Starting Chemo November 2012

[Guest user]

Hi everyone, - newbies welcome
Sorry I haven't touched base since my first FEC on Friday, I was so sick for four days; I took all the anti-sickness medication, drank fluids but was still sick and could not keep down even fluids or small snacks.
I had an anti-body jab on Saturday my nurse said that I will be give stronger anti sickness tables for my next dose, I got really bad headaches after the jab so I called my chemo nurse in the middle of the night Monday, my headache pain was getting unbearable I had already taken paracetamol I was advised to top up on ibuprofen it didn’t touch the pain, she called back against 7am and advised me to get pain killers from my GP.
Tuesday 24 hours later what a huge difference, I have kept snacks down, had 5 hours sleep and seem to be pain free after my GP prescribed higher dosage of co-codamol. I have not taken anti sickness tablets since yesterday afternoon.
Resting today and hopefully going out for a walk tomorrow. I am staying strong and positive.
Sparklers we are strong and we can get through this by supporting each other love to you all. x

[Guest user]

Hi all,
Thank you so much for all the supportive messages. I was clearly having an off day and the night before I was reading as much as I could on FEC-T SE's which really upset me. Clearly I know my health is far more important then losing my hair and probably all the SE's but it's still hard to face into. Being such an active person too and being disabled by potential SE's is quite daunting - especially when I feel so well now!
I want to thank you all for the supportive and kind messages they actually mean a lot.
Also I want to wish everyone the best of luck and minimum SE's - stay strong, we can beat this 🙂
xx

[Guest user]

Hi sparkleys,
im on day 4 after my firts fec and all is good , I do not seam to have had much sickness feeling but I have taken all the tables they gave me , to be on the safe side , I have been out every day , just for fresh air, done the school run most days ., I'm going Xmas shopping today.
just enjoyed a really nice bowl of that new Alpen porridge .

Sorry to hear so many of you having a hard time , but you are all right , come and vent on here , get support when ever it is offered , try the phone lines , breast care nurses, take every thing offered to you , you diserve it.
i go to a local hospice and have hypnotherapy , it works for me but I understand its not every ones bag, but try relaxation technics . Some where around you should do them free in the uk .
I also do a blog , it helps me tell people put there and post it on Facebook and twitter , you can read it if you like it's linked on my profile here,

look after your self , it's a hard journey but there is a light at the end xxxxx good luck all

[Guest user]

Day 5 was a blur- was awake for about 6 hours in total. Managed for sleep another 9 hours last night and feeling somewhat more human today. Hope to take a walk. Managed to take my travel sick bands off and no sickness tablets yet, had a crumpet and ginger tepid tea. Small steps. The Christmas songs on the radio make me feel a bit sad.

I had very long hair which I cut shorter 2 weeks ago, going to to get cut again this week if well enough. In my mind I feel more in control this way.

I sorted my wig and glad I got it before I started treatment as have been feeling so off. It still needs it final cut and fitting but no one else would notice.

jellymould hope you are feeling better today and hi to all new sparklers:-)

[Jo_BCC]

Dear MrsR2B

So sorry you're feeling like this, but there's support waiting for you a free phone call away. Please do ring our freefone helpline which opens at 9am this morning, the staff are there to help you through this 0808 800 6000.

Also available is our One-to-One Support service can put you in touch by phone with someone who knows what you’re going through because they have been through it too. Our trained volunteers are ready to:

• listen to your concerns

• understand what you are going through

• offer practical tips

• share their own experiences

• give hope and encouragement

• help you to get the information or support you need

•support you in making informed decisions (for example around reconstruction options)

To access the service or for further information, phone the peer support team on 0845 0771893 or 0114 2636490 or contact by email: UKpeersupportteam@breastcancercare.org.uk.

Some of BCC's publication you might find helpful here:

http://www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/diagnosed-breast-cancer/resource-pack-primary-early...

http://www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/treatment-side-effects/fertility-issues-breast-canc...

http://www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/about-breast-cancer-care/support-younger-women-brea...

I hope this helps. Take care,

Jo, Facilitator

[MrsR2B]

Hi all,
Today is a bad day! Feeling fine by the way of side effects however i can not stop crying. Honestly can't stop, I'm completely exhausted, feel totally alone and all can think about is that I'm going to go through this whole awful saga and it might not even get rid of this b**tard and if it does what's to stop it coming back! I'm 24, had a job I enjoyed, had a wedding coming up and was supposed to be thinking of starting a family in the next year or 2 and now that's all been taken away and I'm left a 24 year old cancer patient who's not working, had cancel her wedding, will be lucky if she can have children and even if can its going to be after another 5 years on tablets giving me early menapourse!
i just want to scream its not fair and then give up and go to sleep and not wake up!
im sorry to pour all this feeling sorry for myself on here but didn't know where else to go and I'm feeling very lost and lonely 😞

[jenny12m]

jellymould - sorry to hear you are feeling poorly. Did the doc give you anti sickness meds? Have they worked? What day are you on?
GemiNy - sorry that you are here with us all. I have longish hair and today had it cut (just a bit) shorter as I start chemo on Thurs, but I have been so used to having long hair, it's looking a bit odd. But if it falls out,that's a small price to pay for getting better. Sorry to hear your Oncologist was so direct and unhelpful. Give him/her some feedback next time.
dealbeach/Phil - good to hear the fresh air is working, I have been advised to avoid indoor public places to avoid others' illnesses. Glad the first week is not going too bad, I am going wig shopping 2 and 6 days after start of chemo so hope I feel OK. I am such a chicken, if they give me anti sickness meds, just in case, I'm going to take them anyway. The Onc doc said - don't wait until you feel sick to take them.
Gritty15 - I had my mx in Oct and bought my bras from M&S, they were a bit dearer though, £18 for 2. Comfy though. Just glad I have my prothesis as that softie was driving me nuts since it was so light. I needed a heavier boob.
Sorry to be a bit thick, but jellymould and weesharon mentioned thrush, I've heard about thrush, but what is it actually?
Jen x

[Pascal_48]

Hi Everyone
GemiNy I start FEC T on Thursday (3 lots) and then 3 lots of Herceptin. When I spoke to the local Oncology dept nurse and said I wanted to try the cold cap she said that they have have some really good results. I said I was going to get my hair cut and she said not to have too drastic a cut. I have had it cut shortish and everyone is saying how much nicer it is now, may keep it like this - if I can!
I had IVF at 39, successfully. I was just never in a relationship where I wanted to have children before then.

m-c teacher I have usually started my lunch time Christmas craft club by now and started taking small groups out of class to make Christmas cards. Before I go off I have to sort cards out for 2 year groups. I don't really have to, but I will feel better if I do - the cards get made really early and are put up all around the class room. At least I can go off knowing they all have lovely cards to take home!

I spoke to my dentist today and he advised Peroxyl mouth wash, Sensodyne Repair & Protect toothpaste and Sensodyne Pro Namel toothpaste. He also suggested Biotene chewing gum.
Love and hugs to everyone x

[Guest user]

GemiNy!!!!
Don't feel bad for sharing, this is why we are here for. and to reassure you those feelings sound familiar to most of us! All I can say I was not inclined at all to go with Chemo (just didn't want to consider it) but having read so many uplifting stories and the shortness it is in a lifetime, considering.... it will be all worth it in the end!
Get yourself one or 2 buddies near you going through the same thing, I find it helps, these forums on here are amazingly informative, caring, supportive and uplifting. We will all help each other and please please don't feel bad sharing your down times we are ALL human and have these moments and what best to share and feel better after? This is our strength as women and as human beings, so let your heart speak out with your hopes and your frustrations and don't worry about the rest. Be strong we will be for you!
Take care xxx

[dealbeach]

Hi everyone,
I had my first FEC on Wednesday and have been fine so far, apart from some sickness on the first evening, so like lots of you, have been feeling much more positive and happy than expected! Been out for quite few long walks as weather has been so nice, and the dog insists on going out any way! My portacath is still quite painful a week after having it inserted, but it's definitely on the mend. My daughter (aged 23) has been giving me the injections to keep the immune system up, so have not had to do that thank goodness and I've taken all my medication - better safe than sorry!
Family, friends, fresh air and water seem to be my main allies at the moment, plus of course the amazing support the nurses and specialists give us and whom we have to trust so much. I am feeling so much better now than I did when I first got the news about my cancer, which seemed to get worse and worse with every set of test results, I'd nearly given myself up for 'not worth treating'. I'm just hoping this optimism can be around at least through most of my treatment, and I think reading so many stories both postive and negative helps us to put things into perspective, so keep up the good work sparklers.

[Guest user]

Pascal 48 I am in the same situation awaiting op in November then will undergo radiotherapy and I think will be reccommended chemo although I don't want it!!! Who does? I am not hormone treatment receptive so will be advised on chemo but am so not looking frwrd to it and wanted to avoid it but reading all your stories it is making me think that it will be worth it in the end. Good luck and keep us posted xx

[Guest user]

Hi all, this is my first post. I saw my onc today after mx in September, feel totally bewildered and terrified at the thought of the treatment which is 6 courses of chemo two different types, which I don't know what they are. I have already picked up some really helpful tips. If this advice helps anyone please check it out for yourselves. I am large chested, and before my op went out and spent a fortune on large baggy clothes, which I have never worn, you will bsurprised how many of your own clothes you can still wear. I also had huge problems with finding underwear. I cannot recommend the genie bra enough, it gives support and is so comfortable. Also try matalan, they do a range called simply comfort, and their version is only£4. As da came out the best for really nice post op bras that go up to j cup a real find and only£6. I don't know when my first session is but I have been told it will be before end of the month. Good luck to you all xxx

[Guest user]

Oh Jellymould, sorry to hear you are poorly. I'm sure it was all that jiggling around at Zumba!! Hopefully it will pass quickly for you. Big hugs xxx

Hi GemiNy, sorry you find yourself here and are going through such a hard time. Don't worry what the specialists say if the cold cap is there and you want to give it a go do so. It works differently for different people. I'm sure you will get more replies on that one. Each one of us has been, or is going through the guilt, anger and so many other emotions so don't feel you are wrong. If you feel it is all too much call a helpline or go and see a doctor for advice on how to deal with your issues.

I think in the end you will realise that your health is more important than your hair but it is early days for you. Your work colleagues will also realise that if they thought for a moment. I am flabbergasted that someone would be so blunt about you not having children already but again seek advice, the more control you have the better you will feel.
As your feelings settle down things will become 'easier' to handle and you will be able to take one day at a time. You are still really young with lots of things to look forward to. Whatever you decide with the chemo etc let us know. Come here and vent when you want I'm sure there are others who will lend a friendly ear and help you on this road ahead.
Have a bit more faith in your new partner, if you start doubting him now he will only have to try so much harder to prove to you that he cares when he probably is feeling as lost as well at the moment.

Good luck, big hugs CK xxx

[Jayne_m]

Hi GemiNty. If it is any comfort, I am using the cold cap and have now had 3 FEC chemo, hair is thinning, sure, but I still have a head of hair - it is a hassle, needs cutting shorter, only washed once a week, only combed once a day so doesnt look great but I wanted to hang on to as much as I could. I dont regret it, even though it does mean the chemo sessions are longer and it is uncomfortable. I am surprised that your onc told you not to bother, mine actively enouraged me to try it and even joked when I saw him last week that I had more hair than him!

Have a chat with your surgeon about the timing, I postponed my op because I had a holiday booked and then the surgeon postponed it by another 2 weeks for her holiday - I was assured that those few weeks would make no difference to the outcome and I liked the surgeon so didn't want to switch if not necessary. I had my op first so that may make a difference and I was given a choice when to start chemo too.

I really feel for you re children too (mine are teenagers so I didnt have that to contend with) and I hope you get some control back soon in the decision making.
Hugs x

[Guest user]

hi sparklers, not having a good day today was sick last night, runs this am and im starting with thrush, got doctors this pm. thought it was to good to be true. x

[June_BCC]

Hello GemiNy

Welcome to the forums, I’m sorry to hear that you are having a tough time at the moment. I’m sure the users of this site will be along to support you soon.

In the meantime maybe you would like to talk things through with a member of our helpline staff who are there to offer emotional support as well as practical information. The free phone number is 0808 800 600 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.00 and Saturday 10.00 to 2.00.

best wishes

June, moderator

[Guest user]

Hi all,
I am not sure if I am going to be a Sparkler yet or I will go into Decemeber but I do know that I am having FEC-T chemo - the plan is 6 sessions but apparently if I respond well to it 8. The thought sends shivers down my spine.
You all seem really nice and I hope you don't mind me joining the group.
My lump is about 2-3cms and I have a fairly small chest, so they are planning to do the chemo first in the hope that it will shrink it. Last week I had my lymph nodes remove to check if the cancers spread, it looks clear on the scan and I am hoping that the results supports this.
I am 36 years old and I have no children, unfortunately I went through a divorce last year. It's always been my dream to have children but unfortunately its not happen yet. The chemo therapy might leave me infertile so I have to go through IVF before I start. The oncologist was very direct with me when I told him I wanted to do IVF and questioned why I didn't have kids before being that I was married - I was so upset. He just wants me to start the Chemo and he also told me not to bother with the cold cap - I left that appointment so upset and cried for 4 hours.
The thought of going through all the SE's including losing my hair upsets me no end and I am trying so hard to be strong and positive. When I think of all the kids and people who may have cases of cancer that are a lot more serious then mine, I feel quite selfish and guilty for feeling like this.
I also started a new relationship 3 weeks before I got diagnosed, with a guy who is a lot younger then me - he's been amazing so far and says he wants to be with me regardless and is looking at the longer term. However, the truth will remain when I hit the chemo and I start losing my hair etc. My hair like everyone else's is part of my identity, its lovely and long - length is past my chest. Everyone loves my hair and I have never truly valued it until now - my colleagues at work have cried just at the thought of me losing my hair.
Not sure how I am really feeling right now and some days it doesn't seem real, I am sure that will all change when I face into chemo.
Anyway, I thought I would share my story and just say that today I am feeling lost, scared, upset and angry too. Which when I read all you comments it helps to make me feel better and also i feel guilty again for feeling like this. I've had such amazing support from family and friends its been unreal and I am trying so hard to be a burden or upset them further.
I am also feeling that I am not sure if I should kick the chemo off just after Christmas - my partner really wants me to go to his Christmas do and I really want to go too. But I know if I kick the Chemo off I might feel and look dreadful - I know I should be thinking just get rid of the cancer and start the chemo, which I do.
Normally I am quite a logical, sensible person and this is making me feel illogical, stupid, shallow and very vain.
Sorry if this as become an emotional dump of my feelings when I know you are all going through it too.

[Guest user]

Hi girls,
Good to read that lots of you are coping well with the chemo so far.
Well, I am now definitely a sparkler - starting Fec-T on 22nd. Going in tmrw to have a Hickman line fitted due to my rubbish veins then wig shopping on Tuesday which I'm quite looking forward to. Might opt for something completely different!!
Good luck to everyone having treatment this week
Kerry xx

[Guest user]

Day 2 doing well very little sickness feeling , taking all the drugs they gave me , and even thinking of taking a leaf out of jellymould s book and making a visit to Zumba tomorrow night , watch this space

[PhilBM]

I'd seen my blood pressure go up quite a lot since my Herceptin on Wednesday but we went for a ~2 mile walk today down the beach and back and when I checked it had gone back to normal - so there we go, just needed some light exercise.

[Guest user]

Thanks fellow Col!!

They say kids help to take your mind off things and my little lad has certainly done that for me today as he's been throwing up all over the place . Poor little soul. I have to say it's hard not to think give us a bloody break but it just looks like a tummy bug so I suppose it could be worse. Ah well.

Take care all.

Col x

[Guest user]

Hi Col123,

Good luck tomorrow, don't forget to drink loads of water. Will be thinking of you. xxx

Glad to see you are up and running and feeling better WeeSharon & Lucypenny xxx

Good luck to anyone else starting tomorrow. x

Keep Sparkling x

Big hugs CK xxx

[Guest user]

Hey all.
I had my first FEC on Tuesday this week and reckon I am over the worst of the tiredness now (please don't have just jinxed myself). My first night was like someone had turned a dimmer switch down on me about 5 hours after the treatment and I was physically sick that night. I'm going to ask about different sickness meds for my next batch.
I've a horrible case of oral thrush at the minute which appeared within 1/2 hour yesterday afternoon but I've a docs appointment tomorrow for sick notes etc so I can ask about it then if its no better!! Yucky!!!
My nose is beginning to run a bit as well so maybe the nasel hairs are about to dissapear.
I did manage the cold cap so hopefully I'll know how effective it will be prior to my next batch.
Good luck to those starting this week x

[Guest user]

Break through!Managed a walk to the local pub and to eat a whole roast dinner!! I have amazed myself! Onwards and upwards I say!! Not sure i am ready for Zumba tonight jellymould but I plan another walk tomorrow at least:-) phew phew phew so happy to feel so much better:-)

xxxx

[Guest user]

Welcome MrsR2B - sorry about your wedding but glad you're not going to let bc spoil your special day. Glad to hear your FEC experience hasn't been too awful so far.

Hope everyone who hasnt quite had the jellymould-zumba experience feels much better soon.

I've got my first FEC tomorrow - eek!!! Am really nervous but it helps to read all your posts.

Good luck to any other sparklers starting tomorrow

Love, Col xxxx

[Guest user]

hi mrsr2b, welcome to the sparklers. sorry to hear your on this journey too. hugs xx

[Guest user]

Hi MrsR2B,
So sorry you find yourself here and that you are in a position to have to postpone your big day. I'm sure it will make it sweeter in the end. I had my first FEC-T on the 1st and am feeling 'OK' at the moment, bit squiffy to say the least to start with. Know what you mean about taste changes though, it takes a lot to stay away from the comfort food I know!
Hopefully you will find support and understanding here that will help you on this 'journey'. You are not alone.
You are now officially a Sparkler!!
Keep Calm & Sparkle on. Big hugs CK xxx

[Jo_BCC]

Hi MrsR2B

Welcome to the Breast Cancer Care discussion forums where I am sure you will get lots of good, honest support from the many informed users of this site, who are brilliant at supporting each other through this.

I have put for you below a link to one of our publications you might find helpful. Also if you want to talk to someone in confidence away from the family then our helpline team are only a free phone call away 0808 800 6000, lines open Mon-Fri 9-5 and Sat 10-2

http://www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/diagnosed-breast-cancer/breast-cancer-you-diagnosis...

Take care,

Jo, Facilitator

[Guest user]

Oh come on Jellymould you're just showing off now!!! LOL & Big hugs CK xxx

[Guest user]

hi guys day 5 and now not taking any sickness tablets another session of zumba tonight. hope everyone is fine. hugs to all xxxx

[Guest user]

Hi Shazza,
You're bound to be nervous it's the fear of the unknown. My treatment was shorter in time than I expected (I didn't use the cold cap 'cos of tooth removal day before). It's day 11 for me now post 1st treatment and I'm feeling better each day. Just make sure you adhere to medications, eating small but regular, drinking loads of water etc you should be fine. Take anti-sickness medications even if you don't feel sick. Although I've worked from home via the computer for the past week I've been doing normal housework: cooking, cleaning, washing no problem. If I get a bit weary I just take a little break.

I've suffered consipation quite badly so that might have a significant affect on your Crohns. Have they mentioned it at the hospital yet? You say you are having EC, that usually comes with the F as in FEC (maybe the F is what affects the bowel area?). Hopefully you'll be OK.
Big Hugs, take care CK xxx

[Shazzaboro]

Morning all,
Due to start EC chemo on Thursday and starting to get nervous. The rational part of me knows its just fear of the unknown but that doesn't help. Reading about other peoples journeys who have already started is really helpful. Hope I'm as lucky as you, Jellymould. Just about organised with tissues, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner [got Naked for sensitive scalps from Boots], hats, scarves, wig, sweets, drinks, etc. Even got a couple of books and films to watch, plus a jigsaw for when I'm ready to do something but not able to get out. Hopefuy I'lll get out for a couple of walks to get some fresh air. I'm going to see the radiotherapy consultant on Monday about the Supremo Trial [is anyone else on it?] then back to see oncologist on Wednesday before starting chemo. Also need to go to the docs to see about another sicknote. I've got Crohns disease and don't know how the chemo will impact on it so hopefully playing safe.
Keep calm and carry on sparkling!
Shazza

[MrsR2B]

Hi all, I have recently found this forum and hope its ok to join? I had my first chemo on Tuesday (fec-t) I was worried that I'd had very little SE ( started to think they hadn't given me the right dose and it wouldn't work) but thanks to reading through here I feel reassured. I have felt very tired and had a yukey taste consantly but other than that and a bit of heartburn I'm feeling Ok so far. I do think i will be about ten stone heavier by the end though as i have the biggest appetite for just about everything ( mainly rice puddding and tinned fruit-weird i know)
I've got a wig ready but I'm also trying the cold cap as I'd rather not loose my hair.
Before diagnosis I was planning our wedding which we have now decided to postpone. This upsets me greatly but I don't want the cancer to taint either the wedding or take away from my enjoyment of planning it xxx

[Guest user]

Hi Lucypenny,
Up and up from here for you I hope. I read on MacMillan that on the FEC part of chemotherapy your risk of infection is at its lowest 10-14 days after treatment so you should be OK, on the T part its sooner (5-7) days. Hopefully you can go enjoy yourself without concern. And don't worry about coke, we all know there's no nutritional value, it just tastes good!! x
Take care Big Hugs CK xxx

http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Cancertreatment/Treatmenttypes/Chemotherapy/Combinatio...

[Guest user]

Day 4 - managed to sleep though with no problems. Feel like I am turning the corner. Phew. Last 3 days have been very miserable. Hoping to go for a walk today. in my book it says day 5 is when immune system is down anyone got any advice or tips on what I should or shouldn't be doing between day 5 and 10 ( I think that's what they say is the low period). If I continue to feel brighter I would like to visit friends and go out but not sure if sensible or not- any advice welcomed!

managed some diet coke through a straw yesterday - not sure on nutritional value but made me feel good 🙂
xxxx

[jenny12m]

Hello fellow Sparklers
Sorry not been on for a while, I saw the Oncologist on Monday and he said 2/3 week wait for starting chemo. So went back to work on my full hours, have a big day at work next Weds where lots of people coming from across the country for a visit to HQ that I have organised. Big shock on Thurs, I got a call from the hospital to come for my pre chemo meeting on Weds. Cannot do I said, big day at work. The sister rings me back, if you don't come she said, you can't come on Thursday. What happens on Thursday I asked, you start chemo she says!!
So like Shazza, Pascal and Nadine, I am starting on 15th Nov. I'm on 6 FEC-T.
Lovely to hear about everyone's progress, much admiration for jellymould and Zumba class.
Phil, shall we start calling you vampire?
Not got my wig yet, I have my appointment 2 days after my first treatment. Was worried I would feel unwell but the sister said I should be fine.
Col123, like you, I have decided not to cut my hair short as I want to have a long wig like my own hair. Thought it would be odd to go from long to short to long. I went to a local charity this week, cancerhaircare.co.uk and the lovely lady there said that I should cut it just a bit shorter this week, then when it starts to fall out, in the shower, in bed, in your dinner (!), then I go and see them and they will cut it short so that I can get my wig on straightaway.
CK1, I had heard about loss of nose hairs. I was told to make sure I have tissues for runny nose. So will pack tissues, water bottle, warm cardi, snacks. The advice is here excellent.
mummybear - how are you feeling this weekend?
Love from Jen x

[Guest user]

day 4, still getting the sicky feeling 1st thing in the morn, and very tired at night, but that still is all the side effects im having which i find pretty good going. morning sparklers. xx

[Guest user]

By the way jessie is not my profile wig lol , that is a primarni one , but people say I still should get it as it suits me hahahahahaha

[Guest user]

Day of 1st fec, feeling ok ........for now

i noticed a lot of people have been buying wigs , I bought mine over a week also, and I have been out in it even though I still have all my har, my wig is called jessie and she is my alter ego , when I wear her I dress up put my make up on (which I have treated my self to some bear minerals ..ok a lot of it new brushes every thing but well worth it ) when I do all that I feel fab, and majority of people never even look twice at me , as I feel confident in it already , I'm hoping it stays with me once my hair has gone , which I will be shaving off before it starts to fall out . Try thinking of your wig as a better you , as a fighter , as some one that will beat this .... It's all about confidence and I know it hard at these times but with good friends , real and virtual , we will get through this ,



look after your selfs, it's all about you now , xxxx virtual hugs sent othere're xxxxx

[Guest user]

Tatiana - Glad you have joined the Sparklers, just popping over from the September Sapphires - FEC 75 contains a slightly lower dose of the E part (epirubicin) of the FEC, at 75mg/m2. However, there are even lower doses. I've had 3xFEC 100 and will have 3xT (docetaxel). The E drug is the red one in the cocktail and is a bit of a bugger on the veins and also makes your wee red for a bit. If you are worried about it, it's worth asking your onc why they have decided on this regime - they will have very good clinical reasons and will be able to put your mind at rest.
Your hospital will no doubt be giving you information but you can find more info on FEC at the Macmillan site here http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Cancertreatment/Treatmenttypes/Chemotherapy/Combinationregimen/FEC.aspx
Lucypenney30 - I too struggled with drinking water after FEC and found adding a little bit of apple juice made it more palatable - ginger tended to burn my throat a little bit.
All the best Sparklers
Nicola x

[Guest user]

Day 3 - had another awful day yesterday and mother got me some travel sickness bands which seem to have helped. So much for my diet plan! when its time I need to take my steroids I manage either a piece of toast or banana i have managed some dry bran flakes. i am so thirsty but drinking water makes me feel sick so sipping tepid water and ginger.

Had a better nights sleep last night and feeling marginally brighter this morning. Another day in bed for me I think but aim for a small walk tomorrow.

hope everyone else is feeling ok and taking it easy xxx

[Guest user]

Evening Sparklers,

Hope you keep on feeling this way SLM272, I'd take tablets as prescribed though just in case. Well done! As you say only 5 to go, doesn't seem quite so daunting then xxx

Welcome new Sparklers Fiona100 & Tatania,
Tatania I don't know what FEC75 is but if no-one can answer here call the helpline or MacMillan or call your oncology centre on Monday. It's best to know why you are having something different it will put you mind at rest. xxx
Fiona, I too had delayed chemo because of post-op infection and weeks of anti-biotics. I know how you feel, I just wanted it to get going, sooner it was started the sooner it was finished! xxx

Hey PhilBM, wouldn't mind seeing you in your Burkha, (easy to fake)!!!??? LOL xxx

I got my wig today, didn't realise you should buy the cleaning pack though, hopefully it was worth it. Sat looking at the wig on the stand and it makes me shivver, looks OK on though, hopefully won't need it for a while. Got it for work really as I am going to wear scarves etc when the time comes. Day 8 for me post first FEC, constipation & indigestion are not my friends!!! Lost nose hair so far, so runny snot box all the time. Going for walk and lunch in New Forest Sunday (weather permitting) so have something good to look forward to. x

Have a great weekend y'all, catch ya later, sweet dreams CK xxx

[Guest user]

Hi sparklies,
i have had my first proper chemo today, FEC and it went with it a hitch, it really is not that hard, go in with the idea that you want this is you it's your allie and you cant do it won't out it, chemo is your partner ithesis battle , I drank loads of water and will carry that on , hope it all helps , I feel ok for now and going to have a pizza , I have seen that some people eat small and light on the chemo day, but I'm starving , hope it does not bite me on the ass lol ,

good luck to every one starting their journey, be strong all and look after your self .

1 down only 5 to go xx

[Guest user]

Hello Sparklers
I'm due to start FEC-T on 16th November. I too had infection following surgery - been on antibiotics for 5 weeks, but hoping the pink tinge that's left is only inflammation and I don't need any more antibiotics. It never occured to me I would be thinking I don't want anything to stop me starting chemo. Before cancer I would have been thinking no-one in their right mind would want to start chemo - it's so bizarre how your thinking totally changes once you enter the 'cancer zone'. A couple of weeks ago I could not believe I was actually having an appointment with an Oncologist. How can something once so surreal have become so normal?
Anyway just wanted to send my love to everyone who's started or about to start chemo - we may not have wanted to be members of this club but love and support makes it a whole lot easier!
XXX

[Guest user]

Hi all, I'm due to start chemo next Fri 16th although having 6 x FEC 75. Does anyone know the difference between this and FEC-T/? Is mine stronger?
Also, I have a cough although it's on the tail end so I'm hoping it doesn't affect next Friday.
Nice to meet you all 🙂

Fellow Sparkler

[PhilBM]

I live at the beach on the south coast, we get some sun here just about every day of the year, even over winter, maybe I should invest in a burqa.

[Guest user]

Hi All
Just had a load of bloods taken followed by heart ultra sound, more tests on Monday then Chemo Tuesday !! So intend to live it up a little this weekend.
Lucypenny I hope your feeling better KEEP SPARKLING !!!
ck1 your on the way now to recovery
Jellymould ZUMBA!!!! way to go girl
moonandmoon your baby will be fine and this is brilliant preparation for being a mummy you won,t have time to dwell on this !!!
Mummybear hope it all went well today and you have a good weekend
Phil hang on in there its dark most of the time now anyway you.ll be on the road to recovery by the time the lighter evenings are back
and to everyone else try and have a good weekend and remember your still SPARKLING xx

[Guest user]

lol phil. its great to hear your status's really cheer everyone up. not sure about which drug your on but one of the fec drugs can be sensitive to sunlight, but i dont think we have that prob at this time of year so dont think we need to worry. x

[PhilBM]

I'm on a different regime from you wonderful ladies (as I believe FEC-T is focussed on females and I'm already quite good at interior design, flower arranging and cooking 🙂 ) but it turns out that one of my drugs means I can't go into direct sunlight. Should I start reading the 'Twilight' books yet or see just how far this goes, my eyes haven't turned red just yet. Anyone else been told this?

[Guest user]

hi guys day 3 and slept like a log last night, must of been the zumba lol but still been sick this morning on brushing teeth, weird. but feel fine now. had porridge for breadfast so i can take the anti sickness pills, gonna have a chilling out day today, weather isn't up to much so nice to be indoors. all the best to the sparklers having chemo today. just keep drinking the water before, during and after. hugs xxx