My Treatment Plan

[CindyE]

I met with my Onc Dr yesterday and now have my treatment plan. Chemo for 4 times, 3 weeks apart with Taxotere, Cytoxan, and Herceptin too. My first treatment is next Thursday morning May 8. I'm trying to get my port put in before that but the surgeon doesn't have an opening. They say if I can't get the port put in before Thursday, they will just use a vein for the chemo. (Any thoughts on this???)

I also found out the actual size of the tumor (1.2 cm) and the fish score was 2.64. I'd love to hear from others out there who have done the same treatment I have so I can be prepared and understand all this "stuff". Dr says I will definitely lose my before the end of May. I was hoping to have my hair for my son's graduation from High School on June 7th but I guess I'll wear a scarf or maybe even think about getting a wig.

Anyway I go in on Tuesday May 6, for a chemo class and to have a MUGA done. And then I guess I'll jumping on the chemo carnival ride on Thursday. I would appreciate prayers of courage and strength as I begin my treatment plan. Thanks everyone.

Cindy

[Sheila]

Cindy
My tumor was different, but just wanted to offer encouragement on your chemo carnival ride...I like that, makes it seem like a "fun" trip....that fear of the unknown is the hardest, once you get your first round done, you'll be a pro....remember to drink alot of water...flush the system so to speak....take your meds as they tell you...don't try to be a hero, if you are tired, lie down, the world will wait....get some exercise, eat healthy and you will be on the done with this ride before you know it....we are here for you as you start the pink journey....as far as the port goes, I went 4 years without one...just got one in November, didn't know what I was missing!!!! I like to refer to it as the most expensive jewelry I will ever have around my neck!

[Jackie07]

I can not remember which chemo drug make them bring ice to me to chew on. Just remember to communicate to the staff in the chemo room any discomfort you might have. Bring a book or magazine to read. Take deep breath whenever you get nervous. If you feel like throwing up, tell the staff. They will bring you the waste basket. I threw up quite a bit in 2003 and they had to give me pills to take. These days, they mixed the antiemetic medicine first in the IV, so I hardly had any problem. My cocktail includes several tyleno, some benedryl, and some other stuff. It totals about 8 pills. Some were tiny. Let us know how it goes.

[Mary Jo]

Hi Cindy,

I just wanted to "cheer" you on while you begin your "chemo carnival ride!" I reiterate everything Sheila said.

I, too, never had a port. I received all 8 cycles of chemo and 1 year of herceptin all in my left arm. It was fine. So receiving your first chemo in your arm shouldn't pose a problem.
I do ask our Lord to give you His strength and protection as you walk the "pink journey."

Stay strong....stay positive and know that this too shall pass.

Love to you "sister"

Mary Jo

[sassy]

Hey Cindy!

I had a little different chemo than you (taxol instead of taxotere, plus adriamiacin) but didn't experience any nausea. The premeds they give you will help tremendously. Talk to your chemo nurses. They will be the ones who know what to do if you experience any difficulty or discomfort. Drink lots of water, rest when you need to and wear whatever YOU feel comfortable with on your head! Maybe your son would like to wear your wig! Mine gave it a try!

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You will be getting off this "ride" soon.

My best,