[chrisy]

Poo.

I have not had taxotere, but I do have some advice. All the taxotere people in my infusion center put bags of frozen peas on their fingers and toes during the taxotere infusion, as the nurses believed it helped to minimize damage to the nail beds. Turns out, I saw a study at San Antonio BC symposium that validated that. They didn't use peas in the study, it was some kind of boring cold pack...

At the infusion center they even had a little freezer where they let people store their peas. Or Corn or whatever. The best thing I saw was one gal had her fiance come with her and when it was time to take off the frozen peas, he massaged her hands and feet.

I know it sounds goofy, and I'm certainly not making light of the situation - it is just the only actual experience I have with taxotere.

The other, more important thing I want to say to you Laurie is that you must not lose heart. I do know firsthand how shocking it is to get such a diagnosis. I felt cheated, and although I promised to try to make it 3 years I didn't really believe it would happen. That was nearly 6 years ago.

Get the other tests done, you need to know what all that you're dealing with and don't assume it will be more bad news - its quite possible there are NO other problem areas. Do your research, as I know you are, and learn what your options are - what to do now, and what might be an option later.

My thoughts and prayers are with you...
chris