Newly DIagnised

Hi Shirley-Sorry to meet this way...but you will get great support here. I didn't find this site until about 2 yrs post treatment-I wish I had found it earlier..but better late then never...

So sorry about your mom and daughter...MY heart goes out to you.

Denise

RozHopkins said:

Hi

The chemo can be very tiring. Lease rest as much as poss, as you are likely to sleep day and night.  It can take a day or so to kick in after you receive it.  If any one offers to cook, iron etc please say yes.  Though perhaps your partner or husband, family may step in there.  Hair usually falls out just before second treatment, I knew it was coming because my scalp started to sting.  Wonderful head gear on line just put in ahead ware for cancer patients or similar.  The linen hats are lighter and good for summer.  I think the sight was headcovers.com.  I had no problem at all having the chemo therapy itself.  Once a little sore round port if that continues you must tell staff.  Don't do garden work, try not to get infections from pets or cut yourself, don't pick up pet droppings while on chemo.  Do not shave, but then you shouldn't have to right.  I loved having no body hair.  When hungry eat a lot to make up for bad appetite other times.  

 

Good luck. 

Im sorry you have to join this group, but you will find that you will get the support you need. What type of chemo are you having? Do you know the names of the drugs. I think Cypress Cynthia or Vicki Sam posted a great article about what to bring to chemo. I'll try to look for it and bump it up for you. I had 4 AC treatments followed by 12 weekly taxol infusions and herceptin for a year. I was also part of a clinical trial in which I was givin Lapatinib. Please take care of yourself and be kind to your body. If you are given anti-nausa meds. be sure to take them before you feel sick, I waited and trust me it does make a difference. Chemo is  no picnic, but it is doable and please know that if you have any questions or concerns those of us on this site are here for you. Love Surf

Shirley, I am so very, very sorry that you have had to find us, but please know that we welcome you with open arms.  You sound a lot like me after I was first diagnosed.  I was 33 with Stage 3 and just wanted to get going and fight (our daughter was just 4).  I gave it my all, even though it was no walk in the park.

If it helps, I want you to know that I have now been 27 years since diagnosis.  I had a recurrence after an 18 year remission, but have been 9 years since then.  Still fighting but enjoying every day!

And our daughter, Katherine, is now 32 and getting married next month and I am now 61. 

Welcome, welcome.  Everyone here will do all that they can to help you in this most difficult journey.  I know it must be even harder after struggling with your parents' illnesses, but, hang in there and fight, because each cancer is so different.  ((((Hugs)))) and prayers!