1 Down, 31 To Go!

BBdogs

Finally got started yesterday, sounds strange to say you are so happy to start chemo and radiation but I am sure everyone here understands that.

Chemo went fine, port was plugged but that was easily fixed.  Hooked up to the bag, 1st shower this morning was akward but easily do-able.

Radiation was also fine, more tattoos.  I am not opposed to body art but felt yesterday as though I was offerring blank canvas to a 3 year old who might want to be a tattoo-artist when he grows up:)  Treatment was quick after lining things up and re-tattooing. 

I do have a question though.  I got dressed and started to walk out and thought that there must be flames shooting out of my butt.  It was intense to say the least, wanted to ride home on the hood of the car clinging to the windshield wipers for the ultimate fan experience.  It took several hours to subside to the point that I was able to sit and walk without a lot of discomfort.  It has not resolved completely so I am hoping it does not flare again today during treatment.  I didn't have lotions or creams or anything like that on (nor had I).  Anyone else remember having this problem?

Thanks!

Kris

torrance

Whoo whoo to U!

Kris,

Congratulations on getting your journey to recovery started.  I do not remember the intial burn that you are experiencing, nor did I have to get additional tattoos!  Poor thing, I hated those, so painful.  Remember we all get the opportunity to have different experiences.  My second day of chemo, I fainted, for no apparent reason, so who knows, why our bodies protest soo differently.  Here's hoping tomorrow will be less annoysome for you.  Don't hesitate to bring an ice pack to sit on for the ride home, or ask for one after your treatment.

 

Joanne

mp327

BBdogs

I'm glad you finally began your treatment and I wish you the smoothest journey possible with the least amount of side effects.  As for burning after the 1st. treatment, I do not recall that.  My discomfort really didn't kick in until the 3rd. week.  It might be good to run this by your rad onc or nurse.  Please keep us posted--we are with you every step!

Looniest123456

ANAL CANCER TREATMENT

...am about to have the first discussion with doctors about what I already know is going to be chemoradiation for my anal area....

so many questions, as you might imagine.  I don't look forward to that 'burning' you experienced!  As for the chemo, I understand that here in the UK you're kept in hospital for the four days of chemo before being allowed to go home.  The radiation begins right away, when you're doing chemo in hospital, but then you're allowed to finish the radiation treatment at home.  I hope this sounds familiar.

Clovergirl

Looniest123456 said:

ANAL CANCER TREATMENT

...am about to have the first discussion with doctors about what I already know is going to be chemoradiation for my anal area....

so many questions, as you might imagine.  I don't look forward to that 'burning' you experienced!  As for the chemo, I understand that here in the UK you're kept in hospital for the four days of chemo before being allowed to go home.  The radiation begins right away, when you're doing chemo in hospital, but then you're allowed to finish the radiation treatment at home.  I hope this sounds familiar.

Looniest
I like you will be admitted inpatient to the hospital for my chemo. From what I've seen on this site it is not the norm here in the US. I am being treated at a top cancer center. I will be in for 5 days. At first I thought something was wrong but my ONC said that's what they do. I will go back in again for second round also. I was tattooed today and simulation was done. I will start treatment Monday March 4th. I'm not starting next Monday because I'm still recovering from surgery. I feel fine but need the all clear from surgeon tomorrow and they want the extra week to make sure incisions are healed. Best Wishes

mp327

Looniest123456 said:

ANAL CANCER TREATMENT

...am about to have the first discussion with doctors about what I already know is going to be chemoradiation for my anal area....

so many questions, as you might imagine.  I don't look forward to that 'burning' you experienced!  As for the chemo, I understand that here in the UK you're kept in hospital for the four days of chemo before being allowed to go home.  The radiation begins right away, when you're doing chemo in hospital, but then you're allowed to finish the radiation treatment at home.  I hope this sounds familiar.

Looniest--

Even in the U.S., some patients are admitted to the hospital and do their chemo as an inpatient.  I'm not sure what factors into this decision--patient's overall health, doctor preference, facility preference, etc.  But take heart in knowing that you will be well-monitored in the hospital and this protocol of chemo/rad is very effective.  I wish you all the best and hope you'll let us know how things go.

mp327

Clovergirl said:

Looniest
I like you will be admitted inpatient to the hospital for my chemo. From what I've seen on this site it is not the norm here in the US. I am being treated at a top cancer center. I will be in for 5 days. At first I thought something was wrong but my ONC said that's what they do. I will go back in again for second round also. I was tattooed today and simulation was done. I will start treatment Monday March 4th. I'm not starting next Monday because I'm still recovering from surgery. I feel fine but need the all clear from surgeon tomorrow and they want the extra week to make sure incisions are healed. Best Wishes

Clovergirl--

More of us got chemo at an infusion center and were not admitted to the hospital.  But as I've already said, it is not all that uncommon.  I'm sure you are anxious to get started and I hope your recover goes well so there are no delays.  May you get the all clear tomorrow to proceed.

BBdogs

Thanks MP327 & Joanne. 
Today

Thanks MP327 & Joanne. 

Today didn't result in the instant inflamation, yea! 

All sorts of madness here due to the impending mountains of snow, I really hope that does not mean a delay in treatment.

Marynb

BB
Good luck with your treatments. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Each day is one day closer to having this all in the past!