails without the benefit of a hairdryer and hair colour and my wig just perching precariously on my head if I keep most of my hair. May not have thought this through properly... Ha!! 

I know what you both mean about us having to comfort other people - I've only really had to do that with friends and family so far as obviously I don't currently look like I've got cancer. Not relishing the prospect of mooching round in my dodgy wig having to explain to clients and business contacts. But then every aspect of this disease seems to have been designed to be a challenge 🙄 Xxx

[Jencat]

Oh CK, you made me laugh about robber and nun! I do admire your attitude, I'm dreading losing my hair when I have chemo. I keep telling myself it's only hair and lots of people are far more poorly xxx

[rosietd]

CK you are an inspiration. 😀 And I am now humming tunes from Sister Act.

You know what? I seem to be spending more and more time managing other people's reactions to my breast cancer. I know it is often due to their simply not knowing what to say, but it does get a bit tiring sometimes. Is that horribly selfish? (I don't think so ......).

xxx

[CK]

Hi ladies, hope you are ok and enjoying being indoors whilst it's raining cats and dogs!!!

Yesterday I went to work with a hat and got the 'Is it a bad hair day?' or 'whats with the hat?'many times! To those who I didn't know I said yes hair is a mess but to people I know I told them. They felt so embarrassed and apologised so then I had to tell them it's not a problem, they weren't to know and told them not to feel bad, which in itself was tiring!
I feel I'm spending more time telling people to not be sad or feel bad when really they should be supporting me, but some really do not know how to respond. So I've decided 'Bad hair day!' is good or just simply 'Brave the shave!' as its that time of year!

Day 15 and as I was lying in bed I ran my fingers through my hair and some fell out! I started to giggle and shouted 'It's coming out, about bloody time, I've got coconut oil ready!!!' My daughter wasnt impressed at all but I told her to lighten up as I am prepared but she is finding that side difficult! Again, I'm fine but having to put a brave face on for my mum and daughter! At that instance when some hair came out I really was excited as been waiting to see what I look like bald!!!! At one stage I stuck a pair of natural tights over my head to see what I will look like!! I looked like a robber!!! We really do need to make light of what we are going through otherwise we would go crazy!

Black Silk nightcap on and I feel more like a nun!!!
Sister Act! We will do it!!!!!xxx

P.S Morrison's have Garnier gentle shampoo for £2.50 from £3.90 and 2x£4 large Sanex sensitive shower gel. I've been told even with a bare head we need to shampoo it to avoid smell and shampoo the head just like the body.
Lots of love.xxx