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Hello Mary Ann
I was also scared stiff at the thought of chemo but found it far easier to manage than I ever expected. I did a lot of reading about how to best manage the potential side effects, and with the anti nausea medications that were prescribed, I was surprised by how well I felt. I decided early on that chemo was a means to an end, and I was going to do all I could to help myself get thru it in a positive way.
I had AC and Taxotere and had no nausea or vomiting. I tried to eat sensibly (no junk or fatty food, coffee or alcohol) and drank lots of water. I also went to acupuncture weekly throughout the 6 months of chemo and I feel that helped with preventing side effects, including fatigue. I got really tired towards the end but I kept working, rested when I felt like it and exercised when I could. Every little helps.
My white blood count fell after the first chemo so I had a Neulasta shot after very infusion to boost the cells. And I got myself a wig and scarves and hats etc so I was ready for when my hair started to fall out. When I started to lose it I got it all shaved off at once and just put the wig on! No bad hair days for quite a while!!
Be good to yourself and pace yourself for the days when you may need a bit of a break. You will be surprised by how well you will manage!
All the best
Cheers
Pauline
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