Friday is first taxotere and cytoxan cocktail

butterflylvr said:

Hi Diane,
First of all listen closely on friday you will hear us all cheering you on. About two weeks after your first treatment you will start losing your hair. My scalp started tingling and then if felt like parts of my scalp were sunburnt. It was about this time it started falling out pretty good.

On the flip side my hair started growing back about 8 weeks after my last infusion. It comes through first as a soft white peach fuzz and then the dark stuff comes through pretty quickly after that. My last treatment was Jan. 7th and this being July 7th I have about an inch and a half hair growth and girlfriend is it curly... I've always had a natural wave but I am really liking my chemo curls.

I too had some great co-workers who shaved their heads. One female co-worker did the mohawk thing. I think she looked a little more sillier then I did with my scarves and ball caps, but bless her heart she lifted my spirit. Hang in there Diane, it will be over before you know it.

Hugs,
Lorrie

There is 'Hope' , Diane
I equate my breast cancer journey, much like a roller coast ride! So many highs, so many lows!! Emotions all over the map, changing by the hour.

As a 2010 survivor of chemo, please be assure that it is doable. While there is plenty to be scared about with any cancer diagnosis, try not to be scared -- and the more positive and relaxed you can be, the better all your surgery and treatments may go. Many knowledgeable people have been involved in helping determine the right treatment for each of us, because we are all different, and new treatments and studies are coming out regularly.

My suggestion ... Information and foreign jargon is talked about during chemo sessions, and most Oncologist will see you, after your infusion has finished .. if not him/her then the PA -A tape record comes in handy .. record the conversation, so you can use it as a reference. Notebook for taking notes .. and writing down all questions you may have -- plus you have concerns, please write them down and address them during your Oncology appointment.

Information/Research and side efforts associated with your particular chemo - please check out chemocare.com

With all chemo therapy infused drugs .. there are side efforts, and many of us WARRIORS .. suffer from 1 or 2, while others suffer a great deal.

I had taxotere, carboplatin, and herceptin ... I did suffer with mouth and throat sores (Tom Natural toothpaste helped); the steroids and other meds helped with my nauseated before and during chemo .. after chemo infusions -- nausea plagued me for several days (everybody is different -- just my case, and my body) I did suffer with fatigue and bouts and constipation issues - please do not hesitate to call your Oncologist in attempts to find relief.

Hydrate, rest, and hydrate some more. Small meals can often help with nausea. I also splashed / flavored my never ending water consumptions with crystal light, lemonade, cranberry juice or apple juice. Herbal tea worked in the evenings, for me. .. drinking plain water endlessly, got a little boring for me.

Lastly, please put your Oncologist telephone on speed dial .. and call when any and all concerns - regardless of time of day or night!

Strength, Courage and Hope.

Vicki Sam