My partner has breast cancer -- it's all pretty overwhelming

Andie3

I posted in the caregiver forum a few days ago, before my partner started chemo. She's a really brave two-time survivor who now has a 3cm lump on her breast. Her doc wanted to try and shrink the lump with chemo before surgery.

She's being given two drugs--cytoxin and taxotere. She thought--and I hoped--that she would be able to have the chemo with only minimal negative impact. Her first treatment was on Tuesday. I wasn't able to be with her, because I was working. A new job I just started a week ago. She and I have been together 21 years, and it was awful not being there with her. Thankfully, we've got a tight network of friends and family around here, so she wasn't alone.

Tues. was tiring for her, but she didn't actually feel bad. Same with Wed. The next day, she felt a little off but nothing terrible. Friday was bad; Friday night was awful, with cramps and all sorts of stomach stuff. Saturday, today, was even worse. I hate seeing her go through this.

If anyone has had this particular combination of chemo treatments, I'd really appreciate it if you could let me know how it all went for you. I've suggested that she keep a journal of symptoms--I've got chronic Lyme, and that really helped me when I first started treatment. It would be good to have some sense of what might be on the horizon.

Thanks so all of you, so much, for any help you can give me and for just being there and listening. It means a lot.

fauxma

So sorry you had to come to
So sorry you had to come to the board but this is a great place for info, comfort and support. I did not have chemo so I cannot answer your questions but there will be lots of people with suggestions etc. Just know that we are all here for you. It is so good to have a partner that is supportive and caring and you certainly fill that bill. Prayers for you both.
Stef

butterflylvr

fauxma said:

So sorry you had to come to
So sorry you had to come to the board but this is a great place for info, comfort and support. I did not have chemo so I cannot answer your questions but there will be lots of people with suggestions etc. Just know that we are all here for you. It is so good to have a partner that is supportive and caring and you certainly fill that bill. Prayers for you both.
Stef

First of all Andie3, your
First of all Andie3, your partner is so blessed to have you in this journey beside her. I had chemo myself but unfortunately not the cocktail your partner is going though. I had 4 infusions three weeks apart. My cocktail consisted of the TAC approach - Taxotere,Adriamycin and Cyclophosphamide. I got my infusions on Friday and on Saturday my body started feeling sluggish, but Sunday I was rendered useless. I would say my worst day was 48 hours after my infusions. Monday I was still sluggish but I still went back to work and as the week rolled on each day got better and better.

I don't know the side effects of your partners chemo drugs, but my first 72 hours were the hardest on me. It will get better for your partner as the days go by, but keep track of her up times and down times so she can plan accordingly for her next injections. She is a very lucky woman to have you in her court.

God Bless you both.. and keep us up to date on how she is doing.
Prayer coming for you both,
Lorrie

mamolady

journal
A journal is a great idea, some of the symptoms may not be related to chemo. That way she can sort through what really is chemo related. I did not keep notes but my husband paid better attention and reminded me that it was the same last round..... My oncologist gave me steroids and anti nausea drugs with the chemo to help with the side effects so I really didn't have too much trouble.
If they haven't already, the doctors should be able to give her something for some of the side effects. I did know a gal that had a horrible time with the first round (she needed IV fluid and such) but did ok with the rest.
Check the ACS website for foods that will help. They should have other tips too.

Cindy

Andie3

mamolady said:

journal
A journal is a great idea, some of the symptoms may not be related to chemo. That way she can sort through what really is chemo related. I did not keep notes but my husband paid better attention and reminded me that it was the same last round..... My oncologist gave me steroids and anti nausea drugs with the chemo to help with the side effects so I really didn't have too much trouble.
If they haven't already, the doctors should be able to give her something for some of the side effects. I did know a gal that had a horrible time with the first round (she needed IV fluid and such) but did ok with the rest.
Check the ACS website for foods that will help. They should have other tips too.

Cindy

support
Thank you all so much for your warm welcome, for your support for us, prayers and for your suggestions. When I was dealing with the worst of the Lyme symptoms (and they were really awful), a symptom sheet helped me know what I could possibly face each month. I think I'll print some of the blank sheets I used then.

My partner is an incredible woman, and I just want to do anything I can to help.

So many people have sent cards and flowers and offered to help; it's hard to know how to include them. Plus, in this family, there are 2 children and six grandchildren. I know what a joy that is for her.

Cindy, I think the food thing is a great idea. She did try to eat a tomato basil omelet with tomatoes from the garden. In retrospect, I don't think that was a good thing. I also have a variety of things on hand, a soup she loves, some flat bread, goat cheeses. We don't eat wheat in the house, so everything (inc the flatbread) is gluten free.

She had a pulmonary embolism in the spring of 2010 and was in the hospital 4 days. I'm hoping that didn't weaken her too much.

With my Lyme Disease, I did a lot of research (mostly because it's a still-evolving kind of thing). My partner doesn't really have the energy or the desire to do something similar with her treatment. Is there a good central resource? I always figure patients are the best advocates. Period. I'm open to hearing anything.

Thanks again!

pinkpalette

Andie3 said:

support
Thank you all so much for your warm welcome, for your support for us, prayers and for your suggestions. When I was dealing with the worst of the Lyme symptoms (and they were really awful), a symptom sheet helped me know what I could possibly face each month. I think I'll print some of the blank sheets I used then.

My partner is an incredible woman, and I just want to do anything I can to help.

So many people have sent cards and flowers and offered to help; it's hard to know how to include them. Plus, in this family, there are 2 children and six grandchildren. I know what a joy that is for her.

Cindy, I think the food thing is a great idea. She did try to eat a tomato basil omelet with tomatoes from the garden. In retrospect, I don't think that was a good thing. I also have a variety of things on hand, a soup she loves, some flat bread, goat cheeses. We don't eat wheat in the house, so everything (inc the flatbread) is gluten free.

She had a pulmonary embolism in the spring of 2010 and was in the hospital 4 days. I'm hoping that didn't weaken her too much.

With my Lyme Disease, I did a lot of research (mostly because it's a still-evolving kind of thing). My partner doesn't really have the energy or the desire to do something similar with her treatment. Is there a good central resource? I always figure patients are the best advocates. Period. I'm open to hearing anything.

Thanks again!

yes....this BC is pretty overwhelming...
Hi Andie3, welcome to the board. I received my first chemo dose on Monday just before your partner, so I cannot speak with the expertise of some of the others but it is fresh in my mind and happening now - so I thought I might have something new to offer. I am receiving the taxotere chemo drug and two others different than your partner. During my chemo infusion, the onc nurses administer the drugs slowly and seperately and watch for reactions. When I received the Taxotere and not the other two, I felt different. Not awful, but noticable. I got a metallic taste in my mouth and my arm got really sore and heavy on the side they were doing the infusion. It went away when it was done.

Now post chemo 6 days, I feel not too bad. I have had good moments and rough moments. It is like a roller coaster. Lack of energy is at the top of the list. I am keeping a journal and tracking my side effects and feelings, so next time I'll be more prepared. My onc doc. gave me steroids (to counter side effects) anti-nausea drugs, and suggested claritin for side effects too. They seemed to keep the bad things away. I've been trying to drink profuse amounts of water, to wash out the toxins. Eating light is good, healthy foods are important. Clean fresh whole foods well and avoid whole foods that cannot be peeled or cooked well. I had a bout with diarrhea so anything can happen. Mouth sores is an issue for me. I got biotene mouthwash and toothpaste and it feels soothing for a brief time.

I hope I touched base for a few things your partner may be suffering thru. This board is a wealth of info and support. I wish you comfort and hope!!!

pinkpalette

VickiSam

pinkpalette said:

yes....this BC is pretty overwhelming...
Hi Andie3, welcome to the board. I received my first chemo dose on Monday just before your partner, so I cannot speak with the expertise of some of the others but it is fresh in my mind and happening now - so I thought I might have something new to offer. I am receiving the taxotere chemo drug and two others different than your partner. During my chemo infusion, the onc nurses administer the drugs slowly and seperately and watch for reactions. When I received the Taxotere and not the other two, I felt different. Not awful, but noticable. I got a metallic taste in my mouth and my arm got really sore and heavy on the side they were doing the infusion. It went away when it was done.

Now post chemo 6 days, I feel not too bad. I have had good moments and rough moments. It is like a roller coaster. Lack of energy is at the top of the list. I am keeping a journal and tracking my side effects and feelings, so next time I'll be more prepared. My onc doc. gave me steroids (to counter side effects) anti-nausea drugs, and suggested claritin for side effects too. They seemed to keep the bad things away. I've been trying to drink profuse amounts of water, to wash out the toxins. Eating light is good, healthy foods are important. Clean fresh whole foods well and avoid whole foods that cannot be peeled or cooked well. I had a bout with diarrhea so anything can happen. Mouth sores is an issue for me. I got biotene mouthwash and toothpaste and it feels soothing for a brief time.

I hope I touched base for a few things your partner may be suffering thru. This board is a wealth of info and support. I wish you comfort and hope!!!

pinkpalette

Andie .. Welcome Aboard to a Fantastic
group of WARRIORS, who give of themselves unconditionally. We are here for you, and your partner 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I am sorry that breast cancer has invaded your lives. The doctors appointments, chemo therapy infusions and side efforts will test your patience, and turn your life upside down. Seat belt yourself in, and get ready for the ride.

As suggested small meals several times daily helps with nausea, as well as keep stamina up. Fatigue is often an issue, so gentle have your partner move - quick walks, walking up and down stairs, even tho she may not want to -- gently, encourage her.

Tom's toothpaste helps with mouth sores, as does baking soda and water rinses. Writing down all questions or concerns in a notebook helps. I also took a tape recorder with me --- I was able to re-play what had been said, or recommended as a helping tool to get me chemo.

Hydration is so important, so after a bit .. water gets very boring -- try adding a little cranberry juice, or lemonade .. even crystal light or Lipton tea flavoring -- gives water a little zest.

Gentle hugs,

Strength, Courage and Hope.

Vicki Sam

mamolady

Andie3 said:

support
Thank you all so much for your warm welcome, for your support for us, prayers and for your suggestions. When I was dealing with the worst of the Lyme symptoms (and they were really awful), a symptom sheet helped me know what I could possibly face each month. I think I'll print some of the blank sheets I used then.

My partner is an incredible woman, and I just want to do anything I can to help.

So many people have sent cards and flowers and offered to help; it's hard to know how to include them. Plus, in this family, there are 2 children and six grandchildren. I know what a joy that is for her.

Cindy, I think the food thing is a great idea. She did try to eat a tomato basil omelet with tomatoes from the garden. In retrospect, I don't think that was a good thing. I also have a variety of things on hand, a soup she loves, some flat bread, goat cheeses. We don't eat wheat in the house, so everything (inc the flatbread) is gluten free.

She had a pulmonary embolism in the spring of 2010 and was in the hospital 4 days. I'm hoping that didn't weaken her too much.

With my Lyme Disease, I did a lot of research (mostly because it's a still-evolving kind of thing). My partner doesn't really have the energy or the desire to do something similar with her treatment. Is there a good central resource? I always figure patients are the best advocates. Period. I'm open to hearing anything.

Thanks again!

caring bridge
Andie,
http://www.caringbridge.org/

This is a website people use to share information with others. You or your partner can keep a journal on there and it updates people with an email. It is a public site so anyone can access it.

Cindy

Gabe N Abby Mom

Cancer can truly invade and
Cancer can truly invade and take over your life, I'm so sorry you have the need to be here. I'm very sure your partner appreciates all the support.

I did 6 rounds of TAC...for nausea/vomiting I took Zofran on infusion day and the two days following, then I had compazine (both oral and suppository) on hand if needed. I also had ativan, it's an anti anxiety med which helped me sleep but can also be taken under the tongue for nausea. These can all give you constipation so I was also taking a laxative and a stool softener. Once I stopped the zofran, I usually switched to diarrhea and immodium for a day or two. Please be sure and talk with the oncologist before adding any of these to the routine.

As for food, I was told in my chemo class to focus on protein and calories. The body needs these to repair damage. They also recommended carnation instant breakfast (I liked the vanilla best) in milk or in a smoothie. For me the bland foods worked best, plain potatoes, plain rice, plain noodles. I also liked stone fruits. Someone already said eat small amounts and more frequently, which worked for me. I didn't try to eat regular meals with my family...I just ate what sounded good at the moment.

And water water water...I started hydrating two days before infusion and kept at it for at least three days after. I liked icy cold smart water the best, the added electrolytes helped.

Documenting symptoms is really good, it can help with conversations with the doc and with being prepared for each round. But in my case, something new or a little different seemed to come up with each infusion. Round 1 was mild nausea and diarrhea, round 2 was bone pain, round 3 was heartburn, round 4 was dental issues, etc. But in each case the nurses and onc had seen it before and had a solution, so be sure to talk with them every time something new shows up.

Best wishes to you and your partner. Please come back and let us know how you're doing.

Hugs,

Linda

Andie3

Gabe N Abby Mom said:

Cancer can truly invade and
Cancer can truly invade and take over your life, I'm so sorry you have the need to be here. I'm very sure your partner appreciates all the support.

I did 6 rounds of TAC...for nausea/vomiting I took Zofran on infusion day and the two days following, then I had compazine (both oral and suppository) on hand if needed. I also had ativan, it's an anti anxiety med which helped me sleep but can also be taken under the tongue for nausea. These can all give you constipation so I was also taking a laxative and a stool softener. Once I stopped the zofran, I usually switched to diarrhea and immodium for a day or two. Please be sure and talk with the oncologist before adding any of these to the routine.

As for food, I was told in my chemo class to focus on protein and calories. The body needs these to repair damage. They also recommended carnation instant breakfast (I liked the vanilla best) in milk or in a smoothie. For me the bland foods worked best, plain potatoes, plain rice, plain noodles. I also liked stone fruits. Someone already said eat small amounts and more frequently, which worked for me. I didn't try to eat regular meals with my family...I just ate what sounded good at the moment.

And water water water...I started hydrating two days before infusion and kept at it for at least three days after. I liked icy cold smart water the best, the added electrolytes helped.

Documenting symptoms is really good, it can help with conversations with the doc and with being prepared for each round. But in my case, something new or a little different seemed to come up with each infusion. Round 1 was mild nausea and diarrhea, round 2 was bone pain, round 3 was heartburn, round 4 was dental issues, etc. But in each case the nurses and onc had seen it before and had a solution, so be sure to talk with them every time something new shows up.

Best wishes to you and your partner. Please come back and let us know how you're doing.

Hugs,

Linda

Awful bone pain
I'm so touched and grateful for all the responses. I'm not sure how to respond to all of you, but hopefully, this will work. This morning has been a bust. We had hoped to get going early, maybe church and then something comfortable and easy. That hasn't happened. She says her bone pain is deep and awful.

First, in order, pinkpalette, I'm really sorry to hear you're going through this (all of you, actually!), but there can be support for similarly timed journeys. Is your next treatment scheduled? Three weeks from the first? That's how they've set up my partner. you were able to walk me through the treatment itself with some new details, and I definitely appreciated that! I'm going to the store in a few minutes to get her some of the claritin, since that seems to help some people.

Vickie Sam, taping the session is a great idea! I've got a microcassette from my journalism days. I'll see if she'll be willing to do that. I was with her when her surgeon first saw her. Her cancer had been missed in an initial mammography last August. She wasn't supposed to see the radiologist again until this coming Aug but pushed the appointment, because hse felt certain something was very wrong. She was right. Anyway, I was glad to hear what he had to say (surgeon), and only wish I could hae also been there to hear the chemo doctor.

Someone--not sure who--mentioned compazine and ativan under the tongue. Maybe that was Linda (by the way, Linda, if those are your children in the picture, they are absolutely adorable). I think she may have the anti-anxiety and I'll mention it to her.

Cindy, I don't know about the caring bridge, but I'll check it out and suggest she take a look. I really hope she's writing down her symptoms.

I'll make sure there is fresh fruit and veggies around. Last night, I cut up strawberries and peaches, and I got some blackberries and cherries. Also soups.

It's really tough to see someone you care about struggling and to not know how exactly you can help.
I'll pick some things up at the store, respond to friends who are emailing and calling. See what, if anything, she needs.
And I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Thank you so much!

andie

sea60

Andie3 said:

Awful bone pain
I'm so touched and grateful for all the responses. I'm not sure how to respond to all of you, but hopefully, this will work. This morning has been a bust. We had hoped to get going early, maybe church and then something comfortable and easy. That hasn't happened. She says her bone pain is deep and awful.

First, in order, pinkpalette, I'm really sorry to hear you're going through this (all of you, actually!), but there can be support for similarly timed journeys. Is your next treatment scheduled? Three weeks from the first? That's how they've set up my partner. you were able to walk me through the treatment itself with some new details, and I definitely appreciated that! I'm going to the store in a few minutes to get her some of the claritin, since that seems to help some people.

Vickie Sam, taping the session is a great idea! I've got a microcassette from my journalism days. I'll see if she'll be willing to do that. I was with her when her surgeon first saw her. Her cancer had been missed in an initial mammography last August. She wasn't supposed to see the radiologist again until this coming Aug but pushed the appointment, because hse felt certain something was very wrong. She was right. Anyway, I was glad to hear what he had to say (surgeon), and only wish I could hae also been there to hear the chemo doctor.

Someone--not sure who--mentioned compazine and ativan under the tongue. Maybe that was Linda (by the way, Linda, if those are your children in the picture, they are absolutely adorable). I think she may have the anti-anxiety and I'll mention it to her.

Cindy, I don't know about the caring bridge, but I'll check it out and suggest she take a look. I really hope she's writing down her symptoms.

I'll make sure there is fresh fruit and veggies around. Last night, I cut up strawberries and peaches, and I got some blackberries and cherries. Also soups.

It's really tough to see someone you care about struggling and to not know how exactly you can help.
I'll pick some things up at the store, respond to friends who are emailing and calling. See what, if anything, she needs.
And I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Thank you so much!

andie

Hey Andie!
Glad to meet you. I wish it was under better circumstances.

Yeah, day 1 is okay, day 2...meh...day 3, ugh!

Is she taking an Emend pill before Chemo, it really helps with the stomach sickness. Also, I took Glucosamine a few days prior to Chemo. These helped a bit to combat some of the side effects.

But the bone pain is bad. Just tell her to rest. I used to feel like by back was broken. Try as much as possible to have her drink PLENTY of fluids. Eat cooked or organic fresh veggies & fruits. And on the days she feels good, walk for at least 20-30 minutes.

After the 3rd day, it starts getting a little bit better.

I'm praying for her and you for strength and endurance through this.

God bless,

Sylvia

Double Whammy

sea60 said:

Hey Andie!
Glad to meet you. I wish it was under better circumstances.

Yeah, day 1 is okay, day 2...meh...day 3, ugh!

Is she taking an Emend pill before Chemo, it really helps with the stomach sickness. Also, I took Glucosamine a few days prior to Chemo. These helped a bit to combat some of the side effects.

But the bone pain is bad. Just tell her to rest. I used to feel like by back was broken. Try as much as possible to have her drink PLENTY of fluids. Eat cooked or organic fresh veggies & fruits. And on the days she feels good, walk for at least 20-30 minutes.

After the 3rd day, it starts getting a little bit better.

I'm praying for her and you for strength and endurance through this.

God bless,

Sylvia

I had the same cocktail
Hi Andie-

I had the same cocktail as your partner. I did keep a calendar of how I felt and what side effects I was having. Like Sylvia, I was fine until Day 3 or 4 and then I was down for a few days. I had minimal bone pain and just the general yucks. I was able to allow myself to rest and be a princess and I think that's why I did so well. I avoided just about everything during nadir. Food was awful, but I kept up the calories and protein with bland foods, smoothies, and ice cream. Loved ice cream. It was so disappointing to crave something and then have it taste awful, but ice cream never did. I did eat healthy most of the time and drank lots of water. I also walked daily unless I felt too bad.

Were you advised what to do for the bone pain? I simply don't remember, but since it's Sunday and tomorrow is Monday, I'd call your oncology office and see what they advise. Every time I'd call with a side effect I didn't know what to do about, they'd have a solution. Most of my side effects that weren't on their lists of common side effects!

If her white cell count is too low, that, too can be dealt with. I always ran a low grade fever with each cycle, so the last 2 I had Neulasta shots to help my white cells recover more quickly. I still ran low grade fevers. I had no sidde effects from the Neulasta, but bone pain is one of the most common.

So sorry you're having to go through this. It sounds like Linda has wonderful support. I hope you do, too. It's tough on both of you. She's welcome here, of course. I found this group so helpful when I was going through treatments - and I still do.

Suzanne

Marcia527

Andie,
I had chemo A/C
Andie,
I had chemo A/C before surgery to reduce the size of my very large tumors- 6cm and 3cm and a smaller one. 4 cycles and after surgery another 4 cycles of taxotere. I got very sick on both. The nurse told me to eat frequent small meals because something in my stomach would help. I found soda crackers helped. Plus drinking as much as I could which plain water had a funny taste so I drank something that had a flavoring to it.

My husband had Lyme also. He had chills and fever and delirious at times. We knew he'd been bit and saw the bullseye rash so knew to go to the doctor and what to say. He was put on antibiotics for two weeks and is fine. So sorry you have Lyme to deal with. Our neighbor had Lyme with different symptoms and they didn't realize what her problem was till later. It made her very sick for a long time.

Good luck.

Marcia527

opps
posted twice an no delete option! sorry

Andie3

Double Whammy said:

I had the same cocktail
Hi Andie-

I had the same cocktail as your partner. I did keep a calendar of how I felt and what side effects I was having. Like Sylvia, I was fine until Day 3 or 4 and then I was down for a few days. I had minimal bone pain and just the general yucks. I was able to allow myself to rest and be a princess and I think that's why I did so well. I avoided just about everything during nadir. Food was awful, but I kept up the calories and protein with bland foods, smoothies, and ice cream. Loved ice cream. It was so disappointing to crave something and then have it taste awful, but ice cream never did. I did eat healthy most of the time and drank lots of water. I also walked daily unless I felt too bad.

Were you advised what to do for the bone pain? I simply don't remember, but since it's Sunday and tomorrow is Monday, I'd call your oncology office and see what they advise. Every time I'd call with a side effect I didn't know what to do about, they'd have a solution. Most of my side effects that weren't on their lists of common side effects!

If her white cell count is too low, that, too can be dealt with. I always ran a low grade fever with each cycle, so the last 2 I had Neulasta shots to help my white cells recover more quickly. I still ran low grade fevers. I had no sidde effects from the Neulasta, but bone pain is one of the most common.

So sorry you're having to go through this. It sounds like Linda has wonderful support. I hope you do, too. It's tough on both of you. She's welcome here, of course. I found this group so helpful when I was going through treatments - and I still do.

Suzanne

Day 5 and another symptom
Today, she said she's feeling twitchy. She hasn't felt that before.

I passed along the suggestion that she call the oncologist tomorrow and see what she can do to mitigate some of this.

Sylvie thanks for the reminder about glucosamine; I'll tell her to step it up prior to treatment next time. I know we have some here.

Suzanne, so you were on that same cocktail? Ironically, they told her it would pack less of a punch than others. Can't imagine what they would have been like. We were already stocking ice cream, because it's one of the few things that sounded good to her. Today, I brought Pam a smoothie, so I was glad to come home and see that worked for you.

As far as Pam coming on here, I just don't get the feeling she has the energy...at least not yet.

I've been passing along all your good thoughts and prayer wishes.

What a wonderful group of caring women you all are; it means more than I can say!

Thank you on behalf of both of us.

Andie3

Marcia527 said:

opps
posted twice an no delete option! sorry

I was really grateful to
I was really grateful to hear what you wrote and to see the date you joined this forum, Marcia; hopefully, that means you're okay now. I hadn't heard of chemo both before and after the surgery, but I suspect that may be what Pam has to do.

Lyme is nasty even when it's caught quickly, and it can be devastating and sometimes fatal if it's not. It took doctors 6 years--and three cancer scares--for the doctors to finally figure out what was wrong with me. I have been extremely sick, with some possibly permanent joint damage. It derailed a tremendous journalism career I loved, but I'm glad I've come as far as I have. And even more grateful to have found work within a few months of being laid off--especially at my age, in this economy, and with Pam's diagnosis. I only wish I were able to be with her more often.

Illness can change your life in ways you never could have imagined.

I wish there was a way a cure could be found for this awful cancer, so really good women like all of you didn't have to suffer like you've had to do.

LoveBabyJesus

Hi Andie.
Hi Andie -

I wanted to add my two cents. I had AC/Taxol and found a few things helped me with side effects. I hope these can be useful things your lovely wife can do. And I hope and pray she has a smooth recovery.

My boyfriend bought me two books that helped me tremendously.

For foods:http://www.amazon.com/Cancer-Fighting-Kitchen-Nourishing-Big-Flavor-Treatment/dp/1587613441

What's good about this book is that it gives you food recipes you can eat during each side effect of chemo therapy. For example, when you feel sick to your stomach, they have recipes for what its good to eat. It's a recipe book including everything you can eat during treatments. It even tells you things you can not eat, and why. For example, for me I am ER/PR +, so there are things I can not eat because it increases the level of estrogen in my body (e.g. can't eat home-raised salmon, they need to be wild).

In addition, if she can't taste foods, they give you 5 ingredients that help with taste. They helped me a lot: lemon, olive oil, sea salt, organic maple syrup..forgot #5!

For juices: http://www.amazon.com/Big-Book-Juices-Natural-Vitality/dp/1844839737/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1310935035&sr=1-1

What's great about this book is that it gives you ideas of different healthy drinks you can have to boost up your immunity, iron, energy level, etc...they rate each drink (with stars) for each category. There are TONS of recipes for drinks! They are very good and yummy (with strong taste) that can help her as well.

Tips on what I did during chemo treatments:

1. DRINK, DRINK, DRINK a lot of water during the day. Everyday. No matter how she feels- always drink.

2. Eat fiber and foods that are easily processed by your stomach. Small portions, frequently.

3. Make her move. It's good to always try to exercise - even if it's just simple walks - so her fatigue is minimal.

4. Always check with Dr. before taking ANY meds. Some can interfere with the treatments. If taking pills to prevent nausea, grapefruit is not good to drink/eat because it interferes with the effectiveness of the drugs.

5. I didn't do this, but wish I did: REST/sleep. It's great to take short naps because the body heals best when it is resting.

One pill that helped me a lot was ativan, for anxiety and stomach issues. Also, it doesn't make you constipated (Oh my God did I suffer with this side effect).

I hope these tips help your wife. You are a wonderful husband. I wish you well too.

Please keep us posted. God bless you.

Andie3

LoveBabyJesus said:

Hi Andie.
Hi Andie -

I wanted to add my two cents. I had AC/Taxol and found a few things helped me with side effects. I hope these can be useful things your lovely wife can do. And I hope and pray she has a smooth recovery.

My boyfriend bought me two books that helped me tremendously.

For foods:http://www.amazon.com/Cancer-Fighting-Kitchen-Nourishing-Big-Flavor-Treatment/dp/1587613441

What's good about this book is that it gives you food recipes you can eat during each side effect of chemo therapy. For example, when you feel sick to your stomach, they have recipes for what its good to eat. It's a recipe book including everything you can eat during treatments. It even tells you things you can not eat, and why. For example, for me I am ER/PR +, so there are things I can not eat because it increases the level of estrogen in my body (e.g. can't eat home-raised salmon, they need to be wild).

In addition, if she can't taste foods, they give you 5 ingredients that help with taste. They helped me a lot: lemon, olive oil, sea salt, organic maple syrup..forgot #5!

For juices: http://www.amazon.com/Big-Book-Juices-Natural-Vitality/dp/1844839737/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1310935035&sr=1-1

What's great about this book is that it gives you ideas of different healthy drinks you can have to boost up your immunity, iron, energy level, etc...they rate each drink (with stars) for each category. There are TONS of recipes for drinks! They are very good and yummy (with strong taste) that can help her as well.

Tips on what I did during chemo treatments:

1. DRINK, DRINK, DRINK a lot of water during the day. Everyday. No matter how she feels- always drink.

2. Eat fiber and foods that are easily processed by your stomach. Small portions, frequently.

3. Make her move. It's good to always try to exercise - even if it's just simple walks - so her fatigue is minimal.

4. Always check with Dr. before taking ANY meds. Some can interfere with the treatments. If taking pills to prevent nausea, grapefruit is not good to drink/eat because it interferes with the effectiveness of the drugs.

5. I didn't do this, but wish I did: REST/sleep. It's great to take short naps because the body heals best when it is resting.

One pill that helped me a lot was ativan, for anxiety and stomach issues. Also, it doesn't make you constipated (Oh my God did I suffer with this side effect).

I hope these tips help your wife. You are a wonderful husband. I wish you well too.

Please keep us posted. God bless you.

books
That first one you mentioned sounds great...with foods that can help for different phases of chemo. I'm going to order that tonight.

I also really liked that whole thing about strong flavors: she hasn't lost her sense of taste yet, but if she does, I'll remember those!

Thanks for such a thoughtful post.

andie

CAchick

I had same drugs...
Hi Andie,
I had the same chemo drugs as your partner. I was extremely tired throughout the four infusions (three weeks apart each). I had a funny taste in my mouth throughout the treatment. I had tingling in my lower extremities (neuropathy). I started losing my head hair at about the second treatment. I didn't lose eyebrows/eyelashes, but they got thinner. I was nauseated for a few days each infusion.
Hope that helps to give you some picture of the chemo treatment times. Each person is unique in how they respond to the drugs, but many of these side effects are experienced by a lot of people.
Best wishes to you and your partner!
Sybil

Andie3

CAchick said:

I had same drugs...
Hi Andie,
I had the same chemo drugs as your partner. I was extremely tired throughout the four infusions (three weeks apart each). I had a funny taste in my mouth throughout the treatment. I had tingling in my lower extremities (neuropathy). I started losing my head hair at about the second treatment. I didn't lose eyebrows/eyelashes, but they got thinner. I was nauseated for a few days each infusion.
Hope that helps to give you some picture of the chemo treatment times. Each person is unique in how they respond to the drugs, but many of these side effects are experienced by a lot of people.
Best wishes to you and your partner!
Sybil

bad taste
Sybil,

Thanks so much for your comment...especially since you had the same drugs as she is. I've told her what you said, and she, too, was grateful. Question for you: how are you doing now? You look really good, and I just hope you're on the other side of all this. I'm so grateful to you (and all of you) for taking the time to be so supportive.

What is surprising Pam the most, she said, is the overall aching she feels, and the soreness she's feeling in her mouth, especially in the back. I went to the store and got her some tom's toothpaste and passed along the baking soda/water rinse idea.

I've also suggested that she set up a page on Caring Bridge--thanks again for that suggestion!--to keep people posted. I've got to go to work tomorrow, and I'm a little concerned. I've got people coming by several times during the day, and I've already made supper for tomorrow, since my commute is an hour, and I'm late coming here. I'm not sure how people manage if they're on their own. I know these boards must be even more of a support for them.

Thank you all!

Andie

Andie3

butterflylvr said:

First of all Andie3, your
First of all Andie3, your partner is so blessed to have you in this journey beside her. I had chemo myself but unfortunately not the cocktail your partner is going though. I had 4 infusions three weeks apart. My cocktail consisted of the TAC approach - Taxotere,Adriamycin and Cyclophosphamide. I got my infusions on Friday and on Saturday my body started feeling sluggish, but Sunday I was rendered useless. I would say my worst day was 48 hours after my infusions. Monday I was still sluggish but I still went back to work and as the week rolled on each day got better and better.

I don't know the side effects of your partners chemo drugs, but my first 72 hours were the hardest on me. It will get better for your partner as the days go by, but keep track of her up times and down times so she can plan accordingly for her next injections. She is a very lucky woman to have you in her court.

God Bless you both.. and keep us up to date on how she is doing.
Prayer coming for you both,
Lorrie

workign through it
Lorrie,

It's really hopeful that you were able to work while you were goign through this. I think she might have planned her chemo treatments for different days of the week, if she'd known how the post-chemo symptoms were going to track. She'd hoped to work during most of this, I think.

When I was super sick with Lyme disease, I could barely move some days but overall, I never totally stopped working.

Of course, I really modified my work a lot during that time, too. Seems like that's what she's going to have to do, too.

Today just isn't a good day for her. But she's strong, and she's a fighter. I am concerned after reading the white blood cell info, though, esp. with taxotere. The thing is that unles syou're being tested, you often don't know until it's already too late.

Are you still going through treatment or recovery, or are you on the other side of this awful disease?

Thank you again (and everyone!) so much for your responses and your care!

andie